Renting a Boat in Amsterdam: A Practical Guide
Renting a boat in Amsterdam is one of the best ways to experience the city with your group. You cruise the canals in a luxury, silent boat, with a captain who steers and a host who takes care of you. There is nothing for you to worry about, only enjoy.
Floating Private is the self-service option: your own boat with a fixed, easy set-up. Want something fully bespoke, with any catering and a custom route? Our tailor-made Floating Events cover that too. Below you will find how renting a boat works, what is included and what to look for.
Rent a boat with a captain
At Floating Amsterdam you do not rent a bare boat that you steer yourself. You rent a complete experience: a luxury electric boat, an experienced captain and a host on board. The captain knows the canals and exactly where you are allowed to sail, so your group is safe and relaxed throughout.
The boat is electric and therefore silent. No engine noise, no smell of petrol, just the water and the city around you.
What is included
- A luxury, silent electric boat
- An experienced captain who guides you safely through the canals
- A host who looks after you on board
- An optional Open Bar with soft drinks, beer and wine
- Optional snacks: bitterballen, pizza and hamburgers
- A fixed boarding point at Stationsplein 36, right in front of Amsterdam Centraal
Food and drinks on board
You put the package together to suit your group. Choose just a drink while you sail, or add an Open Bar with soft drinks, beer and wine. Hungry? Add snacks: bitterballen, pizza and hamburgers. Celebrating something special? Let us know in advance. Want more than that, like oysters, sushi or a full menu? See our Floating Events.
The route
Amsterdam has beautiful canals and many historic buildings. During the cruise you decide together with the captain where to sail. He knows which canals are beautiful and navigable, and is happy to tell you what you see along the way. Prefer to simply catch up with your group? That is fine too.
What occasion is it for?
Renting a boat suits almost any group:
- A day out with friends or family
- Birthdays and anniversaries
- Hen and stag parties
- Company outings and smaller team days
Because the boat is yours alone, you shape the occasion to suit you.
Frequently asked questions
How many people fit on a boat?
That depends on the boat. Tell us your group size and we will find the right one.
Do I have to steer myself?
No. At Floating Amsterdam an experienced captain always steers. All you have to do is enjoy.
How much does it cost to rent a boat in Amsterdam?
Renting a boat with Floating Amsterdam starts from 550 euro for two hours or more. The price depends on the duration, the group and the extras you choose.
Does the boat sail in bad weather?
Yes. Our boats are built for every season, so you stay comfortable on board even in rain or cold.
Where do we board?
You depart from Stationsplein 36, right in front of Amsterdam Centraal. All the details are in your confirmation.
Want more? Floating Events
Want more than bitterballen, pizza and hamburgers, or a pickup other than Amsterdam Centraal? Take a look at our tailor-made Floating Events too: from oysters and sushi to a full menu, with a pickup and drop-off to suit you.
Ready to head out onto the canals? Discover Floating Private and put together your own boat trip.