Experience Amsterdam Light Festival: Open Canal Cruise with Mulled Wine and Live Guide
Difficulty
easy
Duration
75 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels as this is a leisurely boat cruise requiring minimal physical exertion.
Overview
Discover Amsterdam like never before with a magical 75-minute open canal cruise through the Light Festival. Warm up with mulled wine as you explore dazzling installations illuminated across the city’s waterways.
Light Festival Canal Cruise - Fully Open Boat with Mulled wine
+/- 75 minutes • All ages • Open Boat • Live Guided Tour
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on a magical journey through the Amsterdam Light Festival with BoatAmsterdam.com. Experience the city's historic canals transformed by 20 stunning light installations while enjoying warm Glühwein and live commentary. This unique cruise offers a cozy atmosphere and captivating insights, making it an unforgettable winter adventure filled with creativity and wonder.
Welcome aboard!
Experience the magic of the Amsterdam Light Festival with BoatAmsterdam.com, your gateway to the city's most enchanting winter spectacle from the comfort of our ships.
In a world that can change in an instant, the Amsterdam Light Festival (ALF) offers a brilliant reminder of how art can illuminate even the darkest of times. This year, we're excited to partner with ALF once again to bring the glow of creativity to Amsterdam's historic canals during the cold winter months.
Join us as we sail past approximately 20 mesmerizing light installations that transform the city into a luminous wonderland. Let the sparkling canals and thought-provoking artworks ignite your imagination as you glide through this stunning event aboard one of our comfortable, fully open boats.
What is included:
- A bestselling cruise offering front-row views of the Amsterdam Light Festival’s captivating light sculptures from the water.
- A cozy, fully open boat experience, complete with a warm Glühwein and Hot chocolate. Looking for other drink options? Check out our additional drink packages!
- Live commentary from the boat’s captain, providing insights and stories behind the featured light artworks.
- Entry to the festival: While we don't organize the festival itself, we contribute €8.10 on your behalf to the "Stichting Amsterdam Light Festival" for the creation of these remarkable artworks.
- Onboard restroom facilities for your convenience.
More Details
About the festival
Each year, the Amsterdam Light Festival adopts a fresh theme that inspires the creation of new and imaginative light installations. This year’s theme, “Loading…,” reflects on the fleeting nature of the world we live in and the rapid transformations happening all around us. As we embrace these changes, including the limitless potential of AI, let the light guide your thoughts and imagination. Sail with us on this exciting journey and witness these themes brought to life through brilliant artistic expression.
About BoatAmsterdam.com
At BoatAmsterdam.com, we pride ourselves on making your canal cruising experience as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. As an official partner of the Amsterdam Light Festival, we offer a variety of cruise options to suit your preferences—whether you prefer the crisp winter air on a fully open boat with glühwein, or a cozy covered boat with an all-inclusive drinks package.
We're here to make your experience unforgettable. Feel free to contact us with any questions or special requests!
Adventure Tips
Dress Warmly for Winter Cruising
The boat is fully open so layers and a warm jacket are essential to stay comfortable during the chilly canal ride.
Arrive Early for Boarding
Arriving 15 minutes before departure ensures a smooth boarding process and better seating choices on the boat.
Bring a Camera with Good Low-Light Capability
Night photography can be tricky on moving water—use a camera with night mode or image stabilization for best results.
Avoid Large Bags Onboard
Space is limited on the open boat, so pack light to keep the experience comfortable for everyone.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Mute swans gliding quietly in the canals
- Occasional sightings of canal ducks and coots
History
Amsterdam’s canal ring dates back to the 17th century, and its UNESCO heritage status highlights its historical and cultural significance.
Conservation
The festival promotes sustainable lighting and reduces light pollution by timing installations and using energy-efficient LEDs.
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Adventure Hotspots in Amsterdam
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Warm Layered Clothing
Necessary to stay warm on the open boat in chilly winter weather.
winter specific
Camera or Smartphone
For capturing the beautiful light installations and canal scenes after dark.
winter specific
Comfortable Waterproof Footwear
Helpful if walking around the dock area or if weather is wet or icy.
winter specific
Compact Backpack or Bag
Easy to carry personal items without taking up too much space on the boat.
winter specific