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Riverfront Canal Cruises in Richmond

40-minute, historically narrated boat tours of the james river and kanawha canal along downtown richmond’s historic canal walk..

• Riverfront Canal Cruises

Enjoy a Canal Cruise Along the Kanawha Canal in Downtown Richmond

Looking for fun and unique things to do in downtown richmond.

The boat tours travel along downtown Richmond's historic Canal Walk and review centuries of Richmond’s history, from Powhatan’s Chiefdom to the first commercially successful electric streetcar in the world, all while traveling in authentically styled canal boats. Travelers can see the unique Triple Crossing railroad, tobacco warehouses that have been converted into trendy lofts, the Virginia Capital Trail, the Low Line gardens and James River wildlife.

Hourly Historic Tours

40-minute historically narrated tours.

The canal boat tours of the James River and Kanawha Canal operate throughout the season, seven days a week from May through September, and with varying hours in April, October and November.

• Tours depart on the hour from the Canal’s Turning Basin at 139 Virginia Street, in Downtown Richmond, Virginia.
• Tickets are sold on a first come, first served basis at the Turning Basin’s ticket kiosk and online up to 18 hours in advance - HERE .
• Boats can accommodate up to 25 passengers and are accessible to those with physical disabilites.
• No pets are allowed except for registered service animals.

PLEASE NOTE : Even when it appears that tickets may be sold out online, we do still keep a number of walk-up tickets available at the ticket kiosk for each historic tour. Try arriving early or calling 804-649-2800 .

BOAT TOUR HOURS

Fri. & Sat.: Noon – 7PM

Sun.: Noon – 5PM

May – September

Mon. – Fri.: Noon – 7PM

Sat.: 11AM – 8PM

Sun.: 11AM – 7PM

Thurs. – Sat.: Noon – 7PM

Fri. – Sun.: Noon – 5PM

• Adults: $15
• Children (5 - 12 years old): $8
• Children 4 and under: FREE
• Seniors (65 years and up): $8
• $1 off historic tour tickets to all teachers, first responders, healthcare workers and military personnel who show a valid work I.D. at the ticket kiosk.

Richmond Private Charters

Private charters are the perfect outing for field trips, celebrations and family gatherings..

Canal cruise private charters are available as one- or two-hour private boat tours that are a favorite for family reunions, celebrating birthdays, engagements, corporate retreats, business groups, churches, clubs and so many more group outings. Private charters may be scheduled for any day and time during the season, but must be reserved a minimum of two weeks in advance.

Customers may choose for their boat ride to be historically narrated, or they can choose to forgo the historic narration and take in the sights while listening to light music over a provided speaker or simply conversing with their fellow guests. The boats can be outfitted with tables of various sizes that can accommodate light refreshments or a more formal, catered meal (catering is not provided by Riverfront Canal Cruises).

Pricing and Guidelines

Your chartered boat(s) may be set up in one of the following (3) configurations:

• Dining style has tables and chairs, seating a maximum of 20 passengers.
• Cocktail style has chairs, benches and a small table, seating a maximum of 22 passengers.
• Excursion style has chairs and benches, seating a maximum of 25 passengers.
• $165 per boat / per hour
• $130 per boat / per hour for seniors and non-profits/educational groups

The 32-foot-long boats are covered with a canopy to protect riders from the weather, but we recommend that all passengers check the weather the day of and dress accordingly. The boats are handicapped accessible and can accommodate up to two wheelchairs.

Charters may be scheduled for any day and time during the boating season, are dependent on weather conditions and are scheduled on an individual basis, subject to availability.

Please book charters a minimum of two weeks in advance. Once scheduled, cruises can be canceled up to 7 days in advance without penalty. All reservations must be made online.

You may hire your own caterer or bring your own food and beverages on your private charter. Riverfront Canal Cruises requires compliance with all applicable Virginia ABC laws and regulations for all private charters that bring alcohol. Unless you have hired a caterer to provide alcoholic beverages, this is likely to include obtaining your own banquet license. Information about the laws and the banquet license application are available on the Virginia ABC website . We do not hire caterers, serve or set up food and beverage service for private charters. We do, however, set up the tables and chairs/benches on the boats in advance of your charter.

Interested? Schedule online now!

Questions? Email [email protected] or call our ticket kiosk at 804-649-2800 .

Directions to Riverfront Canal Cruises

Canal walk turning basin.

Address: 139 Virginia St, Richmond, VA 23219

Parking Garage and Lot Locations Nearby

All of these locations are pay-to-park.

• East Cary and Virginia Street parking deck (fronting Virginia St)
• Surface parking lot along the Flood Wall between Virginia Street and 12th Street
• 14th and East Cary Street parking deck
• 12th and Canal Street parking deck
• Omni/James Center parking deck (underground, limited space) at 12th and East Cary Streets
• 15th and East Cary Street surface lots

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360° virtual field trip video.

Riverfront Canal Cruises has released a new 360° video featuring a virtual canal boat tour with a historical narrative. The narration touches on the SOLs for Virginia Studies and U.S. History to 1865, assisting 4th and 5th graders as they complete the school year in a fun way!

Let us help you keep up with the latest downtown events, news and more!

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Riverfront Canal Cruises

Information

• 139 Virginia Street
• Richmond, VA 23219
• (804) 649-2800
• Attraction Fee: Adults: $12 Children (5-12 years old): $8 Seniors (65 years and older): $8 Children 4 and younger: Free
• Attraction Hours: Hours are seasonal, call ahead or visit https://venturerichmond.com
• Handicapped Accessible:
• Hours (General Information): Hours are seasonal, call ahead or visit https://venturerichmond.com/our-services/riverfront-canal-cruises
• Maximum Group Size: 28
• Motorcoach Group Friendly:

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Copenhagen Canal Tour

Guided boat tour from nyhavn and ved stranden.

• See Copenhagen's iconic sights
• Classic and Grand canal tours available
• Kids sail for half price

About this tour

Explore Copenhagen from the water on a canal tour. Our Classic Canal Tour passes by iconic sights and through narrow canals, while our Grand Canal Tour takes you by popular sights and hidden gems.

Select & book

Classic canal tour - nyhavn.

Our popular canal tour with departure from Nyhavn, offering a classic one-hour experience with iconic sights. Departure point: Nyhavn (see map above) Highlights: Explore Copenhagen's iconic landmarks, such as the Little Mermaid and Amalienborg Palace. Good to know: Choose between live-guided and audio-guided tours. Open boats in warmer months and covered, heated boats in colder months.

Classic Canal Tour - Ved Stranden

Our popular canal tour with departure from Ved Stranden, offering a classic one-hour experience with iconic sights. Departure point: Ved Stranden (see map above) Highlights: Explore Copenhagen's iconic landmarks, such as the Little Mermaid and Amalienborg Palace. Good to know: Choose between live-guided and audio-guided tours. Open boats in warmer months and covered, heated boats in colder months.

Grand Canal Tour - Ved Stranden

Join our extensive 1-hour 45-minute tour, perfect for you who are seeking a deeper historical exploration of Copenhagen. Departure point: Ved Stranden, pier 4 (see map above) Highlights: Historic journey from Stone Age to modern day, covering famous and lesser-known areas. Good to know: Live guided in Danish and English, covered boats, you're welcome to bring snacks and drinks. 

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Experience the beauty and history of Copenhagen on our classic one-hour canal tour! Learn about the beautiful and historic landmarks and all other sights of interest. This boat sightseeing tour departs from Nyhavn or Ved Stranden and passes some of Copenhagen's best sights and attractions. Looking for more history and additional sight? Choose our new, extended Grand Canal Tour.

