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.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical exertion is required.
Wildlife
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.
Starboard Boats BV
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.
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.
Based In
Amsterdam
Operating from Amsterdam, Noord-Holland
Tours Offered
21+ experiences
Shared, private, and special events
Boat Type
Electric boats
Eco-friendly, low-noise vessels
Capacity
Up to 30 guests
Small-group and private options
Choose a shared or private electric-boat experience with onboard drinks, guided commentary, and flexible group options — book the trip that fits the occasion.
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.
Warm jacket
Keeps you comfortable during cooler evenings on the water.
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Gloves and hat
Important for warmth during chillier winter cruises.
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Camera with low-light settings
Captures the glowing art installations during dusk and nighttime.
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Waterproof shoes
Helpful in case of rainy weather near docks and boarding areas.
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