What to Wear and Bring: Packing Tips for Your Amsterdam Canal Cruise
A very popular question is what to wear on Amsterdam Canal Cruise. This guide details how to dress and what gear to bring to fully enjoy the sights, views, and charming pace of a boat tour along Amsterdam's scenic canals.
- By: David Wellington
Gliding slowly under quaint bridges and past gabled canal houses on a boat tour through Amsterdam’s scenic canals is an iconic way to experience the Dutch capital.
With over 60 miles of historic waterways winding through the city center, an Amsterdam canal cruise offers a unique vantage point to take in the sights. But with open boats, potential rain, and fluctuating weather, what should you wear and pack for the conditions while still enjoying the views and capturing great photos?
This complete guide details how to dress comfortably for the weather and what gear to bring so you can fully immerse yourself in the leisurely pace and romantic charm of an Amsterdam canal cruise.
What to Wear on Amsterdam Canal Cruise - Dress Code
When packing for an Amsterdam canal cruise, it’s important to consider the dress code, weather conditions, and type of boat you’ll be touring on. Unlike formal cruises, canal tours in Amsterdam do not have strict formal attire requirements. However, you’ll want to dress practically and in layers for the seasonal weather.
Spring and fall in Amsterdam bring average temperatures around 50-60°F (10-15°C), though weather is unpredictable. Pants, jeans, leggings, or long shorts paired with sweatshirts, light jackets, or hoodies are recommended as you may encounter wind or drops in temperature, especially on open boats without cover. Bringing scarves, hats, and gloves in early spring and late fall is wise in case of chillier weather.
Summers are mild, with temperatures ranging from 60-70°F (15-20°C) on average. Short sleeve shirts or tank tops with shorts, skirts, or lightweight pants/jeans make for comfortable warm weather canal cruise attire. If sitting in the sun, you may want to wear or bring along sun protection like hats and swim cover ups. Having a light jacket in case of rain and wind is also advised.
Canal cruises continue year-round, even in Amsterdam’s chilly winters. Bundle up in winter coats, waterproof jackets, sweaters, thermal leggings, scarves, gloves, and hats for ample warmth on the open water. Closed-toe shoes with traction are a must in wintry weather.
What to Pack to Amsterdam Canal Cruise?
When preparing for an Amsterdam canal cruise, packing appropriate gear can enhance your experience on the water. With the potential for sun, rain, wind, or cold weather, having the right items is key.
Be sure to pack layers of clothing that can be adjusted as temperatures fluctuate, especially if taking an open boat tour. An extra sweater, jacket, or blanket provides warmth if breezy. Hats, scarves, and gloves are wise for spring and fall trips. Don’t forget sun protection like sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen during summer.
Comfortable, supportive walking shoes are essential, as you’ll be on your feet for the duration of the cruise. Avoid heels or slippery soled shoes.
Pack essential photography gear like your camera, spare batteries or charger, and lenses so you can capture the sights. Phones often work too. Having a bag to stow items helps keep them secure yet accessible.
While snacks and drinks aren’t allowed from outside, consider packing motion sickness remedies if prone, as well as bottled water to stay hydrated.
ickets and vouchers should be easily accessible, whether printed or on your phone. Pack umbrellas for possible showers, and medications for allergies or other conditions.
Avoid bringing large, bulky bags or items that can obstruct small boat walkways. Most companies don’t allow outside food, drinks, or alcohol either. Keep luggage minimal and have just the necessities in a small bag or backpack for the cruise itself.
What to not bring to Amsterdam Canal Cruise
When packing for an Amsterdam canal cruise, it’s just as important to know what not to bring as what to pack. Canal boats have limited space, so bulky items are best left behind.
Oversized bags or backpacks can clog up narrow walkways on boats designed to maximize sightseeing access. If staying overnight in Amsterdam, leave bigger luggage at your hotel rather than lugging it onto a small sightseeing cruise. Carry only essentials in a small bag or purse that fits comfortably under your seat.
Outside food, drinks, and especially alcohol are also prohibited on most canal cruise lines, as they want patrons to purchase refreshments onboard. Sneaking your own snacks isn’t allowed and is inconsiderate.
While Amsterdam is very pet-friendly, don’t assume your furry friends can come aboard. The exceptions are clearly marked service animals or boats designated specifically as “pet cruises”. Check with the cruise line about their policies before showing up with pets in tow.
In addition to food and large bags, smoking, vaping, Bluetooth speakers, and other disruptive or potentially dangerous items should be avoided when canal cruising.
