Anyone have any recent experience with a good canal cruise? Looking for this to be fun, brief introduction to Amsterdam--the canal ring and architecture for a couple friends who are traveling there for the first time. I have done a canal cruise several years back and it was ok--recorded audio. Any live guides? Any recommendations? Thank you.
Posted by
Northamptonshire, England
32704 posts
why a tip?
Posted by
Austin
973 posts
I have taken 2. One was a hop on hop off boat that i caught near the Hermitage AMS to spare my feet from more sightseeing. Another was an evening cruise as the bridges were being lit. In general, the nonstop canal is sufficient for an overview-I thought the wait for the next boat was a little long when trams are so convenient.
Posted by
OP
Beaverton, OR, United States
245 posts
Thank you for your feedback.
Posted by
Olympia, WA, USA
6487 posts
We took a "Blue Boat" cruise one afternoon from a landing near the Rijksmuseum. I think it was a recorded narration but it was OK for us. I don't know that it was the best cruise available but it was fine for us, and I'd recommend one for anybody spending time in Amsterdam.
Posted by
Orange Park, Fl
985 posts
Melinda - it might be worth checking out Those Dam Boat Guys. Small group tours and you can take your own food/wine/ etc They get into places the big boats can't go. The Boat Gus are in no way associated with ThatDamGuide.
Posted by
Langley, Wa, Usa
72 posts
We just took a "Those Dam Boat Guys" cruise yesterday. Fun and informative in a small (10 people) quiet electric motor boat so no problem hearing the guide. 90 minutes. You sign up online and meet near the Prinsengraht canal. It is an open boat so dress for the weather (they do supply blankets). Our guide was an American living in Amsterdam. Would highly recommend. We are a 60 something couple.
BTW, we absolutely love Amsterdam but it is really crowded now. Do yourself a favor and book out of the Central, Dam Square area. We are in a quiet spot in the Jordaan. Easy, short transportation as well as easy walk to many sights. And the neighborhood has great restaurants, bars and lovely walking.