Amsterdam Light Festival Cruises

Things to know before you book your Amsterdam Light Festival cruise

Festival season: The festival runs from late November through mid-January, with nightly departures that follow the official illuminated art route.
Duration options: Cruises last between 75 and 90 minutes, depending on the experience and departure point, giving ample time to enjoy every installation.
Audio & commentary: Most boats include multilingual audio guides or live commentary, adding context and fun stories about the artists and canal landmarks.
Upgrade choices: Some cruises offer unlimited drinks, snack boxes, or private boat experiences for an extra fee, perfect for date nights or small groups.
Accessibility info: Several boarding points and boats accommodate wheelchairs with advance notice. Please check details when booking to ensure the right fit.
Weather ready: Boats are heated and enclosed but boarding areas can be chilly, so pack a scarf and warm shoes for outdoor waiting areas.
Cancellation flexibility: Many operators allow free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure, ideal if Amsterdam’s winter weather changes your plans.

Find your best Amsterdam Light Festival cruise match here

Cruise type	Duration	Key features	Boarding points	Upgrades available
Extended traditional cruise	90-mins	Heated glass-roof boat, official audio guide, onboard toilet	Hard Rock Cafe or A’DAM Tower	Snack box and drinks
Traditional cruise	75-mins	Classic covered boat, multilingual audio, skipper commentary	Near Centraal Station or Anne Frank House	Unlimited drinks, Wi-Fi
Luxury cruise	75-mins	Elegant saloon boat, host storytelling, wooden interiors	Near Centraal Station	Unlimited drinks and snacks
Small-group electric cruise	75-mins	Silent eco-friendly electric boat, only 30 guests, blankets	City Centre or Starboard Dock	Unlimited drinks, private charter
Exclusive private cruise	75-mins	Private electric boat for up to 10 guests, heated cushions	Starboard Dock or Oudezijds Voorburgwal	Unlimited drinks, English-speaking guide

What will you see on your Amsterdam Light Festival cruise?

Herengracht

Herengracht is one of Amsterdam’s most famous canals, lined with elegant 17th-century merchant houses and gilded gables. At night, festival lights reflect perfectly in the calm water, creating picture-perfect views along this historic waterway.

Prinsengracht

Prinsengracht offers a dynamic mix of residential charm and festival art. The canal’s bridges and facades glow with vibrant installations, turning each section into a storytelling journey between classic architecture and contemporary light sculptures.

NEMO Science Museum

The NEMO Science Museum’s green roof and iconic ship-like structure provide a striking backdrop for installations. From the water, visitors see both museum lights and festival sculptures mirrored in the canal below.

Amsterdam Centraal Station

This architectural landmark shines under festival lights, offering a blend of historic grandeur and modern vibrancy. Boats glide past as illuminated artworks frame the station’s detailed façade and bustling waterfront.

Anne Frank House

While boats stay outside, the Anne Frank House’s façade adds historical depth to the cruise. Nearby installations transform the canal in front, creating a reflective atmosphere steeped in both history and art.

Magere Brug

The iconic Magere Brug, or Skinny Bridge, lights up with special festival illuminations. Its wooden arches glow beautifully at night, perfectly reflecting in the canal and offering a signature Amsterdam photo moment.

Brouwersgracht

Brouwersgracht combines quiet charm with visual spectacle. Narrow canal houses and historic warehouses create a stunning canvas for floating artworks and illuminated installations along this lesser-known canal.

Grachtengordel

The Grachtengordel canal belt showcases Amsterdam’s UNESCO-protected canal network. Festival lights highlight symmetrical canal layouts and ornate façades, producing a magical, storybook-like experience from the water.

Your Amsterdam Light Festival cruise boarding points explained

Address: Blue Boat Company, Stadhouderskade 501, 1071 ZD Amsterdam, Netherlands (opposite Hard Rock Café)

Getting there:

By tram: Lines 1, 2, 5, 11, 12 to Leidseplein, then about a 2-minute walk to the dock.
By metro: Line M52 to Vijzelgracht, then about a 10-minute walk.
By taxi/car: Closest parking at Q-Park Byzantium (about a 6-minute walk) or Q-Park Museumplein (around 10 minutes). ParkBee Stadhouderskade is a smaller nearby option.

Famous for: One of Amsterdam’s best-known canal cruise departure points, set beside the Hard Rock Café and close to the city’s main entertainment district.

