Canal cruises amsterdam

cruise like a local Amsterdam

—explore the canals

Cruise like a local

—Real Stories. Real People. Real Amsterdam.

Quick details

Because you deserve more than a tour.
No crowds. No scripts. Just stories, laughter, and the magic of Amsterdam. Step aboard our beautifully restored 1928 boat or our former Taxi for a 90-minute canal cruise that feels more like catching up with friends than following a guide. With just 12 guests, an open bar, and a captain who knows the city like the back of his hand, you’ll explore hidden canals, hear real local stories, and sip your way through the soul of the city.

Why choose us?

  • Local Vibe: You’re not just sightseeing—you’re connecting.
  • Flexible Routes: No fixed script, every tour is unique.
  • Award-Winning: Tripadvisor’s “Best of the Best” 2024 en 2025.

Join us for an unforgettable journey through Amsterdam’s iconic canals. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, this is the kind of experience that makes you feel like you belong here. This is Amsterdam the way locals live it—intimate, relaxed, and unforgettable.

Limited seats. Real stories. All-inclusive. Book your spot before it sails away!

Cheers,
Captain Dave

GALLERY

—Enter as guests & leave as friends

WHAT OUR GUESTS SAY

—ABOUT CRUISE Amsterdam LIKE A LOCAL

Plan your trip

—real-time availability

WHY CHOOSE

—THE CRUISE LIKE A LOCAL BOAT TOUR

“Loved every minute of it! Even made new friends.”

Cruise Like a Local isn’t just a tour—it’s a feeling. Guests often say it’s like sailing with an old friend through the city they didn’t know they’d fall in love with. It’s personal, relaxed, and full of laughter. You feel at home in Amsterdam, even if it’s your first time here. And yes—making new friends is part of the magic.

It’s a public small-group experience up to 12 pax for an intimate vibe.
Prefer something exclusive? You can also book the entire boat for a private cruise“

We cruise throughout the day, from lunchtime to the golden evening hours.

Choose the departure time that suits your plans best, whether that’s before lunch, after dinner, or to enjoy the magical evening light on the canals.

Some departure times may occasionally be unavailable due to a private charter or because the cruise is fully booked.

90 minutes. Plenty of time to relax, hear the best stories, and enjoy the views without any rush.

That depends on your time slot!

We cruise on two beloved boats —Jonckvrouw (on the hour) and James Bond (on teh half-hour.

Jonckvrouw (1928) is a certified Varend Monument® (Navigating Heritage)—she’s one of Amsterdam’s most iconic canal boats, with elegance and history in every curve.

James Bond (1990) is her sleek counterpart —a former taxiboat designed for speed and panoramic views. With a 360° open front area.

Both boats are electric, whisper-quiet, and offer cozy lounge seating, a toilet, sliding glass windows, heated interior, outer deck, and extra blankets.

The choice depends on availability—but both promise an unforgettable ride.

A 90-minute cruise through Amsterdam’s beautiful canals, guided not by a script but by genuine conversations and local stories.

Your captain is also your host and guide, keeping things relaxed, personal, and fun throughout the journey.

Enjoy complimentary Heineken beer, French wine (red, rosé, and white), and soft drinks as you cruise.

No need to bring anything but good company and good vibes.

Taxes? Included.
Smiles? Guaranteed.

Optional add-on: Trip Protection (12%)

Absolutely! Children are welcome on board.

Guests often enjoy a beer, wine, or soft drink while cruising, but don’t expect a wild party boat. Think relaxed conversations, local stories, and a laid-back atmosphere on the canals.

For families with young children, the earlier departures are usually the best fit.

Since we keep our groups small and intimate for a premium experience, spots fill up fast! We highly recommend booking in advance to secure your preferred time and boat. Last-minute? Feel free to check —sometimes we have a lucky spot left.

Our cruises depart from Prinsengracht 397, a central and easy-to-reach spot in the heart of Amsterdam.

Finding us is easy: We meet right at the waterfront, directly across from house number 397 (the odd-numbered side of the canal). Keep an eye out for the water —the captain will be there to welcome you aboard! It’s the perfect, stress-free start to your morning stroll.

Arrive 5 minutes early on the quay before we set sail.

We return to the same spot.

meeting point Cruise like a local

—Prinsengracht 397, Amsterdam-Center