By being mindful of what not to bring aboard, you’ll be respectful of the crew, your fellow passengers, and cruise line policies. Travel light with only what you’ll need and use during the boat tour itself to fully immerse yourself in the iconic Amsterdam scenery gliding slowly past along the canal.
Packing Tips to Amsterdam Canal Cruise Depending on the Season
When packing for an Amsterdam canal cruise, it’s important to consider the dress code, weather conditions, and type of boat you’ll be touring on. Unlike formal cruises, canal tours in Amsterdam do not have strict formal attire requirements. However, you’ll want to dress practically and in layers for the seasonal weather.
Spring and fall in Amsterdam bring average temperatures around 50-60°F (10-15°C), though weather is unpredictable. Pants, jeans, leggings, or long shorts paired with sweatshirts, light jackets, or hoodies are recommended as you may encounter wind or drops in temperature, especially on open boats without cover. Bringing scarves, hats, and gloves in early spring and late fall is wise in case of chillier weather.
Summers are mild, with temperatures ranging from 60-70°F (15-20°C) on average. Short sleeve shirts or tank tops with shorts, skirts, or lightweight pants/jeans make for comfortable warm weather canal cruise attire. If sitting in the sun, you may want to wear or bring along sun protection like hats and swim cover ups. Having a light jacket in case of rain and wind is also advised.
Canal cruises continue year-round, even in Amsterdam’s chilly winters. Bundle up in winter coats, waterproof jackets, sweaters, thermal leggings, scarves, gloves, and hats for ample warmth on the open water. Closed-toe shoes with traction are a must in wintry weather.
Tips for Packing Smart for Your Amsterdam Canal Cruise
An Amsterdam canal cruise lets you experience the city’s world-famous waterways and sights from a unique on-the-water perspective. But with open boats, potentially cool weather, and unexpected showers, preparing appropriately with smart packing can make or break your boat tour enjoyment.
Start by checking weather forecasts and pack layered clothing that can adjust to changing conditions. Temperatures fluctuating by 20 degrees throughout the day is common. Having extra layers like light jackets, sweaters, scarves, and shawls guarantees comfort on breezy, misty or cooler than expected cruises.
Don’t forget accessories like hats, gloves, and closed-toed shoes in spring and fall when winds pick up, especially on exposed decks. In summer, pack hats, UV protective clothing, and sunscreen for sun safety during long days under cloudless skies.
Year round, pack medication for allergies, motion sickness, or other preexisting conditions so you feel your best on the canals whatever the weather. Carrying personal snacks is wise if you need an energy boost or prefer not to purchase food onboard.
Keep camera gear, chargers, batteries, mobile tickets, and other essentials in a bag that’s easily accessible yet secure onboard the boat, where storage space may be limited. Having necessities handy ensures you don’t miss great photo ops along your route.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best canal cruise company in Amsterdam?
Top rated canal cruise operators include Blue Boat Company, Gray Line Amsterdam, Lovers, Holland International, and Rederij Kooij. Check reviews online for the best fit.
What is there to do on an Amsterdam canal cruise?
Popular activities include sightseeing along the scenic canals, listening to audio guides explaining landmarks, taking photos of architecture and bridges, trying local cuisine at onboard concession stands, and waving to other tourists.
How long do most Amsterdam canal cruises last?
Typical durations are 1-2 hours for day cruises and 1-1.5 hours for evening cruises. Special event cruises can run longer.
What should you wear on an Amsterdam canal cruise?
Dress for the weather in layers. Bring jackets, hats, gloves in spring/fall. Pack sun protection in summer. Waterproof shoes help year-round.
Can you bring snacks and drinks onboard?
Outside food and drinks are not allowed, but most boats have concessions selling snacks, beer, wine, soft drinks, and water onboard.
Do canal cruises still operate if it rains?
Yes, the boats run rain or shine. Be sure to pack weatherproof gear like jackets and umbrellas in case of precipitation.
Are canal cruises wheelchair accessible?
Many companies offer accessible boarding and wheelchair friendly seating, but check with the provider in advance about accessibility.
What is the best way to get to the canal cruise departure point?
If centrally located, walk or take public transport like the tram or metro. Or hire a taxi or Uber. Arrive 15 minutes early.
Should I take a daytime or evening canal cruise?
Day cruises allow you to see landmarks clearly and are great for first-timers. Evening cruises have romantic ambiance and city lights.
Are pets allowed on Amsterdam canal cruise boats?
No, unless marked specifically as “pet-friendly”. Only official service animals are allowed on regular public cruises.
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!
- Canal Cruise Amsterdam at Night – 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.