Address: Badhuisweg 4, 1031 CM Amsterdam, Netherlands

Getting there:

By ferry: Free Buiksloterweg ferry from behind Amsterdam Centraal, 5 minutes.
By tram: No direct tram access; reach via ferry from Central Station.
By taxi/car: Drop-off points in front; limited parking in Overhoeks area.

Famous for: Panoramic city views from the observation deck and vibrant nightlife at the tower.

Address: Stromma, Damrak 22, 1012 LH Amsterdam, Netherlands

Getting there:

By tram: Almost all tram lines stop directly at Centraal Station.
By metro: M51, M52, M53, M54 all stop here.
By bus: City and regional buses connect directly.

Famous for: Amsterdam’s main transport hub surrounded by canals, historic architecture, and easy access to central attractions.

Address: Amsterdam Circle Line, Prinsengracht, Amsterdam, Netherlands

Getting there:

By tram: Lines 13, 17 to Westermarkt stop, then 2-minute walk.
By metro: M52 to Rokin or Centraal, then 12–15 minute walk.
By taxi/car: Minimal parking; walking recommended.

Famous for: Historic canal-side museum, reflecting Amsterdam’s history, situated in a charming neighborhood full of classic façades.

Address: Amstel 178, 1017 AE Amsterdam | Find on map

Getting there:

By tram: Lines 4, 14 to Rembrandtplein, then about 5-minute walk.
By taxi/car: Drop-off points available nearby; limited parking in the area but public transport recommended.

Famous for: Quiet boarding point perfect for small and private boats, offering intimate views of festival lights.

Address: Oudezijds Voorburgwal 150, 1012 Amsterdam

Getting there:

By tram: Lines 4, 9, 14 nearby (towards Nieuwmarkt or Spui stops).
By taxi/car: Short walk from central parking garages; area primarily pedestrian.

Famous for: Historic canal heart of Amsterdam with vibrant nightlife, classic architecture, and charming canal streets.

Plan your Amsterdam Light Festival cruise

Arrival time: Arrive at least 20–30 minutes before departure to complete check-in and boarding smoothly.
Documents needed: Bring your printed or digital ticket and a valid ID for verification.
Dress code: Smart casual is recommended, especially if you’re on a dinner or luxury cruise.
Security procedures: Standard bag checks may be conducted; sharp objects and large items are prohibited.
Boarding process: Passengers are seated in groups; some boats have multiple deck levels for seating options.
Child & pet policy: Children under 12 must be accompanied by adults; small pets allowed only on private cruises.
Onboard luggage: Only small bags are allowed; large luggage must be left off-boat or in lockers if available.

General timings: The Amsterdam Light Festival cruises run from early evening around 5pm to late night at 10 or 11pm. This year, the festival lights up the canals from 27th November 2025 to 18th January 2026.
Best time of day: Early evening, just around the dusk hour, is ideal, offering soft golden light and fewer crowds.

Cozy seating area: Comfortable seating in enclosed or open-air areas, ideal for canal views and photography.
Washrooms: Onboard restrooms are accessible to all passengers for convenience during the cruise.
Food onboard: Light refreshments and snacks are available on select cruises to enjoy during the ride.
Multilingual guides: Audio guides in multiple languages explaining the festival lights and key landmarks.
Open decks: Deck areas designed for unobstructed views of illuminated canals and buildings.

Wheelchair friendly: Some of the cruises have wheelchair-accessible ramps and gangways for easy boarding on most vessels.
Registered assistance dogs: Some cruises happily accommodate guide dogs, so you and your companion can enjoy the ride.
Reserved seating: Designated seating areas for passengers with reduced mobility in both indoor and outdoor decks.
Helpful staff: Assistance from crew members is available for boarding and seating if required.
Washrooms for all: Accessible restrooms on select boats to ensure comfort for all guests.

No smoking: Smoking is prohibited inside boats; designated outdoor areas may be available.
Pet policy: Pets allowed only on private or small boat cruises; service animals welcome.
Keep it clean: Littering or throwing objects into canals is strictly forbidden.
Safety first: Life jackets must be worn by children when required by crew instructions.
Listen to the crew: Follow staff instructions during boarding, disembarking, and any emergency procedures.

