Amsterdam Light Festival Canal Cruise
Glide through Amsterdam's illuminated canals on an electric boat to experience 20 unique light artworks up close. An experienced skipper and host guide the tour, sharing insights about the city, historic monuments, and the light installations. Guests can take in scenic waterway views and sail under enchanting bridges from a luxury open boat or covered saloon boat.
What to Expect
Tour Amsterdam's illuminated canals and 20 light artworks by electric boat.
Event Details
Duration
Approximately 75 minutes.
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Canal Ring
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Amsterdam Boat Experience
Food & Drink
Drinks are available onboard; covered saloon boats offer snacks and drinks, and drinks are included on private boats for groups.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Visitors who enjoy illuminated art and relaxed canal sightseeing
Vibe
Scenic and atmospheric
Energy Level
Low
Budget
€€
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Individual/single tickets start from €27.28. Private-boat options for groups are available by quote, with drinks included. – Get tickets
- Hours: Daily departure times between 4:30 PM and 10:00 PM; multiple departure times per day.
Tips & Advice
- Book your departure time online in advance, because the cruises sail at several set times each evening and you choose the slot that suits you.
- Don't plan your cruise for New Year's Eve, because no Light Festival cruises sail that night.
- Pick the covered saloon boat if you want shelter from the winter weather, or the luxury boat if you'd like an optional drink.
- Groups can ask for a quote on a private boat, which comes fully equipped with drinks included and departs from Stationsplein 26.
- Head to Prins Hendrikkade 33A, next to Central Station, for single-ticket cruises, and allow about 75 minutes on the water.
Special Events & Promotions
- A German-language Light Festival canal cruise on the luxury boat can also be booked.
- Fully equipped private boats are available for groups, with drinks included; ask for a quote.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What will I see on the cruise?
You cruise past the 20 light artworks of the Amsterdam Light Festival's 15th edition and sail under the city's bridges. Your host explains the city, its monuments and the artworks along the way.
Where do the boats depart?
Single-ticket cruises depart from Prins Hendrikkade 33A, next to Central Station. Private boats depart from Stationsplein 26.
How long is the cruise?
About 75 minutes. You're dropped off back at the point where you boarded.
Can I get a drink on board?
Yes. A drink is optional on the luxury boat, and snacks and drinks are available on board. Private group boats come with drinks included.
Which boat can I choose with a single ticket?
Single tickets are sold for either the luxury boat or the covered saloon boat. Both come with a skipper and a host.
More Christmas Events Near Amsterdam
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Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.