Amsterdam Light Festival Canal Cruise 2024-2025

4.6(4K ratings)
Panoramic, Open-top views
Panoramic, Open-top views
Frequent departures
Frequent departures
Audioguide & Commentary available
Audioguide & Commentary available



Amsterdam canal boat with illuminated art installations during Light Festival Cruise.
Guests enjoying drinks on the German Guided Light Festival Cruise in Amsterdam.
Amsterdam canal cruise during Light Festival with illuminated art installations, featuring unlimited drinks and snacks option.
Skipper guiding Amsterdam Light Festival cruise with illuminated canal views.
Amsterdam canal boat with passengers enjoying cheese and wine during the Light Festival.
Amsterdam canal cruise showcasing vibrant Light Festival installations.
Guests enjoying the Amsterdam Light Festival cruise with illuminated canal views.
Amsterdam canal cruise showcasing vibrant Light Festival installations.
Amsterdam canal cruise with illuminated art installations during Light Festival.
Amsterdam canal boat during Light Festival with illuminated bridges and cityscape.
Amsterdam canal boat with illuminated art installations during Light Festival Cruise.
Guests enjoying drinks on the German Guided Light Festival Cruise in Amsterdam.
Amsterdam canal cruise during Light Festival with illuminated art installations, featuring unlimited drinks and snacks option.
Skipper guiding Amsterdam Light Festival cruise with illuminated canal views.
Amsterdam canal boat with passengers enjoying cheese and wine during the Light Festival.
Amsterdam canal cruise showcasing vibrant Light Festival installations.
Guests enjoying the Amsterdam Light Festival cruise with illuminated canal views.
Amsterdam canal cruise showcasing vibrant Light Festival installations.
Amsterdam canal cruise with illuminated art installations during Light Festival.
Amsterdam canal boat during Light Festival with illuminated bridges and cityscape.
Amsterdam canal boat with illuminated art installations during Light Festival Cruise.
Guests enjoying drinks on the German Guided Light Festival Cruise in Amsterdam.
Amsterdam canal cruise during Light Festival with illuminated art installations, featuring unlimited drinks and snacks option.
Skipper guiding Amsterdam Light Festival cruise with illuminated canal views.
Amsterdam canal boat with passengers enjoying cheese and wine during the Light Festival.
Amsterdam canal cruise showcasing vibrant Light Festival installations.
Guests enjoying the Amsterdam Light Festival cruise with illuminated canal views.
Amsterdam canal cruise showcasing vibrant Light Festival installations.
Amsterdam canal cruise with illuminated art installations during Light Festival.
Amsterdam canal boat during Light Festival with illuminated bridges and cityscape.
4.6(3.2K)

Amsterdam Light Festival Luxury Cruise with Unlimited Drinks & Snacks Option

from
€19.20
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
1 hr. 15 min.

A 75-min serene cruise on a luxury salon or covered boat, marveling at the Light Festival

  • Prepare for a magical night celebrating the historic Amsterdam Light Festival on a salon or covered boat, and opt to indulge in unlimited drinks and snacks.
  • Discover 27 breathtaking light installations created by artists from around the world, each a unique reflection of the theme Rituals, illuminating the canals.
  • Delve into the fascinating stories behind the art pieces and uncover the city's rich history with an English-speaking skipper host.
  • Celebrate life's journey through fixtures that pay tribute to the changes of life, and be awed by the art piece nestled in the heart of the city.
  • Upgrade to make your evening extra special with unlimited drinks on board. Choose from wine, beer, sodas, and more.

A 75-min serene cruise on a luxury salon or covered boat, marveling at the Light Festival

  • Prepare for a magical night celebrating the historic Amsterdam Light Festival on a salon or covered boat, and opt to indulge in unlimited drinks and snacks.
  • Discover 27 breathtaking light installations created by artists from around the world, each a unique reflection of the theme Rituals, illuminating the canals.
  • Delve into the fascinating stories behind the art pieces and uncover the city's rich history with an English-speaking skipper host.
  • Celebrate life's journey through fixtures that pay tribute to the changes of life, and be awed by the art piece nestled in the heart of the city.
  • Upgrade to make your evening extra special with unlimited drinks on board. Choose from wine, beer, sodas, and more.

Inclusions

  • 75-min canal cruise in a luxury salon boat or a covered boat (as per option selected)
  • Experienced host
  • Small group (as per option selected)
  • Unlimited snacks and drinks like mulled wine, wine, beer, and soft drinks (as per option selected)
  • Warm blankets (as per option selected)
  • Tip: Dress warmly as it can be chilly at night in Amsterdam, especially during winter. 
  • Due to venue restrictions, pets cannot tag along for this experience.
  • This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
  • Your guide dogs are welcome at the venue.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Reviews
How do we collect reviews?
Snapshots from our guests
4.6
3.2K ratings
2.3K
658
62
72
73
What our guests say
reviewer
Meghan
Dec 2024Verified booking
4/5

Seeing the lights was incredible. I wished they offered hot chocolate as a beverage, and the they wouldnt over crowd the boat.

reviewer
BRICE
Dec 2024Verified booking
3/5

Delay, tour too long given the crowds on the canals. Average comfort, wet cushions... slippery boarding pontoon. Too expensive for the service

View original review in French

reviewer
Melissa
Dec 2024Verified booking
3/5

The meeting point was very poorly described and the boat arrived much too late. The snacks were served in a bowl that was passed around which was quite unappetizing as everyone was reaching in with their fingers. That was a shame...but the guide was friendly and explained everything clearly.

