Small Group Boutique All-Inclusive Tour (max 12 p) With Captain

Amsterdam , Netherlands

Small Group Boutique All-Inclusive Tour (max 12 p) With Captain

Active

(486 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Explore Amsterdam's iconic canals on our charming cruise aboard the historic salon boat, Sophie (est 1911). With a maximum of 12 guests, this small-group experience ensures a cozy and personalized journey.

Your host and guide for six days a week is Amsterdam native Boudewijn Metzelaar, also known as "Captain Bow." On Saturdays, one of his trusted friends will step in to guide you.
Whether you want to seat indoors or outdoors, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy the cruise, rain or shine, in true Dutch style.

Indulge in a variety of (alcoholic) drinks and delicious nibbles as you relax and enjoy the view. With a WC on board, your comfort is fully catered to throughout the experience.

Captain Bow’s deep connection to Amsterdam and his unique perspective, shaped by his diverse upbringing, promise insightful stories and engaging conversations. The small group size fosters a warm and friendly atmosphere, making this cruise a truly special way to discover the heart of Amsterdam.

Available options

Small Group Boutique All-Inclusive Tour (max 12 p) With Captain

What's included

Little sweet and savoury snacks to nibble on with your drinks are provided

Extensive open bar with local beers, top shelf liqours, soft drinks and hot drinks. You will not be disappointed! I make a killer G&T with local gin

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

All cruises are captained by myself as the captain/owner of the Drift Away.

We depart from the Singel no.7 and we will return to this location at the end of the cruise.

I do not offer a fixed route, depending on your wishes as guests I will tailor the cruise to you specifically.

Due to the custom design of the Drift Away we have access to even the narrowest canals of Amsterdam and are able to pass even the lowest of bridges.

If you do not have any preferences I will put together a route which will give you an overview of the canal belt, a few of the small less travelled canals, the Amstel river and the eastern maritime area.

As a born and raised ¨Amsterdammer¨ I have a wealth of knowledge about Amsterdams history, culture and the Dutch way of life in general. I love sharing with you about my hometown in an easy going manner, with a good sense of humor and the typical Dutch straight forwardness!

Stop 2 Pass by

We will pass through the pitoresque district the Jordaan. The name of the Jordaan finds its origin in the French word Jardin, meaning garden. Many of the streets in the district are named after flowers.

Stop 3 Pass by

The former warehouse of the Admiralty of Amsterdam features the Maritime Museum. We will also pass by ¨De Amsterdam¨ an enormous replica East India Trading Company ship.

Former tower part of the defense wall surrounding Amsterdam, converted in the 1600 to a clock tower. Features also in a painting by Rembrant van Rijn

Stop 5 Pass by

We will pass the most famous prostitution district in the world, you will learn the practical features of the usage of red light in the world of prostitution.

Stop 6 Pass by

The most famous bridge out of the thousands Amsterdam features, why is it famous and who build it?

Tax used to be based on the width of your residence facade. We will pass the smallest house in Amsterdam to show you the builders disdain for paying tax.

Stop 8 Pass by

One of the oldest canals where all beer was brewed back in the golden age

Stop 9 Pass by

Old tower which was briefly used as the republics mint.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN NL

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

130 reviews

5★

126

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

356 reviews

5★

350

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Singel 5 is an adres. “Hotel Canal View” is located here. The departure point is INFRONT of this adres marked with 6 black morning poles with white caps along the canal.
!!There is NO SIGN at the departure point itself at the moment due to zoning restrictions!!

Important notes

Please provide ticket to myself upon arrival for your booked cruise time.

About Amsterdam

Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is renowned for its picturesque canals, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Known as the 'Venice of the North,' the city offers a rich blend of art, history, and modern innovation, making it a captivating destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Rijksmuseum

The Rijksmuseum is the Dutch national museum dedicated to arts and history. It houses an extensive collection of paintings, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer.

Museum 2-3 hours €20

Van Gogh Museum

The Van Gogh Museum is dedicated to the works of Vincent van Gogh and his contemporaries. It houses the largest collection of Van Gogh paintings and drawings in the world.

Museum 1.5-2 hours €20

Anne Frank House

The Anne Frank House is a biographical museum dedicated to Jewish wartime diarist Anne Frank. The building is where Anne Frank and her family hid from Nazi persecution during World War II.

Historical 1 hour €16

Dam Square

Dam Square is the central square of Amsterdam and a historic site. It is home to the Royal Palace, the National Monument, and various other landmarks.

Historical 1 hour Free

Jordaan

Jordaan is a picturesque and lively neighborhood known for its narrow streets, canals, and vibrant atmosphere. It is a great place to explore, shop, and dine.

Neighborhood A few hours to explore Free to explore, varies for shopping and dining

Must-Try Local Dishes

Stroopwafel

A thin, round waffle made from two layers of baked dough joined by a caramel-like syrup filling

Dessert Vegetarian, contains wheat and sugar

Bitterballen

Deep-fried, crispy balls filled with a creamy, spiced ragout, typically made from beef or veal

Snack Contains meat, gluten, and dairy

Haring

Raw herring fish, traditionally served with onions and pickles, eaten by holding the fish by its tail and lowering it into your mouth

Dish Contains fish, not suitable for vegetarians

Poffertjes

Miniature pancakes made from a batter of flour, eggs, milk, and yeast, served with powdered sugar and butter

Dessert Vegetarian, contains wheat, eggs, and dairy

Popular Activities

Canal kayaking Bike tours Escape rooms Canal cruises Visiting parks and gardens Spa and wellness treatments Museum visits Art galleries

Best Time to Visit

June to August

The peak tourist season in Amsterdam is during the summer months when the weather is warm and sunny. This is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities and festivals, but it's also the busiest and most expensive period.

15°C to 22°C 59°F to 72°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Dutch
Widely spoken: English, German, French
English: Widely spoken, especially in tourist areas

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, with some areas requiring caution

Amsterdam is generally a safe city for travelers, with low violent crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bike theft, can occur, particularly in tourist areas and on public transport. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of your surroundings, particularly in crowded areas and on public transport
• Use licensed taxis and agree on the fare before starting your journey

Getting there

By air

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol • 17.5 km from city center

By train

Amsterdam Centraal

By bus

Amsterdam Sloterdijk, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol

Getting around

Public transport

Amsterdam's tram system is efficient and user-friendly, with 14 day and night tram lines. A single ticket costs €3.20, and day passes are available.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Taxi Amsterdam

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Jordaan De Pijp De Wallen (Red Light District) Museumplein Amsterdam-Noord

Day trips

Zaanse Schans

20 km from Amsterdam • Half day to full day

A picturesque and open-air museum featuring traditional Dutch houses, windmills, and workshops, showcasing the history and craftsmanship of the region.

Haarlem

20 km from Amsterdam • Half day to full day

A charming and historic city known for its beautiful architecture, museums, and vibrant cultural scene, often considered a smaller and more relaxed version of Amsterdam.

Utrecht

50 km from Amsterdam • Full day

A vibrant and historic city known for its beautiful canals, medieval architecture, and lively cultural scene, with a unique and charming atmosphere.

Festivals

King's Day (Koningsdag) • April 27 (or April 26 if the 27th is a Sunday) Amsterdam Pride • Late July to early August Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) • Mid-October

Pro tips

Use the OV-chipkaart for seamless and convenient public transport
Rent a bike to explore the city like a local, but be aware of cycling rules and etiquette
Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Explore the city's neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm
Try local specialties, such as stroopwafels, bitterballen, and Dutch pancakes