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Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise with Starboard Boats BV - Amsterdam

Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise with Starboard Boats BV

Amsterdameasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1–1.5 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical exertion is required.

Overview

Glide through Amsterdam’s historic canals on a fully electric boat during the Amsterdam Light Festival. Wrapped in blankets and enjoying unlimited drinks, discover 20 captivating light artworks with live narration that brings the city’s history and art to life.

Amsterdam, Noord-Holland

Shared Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise

Experience a Light Festival Cruise in the main canals on a cozy boat with drinks, snacks & blankets

Boat Tour
Events

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Adventure Photos

Shared Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise photo 1

About This Adventure

Embark on a magical electric boat cruise during the Amsterdam Light Festival, where you'll be wrapped in cozy blankets while sipping unlimited drinks. Discover the city's rich history and the stories behind 20 stunning light installations, all while enjoying captivating narration from your skipper. Experience Amsterdam like never before!

Experience the enchantment of the Amsterdam Light Festival on an electric boat cruise with beer, wine, glühwein, hot chocolate, and soda. Embark on a journey of wonder and illumination while under warm blankets. Learn about the history of the canals and facts about the city.

Settle into the luxurious comfort of a modern, fully electric boat, designed to shield you from the elements, and set out on a cruise through the vibrant heart of Amsterdam. As twilight descends, pass by a captivating gallery of 20 luminous art installations that adorn the canals.

Wrapped in warmth with provided blankets, immerse yourself in the city's beauty and allure from the cozy haven of your boat. Listen to stories shared by your skipper or host.

Delve into the stories behind the art pieces, explore the rich history of the canals, and uncover insights about the city itself. All the while, indulge in a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, generously provided without limit from the onboard bar.

The thirteenth edition of Amsterdam Light Festival takes place from 28 November 2024 until 19 January 2025, and has the theme Rituals.

Rituals have traditionally helped us through all kinds of transformations; from past to future, from winter to summer, from youth to adulthood. Light plays a vital role in many rituals, as a vibrant symbol of joy, energy and life. We use fireworks to usher in the new year, candles to commemorate the arrival of a saviour, and midsummer fires to welcome the solstice. Light adds something mystical and sacred to a ritual like no other element can. And rituals unify. Rituals bring people together.

Adventure Tips

Dress in warm layers

Even with blankets and a covered boat, temperatures on the water can drop quickly in winter evenings.

Book early during festival dates

The Amsterdam Light Festival draws crowds; secure your spot well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Arrive before departure time

Meet at Amstel 178 and look for Starboard Crew in blue to check in smoothly and start your cruise on time.

Bring a camera with low-light capabilities

The illuminated art installations offer fantastic photo opportunities; a camera that performs well in low light is ideal.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Mute swans
  • Common canal ducks

History

Amsterdam’s canal ring was constructed in the early 1600s to create a functional and defensive waterway system, shaping the city’s layout.

Conservation

Starboard Boats BV operates fully electric boats, minimizing pollution and noise to protect Amsterdam’s delicate canal ecosystem.

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Adventure Hotspots in Amsterdam

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Warm jacket

Essential

Keeps you comfortable during cooler evenings on the water.

fall specific

Gloves and hat

Essential

Important for warmth during chillier winter cruises.

winter specific

Camera with low-light settings

Captures the glowing art installations during dusk and nighttime.

winter specific

Waterproof shoes

Helpful in case of rainy weather near docks and boarding areas.

spring specific