View original review in German

reviewer
Daniel
Dec 2024Verified booking
3/5

Ric the entertainer was BRAVIOUS in cheering up the cruise. Here's what didn't work: First they announced the change of departure, which we struggled to find (not reported). From the scheduled time we waited half an hour in the cold (scheduled 6:15 pm departure at 6:45 pm). There was some confusion about getting people on (couldn't tell if everyone would fit). The boat had this plastic covering so the view was bad. However, the RIC facilitator was very good at explanations and getting all the people to participate!

View original review in Italian

reviewer
Ravier
Dec 2024Verified booking
3/5

The prob was the rain with the 30 mns queue and the poor visibility with this rain and the mist which prevented from seeing the outside.

View original review in French

reviewer
Bernadette
Dec 2024Verified booking
4/5

I thought it was pleasant tour with a nice guide! He told a good story about the lights with a funny twist. I missed the red wine (not present) and in terms of appetizers, it was disappointing....

View original review in Dutch

reviewer
Scott
Dec 2024Verified booking
3/5

We were given the wrong meeting point of outside a Chinese restaurant. If it wasn't for another person who had contacted the provider we would not have known. We then arrived late because we were given incorrect meeting point information and refused boarding. We then had to wait 1 hour for the next boat. The staff before boarding were unhelpful, disinterested and caused someone with a knee disability to walk further than absolutely necessary. Nothing was done to help this person and it was more of a "sorry, but I'm not really sorry because you arrived late". To mitigate this happening in the future maybe they should station their helpers and ensure information is accurate about meeting points and then trying to put the blame on the customer. The only time things improved was when we were actually on the boat and the 2 ladies were knowledgeable, attentive and had excellent customer service skills. Those dockside, not very much!

reviewer
Sharon
Dec 2024Verified booking
5/5

Everything went smoothly with ticketing and Headout was great because we had to change the time of our cruise due to some unexpected scheduling issues. The cruise was fun even though it rained. There was plenty to drink and eat. The lights were interesting and spread out over the cruise time.

reviewer
Yvonne
Dec 2024Verified booking
4/5

So the trip was nice and the drivers were great 👍 However, the boats were not yet prepared for departure and the covers were completely wet due to the rain. 🤷‍♀️ That delayed the departure by about 20 minutes. Otherwise everything was fine 😊

View original review in German

reviewer
Roelofsma,
Dec 2024Verified booking
5/5

It was a very rainy experience, but the Guide Dean made the trip very pleasant and the skipper Gijs was very professional. The drinks were enough , but we had expectated more snackss

reviewer
Katia
Dec 2024Verified booking
5/5

Our guide Sabrina was great fun. The Gluhwein was yummy and abundant. And, of course, the light were great even though there was rain.

reviewer
Julia
Jan 2024Verified booking
5/5

Your host, Danielle the student from Germany, was amazing! Absolute pro, and very, very entertaining. I loved it! Nighttime canal rides with endless mulled wine are the way to go in Dam. The perfect end to a perfect day.

reviewer
Maria
Jan 2024Verified booking
4/5

It turned out that we were in an extra hired salon boat: smaller and very atmospheric! Only the chaos before departure with several large groups was a bit less.

View original review in Dutch

reviewer
Megan
Jan 2024Verified booking
5/5

Best view of Amsterdam is from the canals - our guide was incredible with a great knowledge about the history of Amsterdam as well as the light festival. Loved it from start to finish and would highly recommend as a fun activity whether you're just visiting Amsterdam or have been there all your life.

reviewer
JoAnne
Jan 2024Verified booking
3/5

The guides, the schedule and the drinks were great. We were only disappointed by the small number of light sculptures.

View original review in German

reviewer
Olivier
Jan 2024Verified booking
4/5

Pleasant hosts, nice little cruise and plenty to drink. Light festival itself very average compared to other experiences in other cities.

View original review in French

reviewer
Eva
Jan 2024Verified booking
5/5

Nice ride through Amsterdam with background information about the lights and the whole city. Super nice and helpful crew.

View original review in German

reviewer
Heuret
Jan 2024Verified booking
3/5

Everything was in English, no French audioguide, simply no self-guide impossible to see the sets or the lights, I had to look at photos taken by other people. Vin chaud.... cold the lady didn't turn on the electric thermos

View original review in French

reviewer
Claudine
Jan 2024Verified booking
3/5

You ask me what I thought of the audio guide, but unfortunately there wasn't one :-( . The guide's voice was weak and covered by the boat pilot's voice. I'm a French speaker, so I need a lot of attention to understand English, which I'm not 100% fluent in, so not being able to hear properly meant I didn't understand any of the explanations, which is a shame.

