Easter Brunch Cruise on the IJ: Brunch, Music Bingo & Amsterdam Skyline

Read the full experience

Step aboard the Amsterdam Easter Cruise, a festive three‑hour voyage on the IJ that launches from Pier 14 behind Amsterdam Centraal (De Ruyterkade 14, 1011 AA Amsterdam). This is a city‑center circuit that pairs waterfront views of the Central Station, NEMO’s green roof and the cutting‑edge North Amsterdam skyline with an authentic Dutch celebration on board. The program is straightforward and sociable: MS De Jordaan, a vessel dating from 1943, welcomes guests with traditional Easter bread, sweet treats and a glass of prosecco before casting off. Resident artist Luc Meijer supplies sing‑along standards while the buffet opens—think hot and cold dishes, assorted breads, a fish platter, soup, croquettes, fresh salads and regional cheeses. Amsterdam Music Bingo breaks up the brunch with prizes and loud applause; later the DJ‑style sing‑along shifts to danceable Dutch pop, so voices and feet will both get a workout. What makes this cruise stand out is the mix of heritage and cityscape. From the warm interior of a historic ship you’ll glide past Amsterdam’s layered waterfront architecture: the red‑brick façade of Centraal Station (completed in 1889), the angled glass of the IJ docks and small working harbors dotted with tugs and houseboats. The light on the water plays across the hulls and the skyline, offering immediate theater for photographers and families alike. Accessibility is reasonable—the operator notes wheelchair access aboard MS De Jordaan but asks guests to notify them in advance due to the vessel’s layout. Practicalities are simple: arrive 15 minutes early for check‑in at Pier 14; smart‑casual attire and a light jacket cover both indoor comfort and brief outdoor decks. The price includes the cruise, unlimited Dutch drink options and the extensive buffet; a small government charge applies per person. Children must be accompanied by adults and pet policies restrict animals to service animals only. Smoking is allowed on deck. Book this outing if you want a low‑effort, high‑mood way to celebrate Easter or to add a communal, musical pulse to a city visit. It’s a reminder that Amsterdam’s best moments happen on the water—where history, food and song meet the skyline in a convivial three‑hour package.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

3 hours.

Fitness level

Light: suitable for most adults and children with basic mobility

Frequently asked questions

Where do we meet for the cruise?

Check‑in is at Pier 14, De Ruyterkade 14, located behind Amsterdam Central Station; arrive 15 minutes early.

Is the vessel wheelchair accessible?

Yes, MS De Jordaan is wheelchair accessible but space is limited; please notify the operator when booking.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?

Inform the crew in advance about allergies or dietary requirements so the kitchen can prepare alternatives.

What is included in the ticket price?

The cruise, unlimited Dutch drink options and an extensive brunch buffet are included; a small government charge applies per person.

Can I smoke or bring pets?

Smoking is permitted on deck. Pets are not allowed except for trained service animals.

What time should I arrive?

Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before the scheduled departure to check in and board comfortably.

Local insights

Wildlife

Canal ducks (mallards)
Urban gulls and occasional peregrine falcons near the station

History

Amsterdam Centraal Station—visible from the route—opened in 1889 and frames the approach to the IJ waterfront.

Conservation

Operators encourage minimal waste onboard and ask guests to dispose of trash responsibly; limit plastic use and respect no‑smoking zones.

About CruiseWithUs - Amsterdam Music Cruise Company

CruiseWithUs - Amsterdam Music Cruise Company operates from Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, offering themed canal cruises that combine live music, dining, and heritage vessels. The company features intimate salonboat experiences curated for small groups and memorable evenings on Amsterdam’s waterways. Onboard options include a four-course dinner with live accompaniment, relaxed heritage cruises aboard Salonboat Valentijn, disco and dance parties aboard Salonboat Prins van Oranje, and genre-focused sailings featuring soul, funk, and gospel artists. Each cruise highlights Amsterdam’s illuminated canals and historic bridges, providing scenic views of landmarks while guests enjoy music and refreshments. The fleet emphasizes preserved and heritage vessels such as Salonboat Valentijn and Prins van Oranje, presenting voyages that prioritize comfort, atmosphere, and attentive service. Ticketed experiences range from multi-course dinner cruises to three-hour themed concerts and dance nights. Performances may feature named artists and guest singers, offering live music spanning decades from 1980s hits through 2010s pop, as well as soul, funk, and gospel repertoires. The events are suited for couples seeking romantic evenings, groups looking for lively nightlife, and music fans seeking curated performances on the water. Bookings and schedules are available for each listed sailing, and itineraries follow Amsterdam’s central canal ring. CruiseWithUs maintains a clear focus on authentic canal cruising, live entertainment, and gastronomic options, operating within Amsterdam’s regulated waterways to provide safe, memorable experiences. Specific sailings list named performers such as Dillon Lewis and guest vocalist Jennie Lena, and events with Step the Gap. Guests can expect curated playlists covering four decades and themed nights.

Base locationAmsterdam, Noord-Holland

Tours offered5+

Adventure tips

Arrive EarlyPlan to be at Pier 14 at least 15 minutes before departure to check in and board smoothly.

Dress in LayersEven on sunny days the breeze off the IJ can be cool—bring a light jacket or shawl for deck time.

Notify for AccessibilityMS De Jordaan has limited wheelchair space; call ahead when booking to secure accessible boarding.

Save Camera SpaceBring a small bag for gear—tripod use is limited on deck, but a fast lens captures skyline reflections well.

Recommended gear

Light jacket or shawl: Blocks wind on the open deck and keeps you comfortable during the cruise.
Valid ID & booking confirmation: Required for check‑in at Pier 14 and helpful for fast boarding.
Compact camera or smartphone: Capture skyline reflections and candid sing‑along moments; a lens hood helps with glare.
Comfortable shoes: Non‑slip soles make moving around the vessel easier, especially on wet decks.