Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise
Experience the Amsterdam Light Festival from the water. Cruise past illuminated artworks on the canals with warm drinks and blankets on board.
A city-wide gallery of light, seen from the water
Every winter, Amsterdam transforms. Artists from around the world install monumental light sculptures along the canals and waterways. The Amsterdam Light Festival turns the city into an open-air museum, and the best way to see it is from the water.
Our cruise takes you past the most striking installations, each one a conversation between art, light and the city itself. Your captain provides live commentary about the works, the artists and the stories behind each piece.
The experience
The Light Festival cruise is a 75-minute journey through illuminated Amsterdam. The route follows the canal ring and the Amstel, passing installations that can only be fully appreciated from the water.
You travel on our fully electric boats. In winter, that silence becomes even more powerful. The sound of water, the glow of the installations reflected on the surface, the warmth of a drink in your hand.
Blankets are provided on board. The convertible roof stays open as long as the weather allows, giving you the best possible view of the light art above. When it gets too cold, we close the roof and keep you warm.
Choose your ticket
The Luxury Cruise gives you the full route with drinks available for purchase. The Luxury Toast adds a welcome drink of your choice. And the Luxury Open Bar means your glass stays full for the entire 75 minutes.
Practical information
The Amsterdam Light Festival runs from late November to mid-January. Cruises depart daily from Stationsplein 11, next to Central Station. Arrive 10 to 15 minutes before departure. The route and installations may vary by edition.
What our guests say
★★★★★Great tour and super nice guides. Exciting information and with a lot of funny stories. Would do it again any time.
★★★★★Skipper and narrator had knowledge and humor. Beautiful boat, delicious drinks. It's worth repeating!
★★★★★We had a mega fun trip despite it raining. The boat was great. Rene and Nina made the evening with their fun and stories about the art. Definitely recommended.
★★★★★An incredible canal cruise. The captain was an absolute delight, very friendly, especially toward the children in our group. With the small boat we could enter even the little canals that big tourist boats can't reach. Our guide was funny and knowledgeable.
★★★★★We arrived in Amsterdam and the first step was this fabulous boat. Not only was it educative but also fun. We had a fabulous hour exploring the canals. The cushions and service were flawless and you really can't beat the price.
★★★★★From the moment we stepped on the boat we were so relaxed. The atmosphere was so lovely. They served drinks during the cruise at very good prices, the staff were so friendly and gave us a great insight into Amsterdam. A great way to spend an hour.
Looking for something simpler?
Skip the planning. Book your own private boat with captain and host, ready in minutes.
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