View original review in French

reviewer
PERRUISSET
Dec 2023Verified booking
5/5

Great cruise, friendly crew, heated boat with a little plaid for those who are a little chilly, unlimited drinks, soft ambiance. We recommend

View original review in French

reviewer
Manon
Dec 2023Verified booking
3/5

Unfortunately, we got into the boat after a heavy shower - you couldn't see the lights, especially at the back of the boat, as there were no windows there, but rather foil windows. The rain stuck to them and was not removed before departure. This meant that they were only partially transparent. The problem was exacerbated by the very bright lighting on board. Loud groups of people were not asked to be quieter, so that some of the explanations were completely drowned out

View original review in German

reviewer
Johanna
Dec 2023Verified booking
4/5

Thijs was a good guide with good knowledge of Amsterdam. Mo was a good skipper. Was very enjoyable although this time we found the art tour to be little.

View original review in Dutch

reviewer
Amber
Dec 2023Verified booking
4/5

The interaction with the tour guide, the great views of the city & the drinks were really good which added to the fun of the cruise!

reviewer
Francesco
Dec 2023Verified booking
4/5

Magical excursion among the canals and lights reflected on the water, friendly and helpful staff on board. I appreciated the formula with drinks included!

View original review in Italian

reviewer
Nathalie
Dec 2023Verified booking
5/5

The friendly, smiling history student guide Kirsten answered all our questions. She explained the various light installations at the Lichtfestival. The Norwegian skipper, who has a great sense of humor, informed us about many interesting aspects of culture and the digital world. We liked the fact that these 2 hosts got on well with each other and created a good atmosphere for the group. The drinks, chardonnay wine, were very good. The welcome on arrival was pleasant and very clear. In short, I 100% recommend the experience despite the wind and rain during the last 30 minutes. Nathalie and Frans

View original review in French

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Amsterdam canal cruise with illuminated art installations during the Lights Festival.
Amsterdam canal boat with illuminated art installations during Light Festival.
Amsterdam canal cruise with illuminated art installations during Light Festival.
Amsterdam canal cruise during Light Festival with German guide and drinks.
Guests enjoying cheese and wine on Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise with illuminated cityscape views.
Audio guide
Amsterdam canal boat during Light Festival with illuminated art installations.
Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise
Amsterdam canal with illuminated art installations during the Lights Festival Cruise.
Amsterdam canal boat with illuminated art installations during Light Festival.
Amsterdam canal cruise with illuminated art installations during the Lights Festival.
Amsterdam canal boat with illuminated art installations during Light Festival.
Amsterdam canal cruise with illuminated art installations during Light Festival.
Amsterdam canal cruise during Light Festival with German guide and drinks.
Guests enjoying cheese and wine on Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise with illuminated cityscape views.
Audio guide
Amsterdam canal boat during Light Festival with illuminated art installations.
Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise
Amsterdam canal with illuminated art installations during the Lights Festival Cruise.
Amsterdam canal boat with illuminated art installations during Light Festival.
Amsterdam canal cruise with illuminated art installations during the Lights Festival.
Amsterdam canal boat with illuminated art installations during Light Festival.
Amsterdam canal cruise with illuminated art installations during Light Festival.
Amsterdam canal cruise during Light Festival with German guide and drinks.
Guests enjoying cheese and wine on Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise with illuminated cityscape views.
Audio guide
Amsterdam canal boat during Light Festival with illuminated art installations.
Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise
Amsterdam canal with illuminated art installations during the Lights Festival Cruise.
Amsterdam canal boat with illuminated art installations during Light Festival.
4.6(433)

Amsterdam Light Festival Canal Cruise

from €27.50
€19.50

29% off

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
1 hr. 15 min. - 1 hr. 30 min.
Audio guide

Choose from four boarding piers & two cruise durations

  • Witness the magical Amsterdam Light Festival from aboard a heated boat cruising down the Amstel River, and be awed by the captivating display. 
  • Hop aboard from one of three convenient boarding points, cruise for 75 or 90 mins, and tune in to the audio guide sharing insights about the light displays.
  • Cozy up on the heated boat and soak in the mesmerizing views of 27 unique light artworks celebrating the theme 'Rituals' from the open deck.
  • Join the celebration of Amsterdam’s 750th anniversary by viewing the five unique permanent light artworks scattered throughout the Greater Amsterdam Region.

Choose from four boarding piers & two cruise durations

  • Witness the magical Amsterdam Light Festival from aboard a heated boat cruising down the Amstel River, and be awed by the captivating display. 
  • Hop aboard from one of three convenient boarding points, cruise for 75 or 90 mins, and tune in to the audio guide sharing insights about the light displays.
  • Cozy up on the heated boat and soak in the mesmerizing views of 27 unique light artworks celebrating the theme 'Rituals' from the open deck.
  • Join the celebration of Amsterdam’s 750th anniversary by viewing the five unique permanent light artworks scattered throughout the Greater Amsterdam Region.

