Amsterdam Historic Boat Tour
Gain fascinating historic insights on a classic saloon boat
Exceptional
191 reviews
What guests loved most
J B.
“⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ — 10 stars out of 5 I lived in Amsterdam many years ago and have done practically everything t…”
Book up to 24h before departure
From €440
·1 hour & 30 mins
About this tour
1915 Heritage Boat • Onboard Bar • Rain-Proof Comfort
Shared Canal Cruise on Amsterdam Historic Boat Tour
Built in 1915, this authentic canal boat has been navigating Amsterdam's waterways for over a century. The Amsterdam Historic Boat Tour offers a small-group cruise lasting one hour and thirty minutes, departing from Amstel 51E near the H'ART museum. With space for up to ten guests, the boat keeps things intimate — you might share the deck with a handful of others, but you won't feel crowded.
Onboard Comfort
The vessel runs on electric power, gliding quietly through the canal belt without engine noise drowning out conversation. A rain-proof design means the weather won't cut your amsterdam canal cruise short, and the boat's age hasn't diminished its elegance — expect wood, character, and the kind of craftsmanship that simply isn't built anymore. The atmosphere leans romantic rather than rowdy, suited to couples, families, or small corporate groups looking for something more refined than the standard tourist circuit.
Drinks on Board
An onboard bar is included, with unlimited drinks available for an additional fifteen euros per person. If you're marking an occasion, Piper-Heidsieck champagne can be added for seventy-five euros. You're welcome to bring your own snacks — the boat provides the drinks and the setting, you bring whatever food suits your group. Free cancellation is included, which takes the pressure off if plans shift. This small canal cruise amsterdam works well for those who want a quieter, more considered way to see the city from the water.
“Mooie tour met leuke en kundige schipper”
Things You Need To Know
Food
- Feel free to bring your own snacks
Drinks
- Unlimited Drinks (€15 pp)
- Onboard Bar
- Piper-Heidsieck Champagne (€75)
More Benefits
- Electric Cruising
- Romantic Atmosphere
- Rain Proof
- Onboard Bar
- Elegant & High-Class
- Authentic Canal Boat
- Boat is from 1915
- Perfect for families
- Perfect for corporate groups
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancel up to 3 days before departure day
- Change time up to 2 days before departure day
- Change guests 24 hours before departure time
What guests say
J B.
July 2026
“⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ — 10 stars out of 5 I lived in Amsterdam many years ago and have done practically everything this city has to offer, including more than five canal cruises on the big tour boats. Nothing — and I mean nothing — compares to this experience. This is, by far, the number one thing to do in Amsterdam. My daughter Dacey and I were fortunate enough to have Vanessa, the owner herself, take us through the canals. The boat is wonderfully intimate, worlds apart from the crowded larger boats. With old French music playing softly in the background and truly five-star food, it felt less like a tour and more like being welcomed aboard by a friend who happens to know every canal and its stories. And we clearly weren't the only ones who noticed how special it was — people on the bigger boats kept pointing our boat out to their friends as we glided past. Jealousy was spread all over the water, and honestly, I understood them completely. Vanessa's warmth and knowledge made an already beautiful evening unforgettable. Of all my days in Amsterdam — and there have been many — this one with my daughter was among the most special. If you're debating between this and one of the big canal boats: don't......... Book this.”
Lindsey F.
July 2026
“Couldn't recommend this private boat tour more! The boat was beautiful, food was delicious, and we had a great time chatting with the captain. It was so much fun and such a great way to see the city.”
Maurice M.
July 2026
“Mooie tour met leuke en kundige schipper”
kazumasa O.
July 2026
“Unforgettable private canal tour with amazing hospitality! We booked a private boat tour with breakfast included, and we had an absolutely wonderful time! Our great experience actually started the day before the tour. Although our initial email request accidentally went into their spam folder, Vanessa from the reception desk handled the situation perfectly when I called. Her phone service was outstanding, and she incredibly managed to arrange everything and accommodate all of our special requests for the very next day. On the day of the tour, our captain, Maurice, was fantastic—he was so kind and welcoming, making our breakfast cruise perfect. Thanks to both of them, my family and I had an amazing and memorable time. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Amsterdam!”
Amruth L.
June 2026
“Booked a trip for our first evening in Amsterdam and it was the perfect way to see the city. Vanessa was very knowledgeable and a great guide to the city and it's history. Would recommend for anyone looking for an intimate trip on the canals.”
Jonas V.
May 2026
“Top experience! The captain was gallant, friendly and discreet. Perfect mix of service and enough privacy. My girlfriend thought the proposal was a great success and very romantic!”
Jason D.
May 2026
“Fantastic experience. Booked this for just my wife and I. Frederick was a great skipper and we enjoyed a quiet evening with great views and delicious food.”
Smita V.
April 2026
“Private Boat Tour Amsterdam was the best choice for my Wedding Anniversary celebration! A very special thanks to Captain Frederik for his exceptional service, punctuality, and attention to detail. We were well taken care of throughout the cruise and had such a wonderful time. The boat, which is quite chic and charming, is well maintained and very clean. To top it off, there was a rainbow that appeared at the end of the cruise :) If you’re in Amsterdam, don’t miss out on this private cruise experience.”