Visitor tips

Seating preference: Request window or deck seating when booking for unobstructed views of the festival lights.
Light reflection: Use non-flash photography to capture reflections on water without disturbing fellow passengers.
Power bank ready: Nighttime photos and navigation apps can drain your phone fast, so carry a backup battery.
Ear protection: Evening canals can echo horns, engine sounds, and crowd chatter, so earplugs help if sensitive to noise.
Binoculars handy: Certain installations are small or across wider canals; a compact pair lets you see details clearly.
Waterproof bag: Protect cameras, phones, and tickets from unexpected splashes or light rain during open-deck boarding.

Frequently Asked Questions about Amsterdam Light Festival cruises

Are small boats better for photography?

Smaller electric boats offer quieter, closer views of light installations, making it easier to photograph details without reflections or crowd interference.

Can I bring my tripod on board?

Most boats allow compact tripods, but larger ones may be restricted. Always check with your specific cruise provider beforehand to avoid issues.

Do the lights affect motion sickness?

Lights themselves don’t cause nausea, but gentle canal movement may. Choose a mid-boat seat near the center for a smoother experience.

Will I see every light installation?

Routes vary per cruise type. Popular installations are included, but smaller or distant works may be missed due to time or route limits.

Will the cruise be canceled in rain or snow?

Minor weather usually doesn’t cancel tours; severe storms may. Always check live updates or contact the provider on the day of your cruise.

Are guided commentary options available on all boats?

Some boats offer live guides, while others provide recorded explanations. Check ahead if you want artist insights or installation context included.

Can I combine the cruise with other attractions?

Yes, several packages bundle festival cruises with museums or walking tours. Check for combo tickets to save money and maximize experience.

Can I attend the festival if I miss the cruise?

Yes, many installations are visible from bridges, streets, and walking paths, but boats provide closer, uninterrupted views of major artworks.

Take a 90-min Light Festival journey with an official festival guide in Dutch, English or German.

Boat type: Traditional sightseeing cruise boat with large glass roof and heated interiors.
Everything you get: Spend 90-mins gliding through Amsterdam Light Festival artworks on a glass-roof sightseeing boat with heating, multilingual audio guide, boarding from either Hard Rock Cafe or A’DAM Tower, and access to onboard toilet facilities.
Why choose this: Offering a longer journey than standard options, this 90-min cruise ensures you have more time to enjoy illuminated artworks.

Inclusions

90-minute cruise along the official Amsterdam Light Festival route
Board from near Hard Rock Cafe or A'dam Tower (as per your selection)
Covered and heated boat
Official Amsterdam Light Festival audio guide (Dutch, English & German)
Toilet on board

Exclusions

Snack box (chips, popcorn, stroopwafels, nuts, water or soft drink) and drinks (available for purchase)

What to bring

Ensure your entry ticket and ID are on hand for a smooth experience.
Pack earphones for your audio guide experience.

What’s not allowed

Food & beverages, sharp metallic tools or objects, and large bags and luggage are not permitted on this experience.
Your pets are not permitted on this experience.

Accessibility

This experience is accessible to wheelchair and pram/stroller users, but you must make a prior reservation to let the providers know.

Additional information

Food and additional drinks are available for purchase on board.
The boat is heated and covered, but outdoor areas may still be cold during the winter months.
The cruise operates during the Amsterdam Light Festival, with various departure times throughout the evening from November 27, 2025, through January 18, 2026.

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

Admire glowing artworks while staying warm aboard luxury enclosed boats & with an expert host by your side.

Boat type: Cozy enclosed saloon boat with plush seating, large windows and wooden interiors.
Everything you get: Board near Centraal Station and relax on a heated, enclosed boat. Your experienced skipper navigates the canals while a friendly host shares stories about Amsterdam’s monuments, light artworks, and the city’s winter charm for 75-mins.
Why choose this: This cruise gives you confidence and context, as your knowledgeable skipper & host shares inside stories that make the festival magical.
Upgrades: Opt for unlimited mulled wine, beer, sodas, and tasty snacks, making your cruise cozy, indulgent, and perfect for winter evenings.

Inclusions

75-min cruise along the official Amsterdam Light Festival route
heated and fully-enclosed boat
Board from near Centraal Station
Unlimited mulled wine, beer, and sodas (as per option selected)
Snacks (as per option selected)
Experienced skipper
Host providing detailed explanation of the city, monuments, and artworks

Exclusions

Drinks (for packages without drinks included)

Transportation to/from the meeting point
Cruises on New Year’s Eve

What to bring

Ensure your entry ticket and ID are on hand for a smooth experience.