Join our Classic Canal Tour - All the Must-See Sights

On this one-hour boat tour, you will discover the best of Copenhagen! You’ll experience all the famous sights and iconic landmarks, including the famous Little Mermaid, the majestic Amalienborg Castle – home of the royal family, and the beautiful Opera. Take in the beauty and history of the city as we sail through the historic harbor and narrow canals. During the late spring and all of summer, we sail in open boats. In the colder months, we sail in boats that are both covered and heated.

Most of our Classic Canal Tours are live guided. However, we also offer daily departures with an audio guide, please check daily departure times at our ticket houses.

Book our Extended Tour - Grand Canal Tour

Join our Grand Canal Tour, where you'llbe taken on a historic journey from the Stone Age all the way to the modern day. We sail to the hip, trendy Nordhavn continuing on towards the raw and urban Sydhavnen. During the tour, you’ll get to see both famous and classic sights as well as lesser-known areas of the city. All our boats are covered. Feel free to bring snacks and drinks on the tour for maximum coziness.

The Grand Canal Tour is live guided in Danish and English, and it departs from Ved Stranden. The duration of the tour is 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Our Ticket Houses

We have ticket houses at Nyhavn and Ved Stranden, where you can also purchase your tickets. Daily changes may occur. For more information on the day, please ask in our ticket house.

Are the boats covered when it rains?

We cannot guarantee that all our boats will be covered, we do our best to adjust the type of boat according to the weather conditions. Should it rain while you are on one of our open boats, we offer all our guests a complimentary poncho to keep dry. During the colder months, we exclusively sail with boats that are both covered and heated, ensuring your comfort and warmth.

Can I bring my dog on board the boat?

Dogs are welcome on our boats, provided they are small enough to fit into a bag, friendly, and accustomed to being around other people.

Can I bring my stroller, pram, or buggy on board the boat?

Due to limited space on the boats it is not possible to bring your stroller, pram, or buggy on the boat. You are welcome to park it at our departure points at Ved Stranden and Nyhavn, however this is at your own risk and we highly recommend that you bring a lock.

Can we bring a wheelchair on board?

Unfortunately, our boats can't accommodate non-foldable wheelchairs due to the layout of the boats. Wheelchair users with foldable models who can board and sit in regular seats may be permitted, subject to the captain's discretion based on space availability. We regret any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding.

Are there any stops on the tour?

No, there are no stops along the way, the tour starts and ends at the same location.

At what age do children have to pay adult prices?

Adult ticket prices apply from the age of 16 and above.

Where do I find information about delayed or cancelled departures?

For information on specific delays or cancellations, please visit our ticket offices at Nyhavn or Ved Stranden, or contact our Customer Service at tel: +45 3296 3000.

Lost something?

Lost items can be recovered at our ticket office at Ved Stranden, or you can fill out our Lost & Found form

How many passengers can fit in one boat?

Our fleet includes open boats, which can accommodate up to 168 passengers, and covered boats with a capacity of up to 150 passengers, 104 of whom can be seated under the roof.

Are there life vests on board?

Life vests available on all our boats and in the unlikely event of an emergency, our trained staff will provide everyone with a life vest. For more information please see safety on board.

Should I book tickets in advance for the tour?

We recommend you booking your tickets in advance to secure a spot on the tour that best fits your schedule. This is particularly important during the spring and summer months, when our departures tend to sell out quickly.

Can I use my HT ticket/card on the boats?

No, the HT tickets and cards can only be used on the yellow harbor buses.

Can I buy my ticket on the boat?

Tickets cannot be purchased directly on the boat. To join us on a canal tour, please buy your tickets online, at our ticket houses, or from one of our street sellers.

Can I pay with a credit card?

Yes, you can pay with a credit card online, in our Ticket Houses, with our street sellers and on board our buses.

Can I pay with foreign currency?

We accept the following currencies in notes only: Euros and American Dollars. Please note, change will be given be in Danish kroner.

I need a receipt - how do I get one?

To obtain a receipt, please note that we issue tickets that also serve as receipts. Your ticket will be checked upon boarding, and you're welcome to keep it afterward for your records. Be aware that the majority of our tours are VAT exempt.

Can we bring our own drinks?

Feel free to bring your own drinks on board. However, we kindly ask that you take any bottles or cans with you upon departure.

Are there a toilet on board the boat?

Our boats do not have toilet facilities. However, public toilets are available close to our ticket houses at both Nyhavn and Ved Stranden. Please feel free to ask our staff for directions.

Are there a discount for schools and kindergartens?

We offer a special discount for Danish schools, kindergartens, and youth clubs on our canal tours. Additionally, international school with groups of 10 or more persons qualify for a 10% group discount.

Do you offer tours to Middelgrundsfortet or Flakfortet?

Our authorization restricts our operations to the boundaries of Copenhagen harbor. Consequently, we are unable to offer tours to Middelgrundsfortet and Flakfortet.

Classic Canal Tour: We sail daily from Nyhavn and Ved Stranden

First/last departure:

Nyhavn: check departure times Ved Stranden: check departure times Changes to first and last departure may occur

We look forward to sail with you!

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Classic Canal Tour

Canal Tours Copenhagen is a wonderful way of seeing Copenhagen. Many Copenhageners take the tour to get an opportunity to see their capital from a different perspective.

Get to know the harbours and canals of Copenhagen with a canal tour. The tour is guided in both Danish and English, and some departures have a third language, varying between German, Italian, French, Portuguese and Spanish. It takes approximately an hour.

During the tour, you will see  The Copenhagen Opera House , Amalienborg Palace , Christiansborg Palace , the impressive Black Diamond Library , and, of course, the Little Mermaid .

Make your departure from Nyhavn or Ved Stranden. It is free with Copenhagen Card, but only with departure from Ved Stranden.   Clean conscience. You can go on this canal tour with a clean conscience as Canal Tours Copenhagen have environmentally friendly boats.

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Amsterdam Canal Cruise Tickets & Tours

Select Your Experience

Amsterdam Canal Sightseeing Cruise

• You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
• Fall in love with Amsterdam with this glass-roofed boat cruise sailing past iconic landmarks of the city.
• Get to know more about every attraction you see during the cruise via the audio guide. It’s available in 19 languages!
• Catch sight of popular landmarks like the Westerkerk church, Nine Streets, and Skinny Bridge, and admire the canal's Baroque architecture.
• You can board the cruise from various boarding points like Central Station, Hard Rock Cafe and more, choose yours in the next step.
• 1-hour Amsterdam Canal cruise
• Audio guide in Spanish, Thai, Turkish, Catalan, Chinese, Dutch, English, French, German, Hebrew, Hindi, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Arabic, Polish, Portuguese, and Russian
• Facilities: free Wi-Fi and toilets.

This is Holland Pier

• 2-min walk from A'DAM Lookout and Eye Film Museum

Central Station

• 2-min walk away from Basilica of St Nicholas and Park Plaza Victoria

Heineken Experience Pier

• 1-min walk from Heineken Experience and Amsterdam, Weteringcircuit

Hard Rock Cafe

• 1-min walk from Rembrandts Amsterdam Experience

Anne Frank House Pier

• 2-min walk from Anne Frank House and Anne Frank Monument

Click here for a detailed map of the boarding points.

• Tip: Notice small gardens and green spaces along the canals. These hidden oases add to the city's charm and provide a refreshing touch of nature amidst the urban setting!

