Amsterdam Light Tour and Family Canal Cruise

Amsterdam , Netherlands

Amsterdam Light Tour and Family Canal Cruise

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About this experience

This private Amsterdam Light Festival boat tour is the ultimate winter activity for anyone who wants to explore the city in a serene and intimate way. No walking, no crowds – just you and the enchanting world of rituals illuminated by light.
So whether you're visiting Amsterdam or simply looking for a special night out, let the city sparkle around you on this extraordinary Amsterdam Light Festival boat tour. Drinks, art, and ambiance will accompany you on this magical journey.
VIP Canal Tours Amsterdam offers luxury private cruises and experiences on Amsterdam's historic canals. They focus on personalized service and comfort, unlike the larger, often crowded, canal boats. VIP Canal Tours offers both customized private tours and small-group cruises. You'll travel aboard beautifully restored, classic electric saloon boats, such as the 1933 "Energie," which navigate the canals silently and emission-free. Tours are led by professional, local skippers.

Available options

Amsterdam Light Tour and Family Canal Cruise

What's included

120-minute cruise on an electric saloon boat. A welcome drink is included.

What you'll see

Amsterdam Light Tour & Family Cruise.

The Amsterdam Light Festival presents an enchanting canal cruise, provided by VIP CANAL TOURS.
A VIP cruise is the perfect opportunity to admire the dazzling artworks of the Amsterdam Light Festival. Our experienced skipper will expertly navigate the captivating light displays while you enjoy delicious snacks and drinks. He or she will share captivating insights about the festival, the artworks, and the artists, with relaxed commentary in Dutch, English, and German. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the canals, bridges, and light installations. An open boat offers panoramic views of the artworks. We will ensure your comfort as you enjoy an unforgettable cruise through Amsterdam's beautifully illuminated canals.

Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise

Climb aboard for an unforgettable cruise during the Amsterdam Light Festival and be swept away by breathtaking light installations and illuminated bridges that bring the city to life. Enjoy a unique experience with friends or family and discover the magic of Amsterdam's festive lights and enchanting canals. Prepare for an evening of wonder and let the captain reveal the most beautiful views!
More information: Private Amsterdam Light Festival 2025-2026 Tour EDITION 14: The Legacy

What do we leave behind, individually and collectively? Edition 14 is dedicated to the theme of "Legacy"—both large and small. Legacy can refer to significant historical or ecological events with a lasting impact, but also to the continuation of family traditions, shared memories, and customs. What do we leave behind? What stories do we pass on? How do we want to be remembered? Twenty artists from around the world explored these questions. Each translated their personal interpretation of what it means to leave something behind into a visual and spatial experience. The result is a diverse collection of light artworks: exuberant yet understated, monumental yet intimate. Together, the works remind us that our legacy is not predetermined. We have the power to actively shape both the present and the future. Every day, each of us leaves a trace. What we leave behind is up to us.

Our Amsterdam Light Festival cruise accommodates 2 to 12 people, making it perfect for couples, families, or small groups looking for a quiet, intimate evening. Step aboard your private boat and escape the crowds as your skipper navigates the illuminated canals. The boat features an enclosed and heated design, with large windows for breathtaking views from every angle.

What's not included

Toilet, there is no toilet on the boat No Entrance tickets to museums No tips

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN NL

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

In front of the HArt museum there is a large jetty where we, together with other shipping companies, pick up our guests.

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