Amsterdam Festival of Lights Cruise with Captain Dave Amsterdam
Difficulty
easy
Duration
90 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical effort required beyond boarding and disembarking.
Overview
Glide through Amsterdam’s historic canals on a 90-minute boat tour featuring the city’s famed Festival of Lights. Warm up with mulled wine as you witness illuminated artworks that brighten winter nights.
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early for Boarding
Be at Herengracht 124-128 at least 5 minutes before departure to ensure a smooth boarding process.
Dress Warmly
Even with heating onboard, temperatures on the open deck can be chilly—layer up to stay comfortable.
Bring a Camera
The boat's sliding windows and open deck offer ideal photo opportunities of the light installations and canal views.
Limited Accessibility
The boat has steep steps and no wheelchair access; contact the operator in advance if you have accessibility needs.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Mute swan on canals
- Wintering waterfowl such as mallards
History
Amsterdam’s canal ring, built in the early 1600s, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and still serves as a functioning water network and cultural landmark.
Conservation
Captain Dave Amsterdam operates 100% electric boats, minimizing emissions and protecting the fragile canal ecosystem during winter tours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Warm layers
Layered clothing ensures comfort aboard the boat, especially on the open aft deck during cold evenings.
winter specific
Waterproof jacket
Protects against rain or snow while waiting to board or standing on the deck.
fall|winter specific
Camera or smartphone
Ideal for capturing the stunning light displays on Amsterdam’s canals.
Comfortable shoes
Non-slip shoes help maintain footing when boarding the boat’s steps and walking along docks.