• Amsterdam Canal Evening Sightseeing Cruise
• Board your cruise and explore the canals of Amsterdam in the warm glow of the city illuminated at night.
• You will be welcomed onboard the comfortable boat by the cruise staff and can kick off your journey by ordering a cold drink.
• As you explore the UNESCO-listed canal belt, listen to the onboard audio guide with your free headphones, available in up to 21 different languages.
• The cruise will also drift past the canals that run through the district where most day cruises do not go - the infamous De Wallen or De Walletjes.
• Upgrade your cruise to the luxury boat for cozy blankets and live guides. Depart from Central Station or Anne Frank House Pier for an enhanced experience.
• 1-hour or 90-min canal cruise
• Evening cruise with bar service
• Multilingual audio guide in 21 languages
• Snackbox (optional)
• 1-hour luxury boat cruise from Central Station/Anne Frank House Pier (optional)

Central Station Pier

Hard rock cafe pier.

Click here for the detailed map of the boarding points.

• Tip: Amsterdam is known for its vibrant street art scene. As you cruise along the canals, keep an eye out for colorful murals and graffiti artwork adorning the walls near the water.
• The audio guide is available in the following languages: English, French, Russian, Spanish, German, Chinese, Dutch, Italian, Portuguese, Arabic, Japanese, Turkish, Thai, Polish, Czech, Croatian, Indonesian, Cantonese, Swedish, Korean, and Hindi.

• Amsterdam Canal Open Boat Cruise with Optional Wine & Cheese
• Catch unobstructed views of the Amsterdam skyline on this open-boat cruise as you learn intriguing facts about the city from your guide!
• This cruise takes you past landmarks like Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge), one of the most beautiful bridges in Amsterdam.
• Choose your boarding point, Anne Frank House, Rijksmuseum, or Central Station, from where an open boat will you away from the city crowds.
• Wait there’s more! You can choose to elevate your cruising experience by choosing the ticket option with unlimited drinks and cheese.
• Live guide and local skipper
• 60-minute canal cruise
• Cheese delights (optional)
• Unlimited drinks: beer, wine, and soft drinks (optional)
• Drinks (see the menu here )

Rijksmuseum Pier

• 2-min walk fromRijksmuseum
• Tip: Bring a camera to capture the scenic beauty of Amsterdam's canals. You'll have stunning photo opportunities throughout the cruise!
• The cruise is suitable for pram/stroller users.
• Buggy is available on prior request.
• Pets are allowed.

• Amsterdam Canal Dinner Cruise
• You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
• Date idea: an evening dinner cruise through the canals of Amsterdam. You get just that with this ticket!
• Enjoy a world-class 4-course dinner prepared by gourmet chef Frans Kelders, with vegetarian, meat and fish options.
• It gets dreamier than this, you also get drinks of your choice, from beer, wine and soft drinks, to make the experience even better.
• 2-hour evening cruise
• 4-course dinner (menu here )
• Complimentary drinks: beer, wine, soft drinks
• Hotel transfers

LOVERS Canal Cruises Amsterdam

• 5-min walk from Amsterdam Centraal Station
• The cruise is wheelchair accessible.

Amsterdam Canal Evening Luxury Salon Boat Cruise

• This post-sunset cruise on a luxury boat brings to life the city of Amsterdam, with brightly lit with all its bridges brightly illuminated.
• Your experienced English-speaking skipper and guide will tell you all about the city’s culture and fun places you can visit!
• Starting from the Anne Frank House, you’ll explore the stylish Jordaan neighborhood, the Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge), and the Golden Bend.
• To make things even more convenient, you can choose from 3 boarding points, Red Light District, Central Station Pier, or Anne Frank House Pier.
• 1-hour canal cruise on a luxury boat
• Local and experienced skipper and English-speaking guide
• Blankets available
• Departure from Red Light District/Central Station Pier/Anne Frank House Pier (as per option selected)
• Meal and drinks inclusions

Red Light District

• 2-min walk from Royal Palace Amsterdam
• Tip: If you need recommendations on how to explore more of the city, feel free to ask your guide!
• Pets are allowed onboard.
• Suitable for pram/stroller users.

Combo: Van Gogh Museum + Amsterdam Canal Cruise Tickets

• Get a healthy dose of Dutch history and art thanks to this pocket-friendly combo ticket with a canal cruise and an entry ticket to the Van Gogh Museum.
• Set sail on a 75-min cruise through Amsterdam's canals, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, aboard a Blue Boat Company vessel.
• Float past top Amsterdam attractions such as the Anne Frank House and City Hall while enjoying your snack box by upgrading your ticket.
• Enjoy entry to the Van Gogh Museum, where you can admire over 200 paintings, 500 drawings, and 750 letters from the Dutch artist.
• Admire the famous works of Van Gogh's contemporaries such as Monet and Gauguin.
• 75-minute canal cruise
• Timed entry to the Van Gogh Museum
• Van Gogh entrance + 75-min canal cruise with snackbox (optional)

Van Gogh Museum

• Tip: Pay attention to the chronological arrangement of the artwork. The museum showcases Van Gogh's evolution as an artist, from his early dark and somber works to his vibrant and expressive later pieces.
• Your booked time slot will be your entrance time to the Van Gogh Museum.

Canal Cruise

• Tip: As you cruise through different neighborhoods, be on the lookout for street art and colorful murals adorning buildings and walls.
• The voucher for your canal cruise is an 'OPEN TICKET', which means that no time slot has been allocated and you can board any next available boat at the dock.
• These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

• Combo: Rijksmuseum + Amsterdam Canal Cruise Tickets
• Tick off two major to-dos from your Amsterdam wishlist while saving quite a bit: The Rijksmuseum and a 60-min city canal cruise.
• Skip the lines and explore Rijksmuseum at your pace, admiring Dutch masterpieces including Van Gogh’s Self-Portrait and Vermeer’s Milkmaid .
• Set off on an Amstel River cruise, learning all about the iconic stops along the way with a multilingual audio guide.
• Upgrade your tickets to add some flavor to your adventure: a 75-min cruise with a snack box containing yummy bites and a drink.
• 60-min or 75-min canal cruise
• Entry to Rijksmuseum
• Audio guide in English, French, German, Hebrew, Spanish, Thai, Turkish, Catalan, Chinese, Dutch, Hindi, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Arabic, Polish, Portuguese, and Russian
• Snack box (optional)
• Free kids’ cruise and audio story with every kids’ ticket (optional)
• Earphones, if needed (optional)
• Entry to Vermeer Exhibition
• Multimedia museum tour (available for purchase at the museum for €5)

Rijksmuseum

• You need to enter the Rijksmuseum at the selected time slot, but you can stay as long as you like.
• The museum is wheelchair accessible. You can also borrow a wheelchair, rollator, pushchair, walking cane, or foldable museum stool from them.
• Guide dogs are welcome to join you at the museum and the cruise.
• There is no time slot allocated for the cruise. For exact redemption information, please follow the instructions on your voucher.

Combo: Heineken Experience Direct Entry + Amsterdam Canal Cruise Tickets

• This ticket is a brilliant combination of 2 truly Dutch experiences! Save time and money with this combo with a canal cruise and entry to the Heineken Brewery.
• Enjoy a 75-min cruise along Venice of the North and learn more about this UNESCO World Heritage site with an audio guide available in 14 languages.
• You can choose to upgrade your cruise to include a snackbox, which you'll receive before boarding the cruise.
• The ticket also gives you entry into the Heineken Experience; go on a 90-min self-guided tour of the gigantic brewery.
• Find out about the ins and outs of this massive beer producer while sipping on 2 complimentary drinks!
• 75-minute cruise down the Amsterdam Canal
• Skip-the-line Heineken Experience ticket
• 90-minute self-guided tour of the Heineken brewery
• A snackbox containing chips, popcorn, cheese biscuits, salted peanuts, and a soft drink of your choice (optional)
• Wheelchairs will be provided at the Heineken Experience once a reimbursable €100 fee is deposited.
• The cruise is also wheelchair accessible.

