Rent a boat in Amsterdam? How to find the best option!

In a city known for its picturesque canals, a trip through the magnificent canals is of course a must-do! After all, the best way to discover Amsterdam’s charm is from the water, in typical Dutch style. The choice of boats is endless – how do I find the tour that suits me?

Don’t worry, we got you. Read all about the different options in this guide so that you can hire exactly the boat in Amsterdam that suits your individual wishes. Off the beaten track, of course, and compiled for you with lots of Amsterdam love. ❤️

1) For those on a budget: canal cruise in a large, closed boat

The most obvious and cheapest option for a canal cruise is the one you will probably come across first online. Numerous large companies advertise canal cruises in large tourist boats, which last between 1-1.5 hours on average. This is definitely an option for those who want to watch their wallet a little more, so as not to miss out on the chance of a canal cruise. However, if you want to get the most out of the boat tour, you should take a look at the next options… 😉

Plus points:
➕ For all those who don’t want to miss out on a canal trip in Amsterdam even on a small budget

Downsides:
➖ Privacy is in short supply here, you often sit on board with up to 100 other people
➖ The boats are usually closed (even in good weather)
➖ German commentary is usually only possible with a plug in your ear

2) Best value for money: canal cruise in small groups in a cosy open boat

If you prefer a more personalised experience, you should steer clear of the big boat companies and opt for Amsterdam’s cosier boats. Spacious open boats are almost always used here, so you won’t miss any highlights on your trip. What’s more, drinks are all-inclusive on most trips! So you can have a really good time, enjoy the magnificent canals to the full and nobody is sitting right on your back. The best thing about this option is that you can have a German-speaking guide on board. If you don’t just want to see the city, but also hear exciting facts, then take a look at our canal cruise! You’ll be accompanied by one of our passionate guides, who are native German speakers and native Hamsters by choice, and will show you the city’s culture with a lot of passion. ❤️

Plus points:
➕ Discover the canals in small groups and a pleasant atmosphere
➕ Commentated by a passionate German guide on request (insider tips for Amsterdam included!)
➕ Suitable for couples, families and medium-sized groups

Downsides:
➖ slightly more expensive than the big boat, but drinks are mostly all inclusive and all-you-can-drink

3) For privacy lovers: hire your own boat

Yes, you read that right: in our beautiful Amsterdam, ANYONE can hire a cosy little boat! There is only one requirement: the captain must be over 18 and stay sober for the entire trip. Apart from that, however, no previous experience or even a boating licence is necessary. So if you want to keep to yourself, this is the perfect option for exploring the canals on your own – completely off the beaten track. On sunny days and at weekends, the boats can fill up quickly, so it’s worth booking your little nutshell early.

Plus points:
➕ You can explore the canals in your own small boat
➕ There is no fixed route and you can stop wherever you like along the way

Trade-offs:
➖ Having your own boat is the most expensive option, but you can often take up to 10 people with you and save money again
➖ No option for a guide on board
➖ Captains must stay sober!

Whether you want the best value for money, the best information about Amsterdam or simply a nutshell all to yourself: renting a boat in Amsterdam is always worth it!

The Amsterdamliebe team wishes you lots of fun at Grachten❤️