Port
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Activity Level
Easy Activity
Excursion Type
Information Not Currently Available
Wheelchair Accessible
No
Starting At (prices in USD)
$120
Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
Duration
Approximately 1½ Hours
Meals Included
Meals included
Embarking on a guided Amsterdam canal cruise is a magical journey through the picturesque waterways, where the historic architecture, charming bridges, and the vibrant atmosphere of the city unfold, creating a leisurely and enchanting exploration of this iconic Dutch destination.
The historic urban ensemble of the canal district of Amsterdam was a project for a new "port city" built at the end of the 16th and beginning of the 17th centuries. It is comprised of a network of canals to the west and south of the historic old town and the medieval port that encircled the old town and was accompanied by the repositioning inland of the city's fortified boundaries – the Singelgracht. These spaces allowed the development of a homogeneous urban ensemble including gabled houses and numerous monuments. This urban extension was the largest and most homogeneous of its time. It was a model of large-scale town planning, and served as a reference throughout the world until the 19th century.
Amsterdam has always had strong ties to the water. Spread out over 70 islands, this cosmopolitan city boasts 60 miles of canals and 1,000 bridges. As early as the 13th century, tiny ships sailed from this port into the challenging Zuider Sea. In the 15th century, Amsterdam became a major trading center. Today, is most famous for its narrow, gabled houses lining the canals.
Today you’ll board a glass-topped canal boat at the cruise terminal for a 1.5-hour ride through Amsterdam's canals, passing major monuments such as the Maritime Museum and the Town Hall. You will view the city center from a completely different angle and glide past quarters built in the Middle Ages where, nowadays, passage by regular transport is logistically impossible.
Lined with trees and monumental buildings, the famous crescent-shaped Herengracht, Keizergracht and Prinsengracht Canals provide the setting for your leisurely cruise. Although many canal houses have now been converted into offices, shops and restaurants, there are still many functioning as private residences.
During the canal boat ride, you will be served refreshments and sample Dutch cheese and crackers.