Amsterdam Canal Booze Cruise with Unlimited Drinks

• Unlimited drinks? You saw that right! Enjoy unlimited beer, wine, and soda on a cruise through the world-renowned canals of Amsterdam.
• A professional skipper and host will let you in on the city's secrets, making this experience both fun and informative.
• This cruise is an ideal choice to spend quality time with friends and family and witness city landmarks like Seven Bridges and the Dancing Houses.
• Starting at the Red Light District, the cruise takes you past the NEMO Science Museum, The VOC Ship, and many more iconic spots.
• Choose from the ticket options for your preferred type of boat, and upgrade to include a nightclub entry ticket!
• Amsterdam canal cruise
• Covered boat/luxury boat (as per option selected)
• 2 or unlimited drinks: beer, wine and soda (as per option selected)
• Professional skipper and local host
• Night club entry (optional)
• Tip: Keep a look out for the dancing houses, locally known as De Dansende Huizen. Due to the soft clay soil, these houses are slightly tilted, giving them a quaint appearance.
• Only guests aged 18 and above are allowed to drink.
• Outside food and drinks are allowed.

I Amsterdam City Card: 70+ Attractions

• Explore Amsterdam seamlessly with this all-inclusive Amsterdam city card and gain access to over 70 museums and attractions.
• The card offers a flexible validity of 24-hr, 48-hr, 72-hr, 96-hr, or 120-hr to choose from.
• Enjoy free entrance to the Rijksmuseum, a national museum dedicated to Dutch arts and history, H'ART, Moco Museum, and more!
• Enjoy 25% discounts at select cafes & attractions such as the Heineken Experience along with a 24-hour bicycle rental.
• Navigate the city with unlimited free access to Amsterdam’s efficient public transport system (GVB), including trams and buses.
• Admire the city’s iconic architecture, picturesque bridges, and waterfront views during a blissful 1-hour canal cruise.
• 24/48/72/96/120-hour validity
• Access to attractions: Heineken Experience, Artis Royal Zoo, Canal Cruise & more
• Access to outdoor activities: City Canal Cruise Blue Boat Company, Klimbos Fun Forest, Amsterdam Walking tour & more
• Unlimited use of GVB public transport (bus, tram & metro)
• Giveaways & discounts on concerts, theatres, rentals & more
• Tip: Amsterdam is full of interesting things to buy as souvenirs for friends back home but don’t miss out on buying wooden clogs from Zaanse Schans, or blue and white pottery from Delft.
• Note: By booking this City Card you save big as buying tickets to these attractions separately would cost you a lot.
• Order your City Card online.
• Transport to/from the Schipol airport is not included in this pass.
• I amsterdam City Card is now a digital product accessible via the City Card app.
• Activate your card using the instructions on your post-booking voucher. You choose when to activate your City Card. The card is activated when you first use it.
• Use your card to visit City Card locations, simply show your card on your phone at the entrance. Scan your card when entering any bus, tram, or metro.
• Click here to view the map.

Sail through the city's iconic waterways on an Amsterdam Canal Cruise

Embark on a journey through Amsterdam as you glide along its picturesque canals, soaking in the rich tapestry of history, culture, and vibrant neighborhoods. With over 62 miles of meandering waterways, dotted with over 1500 charming bridges around 90 islands, the Amsterdam Canal Cruise promises a quintessentially Dutch experience as you drift past historic buildings and iconic landmarks like the Anne Frank House and the Rijksmuseum. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, these canals are a living, breathing part of Dutch culture.

Whether you prefer a leisurely daytime excursion or a magical evening under the twinkling lights, there's an Amsterdam Canal Cruise tailored to suit every preference and schedule.

Navigate your Amsterdam Canal Cruise guide

Why go on an amsterdam canal cruise.

• Things to know before booking your cruise
• Your cruise options
• Find your cruise match

Amsterdam Canal Cruise route map

• Boarding points for your cruise
• Top sights covered on your cruise
• Plan your cruise

Frequently asked questions about Amsterdam Canal Cruise tickets

See unparalleled views of Amsterdam

Imagine being gently whisked away on a boat, with the city's iconic landmarks unfolding before your eye. There's an undeniable charm to Amsterdam's canals that exudes romance and tranquility. From centuries-old architecture to modern marvels, the view from the canals offers a unique perspective you can't get on land.

Immerse yourself in the Dutch experience

The canals are not just a way to get around; they're an integral part of Amsterdam's identity. By cruising along these waterways, you're immersing yourself in the very essence of Dutch culture and history. It's like stepping into a living postcard.

Gain valuable insights

Many Amsterdam canal cruises come with knowledgeable guides who share fascinating stories and insights about the city's history, architecture, and culture. It's like having your own personal tour guide, enriching your experience and deepening your appreciation for Amsterdam.

Create unforgettable memories

Even if you're not a photography enthusiast, the Amsterdam canals are a dream come true. Every twist presents an incredible sight. At the end of the day, what truly sets an Amsterdam Canal Cruise apart is the memories you'll create.

Convenient and comfortable

Let's face it, exploring a city on foot can be tiring. On a canal cruise, you get to sit back, relax, and let the city come to you. By booking your Amsterdam canal cruise, you get a budget-friendly front-row seat to Amsterdam's charm and cover multiple attractions in a short period of time!

Things to know before booking your Amsterdam Canal Cruise

• If you are on a budget, opt for a sightseeing Amsterdam Canal Cruise . These are the most budget-friendly option and take 60-90 minutes depending on the ticket you book.
• There are plenty of dining options on your cruise. You can dine on your Amsterdam Canal Cruise by booking a boat cruise with snacks or a dinner cruise . Check the menu that best suits your dietary preferences before booking your tickets.
• Consider an evening luxury cruise to see Amsterdam in its glory at sunset or at night. You can also choose to pair this with dinner by booking a dinner cruise .
• The cruise you book depends on the experience you want to have. You can consider booking hop-on hop-off cruise or combo tickets if you would like to explore beyond your cruise.
• Most Amsterdam Canal Cruise tickets can be canceled or rescheduled. Check the cancellation policy for the tickets before booking. For most tickets, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your slot and get a full refund.

Your Amsterdam Canal Cruise options

Sightseeing cruises

• Admire the scenic Amsterdam canals and the city's rich heritage as you spot popular landmarks on your sightseeing cruise.
• Enjoy an informative and immersive experience with an audio guide in 19 languages.

Average duration: 60-90 minutes

Recommended experiences:

Dinner cruises

• Immerse yourself in Amsterdam's beauty on a dinner cruise with delectable 4-course meals, wine, cheese, or snacks.
• Indulge in a variety of culinary experiences, from pizzas and pancakes to a full-course meal.

Average duration: 90-120 minutes

• Amsterdam Canal Candlelight Cruise with Wine & Dutch Cheese

Harbor cruises

• Enjoy panoramic views of Amsterdam's harbor, the world's largest cocoa and petrol port, and learn about their history.
• Explore the historic NDSM yard or the Zaanse Schans with delectable food and drink choices onboard.

Average duration: 2-6 hours

• Port of Amsterdam Harbor Tour
• Zaanse Schans: The Windmill Village Boat Tour from Amsterdam

Combo tickets

• Save time and money with a combo ticket and pair your luxurious Amsterdam Canal Cruise with a trip to one of Amsterdam's popular attractions.
• Choose between an audio guide or a live guide for a more insightful experience at the landmark of your choice.

Average duration: Flexible

• Combo: Tickets to Madame Tussauds + 75-minute Amsterdam Canal Cruise with audio guide

Find your Amsterdam Canal Cruise match

Boarding points for Amsterdam Canal Cruises

Most Amsterdam Canal Cruises start at one of these four docking points unless stated otherwise on your ticket. The details about your departure point and specific instructions regarding departure will be provided in your ticket. Each location is conveniently accessible ensuring smooth transit.

