Everything you want to know about Light Festival Cruise: what you see, what you taste and who it is perfect for.
What to expect
Light Festival Cruise is a cruise of about 75 minutes through the heart of Amsterdam. You board one of our characteristic Friendship sloops, where a friendly skipper welcomes you and takes you past the most beautiful spots in the city.
Our boats sail through narrow canals the big tour boats cannot reach. That keeps the atmosphere on board personal and relaxed. You sit close to the water, close to the facades and close to the real Amsterdam.
Discover the Amsterdam Light Festival from the water on a 75-minute winter evening cruise. Light artworks and their reflections transform the historic canals. Cruise on an electric boat with an onboard bar. The skipper shares the story of the festival, and you can ask questions about the artworks and the city along the way.
The package
Included in this cruise: 75-minute festival cruise, Skipper and live commentary, Dutch waffle, Drinks according to package. When booking you can choose from these options: With drinks & snacks. Put together the cruise that suits your group: from a simple canal tour to a festive experience with drinks and treats.
Who is this cruise for?
A seasonal cruise you will not want to miss. You experience Amsterdam in a way that is only possible a few months a year. It is popular, so book early.
The route
Along the way you cruise the canal ring, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2010. You will see the stately merchants’ houses of the Herengracht, the famous Skinny Bridge over the Amstel, the Seven Bridges of the Reguliersgracht and the historic harbours in the east of the city.
Your skipper shares stories about Amsterdam’s history: how it grew into the richest trading city in the world, why the houses lean and what lies behind the famous facades. The exact route may vary depending on traffic on the water.
Practical information
The cruise takes about 75 minutes. Please arrive at the boarding point at least ten minutes before departure. The exact meeting point and times are in your booking confirmation.
Our boats sail in almost any weather. On open boats, blankets and rain ponchos are ready on cold or wet days. Bring an extra layer: on the water it is often a few degrees cooler than in the city.
Our tips
Want the best photos? Take a seat along the side of the boat and keep your camera ready at the Skinny Bridge and the Seven Bridges.
Combine your cruise with a walk through the Jordaan or the Nine Streets: the nicest shops and cafés are a short stroll from the canals.
Coming with a larger group? Consider a private cruise, so you set the pace, the music and the mood.
Booking
Book directly with Friendship through our booking system. Check your package, current availability, prices and cancellation terms there.
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