Smoke Friendly BYOB Canal Cruise with The Bulldog Boat Tour

Read the full experience

Amsterdam’s iconic canals offer more than just postcard views—they present a living chapter of the city’s vibrant culture and history. The Bulldog Boat Tour’s smoke friendly BYOB Cruise from Leidseplein invites adventurous spirits to experience this urban waterway from a fresh perspective. Located at Leidsekade 100, right in the heart of Amsterdam, this one-hour cruise weaves through historic canals lined by gabled houses, centuries-old bridges, and lively neighborhoods where the city’s essence pulses. What sets this trip apart is its relaxed, unrestricted atmosphere. Unlike typical tours, guests are welcome to bring their own beverages and enjoy smoking on board, making it a rare offering in Amsterdam's central circuit. A friendly captain shares insightful stories about landmarks visible from the water—the stately Rijksmuseum, the shimmering facade of the Anne Frank House nearby, and the vibrant hustle of the Nine Streets district. This intimate blend of leisure and local lore creates a personalized journey through Amsterdam's core. Amsterdam’s canals are carved through a mix of reclaimed land and peat soil, shaped by innovative waterworks centuries ago. Their calm waters reflect the city’s energy and architectural beauty, dotted with houseboats and small flora patches that attract waterfowl like swans and ducks. This cultural and natural interplay makes cruising these waterways a special encounter with the city’s enduring character. By launching from Leidseplein, a hub full of nightlife and street performers, The Bulldog Boat Tour places travelers at the crossroads of old and new Amsterdam. The cruise’s BYOB policy taps into the city’s liberal spirit without selling items onboard, encouraging guests to curate their own experience. Whether it’s a sunny afternoon or a crisp evening ride, this offering suits visitors looking for a casual, evocative way to see Amsterdam from a uniquely open vantage point—on the water, with a drink in hand and a local story to savor.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

1 hour.

Fitness level

Minimal exertion—suitable for all fitness levels, as the experience involves sitting and light walking to and from the boat.

Frequently asked questions

Can I buy drinks or smoking products on the boat?

No, The Bulldog Boat Tour is BYOB and smoke-friendly, so you need to bring your own beverages and smoking materials.

Is smoking allowed throughout the entire canal cruise?

Yes, smoking is permitted onboard, but please be considerate of others and follow the captain’s guidelines.

Where does the boat depart from?

The cruise starts at the jetty located at Leidsekade 100, 1017 PP Amsterdam.

Are there any age restrictions for this cruise?

Yes, all participants must be 18 years or older to join the smoke friendly BYOB cruise.

How long is the cruise?

The experience lasts approximately 60 minutes.

Is the boat accessible for people with limited mobility?

While the boat is relatively small, please contact The Bulldog Boat Tour directly to discuss specific accessibility needs.

Local insights

Wildlife

Mute swans often glide alongside the boat in the canals.
Canada geese are common residents near Amsterdam’s waterways.

History

Amsterdam’s canal ring dates back to the 17th century Golden Age and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, built to manage water in a city below sea level.

Conservation

The Bulldog Boat Tour supports responsible tourism by encouraging guests to bring their own supplies, reducing waste onboard and maintaining the canals’ cleanliness.

About The Bulldog Boat Tour

The Bulldog Boat is a canal cruise operator based in Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, offering smoke-friendly boat tours that combine sightseeing with a relaxed, social atmosphere. The Bulldog Boat presents two signature experiences: The Bulldog Boat, a one-hour smoke-friendly cruise that includes two complimentary drinks and guided commentary from a knowledgeable captain; and The Bulldog smoke friendly BYOB Cruise from Leidseplein, a BYOB cruise that allows guests to bring their own drinks while enjoying views and local history. Both tours travel Amsterdam’s canals, showcasing historic bridges, canal houses, and central neighborhoods. The onboard experience focuses on comfort and local context, with a captain providing commentary about the city’s history while guests relax on the water. The Bulldog Boat is aimed at visitors who want a relaxed sightseeing option that permits smoking and BYOB choices not commonly available on many standard canal cruises. The one-hour format makes it an accessible addition to a day in Amsterdam while still providing a memorable, scenic overview of the city. Departure information, duration, and included amenities are specified for each trip at booking; the smoke friendly BYOB Cruise departs from Leidseplein as described. Operating in the heart of Amsterdam, The Bulldog Boat combines casual leisure with guided narration for adults seeking an alternative canal experience.

Base locationAmsterdam, Noord-Holland

Tours offered2+

Specialtyboat-charters

Stewardship

Adventure tips

Bring your own drinks and smoking materialsNo sales are made on board, so come stocked with your favorite beverages and smoking products.

Dress for the weatherCanal breezes can be chilly or damp, so layered clothing and a waterproof jacket are wise choices.

Arrive early to secure your spotThe boat departs promptly from Leidsekade 100, so plan to arrive at least 10 minutes before departure.

Respect local smoking customsWhile smoking is permitted, be mindful of the captain and other passengers to keep the experience enjoyable for all.

Recommended gear

Layered Clothing: Helps adjust to fluctuating temperatures and canal breezes during the cruise.
Waterproof Jacket: Protects against unexpected rain and damp conditions on the canals.
Reusable Drinking Vessel: Bring your own cup or bottle to enjoy beverages comfortably on board.
Portable Ashtray or Container: Helps maintain cleanliness when smoking during the cruise.