Blue Boat Company

• Heineken Experience (Closest tram stop: Vijzelgracht ; closest metro stop: Vijzelgracht )
• Hard Rock Café (Closest tram stop: Rijksmuseum ; closest metro stop: Vijzelgracht )
• Central Station (Closest metro stop: Central Station )
• Anne Frank House (Closest metro stop: Central Station ; closest tram stop: Westermarkt )

Please note:

• Kindly reach your designated departure point 15 minutes before the cruise begins to avoid missing it.
• Please carry a valid photo ID for ticket redemption at the departure point.

Plan your Amsterdam Canal Cruise

• Evening Canal Cruise on a Luxury Boat: 5:15pm to 10pm
• Evening Canal Cruise in Red Light District with Open Bar: 8pm to 9:15pm  
• Amsterdam Canal Cruise with New York Pizza: 6pm to 11pm
• Pancake Cruise in Amsterdam: 5:45pm to 11pm
• Rijksmuseum Tickets + 1-Hour Amsterdam Canal Cruise Combo: 9am to 5pm
• Van Gogh Museum Tickets + 1-Hour Amsterdam Canal Cruise Combo: 9am to 5pm

The above cruises allow you to select a departure point based on your preferences. Their timings differ based on the departure point. Please check the exact timings at the time of purchase.

Best time of the year:

Peak season: The best time to go on an Amsterdam Canal Cruise is between April and October. The weather is pleasant during these months. This also means that these months draw more crowds and more expensive experiences. Expect long lines, packed attractions, and sold-out cruises.

Low season: If you want to avoid the crowds, book your Amsterdam Canal Cruise between November and March. Although the weather is chilly, these months see fewer crowds and reduced prices. You can also save money on flights, accommodation, and tickets.

Best time of the day:

If you want to explore beyond your Amsterdam Canal Cruise, opt for a cruise in the day. Book combo tours to save time and money. However, if you want to enjoy the sunset or dine, opt for an evening or dinner cruise. The latter promises a quieter and more romantic experience.

Heineken Experience

• By tram: 1, 7, 19, 24 (Vijzelgracht)
• By metro: 52 (Vijzelgracht)

Hard Rock Café

• By tram: 1, 3, 7, 19 (Rijksmuseum)
• By metro: 51, 52, 53, 54 (Central Station)
• By train: Intercity, Sprinter (Central Station)

Anne Frank House

• By metro: 51, 53, 54 (Central Station)
• By tram: 13, 17 (Westermarkt)

Note: These are the most common boarding points. Your boarding point may also vary depending on your experience. Please check your tickets for the details.

• Arrive early: We recommend arriving around 15 minutes before departure to choose a good seat on the boat and settle in before the cruise begins. 
• Carry ID: Carry a valid identification card with you during your Amsterdam canal cruising experience.
• Choose guided cruises: It is best to choose canal cruise tours that include a professional guide or an audio guide for a more informative and memorable experience.
• Check the weather: Open boat tours are ideal for catching impeccable views of the surrounding landmarks. However, make sure to check the weather before booking them. 
• Check details before purchasing: Check all details before booking your Amsterdam Canal Cruise. Check the timings, departure points, exclusions, inclusions, and other details. 
• Book in advance: It's advisable to book your canal cruise tickets online in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak tourist seasons.

• Cocktail Cruise with a Stocked Bar: Damrak Gin, Heineken beer, wines, (sparkling) water, Gin Tonics
• Amsterdam Canal Cruise with Wine & Cheese: Cheese, beer, wine, and soft drinks
• Amsterdam Canal Dinner Cruise: 4-course meal ( Menu )
• Amsterdam Canal Cruise with All-You-Can-Eat Pancakes: Pancakes, toppings, drinks
• Amsterdam Canal Cruise with Pizza: Pizza ( Menu ), drinks, desserts

• Free city map on all Lovers boats
• GPS audio guides in multiple languages
• Lost and found
• Wheelchair accessible (Only Blue Boat cruises)
• Dining options

Top sights covered on an Amsterdam Canal Cruise

Maritime Museum

Dedicated to the country’s maritime museum, the Amsterdam National Maritime Museum houses artifacts related to shipping and sailing, including paintings, scale models, weapons, and world maps. Constructed in 1656, it is located in a former naval storehouse.

Amsterdam bridges you can spot on your Amsterdam Canal Cruise

Amsterdam Canal Cruises offer sightseeing, evening, dinner, and harbor cruises. If you’re out to see Amsterdam and her canals in all their glory, a sightseeing cruise is the perfect option. Opt for an evening cruise if you want to see Amsterdam come to life as some of the most popular attractions and cozy cafes on its banks begin to light up and come to life. Pair that spectacular view with a 4-course meal and drinks on a dinner cruise. And if you want to explore more, explore Amsterdam’s ports and villages on a harbor cruise.

Yes, there are evening cruises. You can opt for the 90-minute Amsterdam Canal Evening Sightseeing Cruise with audio guides in 21 languages or the 1-hour Amsterdam Canal Evening Luxury Salon Boat Cruise . Both options serve drinks. You can choose to upgrade your tickets with warm blankets and live expert guides for a more immersive experience.

An Amsterdam Canal Cruise can range from £14.50 to £44.16 based on the experience you book. A standard sightseeing cruise includes an audio guide available in several languages. However, you can also opt for snacks and drinks on your cruise for an additional price. Dinner cruises offer a serene cruise along Amsterdam’s canals with a 4-course meal and drinks. Combo tickets, while more expensive at first glance, offer entry to other popular attractions in Amsterdam in addition to your cruise, saving you the hassle of booking separate tickets.

Most Amsterdam Canal Cruise tickets exclude the £1.50 tourist tax per person that must be paid on-site.

Booking your tickets early is always a great idea as same-day bookings are often more expensive than pre-booked tickets. For those traveling with family, children under 14 enjoy discounted prices, and infants under 3 travel free. However, don’t forget to carry ID to show at the boarding point. Another great tip to save money: book your tickets for a weekday because some cruises offer discounted prices on these days.

Most Amsterdam canal cruise tours have a flexible cancellation policy. If you book these canal cruise tickets online, you can cancel them up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund on your purchase. 

Irrespective of the type of cruise you opt for, most Amsterdam Canal Cruises are 60-90 minutes long. Harbor cruises can take up to 2 hours. 

On an Amsterdam Canal Cruise, you will sail past popular attractions like the NEMO Science Museum, the Anne Frank House, the Hermitage Museum, and the Royal Theatre Carre, many of Amsterdam’s famous bridges including Magere Brug, scenic streets and quintessential neighborhoods like De Negen Straatjes and The Golden Bend, and of course, Amsterdam’s canals that are over 100 km.

Most Amsterdam Canal Cruises come equipped with a GPS audio guide available in 19-21 languages such as Spanish, Thai, Turkish, Catalan, Chinese, Dutch, English, French, German, Hebrew, Hindi, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Arabic, Polish, Portuguese, and Russian based on the ticket you purchase. Some tickets also come with a live guide who will answer any questions. However, dinner cruises do not include a guide.

Only boats serviced by Blue Boat company offer such cruises. Wheelchair-accessible boats only depart from the dock opposite Hard Rock Cafe, one of the four major docking points for Amsterdam Canal Cruises.

Yes, you can bring your pets on some Amsterdam canal cruises. Make sure to check the ticket details before bringing your pets along. The 1-hour Open Boat Amsterdam Cruise with Optional Wine and Cheese and 1-hour Evening Luxury Salon Boat Cruise in Amsterdam allow pets on board. 

While most sightseeing tours do not include meals, you can upgrade your canal cruise tickets to include a snack box, which will be delivered after you board the cruise. Alternatively, you can book a dinner cruise for a 4-course meal on your cruise.

