Step aboard a 100-year-old Dutch canal boat for a 1.5-hour journey through Amsterdam’s historic waterways. Rock That Boat offers a personalized tour filled with stories from the 17th century, drinks, and authentic local snacks.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; primarily seated with minimal walking.
Wildlife
History
Amsterdam’s canals were constructed in the 17th century as part of an innovative urban expansion that fueled the city’s economic rise.
Conservation
The boat operates with a focus on preserving traditional vessels and maintaining waterway cleanliness to protect Amsterdam’s historic canals.
Rock That Boat
Step aboard a 100-year-old Dutch canal boat for a 1.5-hour journey through Amsterdam’s historic waterways. Rock That Boat offers a personalized tour filled with stories from the 17th century, drinks, and authentic local snacks.
Rock That Boat is a canal cruise operator based in Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, offering private and guided experiences on classic Dutch salon boats.
The company operates historic Salonboot Delphine and Leaudine for private lunch and dinner cruises, delivering a three-course menu, personalized table settings and optional wine selections while cruising Amsterdam's canals. For history-focused visitors, Rock That Boat runs a 1.5-hour Amsterdam History Boat Tour aboard a 100-year-old traditional Dutch canal boat; the guided tour highlights 17th-century life, Herengracht, the Jordaan and other iconic sights while serving drinks and local bitterballen.
Couples seeking memorable moments can book a Marriage Proposal on a Romantic Boat: private, decorated cruises with music, soft lighting and optional champagne, roses or live musicians at picturesque canal locations. For scenic countryside excursions, Rock That Boat offers the Rondehoep day trip — a six-hour cruise along the Amstel and Waver rivers departing from George Marina, stopping for lunch at De Voetangel inn (est. 1626) and passing through Ouderkerk aan de Amstel and nearby villages.
All trips are private or small-group by design and can be tailored to passenger preferences, including menu choices and on-board amenities. Operating in the historic canal ring and surrounding waterways, Rock That Boat emphasizes authentic vessels, local routes and customized service. Experienced skippers familiar with local waterways and harbor rules navigate each trip to ensure comfort and adherence to local regulations.
Historic Boats
Delphine & Leaudine
Private, classic canal salonboats.
Location
Amsterdam, Noord‑Holland
Central canal routes and departures.
Trip Lengths
1.5–6 hours
Short tours to full-day cruises.
Unique Experiences
Dining, Proposals, Tours
Tailored menus and romantic settings.
Reserve a salon boat for dining, a guided history tour, a romantic proposal, or the Rondehoep day trip — limited private departures available.
Arrive Early to Board Smoothly
Plan to show up 15–20 minutes before your tour to ensure a relaxed check-in at the private dock near the Hermitage Museum.
Dress for Cool Canalside Breezes
Even on warmer days, the canals can be chilly; bring layers or a sweater for comfort during the cruise.
Try Bitterballen Aboard
Don’t miss sampling this iconic Dutch fried snack paired with your drink to complete the cultural experience.
Keep Your Camera Ready
Historic houses and picturesque bridges appear around every bend—perfect for photography enthusiasts.
Layered Clothing
Flexible layers keep you comfortable against changing canal temperatures.
Waterproof Jacket
Protects from occasional rain or spray during cooler months.
spring|fall|winter
Camera or Smartphone
For capturing the historic canal sights and unique architecture.
Comfortable Shoes
Necessary for boarding, disembarking, and any short walks at stops.