Inclusions

  • 75/90-min Amsterdam Lights Festival canal cruise (as per option selected)
  • Boarding from Anne Frank House, Hard Rock Cafe, or Central Station (as per option selected)
  • Experienced skipper host
  • Audio guide
  • Headphones (as per option selected)
  • Free WiFi onboard (as per option selected)
  • Open deck
  • Heated boat (as per option selected)

Exclusions

  • Food and drinks
  • Tip: Indulge in some delicious Dutch food and drinks before boarding your cruise from the canal-side shops.
  • Due to venue restrictions, pets cannot tag along for this experience.
  • The Amsterdam Light Festival begins on November 30, 2024, and runs until January 19, 2025.
  • Waiting time can occur even with a timeslot due to large crowds.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Reviews
How do we collect reviews?
Snapshots from our guests
4.6
433 ratings
330
79
6
10
8
What our guests say
reviewer
Christine
Dec 2024Verified booking
5/5

An evening cruise through Amsterdam's canals is beautiful and highly recommended. The Festival of Light installations/exhibits are also extremely interesting. We liked the responsible, but also humorous, manner of our captain!

View original review in German

reviewer
Caroline
Dec 2024Verified booking
3/5

It was a bad time for us, as it was a rainy evening, the inside of the boat was very foggy and visibility of the works was not great. What's more, the explanations on the audioguide were only half-translated into French, the other half being in English.

View original review in French

reviewer
Maria
Nov 2024Verified booking
4/5

The overall experience was good. The only thing we missed was that the explanation was in several languages or that we could have access to some kind of translation.

View original review in Spanish

reviewer
Victorien
Jan 2024Verified booking
4/5

Nice in evening through the canal, could for me dwell a little longer at the light pardae exhibits, we sat backwards so was sometimes a little difficult viewing, especially for my elderly mother, but otherwise nice audio tour! And nice and warm in the boat and clean.

View original review in Dutch

reviewer
Delamare
Jan 2024Verified booking
4/5

The festival is magnificent, and the French commentaries on the town's history are interesting. The inhabitants decorate their houses beautifully, adding to the artistic spectacle. The works of light are not of equal quality, but some are truly moving. The big drawback is that the whole thing lacks organization: you can end up outside the boat without wanting to, and it's not warm in the evening! The works are not commented in French, and the headphones are of poor quality.

View original review in French

reviewer
Souad
Dec 2023Verified booking
4/5

The cruise was superb, with covered boats, which comes in handy when it's cold. The lights were superb and with the audio-guide it's interesting!

View original review in French

reviewer
Katie
Dec 2024Verified booking
5/5

The captain was knowledgeable, funny and very friendly. The views were gorgeous, definitely reccomend.

reviewer
B.M.A.
Dec 2024Verified booking
5/5

The info and conviviality with the guide.

View original review in Dutch

reviewer
J.vd
Dec 2024Verified booking
4/5

Was weer een mooie tocht, en veel mooie creaties gezien. Dank voor de tocht

reviewer
LUCILA
Dec 2024Verified booking
5/5

Very well organized.

View original review in Spanish

reviewer
Farouk
Dec 2024Verified booking
4/5

Efficient and good tour. On time

reviewer
Silvia
Dec 2024Verified booking
4/5

Flexibility when daughter was late and nobody saw a problem with it.

View original review in German

reviewer
Heidi
Dec 2024Verified booking
5/5

:-) :-) :-) :-) :-) :-) :-) :-)

This review is translated. Show original review.

reviewer
Andrea
Jan 2024Verified booking
4/5

Yes, it was interesting, but a little shorter than it said it would be.

View original review in Spanish

reviewer
Emmy
Dec 2024Verified booking
4/5

reviewer
CORINNE
Dec 2024Verified booking
3/5

reviewer
Christian
Dec 2024Verified booking
4/5

reviewer
Christophe
Dec 2024Verified booking
4/5

reviewer
Melanie
Dec 2024Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Pasi
Dec 2024Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Johannes
Dec 2024Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Luc
Dec 2024Verified booking
3/5

reviewer
Ceulemans
Dec 2024Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Artur
Dec 2024Verified booking
4/5

reviewer
Dr.
Dec 2024Verified booking
4/5

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Amsterdam canal boat with passengers enjoying cheese and wine during the Light Festival.
Amsterdam canal boat with passengers enjoying cheese and wine during the Light Festival.
Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise with illuminated canal and wine tasting.
Guests enjoying cheese and wine on Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise with illuminated cityscape views.
Boat cruising through Amsterdam Light Festival installations at night.
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Amsterdam Light Festival cruise boat on canal with illuminated art installations.
Guests enjoying drinks on the German Guided Light Festival Cruise in Amsterdam.
Amsterdam Light Festival cruise boat .
Amsterdam canal boat with passengers enjoying cheese and wine during the Light Festival.
Amsterdam canal boat with passengers enjoying cheese and wine during the Light Festival.
Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise with illuminated canal and wine tasting.
Guests enjoying cheese and wine on Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise with illuminated cityscape views.
Boat cruising through Amsterdam Light Festival installations at night.
Solar catamaran cruising Berlin's waterways with audio guide, showcasing city highlights.
Amsterdam canal cruise with pizza and drinks, featuring a scenic view of historic buildings and bridges.
Amsterdam Light Festival cruise boat on canal with illuminated art installations.
Guests enjoying drinks on the German Guided Light Festival Cruise in Amsterdam.
Amsterdam Light Festival cruise boat .
Amsterdam canal boat with passengers enjoying cheese and wine during the Light Festival.
Amsterdam canal boat with passengers enjoying cheese and wine during the Light Festival.
Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise with illuminated canal and wine tasting.
Guests enjoying cheese and wine on Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise with illuminated cityscape views.
Boat cruising through Amsterdam Light Festival installations at night.
Solar catamaran cruising Berlin's waterways with audio guide, showcasing city highlights.
Amsterdam canal cruise with pizza and drinks, featuring a scenic view of historic buildings and bridges.
Amsterdam Light Festival cruise boat on canal with illuminated art installations.
Guests enjoying drinks on the German Guided Light Festival Cruise in Amsterdam.
Amsterdam Light Festival cruise boat .
4.8(145)

Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise with Cheese and Wine

from €39.50
€35.55

10% off

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
1 hr. 15 min.
Audio guide

Indulge in local cheeses from Kaasbar with paired wines

  • Cruise Amsterdam's glowing canals for 75 mins, feasting on unlimited specially curated wines, and three local cheeses while marveling at the sparkling city. 
  • Indulge in an exquisite cheese and wine tasting, featuring three locally sourced cheeses like truffle cheese and unlimited wines for your sensory pleasure.
  • Your magical adventure begins at Central Station, from where you'll sail down the UNESCO-listed canals of Amsterdam, being dazzled by the lights of the festival.
  • Revel in the comfort of a heated boat equipped with an exterior deck, perfect for capturing the best views and memorable snapshots.
  • Soak in the rich historical history of Amsterdam, narrated by a friendly skipper, and an audio guide available in Dutch and English.

Indulge in local cheeses from Kaasbar with paired wines

  • Cruise Amsterdam's glowing canals for 75 mins, feasting on unlimited specially curated wines, and three local cheeses while marveling at the sparkling city. 
  • Indulge in an exquisite cheese and wine tasting, featuring three locally sourced cheeses like truffle cheese and unlimited wines for your sensory pleasure.
  • Your magical adventure begins at Central Station, from where you'll sail down the UNESCO-listed canals of Amsterdam, being dazzled by the lights of the festival.
  • Revel in the comfort of a heated boat equipped with an exterior deck, perfect for capturing the best views and memorable snapshots.
  • Soak in the rich historical history of Amsterdam, narrated by a friendly skipper, and an audio guide available in Dutch and English.

Inclusions

  • 75-min Amsterdam Light Festival canal cruise
  • Three local cheeses from the Kaasbar Amsterdam, find the menu here
  • Three wines selected by the Grapedistrict, find the menu here
  • Accompanying garnishes
  • Experienced skipper and host
  • Audio guide in Dutch and English
  • Heated boat
  • Open rear deck
  • Tip: Listen to the truffle cheese's backstory; it's aged for just four weeks but packs a punch of flavor.
  • Due to venue restrictions, pets cannot tag along for this experience.
  • This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
  • The Amsterdam Light Festival begins on November 30, 2024, and runs until January 19, 2025.
  • Waiting time can occur even with a timeslot due to large crowds.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Reviews
How do we collect reviews?
Snapshots from our guests
4.8
145 ratings
135
0
2
5
3
What our guests say
reviewer
Cláudia
Dec 2024Verified booking
3/5

Better organization in the separation of customers, those who had a ticket with food and drink were together with another group

View original review in Portuguese

reviewer
Deniz
Dec 2024Verified booking
5/5

The lıght ın Amsterdam ıs magnıfıcent. Wıth the rıght company package they offer, ıt wıll be an experience of a lıfetıme. I gıve ıt a 4 star. ıf ı have to do ıt agaın, ı wıll do ıt on an open and a small boat. Overall, ıts a 8/10.

reviewer
Hayri
Dec 2024Verified booking
5/5

The wine was good It was very easy to get a ticket

This review is translated. Show original review.

reviewer
Ute
Dec 2024Verified booking
3/5

reviewer
Headout Guest
Dec 2024Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Headout Guest
Dec 2024Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Headout Guest
Dec 2024Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Headout Guest
Dec 2024Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Headout Guest
Dec 2024Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Headout Guest
Dec 2024Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Headout Guest
Dec 2024Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Headout Guest
Dec 2024Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Headout Guest
Dec 2024Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Headout Guest
Dec 2024Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Headout Guest
Dec 2024Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Headout Guest
Dec 2024Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Headout Guest
Dec 2024Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Headout Guest
Dec 2024Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Sharon
Dec 2024Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Headout Guest
Dec 2024Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Headout Guest
Dec 2024Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Headout Guest
Dec 2024Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Headout Guest
Dec 2024Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Headout Guest
Dec 2024Verified booking
5/5

