Glide through Amsterdam’s historic canals on a quiet, electric boat with Pure Boats. Enjoy expert narration and a choice of drinks during this intimate one-hour journey through the city’s UNESCO-listed waterways.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; requires minimal physical exertion
Wildlife
History
Amsterdam’s canal ring was constructed in the early 1600s as part of city expansion and remains a masterpiece of urban water management.
Conservation
Pure Boats prioritizes sustainability with electric vessels that reduce noise and water pollution, preserving the delicate canal ecosystem.
Pure Boats
Glide through Amsterdam’s historic canals on a quiet, electric boat with Pure Boats. Enjoy expert narration and a choice of drinks during this intimate one-hour journey through the city’s UNESCO-listed waterways.
Pure Boats is a canal cruise operator based in Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, offering a range of private and small-group boat experiences on the city's historic waterways. The company operates a varied fleet that includes vintage-style launches and modern electric boats such as Lucy, a handcrafted replica of a 1905 Thames launch, and the spacious Stan Huygens, which can host up to 36 guests. Pure Boats runs curated departures from central locations including Keizersgracht and Herengracht, serving intimate cruises for as few as six guests up to larger private events.
Trips include one-hour Iconic Canal Cruises, two-hour Ultimate Canal Cruises, seasonal Winter Canal Cruises, Amsterdam Light Festival tours, family-friendly Highlights of Amsterdam cruises, exclusive brunch cruises, and special-event SAIL Amsterdam sailings with deluxe snack platters and open bars. Several departures list capacities of 16 or 24 guests for small-group comfort.
Captains provide local commentary and sightseeing insights while guests enjoy drinks and snacks on board. Boats feature amenities such as comfortable seating, adjustable lighting, bars, and fully equipped kitchens on select vessels. Pure Boats emphasizes relaxed, personalized service for private celebrations, corporate outings, and sightseeing.
With a mix of electric vessels and classic wooden launches, Pure Boats combines sustainable, quiet cruising with vintage character. The operator’s transparent trip descriptions, clear departure points, and varied capacity options help travelers select the right experience for groups and special occasions. Bookings accommodate special requests for celebrations and corporate events, and specific sailings are scheduled for SAIL Amsterdam 2025 with exclusive views aboard tall ships nearby.
Location
Amsterdam, Noord-Holland
Central canal departures
Tours Offered
23 tours
Public & private options
Max Capacity
Up to 36 guests
Large private events available
Fleet Variety
Electric & classic
Vintage launches and modern boats
Select the right vessel and departure from Keizersgracht or Herengracht — check availability for private charters, brunch cruises, and seasonal events and book today.
Book Ahead
This popular one-hour canal cruise can fill quickly, especially during peak travel times—reserve early to secure your preferred departure.
Dress for the Weather
Despite being on water, the boat is covered but not fully enclosed; bring layers especially in cooler months or windier conditions.
Arrive on Time
Plan to arrive at Keizersgracht a few minutes early to ensure a smooth boarding process and the full cruise experience.
Mind Your Group Size
The boat holds up to 24 guests to preserve an intimate atmosphere—large parties should notify the company in advance.
Light waterproof jacket
Protects against spring rain and wind while cruising the canals.
spring
Sunglasses
Helps reduce glare from the sun reflecting off water during summer cruises.
summer
Warm hat and gloves
Keeps you warm against cold winds on the open deck during winter.
winter
Comfortable shoes
Helpful for boarding and disembarking the boat, plus walking around the dock area.