Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise with Captain Jack Amsterdam
Difficulty
easy
Duration
60–70 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical effort required.
Overview
Witness Amsterdam’s canals transform into a luminous gallery on a cozy 60-minute cruise during the Light Festival. Enjoy Dutch snacks and captivating stories on board Captain Jack Amsterdam’s classic saloon boat.
Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise on Classic Saloon Boat (CS1)
From €38,50 • 60 to 70 minutes
Select participants and date
Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Experience the enchanting Amsterdam Light Festival, where the city transforms into a winter wonderland adorned with stunning illuminated artworks. Enjoy a cozy 60-minute boat tour, complete with drinks and Dutch snacks, as your captain shares captivating stories. Celebrate the theme "Rituals" and embrace the magic of art and togetherness.
Experience the Amsterdam Light Festival Christmas Tour
Experience Amsterdam’s transformation into a magical winter wonderland during the darkest months of the year. As the city embraces the festive season, buildings and bridges are beautifully illuminated. This is when the Amsterdam Light Festival begins - a succession of stunning works of art, each with its own story. This year marks the 13th edition of the festival, taking place from 28 November 2024 until 19 January 2025, with the theme "Rituals".
Rituals have traditionally helped us navigate transformations - from past to future, winter to summer, youth to adulthood. Light plays a vital role in many rituals as a vibrant symbol of joy, energy, and life. We use fireworks to usher in the new year, candles to commemorate significant events, and midsummer fires to welcome the solstice. Light adds something mystical and sacred to rituals like no other element can. And rituals unify; they bring people together. That's why, in celebration of Amsterdam's 750th anniversary, we embrace the theme "Rituals" with light, with art, and with each other.
During the Amsterdam Light Festival Christmas Tour, we pass by all these fantastic sights: breathtaking artworks, illuminated buildings, playful houseboats, and beautiful bridges adorned with thousands of lights. The captain will share the history and stories behind everything you see, all while you enjoy a nice drink and a typical Dutch snack. Relax on a beautifully decorated heated and enclosed boat, allowing you to enjoy all the splendour we pass by, warm and dry. The skipper is also your guide and passionately shares many insights about the city.
Our covered, heated boats are festively decorated and are the perfect spot to enjoy your drinks and typical Dutch snacks, which are included in the tour. The tour lasts 60 minutes (up to 70 minutes depending on traffic) and departs near Central Station.
Join us in celebrating this special edition of the Amsterdam Light Festival. Embrace the magic of winter, the beauty of art, and the warmth of shared experiences on our unforgettable evening tour.
Rates
- Adults : €38,50
- Children: €25,-
Duration
Between 60 and 70 minutes depending on traffic
Adventure Tips
Dress Warmly
Even with a heated cabin, winter temperatures near the canals can be cold—wear layered clothing for extra comfort.
Arrive Early
Boats depart from Stationsplein 18 near Central Station; arriving 15 minutes early ensures a smooth boarding process.
Camera Ready
Bring a camera or smartphone with good low-light capabilities to capture striking illuminated artworks along the route.
Plan for Traffic Delays
Canal traffic can affect trip duration, so allow extra time before or after your tour for connections or reservations.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Mute swans often spotted gliding near the boats
- Fish species visible when waters are clear and calm
History
Amsterdam’s canal ring dates to the 17th century Golden Age, designed as a marvel of urban planning and water management.
Conservation
The festival emphasizes sustainable lighting and encourages eco-friendly boat operations to minimize the ecological footprint on the canals.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Amsterdam
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Warm Layers
Necessary to stay comfortable during the chilly night cruise.
winter specific
Camera or Smartphone
Captures the vibrant light installations along the festival route.
winter specific
Waterproof Jacket
Useful in case of rain or mist during cooler months.
fall|winter specific
Comfortable Footwear
Facilitates easy boarding and unboarding of the boat.