reviewer
Headout Guest
Dec 2024Verified booking
5/5

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Amsterdam Light Festival evening cruise with illuminated canal views.
Amsterdam Light Festival evening cruise on canal with illuminated art installations.
Amsterdam Light Festival evening cruise on canal with illuminated art installations.
Amsterdam Light Festival evening cruise on canal with illuminated art installations.
Amsterdam Light Festival evening cruise on canal with illuminated art installations.
Amsterdam Light Festival evening cruise on canal with illuminated art installations.
Amsterdam Light Festival evening cruise with illuminated art installations along the canal by Blue Boat Company.
Amsterdam Light Festival evening cruise with illuminated art installations along the canal by Blue Boat Company.
Amsterdam Light Festival evening cruise with illuminated canal views.
Amsterdam Light Festival evening cruise with illuminated canal views.
Amsterdam Light Festival evening cruise on canal with illuminated art installations.
Amsterdam Light Festival evening cruise on canal with illuminated art installations.
Amsterdam Light Festival evening cruise on canal with illuminated art installations.
Amsterdam Light Festival evening cruise on canal with illuminated art installations.
Amsterdam Light Festival evening cruise on canal with illuminated art installations.
Amsterdam Light Festival evening cruise with illuminated art installations along the canal by Blue Boat Company.
Amsterdam Light Festival evening cruise with illuminated art installations along the canal by Blue Boat Company.
Amsterdam Light Festival evening cruise with illuminated canal views.
Amsterdam Light Festival evening cruise with illuminated canal views.
Amsterdam Light Festival evening cruise on canal with illuminated art installations.
Amsterdam Light Festival evening cruise on canal with illuminated art installations.
Amsterdam Light Festival evening cruise on canal with illuminated art installations.
Amsterdam Light Festival evening cruise on canal with illuminated art installations.
Amsterdam Light Festival evening cruise on canal with illuminated art installations.
Amsterdam Light Festival evening cruise with illuminated art installations along the canal by Blue Boat Company.
Amsterdam Light Festival evening cruise with illuminated art installations along the canal by Blue Boat Company.
Amsterdam Light Festival evening cruise with illuminated canal views.
4.4(134)

1.5-Hour Amsterdam Light Festival Evening Cruise from Hard Rock Cafe

from
€27.50
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
1 hr. 30 min.
Audio guide
  • Experience the Amsterdam Light Festival on a 90-minute canal cruise past illuminated creations.
  • Discover exhibits reflecting the intersection of art, artificial intelligence, and technology in the comfort of a heated boat.
  • Get insights into the stunning light displays about the evolving human condition in a digitally-driven world via a multilingual audioguide.
  • Along with over 20 carefully curated pieces of art from local and international artists, pass by landmarks like the Skinny Bridge adorned in lights!
  • Experience the Amsterdam Light Festival on a 90-minute canal cruise past illuminated creations.
  • Discover exhibits reflecting the intersection of art, artificial intelligence, and technology in the comfort of a heated boat.
  • Get insights into the stunning light displays about the evolving human condition in a digitally-driven world via a multilingual audioguide.
  • Along with over 20 carefully curated pieces of art from local and international artists, pass by landmarks like the Skinny Bridge adorned in lights!

Inclusions

  • 1.5-hr Amsterdam Light Festival cruise
  • Audio guide in Dutch and English
  • Tip: Dress warmly as it can get chilly at night, especially near the water.
  • The audio guide is available in English and Dutch
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Reviews
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reviewer
LAFONTAINE
Jan 2024Verified booking
3/5

We came to Amsterdam expressly for the Festival of Lights and were disappointed by how little light there was, contrary to what we'd seen on the internet. Also, the audio guide was in French, but there was no commentary.

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reviewer
Martijn
Jan 2024Verified booking
4/5

A beautiful warm boat. Neat Captain and a wonderful experience which we recommend to everyone. Only message came through the app when we were already home. We had the boat trip at 18h in the evening and at 20.30 came the mail so that should be faster but otherwise Chapeau!

View original review in Dutch

reviewer
Isuf
Jan 2024Verified booking
4/5

It was great fun and simply wonderful

View original review in German

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Patsy
Jan 2024Verified booking
5/5

Loved the lights, it was so warm and the cabin looked nice inside

reviewer
Ana
Dec 2023Verified booking
3/5

In the publicity they said they had an audio guide in Spanish, but later on the ship they did not give it in that language.

View original review in Spanish

reviewer
Robbert-Jan
Dec 2023Verified booking
4/5

Captain spontaneous, boat was very clean, friendly staff

View original review in Dutch

reviewer
Robert
Dec 2023Verified booking
5/5

Nice and warm and neat boat. The botist sometimes told something extra even and sailed slowly on nice spots

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Headout Guest
Dec 2024Verified booking
5/5

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5/5

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AmsterdamAmsterdam Light Festival Cruises

What is the Amsterdam Light Festival?

The Amsterdam Light Festival (ALF) offers a unique chance to see a fusion of art and technology. Renowned artists come together to create mesmerizing light installations showcased along the historic canals. The festival creates a warm atmosphere during the winter months, usually from late November to January, making it an ideal time to experience the city's hospitality and culinary delights. The Amsterdam Light Festival, held annually from late November to January, showcases dazzling light art by national and international artists along the city's canals and center. This annual art festival has been taking place at the heart of Amsterdam since 2012. From several hundred submissions, only around 20 of them are displayed along the canals. The theme for the 13th edition in 2024-2025 is 'Rituals.'

