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Discover Amsterdam’s Light Festival like never before aboard a historic heated canal cruise, complete with illuminated artworks, rich storytelling, and unlimited drinks. Glide through the city’s iconic canals on this cozy 1.5-hour winter journey.
Discover Amsterdam’s Light Festival like never before aboard a historic heated canal cruise, complete with illuminated artworks, rich storytelling, and unlimited drinks. Glide through the city’s iconic canals on this cozy 1.5-hour winter journey.
Book with Amsterdam By Boat
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Amsterdam By Boat · Amsterdam, Noord-Holland
Amsterdam’s iconic canals take on a magical glaze each winter during the Amsterdam Light Festival, and there is no better way to experience this glowing spectacle than aboard a beautifully restored historic vessel. The Luxury Light Festival Cruise offers an immersive 1.5-hour journey through the city’s heart, transforming Amsterdam’s waterways into an open-air gallery of dazzling illumination. This cruise departs from Singel 359, a central dock just minutes from Dam Square, placing you right in the thick of the city’s historic charm and festive spirit.
This isn’t just any canal tour. The ship itself is a piece of history—over a century old—yet thoughtfully updated with a covered, heated interior designed for cozy winter evenings. The comfort of onboard restrooms and plush seating ensures your focus remains on the spectacular views without distraction.
As you glide past more than 20 illuminated art installations, your knowledgeable local guide provides rich storytelling to enrich each light piece’s backstory and creative intent. Floating alongside Amsterdam’s famed landmarks, including the flower market, the enchanting Dancing Houses, the Skinny Bridge, and the UNESCO-listed 17th-century Canal Ring, this cruise offers a unique vantage point on the city’s cultural heritage illuminated by contemporary artistry.
The cruise also passes notable sites such as the Westerkerk tower, the Anne Frank House, and numerous historic houseboats that line the canals. The contrasting modern silhouettes of the NEMO Science Center and the Maritime Museum add layers of visual intrigue to this multifaceted nighttime panorama.
A highlight for many is the onboard drinks selection. With options ranging from local beers and fine wines to soothing mulled wine (glühwein), the unlimited drinks package elevates the experience with festive cheer. For those seeking extra indulgence, an optional cava bottle and cheese platter add a luxe touch to your evening.
This cruise runs rain or shine, making it a reliable winter outing to escape the cold while soaking in Amsterdam’s artistic winter glow. It also welcomes travelers of nearly all ages, with children under two admitted free, making it a great family-friendly cultural outing.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, the Luxury Light Festival Cruise offers a memorable, warming perspective on Amsterdam’s winter spirit. Combining historic charm, contemporary art, and curated comfort, it stands out as a winter highlight that showcases the city’s unique blend of past and present with the added sparkle of light.
easy.
1.5 hours.
No special fitness level required; suitable for all ages and mobility levels able to board the vessel
Unlimited drinks including beer, wine, soft drinks, and mulled wine are included only with the select drink option tickets; otherwise, drinks can be purchased onboard.
Yes, children aged two and under ride free; all ages up to 99 are welcome.
Unfortunately, the historic ships used for this cruise are not wheelchair accessible.
The cruise departs from Singel 359, near the blue-gated dock called "de Vijff Vlieghen," just five minutes from Dam Square.
The cruise runs rain, shine, or storm except when there is a local code red weather alarm, at which point cancellations may occur.
Food is not included in the standard ticket, but an optional cava and cheese platter can be booked to accompany your drinks.
Amsterdam’s canal ring dates back to the 17th century and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, forming a historic backdrop to this modern light festival.
The Light Festival uses energy-efficient LED installations to minimize environmental impact, promoting sustainability in this urban setting.
Amsterdam By Boat operates canal cruises from Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, offering a range of boat experiences that showcase the city from its historic waterways. The company runs themed trips including the Bottomless Mimosa Brunch Cruise, a Luxury Light Festival Cruise with drinks option that glides past illuminated artworks with guided storytelling, and B. Friends (ADE Boat Sessions) aboard the historic yacht Het Wapen van Amsterdam featuring DJs, visuals, and a fully stocked bar. Each cruise uses traditional vessels suited to canal navigation and highlights Amsterdam’s landmarks, bridges, and riverside architecture. Guests can choose relaxed sightseeing, seasonal light displays, or high-energy music events depending on the trip. Drink options and on-board hospitality are available on select cruises; the Luxury Light Festival Cruise specifically offers curated drinks and guide narration, while ADE Boat Sessions offers music programming and bar service across a multi-hour party route. Bookings accommodate visitors who want a curated canal experience, from daytime brunch cruises to evening illuminated tours and festival parties during Amsterdam Dance Event. Amsterdam By Boat coordinates departures and routes within the city’s canal network and partners with local crews and performers for event-specific offerings. Safety onboard follows standard canal navigation practices and vessel requirements for passenger excursions. Information provided by Amsterdam By Boat details trip duration, departure points, and inclusions for each experience so guests can select the cruise that best fits itinerary and preferences. Trip pages include summaries, schedules, ticket details, and booking information to help travelers plan canal outings with confidence for informed choices.
Book with Amsterdam By Boat