What’s not allowed

Sharp metallic tools or objects, smoking and drugs are not permitted on this experience.
Your pets are not permitted on this experience.

Accessibility

For your convenience, guide dogs are welcome to join you.

Additional information

The boat is heated and covered, but outdoor areas may still be cold during winter months.
The cruise operates during the Amsterdam Light Festival, with various departure times throughout the evening from November 27, 2025, through January 18, 2026.
Guests showing signs of intoxication before boarding will not be allowed to join the cruise.
If a guest becomes disruptive due to intoxication during the cruise, the journey may be ended immediately and they may be asked to leave the boat.

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

Capture festival installations clearly without outdoor crowds from your heated sightseeing boat.

Boat type: Traditional sightseeing cruise boat with a large glass roof and warm interiors.
Everything you get: The cruise runs 75-mins along the official Light Festival route. You can board near Centraal Station or the Anne Frank House. Onboard, expect heating, wide glass views, a toilet, and both multilingual audio commentary and personal stories from the skipper.
Why choose this: Winter weather does not interfere, since the heated glass-roof boat keeps the festival experience comfortable while showcasing the artworks clearly.
Upgrades: Choose unlimited beer, wine, and soda to enjoy on the ride, use free Wi-Fi to share photos instantly, or a back deck lounge for open-air perspectives.

Inclusions

75-min cruise along the official Amsterdam Light Festival route
Board from near Centraal Station or Anne Frank House (as per option selected)
Heated & covered boat with a glass roof
Audio guide in Dutch and English
Friendly skippers with unique stories
Unlimited drinks (beer, wine & soda) (as per option selected)
Free Wi-Fi (as per option selected)
Lounge on the back deck (as per option selected)
Restroom on board

What to bring

Ensure your entry ticket and ID are on hand for a smooth experience.
Pack earphones for your audio guide experience.

What’s not allowed

Sharp metallic tools or objects, and non-folding wheelchairs and baby strollers are not permitted on this experience.
Your pets are not permitted on this experience.

Accessibility

This experience is difficult for people with reduced mobility, since there are a few steps that you would have to climb to board the boat.

Additional information

The boat is heated and covered, but outdoor areas may still be cold during the winter months.
The cruise operates during the Amsterdam Light Festival, with various departure times throughout the evening from November 27, 2025, through January 18, 2026.

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

Leisurely 2-hour walking tour through the Light Festival

Discover Amsterdam's enchanting transformation during the 13th edition of the Light Festival through a 2-hour guided walking tour of the city.
Explore the hidden gems of the city like Dam Square and Nine Streets with an experienced local guide, and choose the language of your choice.
Beat the winter chills in style as your walking tour includes complimentary winter hats ensuring you remain warm and comfortable throughout.
Warm up with a winter treat as your tour ends at Noordermarkt where you get to savor a traditional glühwein or hot chocolate, along with a local delicacy.
Prepare for a magical spectacle as the UNESCO-listed Canal District is illuminated by 27 dazzling light fixtures celebrating the theme of rituals.

Inclusions

2-hour Amsterdam Light Festival walking tour from Dam Square to Noordermarkt
Local English, French, German, or Italian-speaking guide (as per option selected)
Gluhwein or hot chocolate, and a treat
Winter hat
Rain poncho (only in case of rainy weather)

Tip: Even if you're not a fan of wine, give the traditional Glühwein a try. It's a winter staple in Amsterdam!
This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
The Amsterdam Light Festival begins on November 30, 2024, and runs until January 19, 2025.

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

Share magical festival moments with friends on an intimate cruise limited to 30 guests.

Boat type: Comfortable semi-covered sloop with canopy cover and heated cushions.
Everything you get: Gather 30 friends aboard a private boat, sip unlimited drinks, wrap up in blankets, and enjoy your English guide’s commentary. Your 75-minute festival cruise includes the entry fee, so nothing else to worry about.
Why choose this: A private cruise means no strangers, only your group of 10 enjoying comfort, warmth, and undisturbed time together watching festival lights.