Some Amsterdam Canal Cruise boats are equipped with a free city map, GPS audio guide in multiple languages, and heaters. Most boats (except open boats) are equipped with toilets. 

The Amsterdam Light Festival is an annual festival, where renowned artists from around the world come together to create stunning light art installations along its historic canals. If you visit Amsterdam around November to January, you can book special Light Festival cruises to witness these installations. 

• Virtual Tours/Photos
• Weather Station
• Job Opportunities

Your Canal Connection

News & updates.

Winter Schedule, January-March:

• Discovery Center and Gift Shop, Tues.- Sat. 9:30-4:30. 
• Boat Tours at 11:30AM, 1:30PM, and 3:00PM.
• Canal to Cloth Tours: February 24, March 14 and 30 at 3:00PM. Purchse your tickets here .
• SAVE THE DATE! 3rd Annual Canal Discovery Day on April 20 from 10-4. FREE event! 

the Augusta Canal. Whether you hike, bike, paddle, or just float through Augusta Canal’s history on a guided boat tour, we invite you to explore our recreation and outdoor experiences along miles of towpath, trail and canal waters.

The Augusta Canal weaves threads of history, scenery, and recreation into a delightful tapestry as it winds its way through Augusta, Georgia.

Hike or bike on the towpath edging the historic canal, which takes you past natural and urban landscapes, giving glimpses of wildlife, offering beautiful scenery, and surrounding you with nature and history. Fish from the canal banks, paddle a canoe or kayak in the gently moving waters, take one of several daily guided boat tours aboard a replica canal cargo boat, or kick back and relax on an evening Music Cruise.

Explore the nation's only industrial power canal still in use for its original purpose. Visit the Augusta Canal Discovery Center at Enterprise Mill to hear the stories of the people who built the canal in 1845 to harness the water and power of the Savannah River, and learn about the progress, problems and promise of its 170-year history.

Discovery Center and administrative offices located at 1450 Greene Street, Augusta, GA 30901 706-823-0440

Augusta Canal - Georgia's first National Heritage Area.

A partner of the National Park Service and a member of the Alliance of National Heritage Areas. An official “Passport to Your National Parks” stamp cancellation site.

Erie Canal Tour Boat

Daily Cruise Schedule

Themed Cruise Schedule

NEW! Photo Gallery The Colonial Belle has been providing Erie Canal tour boat cruises from mid-May through October since 1989. Come aboard in Fairport, NY, just 20 minutes from Rochester, NY.

What's New?

Our 2024 season will begin in mid-May and will continue until October 27th. We are currently booking private charters, school field trip cruises, themed/event cruises & groups of 25+.

To purchase a Gift Certificate: please call us at (585) 223-9470 or buy online with paypal here.

NOTE: Purchasing a Gift Certificate IS NOT a reservation... Your gift certificate will be mailed via US mail. Please have the recipient of the Gift Certificate contact us at  (585) 223-9470  to make a reservation for one of our cruises. We look forward to serving you!

From a happy cruiser...

Great cruise! We did the 3-hour lock tour starting at 2:30 and ending punctually at 5:30pm. We sat on the upper deck near the front of the boat. The captain was a young woman who was informative on the history of the Erie Canal, the towns that we passed through and the fascinating history of the Colonial Belle herself! She was also quite entertaining and funny! The bathroom facilities were clean and accessible. The lower deck had a full bar and the staff was very accommodating with a frozen Pina Colada for me and an Oreo ice cream shake for my son. Snacks there too. Overall, it was a very comfortable, pleasant and informative cruise. We had a gorgeous day of it. I would definitely do again and I highly recommend! I'm thinking of trying the murder/mystery or dinner cruise next time :)

5-star Yelp review by Ginny M. Pittsford, NY

Office Hours May - October 10:00am–2:00pm daily (excluding holidays) November - April Phone calls are answered as frequently as possible. Please leave us a voicemail message if we cannot answer. We have limited staff during our non-operating season. Our business email is checked multiple times a day year round as well.

Why choose the Colonial Belle? • 2 to 3 hour Erie Canal cruises (14–16 mile tour) • Historic Narration by our Captain • Great food & fun entertainment • Many Themed Cruises • Coast Guard certified Captain and Crew

Cruises with availability can be booked online. Online booking may be unavailable less than 24 hours prior to cruise departure. Cruises can also be booked by calling our office at (585) 223-9470 for the best up to date information.

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9 Best Canal Tours in Copenhagen

By Jenna Scatena

There are many avenues for exploring the best of Copenhagen—by foot along the scenic promenades or bicycling through quaint neighborhoods—but almost nothing is as classic as cruising its historic and fascinating canals by boat. Whether you’re traveling by motorboat, schooner, or kayak , on your own or with a guide, these wide waterways are rich with beautiful sites and compelling stories.

United Sailing Ships Arrow

Explore the canals and the coast on a traditional Danish sailboat with United Sailing Ships’ Harbor Cruise, which takes place on a sleek turn-of-the-century wooden schooner. Ships depart from the Admiral Quay in front of the Copenhagen Admiral Hotel; the trip lasts about two hours. The main highlight is the ship itself, not to mention seeing famous landmarks like the Royal Palace, the Opera House, and the Royal Playhouse from a coveted vessel. You'll venture farther than most standard tours—all the way to South Harbour.

Show Me Copenhagen Arrow

Show Me Copenhagen hosts high-end customizable canal tours for private groups that have a particular trip in mind. Providing a private sleek boat with a captain, guide, and food, the tour allows participants to customize the route within Copenhagen’s waterways. The crew caters to each guest’s needs, whether you’re looking for a sail down the main canal or a low-key cruise to quieter waterways.

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FriendShips' sleek black-and-white electric boats are an easy way to choose your own adventure on Copenhagen’s waterways. After a brief introduction, you'll receive a curated map—then you’re off on your own with a group of up to eight. If you’re unsure of where to go, the on-the-ground crew can help you plan your itinerary before you set sail. A steering wheel lets you navigate the city's scenic canals, and the company's own Christianshavn dock (pictured) is centrally located near a bunch of scenic attractions.

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Gondoltur, a boutique tour, channels Venetian romance—in Copenhagen. Riding Stephania , a single restored gondola imported from Italy, is a romantic way for couples to take in the charm of Copenhagen’s narrower, more intimate canals. The one-hour customizable excursion starts near Freetown Christiania; one of the most popular routes leads across the Christianshavns Canal, passing by the Black Diamond, into Frederiksholm Canal, and by the Royal Stables. A bottle of Prosecco and some salted almonds make the journey even better.

Steph Koyfman

Shannon McMahon

Charlie Hobbs

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Thirty small, simple pale-blue boats comprise GoBoat’s fleet, which is designed for a self-guided aquatic adventure. With a central table surrounded by bench seating, the vessels are ideal for a picnic on the water with friends. One, two, or three-hour rentals are available from morning until sunset; all boats depart from the Islands Brygge neighborhood. The company is run by a young, jovial crew that will help get you settled, but you'll need to appoint someone from your own crew to steer the boat—no experience required.

Hey Captain Arrow

HeyCaptain's guides feel more like hosts, and they set a lively tone for the 12-person ride in sleek convertible boats, offering great info as well as insider recommendations for things to do and see after the cruise is over. On the 60-minute public tour, you’ll sail through the Old City while whizzing past 17th-century historic buildings, the Christianshavn canal, the Circle Bridge, and the stunning Black Diamond, a library made of black polished granite. If you opt for the two-hour private tour, you’ll see the Trekroner Sea Fortress, the city’s former fortification, and you can customize the route to your liking.

