Is the cruise suitable for children or elderly guests?

Yes, the cruise is easy and safe for all ages, with minimal movement required, but children should be supervised at all times.

What types of drinks are included with the open bar?

The open bar offers beer, wine, and soda throughout the duration of your private cruise.

Can we bring our own food or additional beverages on board?

Food and outside beverages are not included but may be arranged in advance upon request—contact Starboard Boats BV for details.

How private is the cruise experience?

The boat is private and reserved exclusively for your group, allowing a relaxed, intimate atmosphere along the canals.

What happens if the weather is bad on the day of our cruise?

The cruises operate rain or shine, with some protection on board; it’s best to dress appropriately for the conditions.

Where exactly does the cruise depart and return to?

The cruise departs and returns to Starboard Dock at Amstel 178, 1017 AE Amsterdam, conveniently located in the city center.

Private Canal Cruises in Amsterdam with Starboard Boats BV | Boat Tour | Private

Amsterdam’s iconic canals are the city’s lifeblood, weaving through neighborhoods rich with history, architecture, and everyday local life. Starboard Boats BV offers a distinctive way to engage with these waterways—a private, one-hour cruise aboard a luxurious electric boat departing from Amstel 178, right in the heart of Amsterdam. This isn’t just sightseeing; it’s an intimate journey through the city’s waterborne veins, made all the more special by the exclusivity and comfort of the experience.

Unlike crowded tour boats, Starboard Boats creates an atmosphere of privacy and ease, with a skipper and host dedicated to your small group—up to 26 people—ensuring every moment is tailored to you. As you silently glide past historic canal houses, under the famed Seven Bridges, and onto the wider reaches of the Amstel River, you’re free to relax with unlimited drinks from an open bar offering beer, wine, and soda. The electric engine keeps the boat emissions-free and quiet, allowing you to soak in the urban landscape uninterrupted.

This cruise blends natural beauty with urban heritage. The canals themselves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, built in the 17th century as part of Amsterdam’s Golden Age expansion. Along the way, your local skipper shares insights into the city’s hidden spots and history, presenting a side of Amsterdam most visitors never see. The smooth, green-friendly vessels and attentive staff ensure a safe, hygienic environment, a thoughtful touch in today’s travel climate.

Whether gathering with friends or family, this cruise offers a fresh, relaxed way to connect with Amsterdam. It stands out among the city’s outdoor activities by combining comfort, privacy, and local knowledge, all on the water where the city unfolds differently. For anyone wanting more than a standard tour, Starboard Boats BV delivers a memorable hour floating through Amsterdam’s storied canals with style and ease.

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.