Inclusions

75-minute cruise along the Amsterdam Light Festival route
Private canal cruise for your group
Board from Starboard Dock or Oudezijds Voorburgwal
Unlimited drinks included
English-speaking guide
Up to 30 guests
Fully electric, modern covered boat
Blankets on board
Amsterdam Light Festival fee included

Exclusions

Meals (beyond welcome snack)

Optional drink packages may cost extra for some ticket types

What to bring

Ensure your entry ticket and ID are on hand for a smooth experience.

What’s not allowed

Outside food & beverages, sharp metallic tools or objects, and large bags and luggage are not permitted on this experience.

Accessibility

For detailed accessibility information, please contact the operator in advance at sail@starboardboats.nl or +31 6 19909425.

Additional information

The boat is semi-covered, but outdoor areas may still be cold during the winter months.
The cruise operates during the Amsterdam Light Festival, with various departure times throughout the evening from November 27, 2025, through January 18, 2026.

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

Take a 90-min Light Festival journey with an official festival guide in Dutch, English or German.

Boat type: Traditional sightseeing cruise boat with large glass roof and heated interiors.
Everything you get: Spend 90-mins gliding through Amsterdam Light Festival artworks on a glass-roof sightseeing boat with heating, multilingual audio guide, boarding from either Hard Rock Cafe or A’DAM Tower, and access to onboard toilet facilities.
Why choose this: Offering a longer journey than standard options, this 90-min cruise ensures you have more time to enjoy illuminated artworks.

Inclusions

90-minute cruise along the official Amsterdam Light Festival route
Board from near Hard Rock Cafe or A'dam Tower (as per your selection)
Covered and heated boat
Official Amsterdam Light Festival audio guide (Dutch, English & German)
Toilet on board

Exclusions

Snack box (chips, popcorn, stroopwafels, nuts, water or soft drink) and drinks (available for purchase)

What to bring

Ensure your entry ticket and ID are on hand for a smooth experience.
Pack earphones for your audio guide experience.

What’s not allowed

Food & beverages, sharp metallic tools or objects, and large bags and luggage are not permitted on this experience.
Your pets are not permitted on this experience.

Accessibility

This experience is accessible to wheelchair and pram/stroller users, but you must make a prior reservation to let the providers know.

Additional information

Food and additional drinks are available for purchase on board.
The boat is heated and covered, but outdoor areas may still be cold during the winter months.
The cruise operates during the Amsterdam Light Festival, with various departure times throughout the evening from November 27, 2025, through January 18, 2026.

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

Admire glowing artworks while staying warm aboard luxury enclosed boats & with an expert host by your side.

Boat type: Cozy enclosed saloon boat with plush seating, large windows and wooden interiors.
Everything you get: Board near Centraal Station and relax on a heated, enclosed boat. Your experienced skipper navigates the canals while a friendly host shares stories about Amsterdam’s monuments, light artworks, and the city’s winter charm for 75-mins.
Why choose this: This cruise gives you confidence and context, as your knowledgeable skipper & host shares inside stories that make the festival magical.
Upgrades: Opt for unlimited mulled wine, beer, sodas, and tasty snacks, making your cruise cozy, indulgent, and perfect for winter evenings.

Inclusions

75-min cruise along the official Amsterdam Light Festival route
heated and fully-enclosed boat
Board from near Centraal Station
Unlimited mulled wine, beer, and sodas (as per option selected)
Snacks (as per option selected)
Experienced skipper
Host providing detailed explanation of the city, monuments, and artworks

Exclusions

Drinks (for packages without drinks included)

Transportation to/from the meeting point
Cruises on New Year’s Eve

What to bring

Ensure your entry ticket and ID are on hand for a smooth experience.

What’s not allowed

Sharp metallic tools or objects, smoking and drugs are not permitted on this experience.
Your pets are not permitted on this experience.

Accessibility

For your convenience, guide dogs are welcome to join you.

Additional information

The boat is heated and covered, but outdoor areas may still be cold during winter months.
The cruise operates during the Amsterdam Light Festival, with various departure times throughout the evening from November 27, 2025, through January 18, 2026.
Guests showing signs of intoxication before boarding will not be allowed to join the cruise.
If a guest becomes disruptive due to intoxication during the cruise, the journey may be ended immediately and they may be asked to leave the boat.

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

Capture festival installations clearly without outdoor crowds from your heated sightseeing boat.