Kayak Republic – Nordic Food Tour Arrow

Kicking back in a boat and letting someone else do all the work has its perks, but chartering a kayak means getting access to the narrowest of Copenhagen’s canals. Kayak Republic’s charming waterside station houses a trove of kayaks for guided tours and rentals, as well as a laid-back sailor-style bar with beer and local seafood for an après-cruise bite.

Netto-Bådene Arrow

Netto-Bådene runs a series of budget-friendly open-top tours in three languages. The large blue classic boats with plastic seats depart regularly from Holmens Church and Nyhavn and take about an hour, making this an easy activity to squeeze into a packed itinerary. The route balances stunning Danish architecture with historic sites and famous landmarks. You’ll catch a glimpse of Copenhagen’s military heritage while sailing through Holmen and Nyholm and passing by former naval bases, Amalienborg Palace, and Our Saviour’s Church.

Strömma Arrow

Travelers short on time will love Stromma’s tours, which offer a quick hit of Copenhagen’s top canal highlights. There are large open-top boats departing regularly from Nyhavn and Ved Stranden, and you can choose between the classic one-hour Grand Tour or opt for a 48-hour Hop-On, Hop-Off ticket that combines sightseeing and transportation. This fast and informative overview of the canals makes for an ideal orientation to the Danish capital—book it on your first day to familiarize yourself with the city’s layout and history.

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Tripadvisor’s #1 best cruise in the world!

Book a Canal Cruise in Amsterdam

Book your luxury canal cruise through Amsterdam directly!

Cancellations are free

Changed plans? No problem. Cancel up to 24 hours before the start of your canal cruise and you will get your money back.

Personal canal cruise

Enjoy a personal canal cruise through Amsterdam with an enthusiastic, genuine skipper.

Service oriented

We are available 24/7 to answer any questions that you may have. Contact us via phone, e-mail and/or WhatsApp.

Our public tours

Pick your canal cruise boat

Step aboard the #1 best day cruise in the world and get ready to sail away through the Amsterdam canals on one of our unique electric sloops and saloon boats.

Public tour Amsterdam Luxury Cruise

Departure from Anne Frank House, Central Station or Rijksmuseum

• Duration: 1 hour
• Legendary cruise
• Unique 100% electric boat

Public tour Luxury Canal Cruise with Unlimited Drinks

Departure from the Anne Frank House

• Explore the city centre of Amsterdam
• Unlimited beer, wine & soft drinks

Public tour Luxury Saloon Boat Cruise with Cheese and Wine

Departure from Anne Frank House or Central Station

• Learn about Amsterdam's history and cultural heritage
• Enjoy the unlimited beer, wine, soft drinks and cheese

Public tour Amsterdam Evening Cruise

• Discover romantic Amsterdam
• Enjoy illuminated streets and bridges
• Small group with personal guide

Public tour Exclusive Canal Cruise with Dutch Snacks & Drinks

• Duration: 2 hours
• Live & enthousiastic guide

Public tour 90 Minutes All Inclusive Canal Cruise

Departure from Central Station or Rijksmuseum

• Duration: 1,5 hour
• Small group and fun skipper
• Typical Dutch bites and unlimited drinks

Flagship Amsterdam video

Flagship Amsterdam Canal Cruise Boat Tours

Watch our short video to get a glimpse of a canal cruise with Flagship Amsterdam. Enjoy the sunshine and unwind on a beautiful open or classic saloon boat, drink in hand (yes, our boats come with a fully stocked bar offering beer, spirits, soda, and cocktails)!

Learn more about the rich trading history, culture and famous sights of Amsterdam. Learn about Amsterdam’s rich trading history, culture, and iconic landmarks. Book your canal cruise in Amsterdam quickly and easily.

Calculate the price for your private canal cruise

Fill in the desired options and request a quote for your private boat

With how many people will you be boating?

What type of boat would you like to cruise on.

Up to 35 people , including skipper, 100% electric

Riverboat small

Up to 20 people , including skipper, 100% electric

Riverboat medium

Up to 30 people , including skipper, 100% electric

Riverboat large

Up to 75 people , including skipper and hostess

How long do you want to cruise?

Where do you want to board, inside city centre.

Boats departing at Oosterdokskade 8

Outside city centre

Additional fees may apply

Would you like a drink on board?

Soft drinks package.

Soft drinks, water, ice

Basic package

Heineken beer, white and red wine, rosé, soft drinks, Spa water, ice

Medium package

Basic package + Prosecco

Luxury package

Basic package + Prosecco, spirits (Vodka, Rum, Whiskey and Gin)

Would you like to eat something on board? * Multiple options possible

Platter with appetizers.

For 10 people , includes cheese, sausage, nuts, olives, tapenades

Cold appetizers

8 pieces per serving , includes aged and young cheese, dry sausage

Warm appetizers

8 pieces per serving , mix of meat and veg, incl. sauces

Choice of different pizzas, meat and veg

Homemade burger with lettuce, mayonnaise, ketchup, pickle and onion

Luxury sandwiches

Assorted sandwiches, 2 per person

Barbecue with chef

Extensive meat selection, including salads and sauces, baguettes and herb butter

How many of those people are vegetarian?

* All prices quoted are excluding VAT ** The prices mentioned are indicative. Actual prices may vary depending on the situation

Would you like to request a quote?

Does this price indication appeal to you? Fill in the information below and we will contact you as soon as possible.

Price estimate

View the packages

Private Boat Tours

Would you like a unique private cruise through the Amsterdam canals? Choose one of our packages and get on board!

Private boat Booze Cruise

• Private boat with skipper
• Unlimited beer, wine and soda (ice cold!)

Private boat Pizza & Drinks Boat

• Cruise with pizza
• Unique experience with friends and family

Private boat Drinks & Snacks Boat

• Platter with various snacks

Private boat Barbecue Boat

• Fully arranged barbecue
• Unlimited beer, wine and soda

Private boat Burger & Drinks Boat

• Cruise with burgers and drinks
• Unlimited wine, beer and soda (ice cold!)

Private boat Prosecco Boat

• Relaxing on the Canals of Amsterdam
• Incl. one bottle of prosecco per person
• Perfect getaway with friends

Are looking for more fun activities?

Check out what the Netherlands has to offer!

Extra Experiences in the Netherlands

Discover a variety of activities in the Netherlands beyond the canals of Amsterdam. From exploring colorful tulip fields to visiting historic windmills in Zaanse Schans, and from leisurely bike rides to unexpected hiking adventures. Our recommendations cater to all interests and ensure there’s something for everyone to do.

• Walking, cycling, and bus tours in the Netherlands.
• Interactive experiences

Departure from Amsterdam

Public experience Day trip Keukenhof

• March 21 until May 12 2024
• Unforgettable experience
• Enjoy the Dutch countryside

Public experience Canal Cruise + Madame Tussauds Amsterdam

• 60-minute Luxury Canal Cruise with Bar
• Entree ticket Madame Tussauds Amsterdam
• Awesome day in Amsterdam

Public experience Zaanse Schans Walking Tour

• Witness the making of the famous Dutch clogs
• Free Digital Walking Guide
• Visit a cheese farm for a free tasting

Public experience Giethoorn Boat Cruise & Walking Tour

• Scenic Boat Cruise
• Walking Tour Included
• From Amsterdam to Giethoorn by luxury coach

Public experience Countryside Bike Tour

• Duration: 3,5 hours
• A good Dutch bicycle with 3 gears and handbrakes

Public experience Anne Frank Walking Tour

• Unique route with stories through the city
• Virtual Reality experience of Anne Frank House

Public experience Amsterdam City Bike Tour

• Duration: 2,5 hours
• Explore Amsterdam's Heritage and Scenery

What others think of Flagship Amsterdam

Amazing experience.

