How long is Amsterdam Canal cruise?
Want to know how long Amsterdam's iconic canal cruises last? This detailed guide lets you know about typical cruise lengths, route factors, cruise types, insider tips, and some important frequently asked questions
- By: Daniel Jensen
Gliding smoothly along Amsterdam’s picturesque canals offers a scenic perspective of the city’s famed gabled architecture and sights. But with so many companies offering cruises, how long should you expect to be on board? Here’s a detailed look at standard canal cruise durations and extended options.
How long is Amsterdam Canal cruise? - Typical Cruise Lengths
Standard Amsterdam canal cruises range from 1 to 2 and a half hours in duration. This allows sufficient time to view top sights along the city’s canals, such as the Anne Frank Museum, Westerkerk church, and charming Magere Brug bridge.
For those wanting a more extensive experience, cruises up to four hours in length are also offered. These extended tours typically include a visit to Zaanse Schans, a village north of Amsterdam famed for its windmills and historic wooden houses.
The ideal Amsterdam canal cruise length depends on your personal interests and schedule. If you’re short on time, a one-hour cruise efficiently covers the main canal route’s highlights. However, if you wish to explore further reaches of the picturesque canals and surroundings, opt for a longer multi-hour cruise.
Route Factors
Cruise duration depends partly on the route taken:
- Central Canal Loop – The standard route passes top sights in about 1 hour.
- Extended Routes – Go further north, south or east for 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Hop-On Hop-Off – Allows getting on and off at stops, lengthening ride.
| Route | Duration |
|---|---|
| Central Canal Loop | 1 hour |
| Extended Route | 1.5+ hours |
| Hop-On Hop-Off | 75+ minutes |
Here are some of the most popular Amsterdam Canal Cruises:
How long is Amsterdam canal cruise by cruise type?
Amsterdam canal cruises come in varying lengths to suit your schedule and interests. For a quick overview, the standard 1-1.5 hour cruise efficiently covers the main canal route highlights. But if you have more time and want a more extensive experience, opt for a longer cruise.
Some popular Amsterdam cruise types include:
- Standard Canal Cruise (1-1.5 hours) – The most popular option to see top sights along the central canals. Departs frequently from locations around the city.
- Hop-On Hop-Off Cruise (1-2 hours) – Lets you disembark at stops and reboard later. Great for exploring at your own pace.
- Dinner Cruise (2-3 hours) – Combines canal views with dining, from buffets to sit-down meals with entertainment.
- Evening Canal Cruise (1-2 hours) – Later cruises showcase illuminated bridges and canal houses after dark.
Carefully consider your time frame, budget, and sightseeing goals when choosing the ideal Amsterdam canal cruise length. A standard cruise packs in the highlights efficiently while longer tours allow more leisurely exploration.
Insider Tips
- Book tickets early, especially for peak season visits, to get better rates and availability.
- Compare pricing across multiple companies online before booking to find the best deals.
- Select a departure dock conveniently located near your hotel or sightseeing destinations.
- Choose a cruise duration and route that aligns with your interests and schedule.
- Read online reviews of companies to help select a reputable cruise operator.
- Avoid midday cruising when canal traffic is busiest and crowds are larger.
- For hop-on hop-off cruises, start at the first stop to maximize your time.
- For dinner cruises, opt for a buffet meal to allow more flexibility in dining.
- Bring warm layers for evening cruises that can get chilly on the water.
- And don’t forget your camera to fully capture those amazing canal views!
FAQ
Q: How much cash should I budget for a cruise through Amsterdam’s famous canals?
A: Prices float between €10 for an hour of self-powered pedaling to €250 for a private, catered tour on a luxury vessel. Figure about €20 per person for a standard 1-hour cruise, €40 if you want a meal included. Splurge on a sunset or moonlight tour for €30. Splitting a pedal boat with a partner or friend starts at just €15 per person.
Q: When’s the ideal time to cruise Amsterdam’s winding waterways?
A: Early birds catch stunning sunrise canal views before the crowds arrive. Night owls prefer moonlit cruises after the streets clear. Families with kids opt for midday outings to avoid late nights. Romantics pick sunset cruises to watch the bridges light up as the sun dips behind the canal houses.
Q: What interesting sights and attractions highlight Amsterdam’s canal routes?
A: Cruises glide past the Anne Frank House, the iconic Skinny Bridge, the landmark Westerkerk church, and the storied Seven Bridges. Some meander out to the storybook village of Zaanse Schans to see historic windmills and step inside traditional cottages.
Q: Should I pack a jacket and umbrella for my Amsterdam canal cruise?
A: Amsterdam’s weather can be temperamental, so lightweight layers and rain protection are smart precautions. Sudden showers are common, and breezy waterways make temperatures feel chillier than on land. Don’t let weather dampen your cruise – just come prepared.
Q: Is food and drink included or allowed on Amsterdam’s canal cruises?
A: Most standard cruises don’t provide refreshments, but some let you BYOB. Upscale dinner cruises include three-course meals with drinks. Others offer onboard bars and snack shops. Check your cruise company’s food policy before boarding and packing snacks.
More useful information about Amsterdam Canal Cruises
- Read on about all type of Amsterdam Canal Cruises.
- How much are tickets, and where can you buy them? Read our guide for Amsterdam Canal Cruise Tickets.
- Blue Boat Company or Lovers? Check out the top cruise providers in Amsterdam!
- Amsterdam Evening Canal Cruise – Read this before you book tickets!
- Sightseeing Canal Cruise in Amsterdam or a Dinner Cruise? Which one suits you?
We are a group of travelers who love to explore and write about Amsterdam. Over the years, we have gained extensive experience with cruising over the Canals in Amsterdam. Here, you could find all the essential information you need to know about Amsterdam Canal Cruises, including the different types of cruise, prices, tickets, operating hours, departure points, and many more.