Where does the boat depart from, and how do I find it?

The exact departure point is shown on the map further down this page — click "How far is this from me?" for directions from your location. Once you book, the full address and directions are also sent straight to your confirmation email.

Can I book last-minute, and how fast is my booking confirmed?

Yes, as long as a time slot is still open for booking on this page. Every booking is confirmed instantly online — no waiting to hear back. Each available time shows its own booking cutoff, so grab a spot before it closes if you're booking for the same day.

Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise in German with drinks (Optional)

Name: Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise in German with drinks (Optional)
Brand: Canal Motorboats & Eco Boats Amsterdam
Rating: 5 (1664 reviews)

About this tour

A canal cruise celebrating the 15th edition of the Amsterdam Light Festival

Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise in German with drinks

Each winter, Amsterdam's canals become an open-air gallery as the Light Festival transforms the city's waterways with large-scale light installations. This 75-minute shared cruise takes you through the heart of the display, passing more than 20 artworks created by international artists. Commentary is delivered in German, offering context on each piece — the inspiration, the process, the story — as well as the history and architecture you float past along the way.

The route threads through the Grachtengordel, along the Amstel River, past the Skinny Bridge and the famously crooked Dancing Houses, before looping back via Oosterdok and the National Maritime Museum. It is a slower, more deliberate way to see the festival than walking, and the perspective from the water changes everything.

Onboard Comfort

Depending on conditions, the boat sails open, partially covered, or fully enclosed — either way, you will have clear sightlines to the installations. Groups range from ten to thirty guests, small enough to feel relaxed rather than packed. Drinks are available on board if you choose the optional add-on. Dress warmly; even on a covered boat, the air off the water has a bite to it in December and January.

Boarding is near Amsterdam Central Station at Stationsplein 18. Arrive ten minutes early, and note the €2.70 city tax per person charged at booking. Cancellation is fully refundable up to 24 hours before departure — useful when winter weather has a mind of its own.

“Nick was the best man in the city! Very beautiful experience!”
— Aldo M.

Cancellation Policy

Free cancellation 24h before departure time
Change time 12h before departure time
Increase guests 1h before departure time
!Bookings for Kings day (26/04/2025) are not eligible for a refund or rebooking after cancelling!

Who This Is For

Great for

Solo travellers and couples happy to share the boat with a few others
Visitors who want to see the Amsterdam Light Festival from the water

Maybe not for

Anyone wanting a private boat — this cruise is shared with other guests

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cancellation policy for this cruise?

This operator's policy: Free cancellation 24h before departure time; Change time 12h before departure time; Increase guests 1h before departure time; !Bookings for Kings day (26/04/2025) are not eligible for a refund or rebooking after cancelling!.

What's included on this cruise (drinks, snacks, toilet, etc.)?

This varies by cruise — check the feature badges and 'What's Included' section on this specific cruise page above for exactly what's covered (drinks, snacks, toilet, heating, and more) before you book.

Can I book for just myself, a couple, or a small group?

Yes — shared cruises are booked per seat, so solo travelers, couples, and small groups can all join the same departure alongside other guests. Check this cruise page for how many seats you can book in one reservation.

Similar Cruises

About Canal Motorboats & Eco Boats Amsterdam

Canal Motorboats & Eco Boats Amsterdam

5.0(1,664)

Canal Motorboats was founded in 1996 and is the oldest boat rental company in Amsterdam. Its sister brand, Eco Boats Amsterdam, runs the fully electric side of the fleet — whisper-quiet, emission-free boats used for self-drive rentals (no boating license required), private charters with a skipper, and scheduled shared canal cruises. Boats depart from Stationsplein, right by Amsterdam Central Station, with shared cruises from €20 per person and private charters from €400.

View all cruises by Canal Motorboats & Eco Boats Amsterdam