Why take an Amsterdam Light Festival cruise

Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise
  • Scenic beauty: Booking a canal cruise is the most picturesque way to experience the city's iconic Light Festival. It offers a unique vantage point to look at the installations and other historical landmarks along the waters with a sweeping 360-degree view of the art installations.
  • Guided cruises: Most canal cruises include an audio guide or a live guide who shares anecdotes and stories about the city's landmarks. You can listen to them while floating along the waters.
  • Evening ambiance: The Amsterdam Light Festival begins at 5pm and continues until 11pm. In addition to the art installations, you can also experience the illuminated city, making for a memorable experience.
  • Family-friendly: A canal cruise is suitable for all ages, making it an ideal family activity that everyone can participate in. You can enjoy the art installations from a warm space. You can also rush back inside in case it rains.

Things to know before you book your Amsterdam Light Festival cruise

  • Book your tickets before November to avail yourself of discounted prices on your Amsterdam Light Festival cruise.
  • The cruises are not wheelchair accessible. If you or someone you are traveling with has mobility issues, consider booking an Amsterdam Light Festival cruise with Blue Boat.
  • Discounted tickets are available for children between the ages of three and eleven. Infants under the age of three can travel for free.
  • You can cancel your Amsterdam Light Festival cruises 24 hours prior to the experience and you will get a full refund.

Your Amsterdam Light Festival tickets explained

amsterdam light festival tickets

Standard cruises

  • Book a standard 75-min or 90-min cruise with a multilingual audio guide in Dutch and English.
  • See over 27 light artworks in a heated boat with an open deck and free Wi-Fi onboard and board from Anne Frank House, Hard Rock Cafe, or Central Station.

Recommended tickets:

  • Amsterdam Light Festival Canal Cruise
  • 1.5-Hour Amsterdam Light Festival Evening Cruise from Hard Rock Cafe
amsterdam light festival tickets

Cruises with unlimited drinks

  • Go on a 75-min Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise with a German audio guide. 
  • Enjoy unlimited drinks, including beer, wine, and soft drinks.
  • These heated boat cruises with an open deck also have a local host to guide you and point out important installations along with insights about each.

Recommended tickets:

  • Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise with a German Audio Guide and Unlimited Drinks
amsterdam light festival tickets

Cruises with snacks and drinks

  • Go on a 75-min cruise with an English-speaking guide or a multilingual audioguide in English or Dutch.
  • You can also choose between a luxury salon boat or a closed boat.
  • Choose between drinks & snacks or wine & local cheese.

Recommended tickets:

  • Amsterdam Light Festival Luxury Cruise with Unlimited Drinks & Snacks Option
  • Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise with Cheese and Wine
amsterdam light festival tickets

Walking tours

  • Go on a guided 2-hour walking tour with an English, French, German, or Italian-speaking guide and see the light installations from Dam Square to Nine Streets. 
  • These tours also offer hot chocolate and a local treat, complimentary winter hats, and a rain poncho in case of rainy weather.
  • These tours are also wheelchair and stroller accessible.

Recommended tickets:

Amsterdam Lights Winter Walking Tour

Amsterdam Light Festival: 13th edition

Throughout history, rituals have aided people in coping with various types of transformations, such as moving from one season to another, from one stage of life to another. Light has always been a significant element in many rituals, symbolizing energy, joy, and vitality. Fireworks are used to welcome a new year, candles to remember the arrival of a savior, and midsummer fires to celebrate the solstice. Light adds an element of mysticism and sanctity to a ritual that no other element can. Moreover, rituals bring people together and create a sense of unity among them. That's why the 13th edition of the Amsterdam Light Festival which coincides with 750 years of Amsterdam includes light, art, and the collective spirit, encouraging us to celebrate these rituals and traditions.

What to see at the Amsterdam Light Festival

The Amsterdam Light Festival is organized with installations of artworks that are created especially for the festival. Along with all that, special education projects in which primary students and Breitner Academy take part, are installed. The artworks are displayed in public spaces all over Amsterdam near the canals, making them easily accessible.

amsterdam light festival canal cruise

Permanent light art installations

As the festival spreads from the Sloterplas to the city district South, several light art installations displayed on the different editions of the Amsterdam Light Festival also find their place in the permanent collection. It includes works of artists like Tijdmakers and collaborators like Uilenstede University Campus.

amsterdam light festival canal cruise

International light art collection

The light art displayed at the Amsterdam Light Festival is too good to be stored away once the festival is over. So to ensure that they receive their due recognition, most of the light artworks become part of an international collection that is temporarily displayed all over the world, managed by the Light Art Collection, illuminating cities, and exhibitions worldwide.

amsterdam light festival canal cruise

Nieuw-West project

This is the current project of the Amsterdam Light Festival, in which the area of Amsterdam Nieuw West will see a major change as it gets redesigned as the Municipality of Amsterdam. It will also find an installation of permanent light art, with several other artworks finding their place in public spaces in the near future.