Boat type: Traditional sightseeing cruise boat with a large glass roof and warm interiors.
Everything you get: The cruise runs 75-mins along the official Light Festival route. You can board near Centraal Station or the Anne Frank House. Onboard, expect heating, wide glass views, a toilet, and both multilingual audio commentary and personal stories from the skipper.
Why choose this: Winter weather does not interfere, since the heated glass-roof boat keeps the festival experience comfortable while showcasing the artworks clearly.
Upgrades: Choose unlimited beer, wine, and soda to enjoy on the ride, use free Wi-Fi to share photos instantly, or a back deck lounge for open-air perspectives.

Inclusions

75-min cruise along the official Amsterdam Light Festival route
Board from near Centraal Station or Anne Frank House (as per option selected)
Heated & covered boat with a glass roof
Audio guide in Dutch and English
Friendly skippers with unique stories
Unlimited drinks (beer, wine & soda) (as per option selected)
Free Wi-Fi (as per option selected)
Lounge on the back deck (as per option selected)
Restroom on board

What to bring

Ensure your entry ticket and ID are on hand for a smooth experience.
Pack earphones for your audio guide experience.

What’s not allowed

Sharp metallic tools or objects, and non-folding wheelchairs and baby strollers are not permitted on this experience.
Your pets are not permitted on this experience.

Accessibility

This experience is difficult for people with reduced mobility, since there are a few steps that you would have to climb to board the boat.

Additional information

The boat is heated and covered, but outdoor areas may still be cold during the winter months.
The cruise operates during the Amsterdam Light Festival, with various departure times throughout the evening from November 27, 2025, through January 18, 2026.

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

Leisurely 2-hour walking tour through the Light Festival

Discover Amsterdam's enchanting transformation during the 13th edition of the Light Festival through a 2-hour guided walking tour of the city.
Explore the hidden gems of the city like Dam Square and Nine Streets with an experienced local guide, and choose the language of your choice.
Beat the winter chills in style as your walking tour includes complimentary winter hats ensuring you remain warm and comfortable throughout.
Warm up with a winter treat as your tour ends at Noordermarkt where you get to savor a traditional glühwein or hot chocolate, along with a local delicacy.
Prepare for a magical spectacle as the UNESCO-listed Canal District is illuminated by 27 dazzling light fixtures celebrating the theme of rituals.

Inclusions

2-hour Amsterdam Light Festival walking tour from Dam Square to Noordermarkt
Local English, French, German, or Italian-speaking guide (as per option selected)
Gluhwein or hot chocolate, and a treat
Winter hat
Rain poncho (only in case of rainy weather)

Tip: Even if you're not a fan of wine, give the traditional Glühwein a try. It's a winter staple in Amsterdam!
This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
The Amsterdam Light Festival begins on November 30, 2024, and runs until January 19, 2025.

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

Share magical festival moments with friends on an intimate cruise limited to 30 guests.

Boat type: Comfortable semi-covered sloop with canopy cover and heated cushions.
Everything you get: Gather 30 friends aboard a private boat, sip unlimited drinks, wrap up in blankets, and enjoy your English guide’s commentary. Your 75-minute festival cruise includes the entry fee, so nothing else to worry about.
Why choose this: A private cruise means no strangers, only your group of 10 enjoying comfort, warmth, and undisturbed time together watching festival lights.

Inclusions

75-minute cruise along the Amsterdam Light Festival route
Private canal cruise for your group
Board from Starboard Dock or Oudezijds Voorburgwal
Unlimited drinks included
English-speaking guide
Up to 30 guests
Fully electric, modern covered boat
Blankets on board
Amsterdam Light Festival fee included

Exclusions

Meals (beyond welcome snack)

Optional drink packages may cost extra for some ticket types

What to bring

Ensure your entry ticket and ID are on hand for a smooth experience.

What’s not allowed

Outside food & beverages, sharp metallic tools or objects, and large bags and luggage are not permitted on this experience.

Accessibility

For detailed accessibility information, please contact the operator in advance at sail@starboardboats.nl or +31 6 19909425.

Additional information

The boat is semi-covered, but outdoor areas may still be cold during the winter months.
The cruise operates during the Amsterdam Light Festival, with various departure times throughout the evening from November 27, 2025, through January 18, 2026.

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

Sightseeing Cruises

NaN

Amsterdam Light Festival Extended Traditional Cruise

Take a 90-min Light Festival journey with an official festival guide in Dutch, English or German.

