Amsterdam Light Festival: Saloon Boat Cruise + Hot Drinks & Bite
Active
1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Experience Amsterdam’s canals in a whole new light as you explore the 14th edition of the Amsterdam Light Festival. This year, the theme Legacy invites international artists to reflect on what we value today and what we leave behind for future generations.
Throughout this 75-minute cruise, you’ll encounter more than 20 striking light artworks that turn Amsterdam into an open-air gallery. Get comfortable aboard a classic saloon boat, offering warmth and wide, unobstructed views of the illuminated canals.
Drinks such as wine, mulled wine, beer, soft drinks, and hot chocolate are available on board. If you choose the unlimited drinks option, you’ll enjoy all of these beverages without limits, along with your choice of a fresh stroopwafel or a portion of salted snacks to complete the experience.
Step aboard, unwind in the cozy atmosphere of the saloon boat, and immerse yourself in an evening filled with light, art, and the stories that connect Amsterdam’s past and present.
Available options
No Drinks & Bites - Center
Drinks and Bites are for Sale<br/>Starting point:<br/>Zwanenburgwal 22, 1011 JC Amsterdam, Netherlands
Unlimited Drinks+ Bite- Center
Unlimited Drinks + Small Bite: Including unlimited beer, (mulled)wine, hot chocolate & soft drinks.
Accompanied by a stroopwafel or a portion of small bites<br/>Starting point:<br/>Zwanenburgwal 22, 1011 JC Amsterdam, Netherlands
Unlimited Drinks + Bite (CS)
Unlimited Drinks + Small Bite: Including unlimited beer, (mulled)wine, hot chocolate & soft drinks.
Accompanied by a stroopwafel or a portion of small bites<br/>Starting point:<br/>Prins Hendrikkade 33A, 1012 AB Amsterdam, Netherlands
No Drinks & Bites (CS)
Drinks and Bites are for Sale<br/>Starting point:<br/>Prins Hendrikkade 33A, 1012 AB Amsterdam, Netherlands
What's included
Small bite or a stroopwafel (if option chosen)
Experienced local skipper and live guide
Unlimited beer, wine, mulled wine, hot chocolate and soft drinks (if option chosen)
75-minute Cruise along the artworks of the Amsterdam Light Festival
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pass by
The National Maritime Museum
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
3.9
55 reviews
5★
28
4★
13
3★
3
2★
3
1★
8
Tripadvisor
4.6
87 reviews
5★
68
4★
10
3★
5
2★
3
1★
1
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please do not arrive earlier than 10 minutes before boarding time. Early boarding is not possible and will lead to longer queues and unnecessary congestion on the quay.
A fairly big step has to be made into the boat. Our stewards will assist you with this.
Please note that we are not responsible for delays caused by the official festival route, demonstrations, or other unforeseen events.
We advise you to wear weather-appropriate clothing, since it can be chilly on the water.
Our stewards dressed in bright orange clothing are there to inform and help you.
Meeting point
City Center: A 5-minute walk from Nieuwmarkt. Look for our guides in orange clothing.
Important notes
All flight times are approximate and subject to change due to weather conditions and weight restrictions.
Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.
Valid from the time of first use, for the duration selected.
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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