Discover Amsterdam’s waterways aboard a colorful wooden boat guided by storytellers with refugee backgrounds. This 90-minute tour offers deep insights into the city’s diverse history alongside stunning views of its canals. Perfect for those seeking cultural authenticity and meaningful conversation in a scenic setting.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
90 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for most levels; no physical exertion required
Wildlife
History
Many of Amsterdam’s canals date back to the 17th century, with their design reflecting the city’s golden age of trade and expansion.
Conservation
Efforts are underway to maintain canal water quality and preserve historic waterways for future generations.
Rederij Lampedusa
Discover Amsterdam’s waterways aboard a colorful wooden boat guided by storytellers with refugee backgrounds. This 90-minute tour offers deep insights into the city’s diverse history alongside stunning views of its canals. Perfect for those seeking cultural authenticity and meaningful conversation in a scenic setting.
Rederij Lampedusa is a Amsterdam-based boat operator that offers immersive canal tours led by storytellers with refugee backgrounds. Operating from Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, the company presents three distinct experiences: the Private Canal Tour, the Canal Tour, and the Floating Stage. Each tour runs for 90 minutes and focuses on first-person migration narratives that illuminate Amsterdam’s multicultural history.
Tours take place on original wooden boats and historic refugee boats, combining scenic canal routes with intimate storytelling. Guides share personal accounts and community histories, inviting meaningful conversation and audience questions. The Floating Stage pairs the cruise with live performances from emerging artists who present migration-related works, followed by a social gathering featuring music, food, and conversation.
Rederij Lampedusa is featured on The Adventure Collective and prioritizes respectful storytelling, safety aboard wooden vessels, and community engagement. The experiences are designed for visitors who seek educational depth, emotional resonance, and direct contact with lived experience. With consistent 90-minute formats across public and private options, the tours provide structured time for guided routes, historic context, and personal exchange. Visitors can expect clear itineraries, authentic narratives, and opportunities to connect with storytellers who bring migration stories to the foreground.
Rederij Lampedusa’s combination of history, art, and lived experience creates an alternative canal-tour experience that highlights migration, resilience, and Amsterdam’s multicultural roots.
Storyteller Guides
Refugee backgrounds
First-person migration narratives
Tour Length
90 minutes
Private and public options
Location
Amsterdam, Noord-Holland
Based in Amsterdam
Event Format
Floating Stage
Live performances and gatherings
Choose a Private Canal Tour, join a Canal Tour, or attend the Floating Stage aboard original wooden boats — book a 90-minute cultural journey in Amsterdam.
Dress comfortably for a boat ride
Wear weather-appropriate layers and non-slip shoes, as the boat deck can be slick and temperatures vary.
Arrive early for the best seating
Getting there a few minutes before departure helps secure a prime spot on the boat.
Bring a camera or smartphone
Capture scenic views and candid moments with your guides during the tour.
Consider bringing a small gift for your guide
A thoughtful gesture that acknowledges their storytelling efforts and enriches your experience.
Warm, weather-appropriate clothing
Essential to stay comfortable as weather conditions can vary during the cruise.
spring, fall, winter
Camera or smartphone
Capture the scenic views and storytelling moments during your trip.
Sunscreen and sunglasses
Protect yourself from sun exposure during longer summer tours.
summer
Small backpack or bag
Carry essentials like water, snacks, or personal items comfortably.