Mieke H.
March 2026
“Wow, what a lovely experience with skipper Frederik! We had an incredible amount of fun on this boat trip. Definitely for a repeat! Thanks a lot again ;-)”
Yvonne V.D.H.
December 2025
“Suuuuuper fun!!!”
Cindy A.
December 2025
“On Friday, December 19th, we did a boat tour with our team along the Amsterdam canals as part of a Christmas outing. Captain Gus was great! Such a cozy vibe, we were missing nothing. If we'd known, we would've booked a longer tour. It was awesome!”
Aykut M.
November 2025
“I proposed on this boat, the experience was amazing! The captain was really nice and kind, everything was so well arranged, I'll definitely be back again soon.”
Lotte W.
November 2025
“Lovely boat tour with a very pleasant staff, good food and drinks. The boat is so cozy! We celebrated our 17 year old's birthday and they arranged a chocolate cake instead of dessert. Very much appreciated!”
Andreas G.
November 2025
“Our boat tour with captain "GUS" was a wonderful experience! 🌊 He was very friendly, patient and took great care of our group with six children. The trip was safe, informative and relaxed at the same time — we felt comfortable at every moment. It was especially lovely how he engaged with the kids and explained everything to them in an exciting way. We would take the tour with him again anytime and can only recommend him! 🚤”
Fran V.
October 2025
“This was the highlight of our trip; however was advertised as food and wine for 4 people. When we got there, we were told wine/champagne was extra!”
Emilie M.
October 2025
“Thanks Gus for this cruise on the Amsterdam canals. The weather wasn't on our side that day but everything else was top notch!”
Natasha K.
October 2025
“Gus took us around a perfect tour of Amsterdam, my fiance proposed to me on his boat & he made an incredible video for us. Highly recommend.”
Kyle R.
September 2025
“I booked the engagement package with Private Boat Tour Amsterdam and it went perfectly. Our driver Scott could've been also mistaken as a professional photographer. He stayed calm, cool and collected during the ride to not hint at the proposal coming. Hope everyone that gets to do this tour gets Scott as a driver!”
marina D.
September 2025
“We had a great time! Thanks for everything! Next time when we visit Amsterdam we’re definitely calling you guys again.”
Marian H.
September 2025
“We had an unforgettable private boat tour including dinner on the Delphin last Saturday. This was a gift from our children for our golden wedding anniversary. Our captain Guus (a true Amsterdammer), a really nice and friendly man, told us so much about Amsterdam and showed us some really beautiful spots in the city. We couldn't have asked for a better captain. On top of that, the 3-course dinner was delicious. This is a real must-do!”
Boat Tour Departure Location
Who This Is For
Great for
- Groups who want the whole boat to themselves
- Celebrations and group outings (up to 10 guests)
- Winter and rainy days — the boat is covered and heated
- Guests bringing a dog — pets are welcome on board
Maybe not for
- Anyone hoping to join an existing group — the whole boat is booked at once
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does this cruise depart from?
Amsterdam Historic Boat Tour departs from Amstel 51E, 1018 EJ Amsterdam.
How long is this cruise?
The cruise lasts 1 hour & 30 mins.
How many people can join this cruise?
Amsterdam Historic Boat Tour is a private charter for up to 10 guests — you have the whole boat to your own group.
How much does this cruise cost?
Prices for this private charter start at €440.
What is included on this cruise?
This cruise includes Free Cancellation, Rain Proof and Onboard Bar.
What happens if it rains?
This boat has rain cover, so you stay dry on board if the weather turns.
Is the boat heated?
Yes, this boat has heating on board, which keeps it comfortable in colder weather.
Can I bring my dog on this cruise?
Yes, this cruise is pet-friendly, so your dog is welcome on board.
Can I cancel this cruise for free?
Yes, this cruise offers free cancellation.
How late can I book this cruise?
You can book this cruise up to 24 hours before departure.
Who operates this cruise?
Amsterdam Historic Boat Tour is operated by Private Boat Tour Amsterdam and can be booked directly through BoatLocal.
Can we customize our route, or celebrate a special occasion on board?
Yes — as a private charter, you have the boat to yourselves and can work with the captain on the route within your booked time. Celebrating a birthday or other occasion? Let us know in advance (or in the booking note) and we'll do our best to help set things up.
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About Private Boat Tour Amsterdam
Private Boat Tour Amsterdam
Rock That Boat is a boutique canal cruise company built around private, curated experiences rather than large group tours. The fleet includes three named boats — Delphine, a 1915 boat renovated in 2017; Leaudine, built in the 1930s and recently restored; and Avanti, known for its lighting and chandeliers — each guided by a storytelling skipper who threads through hidden canals and past historic landmarks. Cruises run from €350, departing from Amstel 51E.
View all cruises by Private Boat Tour Amsterdam