Know before you go on an Amsterdam Light Festival cruise

Timings
Facilities
Rules
Visitor tips
Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise

Amsterdam Light Festival: Daily from November 28 to January 19

Opening hours: 5pm to 11pm

  • Amsterdam Light Festival Evening Cruise from Hard Rock Cafe: 5pm to 9pm | 90 mins
  • Amsterdam Light Festival Luxury Cruise with Unlimited Drinks & Snacks Option: 4:45pm to 9:45 pm | 75 mins
  • Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise with Cheese and Wine: 7:15pm & 9pm | 75 mins
  • Amsterdam Lights Winter Walking Tour: 3pm | 2 hours
  • Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise with a German Audio Guide and Unlimited Drinks: 5:30pm & 7pm | 75 mins
  • A live English-speaking guide is available on the Amsterdam Light Festival Canal Cruise, Amsterdam Light Festival Luxury Cruise with Unlimited Drinks & Snacks Option, and the Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise with Cheese and Wine
  • An audio guide in English and Dutch is available on the Amsterdam Light Festival Canal Cruise, 1.5-Hour Amsterdam Light Festival Evening Cruise from Hard Rock Cafe, and Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise with Cheese and Wine, while a German audio guide is available on the Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise with a German Audio Guide and Unlimited Drinks.
  • Unlimited drinks, including beer, soft drinks, and mulled wine, are available on the Amsterdam Light Festival Luxury Cruise with Unlimited Drinks & Snacks Option and the Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise with a German Audio Guide and Unlimited Drinks.
  • Although the boats are heated, blankets are available on the Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise with Optional Drinks if you want to admire the view from the open deck.
  • Pets, with the exception of guide dogs, are not allowed on the cruises.
  • Adhere to safety guidelines provided by cruise operators for a secure and enjoyable experience.
  • Smoking is not permitted on any cruise.
  • Outside food and beverages are not allowed onboard the cruise. You can, however, purchase snacks at the operator ticket counter before boarding.
  • If you plan to take a walking tour to view the art installations, make sure to wear comfortable, closed shoes, as it is a 6.5 km walk along the canals.
  • Keep the Festival of Lights route map handy to make the most of your visit.
  • Dress warmly, layer up, and bring a coat for comfort during the chilly winter.
  • Arrive at least 15 minutes before to facilitate a smooth boarding process and make the most of the canal cruise. This will also let you score the best seats on the boat.
  • Utilize the bilingual audio or live guide for insights into the artworks and an enriched experience. Engage with the crew for additional insights and recommendations.
  • Photography is encouraged, and the illuminated art pieces make for stunning pictures. Just make sure to have a good camera or phone with low-light capabilities.
  • Evening cruises, especially on weekends and holidays, can get quite busy. For a more relaxed experience, consider booking a cruise earlier in the week or during off-peak hours.

Departure points

Centraal Station

  • By bus: 305, 314, 347, 397, 41
  • By train: IC, ICD, SPR
  • By metro: 52, 54
  • By light rail: 12, 14, 17, 2, 4

Starboard Dock

  • By metro: Lines 52 and 54
  • By tram: 4 and 14

What happens to the artworks after the Amsterdam Light Festival?

Light Art Collection is a subsidiary of Amsterdam Light Festival, which has been responsible for creating light art installations for the festival since 2012. After each Amsterdam Light Festival edition, a major part of the artworks are added to the Light Art Collection every year and are displayed temporarily all over the world.

Frequently Asked Questions about Amsterdam Light Festival cruises

How can I enjoy the Amsterdam Light Festival?

Tourists and visitors can enjoy the light festival in several ways. You can either choose a walking tour or book an Amsterdam canal cruise. It is a long walk, around 6.5 km. If you have limited mobility or toddlers, and infants with you, it is best to book a canal cruise. Not only are you in a warm space, protected from the rain, but you can also enjoy free Wi-Fi and multilingual audio guides on a canal cruise.

Can I bring my kids on the Amsterdam Light Festival cruise?

Yes, the cruise is family-friendly and a great way to introduce children to art and culture. Kids will love the colorful light displays, and some cruises even offer discounted family tickets.

What if the weather is bad?

The cruise operates in most weather conditions since the boats are covered and heated. However, in case of extreme weather, the cruise might be canceled, and you will be offered a rescheduled time or a refund.

Can I rent a private boat for the festival?

Yes, several providers offer private boat rentals for groups. This option is perfect for corporate events, family gatherings, or anyone looking for a more intimate experience. You can email the cruise operator to book your cruise directly.

What types of boats are used for the festival cruises?

The boats are typically glass-topped enclosed or semi-open electric boats, offering panoramic views of the light installations while keeping passengers warm and dry.

Is the cruise suitable for solo travelers?

Definitely! The Amsterdam Light Festival cruise is a fantastic option for solo travelers looking to explore the city’s culture and art scene in a relaxed and scenic setting.

Do I need to tip the crew at the end of the cruise?

Tipping is not mandatory, but if you enjoyed the service, a small tip for the crew is always appreciated.

Can I buy souvenirs related to the Amsterdam Light Festival during the cruise?

Some cruises may have small souvenir shops near the departure points. Alternatively, you can find festival souvenirs at local shops near the departure points.