Is the cruise suitable for children?

Yes, the cruise accommodates guests of all ages, though supervision is recommended for young children.

Are refreshments included in the ticket price?

Refreshments are available for purchase from the onboard bar but not included in the cruise fare.

Can I bring my own food or drinks on board?

Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted to maintain service quality onboard.

What happens in case of bad weather?

The cruise operates rain or shine; however, severe weather may cause cancellations with advance notice.

Is the commentary only in German?

Yes, this specific guided cruise is conducted exclusively in German to serve German-speaking guests.

Where exactly does the cruise depart from?

The departure point is located in the city centre of Amsterdam, adjacent to major canal access points.

Historic Canal Cruise in Amsterdam with Starboard Boats

Navigating Amsterdam’s waterways reveals a distinctly authentic side of the city, and Starboard Boats BV offers an intimate way to soak it all in. Their German Guided Shared Cruise, launching from the city centre, invites small groups aboard a sleek vessel for a 60-minute journey through Amsterdam’s world-famous canal network. These waterways, dating back to the 17th-century Dutch Golden Age, run through neighborhoods rich with striking gabled houses, narrow bridges, and vibrant street life.

Starboard Boats BV has carved out a unique niche by tailoring this experience specifically for German-speaking guests, with a knowledgeable skipper providing lively commentary that weaves history with local lore. While drifting past UNESCO-listed canals lined by age-old warehouses and houseboats, passengers can sip refreshing drinks from the onboard bar, enhancing the leisurely atmosphere.

This shared cruise hosts up to 26 guests, striking a balance between social and personalized that’s perfect for travelers wanting to connect with the city beyond the typical tourist trail. Amsterdam’s canals aren’t just scenic waterways; they’re arteries that reveal the city’s identity, from the imposing Westerkerk church towers to the playful sculptures peeking from the waterside.

The departure point in Amsterdam’s vibrant city centre places guests at the pulse of urban life. The city itself is a blend of cultural landmark and outdoor playground, with its flat terrain surrounded by parks, markets, and bike paths adding a recreational edge to the historic backdrop. Starboard Boats’ guided cruise stands out by merging cultural insight with outdoor relaxation, making it ideal for travelers who want to connect deeply with Amsterdam’s essence while enjoying the calm of the canals.

For those chasing an easy, visually stunning adventure that integrates history, architecture, and local camaraderie, this guided cruise by Starboard Boats BV is a compelling choice.

About Starboard Boats BV

Starboard Boats BV is a canal cruise operator based in Amsterdam, Noord-Holland. The company operates a fleet of electric, eco-friendly boats offering shared and private canal experiences across Amsterdam’s historic waterways. Popular scheduled experiences include the Original Amsterdam Flower Boat, shared canal cruises with unlimited drinks, and themed trips such as the Amsterdam Light Festival cruises and Cheese Fondue Cruise.

Private options allow customizable itineraries with a dedicated skipper and host, onboard bar service, and optional catering or entertainment like silent discos. Group sizes vary by trip: many shared cruises accommodate up to 26 guests, while private Light Festival cruises can host up to 30 people. Departure points include central locations such as Rembrandt Square, the Red Light District, and Starboard Dock.

Guided experiences are available in English and German, and local skippers provide route insights, historical context, and hidden-gem commentary. Safety and guest comfort are supported by trained crew members and hygienic service practices on board. Starboard Boats BV’s offerings range from family-friendly activities to adult-focused Booze Cruises and private hire for celebrations.

All descriptions and availability depend on the selected trip; passengers can choose one-hour shared cruises, extended three-hour SAIL experiences, evening candlelight or fondue events, and specialized seasonal departures. Starboard Boats BV focuses on delivering varied canal experiences that showcase Amsterdam’s attractions while using electric vessels to minimize environmental impact. Reservations accommodate celebrations, family gatherings, sightseeing tours, seasonal festival visits, and group outings with flexible trip choices, durations, and onboard amenities tailored to each selected cruise departure.