Experience the Amsterdam Light Festival Aboard a Cozy 1920s Salon Boat
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5–2 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal physical effort required; suitable for most fitness levels
Overview
Sail Amsterdam’s canals aboard Diana, a vintage salon boat, for an intimate and warm experience of the Amsterdam Light Festival. Discover hidden stories and unparalleled views with local guides in a cozy floating living room.
Private Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise — Your Floating Living Room
Cruise along the beautiful artwork and enjoy all the other pretty lights Amsterdam has to offer
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Experience Amsterdam Light Festival like never before aboard Diana, a cozy 1920s salon boat. With panoramic views and local guides, enjoy hidden gems and personal stories while sipping drinks in a relaxed atmosphere. This intimate tour offers a unique perspective on the festival, transforming the canals into a magical open-air gallery.
Forget the crowded tourist boats. Join two born-and-raised Amsterdammers as we take you to our secret spots around the city. This isn't your typical canal tour—it's where we go with our friends. Expect hidden swimming spots, quiet canals, and stories you won't hear anywhere else.
People often ask, "Can you show us your favourite spot?" Well, this tour is where we share our secrets.
We're not just your captains—we're born and raised Amsterdammers who grew up on the canals
Kick off your shoes and relax in our floating living room!
Along the way we'll take you to the places we visit with our friends: quiet canals, swimming spots, and hidden corners of the city that even many locals forget.
Along the way, we'll tell you funny facts, local quirks, and lesser-known history you only get from people who grew up dodging bikes.
No fixed script, no big groups, and no tourist traps—just stories that come up as we go. We're not your average canal cruise company, (unless you want us to be!).
It's all about chill vibes, surprise beauty, and feeling the city's real, rough charm.
Adventure Tips
Dress Warmly for Evening Cruises
Even with onboard heating, night air on the canals can be chilly—layer up and use provided blankets for extra comfort.
Book Early to Secure Private Tours
With a maximum of 7 guests per cruise, reservations fill quickly during the festival season—plan ahead.
Arrive On Time at Brouwersgracht 66
The boat departs promptly; arriving early ensures a relaxed boarding process without losing precious tour time.
Bring a Camera
Panoramic windows provide excellent photo opportunities without reflections or fogging—capture the glowing installations.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Mute swans gliding gracefully
- Waterfowl such as ducks and coots
History
Amsterdam’s canals date back to the 17th century and the Light Festival celebrates the city’s rich history and contemporary art scene each winter.
Conservation
The cruise emphasizes low-impact tourism by maintaining small group sizes and using an electric or low-emission vintage boat to protect the canal ecosystem.
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Adventure Hotspots in Amsterdam
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Warm Jacket
Protects against chilly canal breezes during evening cruises.
winter specific
Comfortable Footwear
Ideal for walking to the dock and boarding the boat safely.
Camera or Smartphone
To capture the stunning illuminated artworks through clear glass windows.
Scarf and Gloves
Adds warmth for the must-use outdoor moments before and after the cruise.
winter specific