Boat type: Traditional sightseeing cruise boat with large glass roof and heated interiors.
Everything you get: Spend 90-mins gliding through Amsterdam Light Festival artworks on a glass-roof sightseeing boat with heating, multilingual audio guide, boarding from either Hard Rock Cafe or A’DAM Tower, and access to onboard toilet facilities.
Why choose this: Offering a longer journey than standard options, this 90-min cruise ensures you have more time to enjoy illuminated artworks.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

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

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

1 hr. 30 min.

Audio guide

Sightseeing Cruises

NaN

Amsterdam Light Festival Luxury Cruise with Optional Unlimited Drinks & Snacks

Admire glowing artworks while staying warm aboard luxury enclosed boats & with an expert host by your side.

Boat type: Cozy enclosed saloon boat with plush seating, large windows and wooden interiors.
Everything you get: Board near Centraal Station and relax on a heated, enclosed boat. Your experienced skipper navigates the canals while a friendly host shares stories about Amsterdam’s monuments, light artworks, and the city’s winter charm for 75-mins.
Why choose this: This cruise gives you confidence and context, as your knowledgeable skipper & host shares inside stories that make the festival magical.
Upgrades: Opt for unlimited mulled wine, beer, sodas, and tasty snacks, making your cruise cozy, indulgent, and perfect for winter evenings.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

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

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

1 hr. 15 min.

Sightseeing Cruises

NaN

Amsterdam Light Festival Traditional Cruise With Optional Unlimited Drinks

Capture festival installations clearly without outdoor crowds from your heated sightseeing boat.

Boat type: Traditional sightseeing cruise boat with a large glass roof and warm interiors.
Everything you get: The cruise runs 75-mins along the official Light Festival route. You can board near Centraal Station or the Anne Frank House. Onboard, expect heating, wide glass views, a toilet, and both multilingual audio commentary and personal stories from the skipper.
Why choose this: Winter weather does not interfere, since the heated glass-roof boat keeps the festival experience comfortable while showcasing the artworks clearly.
Upgrades: Choose unlimited beer, wine, and soda to enjoy on the ride, use free Wi-Fi to share photos instantly, or a back deck lounge for open-air perspectives.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

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

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

1 hr. 15 min.

Audio guide

Guided Tours

NEW

Amsterdam Lights Winter Walking Tour

Leisurely 2-hour walking tour through the Light Festival

Discover Amsterdam's enchanting transformation during the 13th edition of the Light Festival through a 2-hour guided walking tour of the city.
Explore the hidden gems of the city like Dam Square and Nine Streets with an experienced local guide, and choose the language of your choice.
Beat the winter chills in style as your walking tour includes complimentary winter hats ensuring you remain warm and comfortable throughout.
Warm up with a winter treat as your tour ends at Noordermarkt where you get to savor a traditional glühwein or hot chocolate, along with a local delicacy.
Prepare for a magical spectacle as the UNESCO-listed Canal District is illuminated by 27 dazzling light fixtures celebrating the theme of rituals.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

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

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

2 hr.

Sightseeing Cruises

NEW

Amsterdam Light Festival Exclusive Private Cruise with Unlimited Drinks

Share magical festival moments with friends on an intimate cruise limited to 30 guests.

Boat type: Comfortable semi-covered sloop with canopy cover and heated cushions.
Everything you get: Gather 30 friends aboard a private boat, sip unlimited drinks, wrap up in blankets, and enjoy your English guide’s commentary. Your 75-minute festival cruise includes the entry fee, so nothing else to worry about.
Why choose this: A private cruise means no strangers, only your group of 10 enjoying comfort, warmth, and undisturbed time together watching festival lights.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

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

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

1 hr. 15 min.

Guided tour

Things to know before you book your Amsterdam Light Festival cruise

Find your best Amsterdam Light Festival cruise match here

What will you see on your Amsterdam Light Festival cruise?

Herengracht

Prinsengracht

NEMO Science Museum

Amsterdam Centraal Station

Anne Frank House

Magere Brug

Brouwersgracht

Grachtengordel

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Amsterdam Light Festival Extended Traditional Cruise

Amsterdam Light Festival Luxury Cruise with Optional Unlimited Drinks & Snacks

Amsterdam Light Festival Traditional Cruise With Optional Unlimited Drinks

Amsterdam Lights Winter Walking Tour

Amsterdam Light Festival Exclusive Private Cruise with Unlimited Drinks