Private Canal Cruise Amsterdam: Costs, Boat Types and What’s Included

On a shared cruise, you are on someone else's schedule — fixed departure time, fixed route, fixed commentary. On a private charter, the boat departs when you arrive, the route is flexible, and the captain can take you off the main tourist canals into the quiet side streets of the Jordaan or towards the harbour if you prefer.

Private boats are also quieter in a social sense. You have your group to yourselves, you can talk without strangers listening, and the atmosphere is entirely set by your group rather than a mix of random travellers.

Electric sloops (6–12 passengers) are the classic Amsterdam private boat — low, open-top, quiet, and able to navigate the narrowest canals. Classic saloon boats (8–16 passengers) are covered with glass sides and often have a small bar area. Larger party boats (16–30 passengers) are designed for group events with sound systems and proper bar setups.

For couples and small groups in warm weather, an open sloop is almost always the right choice. For larger groups or autumn/winter departures, a saloon boat with heating is more practical.

Ready to pick a boat? Compare every private canal cruise in Amsterdam with live prices, group sizes and today’s availability.