THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Experience the magic of Amsterdam’s Light Festival on a private 75-minute boat cruise. Perfect for groups, it offers an intimate way to view dazzling light installations along the city’s famed waterways.
Experience the magic of Amsterdam’s Light Festival on a private 75-minute boat cruise. Perfect for groups, it offers an intimate way to view dazzling light installations along the city’s famed waterways.
Book with Starboard Boats BV
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Starboard Boats BV · Amsterdam, North Holland
In the heart of North Holland, Amsterdam transforms into a luminous wonderland during the Light Festival, drawing visitors from around the globe to witness its striking light displays. Amidst this vibrant ambiance, Starboard Boats BV offers a one-of-a-kind way to soak in the city's nocturnal beauty—via a private 75-minute cruise along its iconic waterways. Perfect for groups of up to 30, this vessel journey turns a simple boat ride into an intimate celebration of light and architecture. As the boat glides smoothly through the canals, twinkling light installations cast reflections on the water’s surface, creating a scene that’s both mesmerizing and perfect for photographs. The flexibility of a private experience makes it ideal for family gatherings, anniversaries, or corporate events looking to add a sophisticated twist to their festivities. Unlike larger, crowded boat tours, this experience allows your group to set the tone, chat comfortably, and really immerse yourself in the city's enchanting evening atmosphere. Navigating through neighborhoods where historic architecture is illuminated in innovative displays, guests get a fresh perspective of Amsterdam’s rich cultural fabric. What's more, the boat’s small size enables access to quieter, lesser-seen waterways, revealing hidden corners only visible from the water. With local guides or captain-led commentary, guests also gain insights into Amsterdam’s maritime history and the festival’s unique lighting concepts. This cruise stands out in the outdoor recreation scene, blending urban exploration with artistic appreciation—a fantastic way to enjoy the city’s winter magic or festive season. Whether marking a special occasion or simply seeking a distinctive way to see Amsterdam, this private cruise delivers a memorable journey through light and water, leaving guests with photos and stories to cherish.
easy.
75 minutes.
Suitable for most fitness levels; no physical exertion required
Yes, private bookings can often be tailored for celebrations like birthdays or anniversaries—check directly with Starboard Boats BV for options.
The cruise generally proceeds in light rain, but severe weather may lead to postponements or cancellations for safety reasons.
Yes, there are public parking options close to the departure point, but it’s best to arrive early.
Beverage service varies; you can often bring your own drinks, but confirm with the company beforehand.
The vessel accommodates groups up to 30 people comfortably.
Accessibility details vary; contact Starboard Boats BV directly to discuss specific needs.
Canals were excavated in the 17th century during Amsterdam’s Golden Age, shaping the city’s unique aquatic layout still admired today.
The city continuously invests in sustainable tourism practices, including maintaining its waterways and promoting eco-friendly vessels.
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.
Book with Starboard Boats BV