"We rented a big boat for Gaypride and we had such a great experience! The boat was perfect, in a great spot, and... working with Eduke was great. He was SO nice and patient with us, and reliable. "

Very nice cruise

"This is the cruise you should take! Why choose one of those standard tour boats when you could choose this one!! Super relaxed. It was so much fun! I highly recommend this."

Beautiful cruise, beautiful boat, excellent service!

"A day out with family in Amsterdam - a beautiful city when you walk around but you only see the real beauty of it from the water! Giel and Carrie were super and created a good, relaxed atmosphere on board with nice stories about Amsterdam. Thank you for an unforgettable hour on the Amsterdam canals!"

Flagship Amsterdam

© Copyright 2024 Flagship Amsterdam · All rights reserved

The 7 Best Amsterdam Canal Cruises [2024 Reviews]

Amsterdam is one of the biggest tourist destinations in the world, and it’s no wonder why. The history alone is fascinating, but then incorporate its delicious food, endless nightlife activities, beautiful architecture, and stunning canals and it’s incredible.

We’re going to focus a bit on the latter today, as cruises along the canal are one of the most popular activities to do. However, there are also a lot of tours available, so which one is the best? No need to wonder, as we have all the top canal cruises in Amsterdam right here!

Don’t leave Amsterdam until you see all the things there are to do in this beautiful City!

Best amsterdam canal tours, quick answer: the 7 best amsterdam canal tours for 2024.

• Best Romantic Tour: Amsterdam: Romantic Canal Tour with Bubbly
• Best Budget Tour: Amsterdam Private Canal Booze Cruise
• Best Value Tour: Amsterdam Small-Group Canal Cruise Plus Snacks and Drinks
• Best Evening Tour: Amsterdam Private Romantic Canal Cruise at Night
• Best Private Tour: Private Boat Tour: Champagne Canal Cruise in Amsterdam
• Best Family Tour: Amsterdam 90-Minute Private Family Canal Cruise
• Best Small Group Tour: Amsterdam Small-Group Canal Cruise Plus Snacks and Drinks

Be sure to see our reviews of Red Light District Tours, Van Gogh Museum Tours and Windmill Tours .

Amsterdam Canal Tour Reviews

1. best romantic tour: amsterdam: romantic canal tour with bubbly.

• Duration: 1.5 hours
• Departure: Keizersgracht 198, 1015 CZ
• Departure Time:  4:00 PM
• Includes: Expert romantic tour guide and skipper , blankets and heated seats , local cheese, grapes and crackers, small bottle of Prosecco and water

One of the best ways to see Amsterdam is from a canal cruise. There’s just something magical about floating down the calm waters as you pass by centuries-old buildings and under beautiful bridges.

The Romantic Canal Tour with Bubbly is one of the best if you’re looking for a great way to spend time with your significant other. What’s great about this tour is that you can customize it, depending on your specific interests.

Your guide will ask if you have any particular interests so they can tailor the experience to them. There are plenty of different departure times, and lasting 1.5 hours, it’s super easy to fit into even the busiest schedules. Whether you go day or night, it’s simply a magical experience you have to try at least once.

Meet up with your guide, and hop on board, where you’ll be acquainted with your local, certified skipper who is an expert in all things “Amsterdam”.

They’ll tell you all about the city’s history and specifically that of the canals. The district is UNESCO-listed, and it’s unique to just this area.

Not only that, but they provide insight into the locals’ way of life and how the canals are used present-day. There are many people who actually live in house boats docked at the sides of the canals, which is pretty cool!

As you’ll get to see so much of the city, once you’re on land you’ll find that navigating around is much easier.

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, other experiences you may enjoy:, 2. best budget tour: amsterdam private canal booze cruise.

• Departure:  Jungle Dock
• Departure Time:  12:00 PM – 7:00 PM
• Includes:   Live tour guide, t ransport for activity duration: sightseeing cruise, b eer, w ine,  s oft drinks

Amsterdam is a city that’s known for having a good time, and if you’re looking for one, you’re in the right place. The Amsterdam: Private Canal Booze Cruise lasts 1.5 hours and is a great way to start off the evening or day of sightseeing.

Take a break to relax, but cruising through the gorgeous canals with a refreshing beverage in hand! Sure, there are tons of bars in the city, but trust us when we say this way is much more fun! If it’s your first time in the city, it’s a must-do!

If you’re traveling in groups, this is a nice way to get everyone together from some simultaneous excitement and sightseeing. It’s available for groups of 10 people and under. Meet up with your guide near Central Station, which is easy to get to from just about any part of the city.

Board your boat, where you’ll be able to relax on the padded seats with plenty of leg room.  There’s also a restroom on board, which is ideal if you’re going to be drinking!

Crack open a cold beer, pop open a bottle of champagne, or some simple mixed drinks while you cruise around the canals. Think of it as like an open bar because you don’t have a limit on how many drinks you can have.

You’ll pass through the Amstel River, under 7 stunning bridges and some hidden gems your skipper will point out to you. It’s a fantastic way to learn about the city, where famous landmarks are, and will make it easier to plan excursions on land based on this.

Other Amsterdam Experiences To Try:

3. best value tour: amsterdam small-group canal cruise plus snacks and drinks.

• Duration: 2 hours
• Departure: Keizersgracht 106, 1015 CV Amsterdam
• Departure Time:  1:00 PM, 4:00 PM, 6:30 PM
• Includes:  Snack platter, unlimited drinks (open bar), professional guide, all taxes & fees, snacks, bottled water

The next one up is a bit longer than the other two we’ve covered so far. Clocking in at 2 hours, you’ll get to learn all about the local history, lifestyle, landmarks, and the canals, specifically.

Do it all while enjoying some delicious snacks and drinks on Amsterdam Small-Group Canal Cruise Plus Snacks and Drinks . If you’ve just arrived in Amsterdam, it’s one of the best ways to get an introduction to the city.

The ride is relaxing and beautiful, and ideal for a small group (maximum of 9 people) for a customized experience and the ability to ask any questions you may have to the skipper.

Start out in Jordaan, which is a great place to explore if you want to escape the crowds and general hustle-and-bustle of the city.

It’s a lovely area to sit back, relax, and take the views in. They’ll offer you all kinds of local eats like a snack platter with fruit, cheese, cookies, and sausages.

Wash it all down with some craft beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages. Pass by the city’s oldest hat factory, called the Rode Hoed (Red Hat), which now serves as an event center. Your guide will tell you all about its interesting (and lengthy!) history.

They’ll continue offering an educational commentary on the canals’ history and heritage, and how important they are.

Not only that, but you’ll get to see the gorgeous side houses that line the canals, along with the enormous mansions that sit on the bigger main canals.

The route does vary a bit, depending on the weather and time of day you book for. However, each trip is a very enjoyable experience!

4. Best Evening Tour: Amsterdam Private Romantic Canal Cruise at Night

• Duration: 50 minutes to 90 minutes
• Departure: At the canals (white boat with blue tops)
• Departure Time:  Variety Available
• Includes:   Private boat cruise at night, c aptain/storyteller, g lass of mulled wine (winter), s mall bottle of Prosecco (summer), l ocal cheese, grapes, crackers, and waffles, b lankets

On the hunt for the perfect date night adventure? If so, there are a lot of choices to select from, but this next tour always seems to rank quite high.

The Amsterdam: Private Romantic Canal Cruise at Night tour is a great alternative to heading to a fancy restaurant, because you have it all right here on board! While the city is beautiful just about any time of day or with any weather, it’s really something different at night.

The city is all lit up, with the warm lights reflecting off of the rippling waters. It’s also a great way to preface dinner, as it won’t spoil your meal but will definitely satisfy any hunger pangs and quench your thirst.

Board your comfortable, private vessel for the next 50 to 90 minutes while you get settled and cruise down the canals. The glistening lights light the way, as your skipper tells you all kinds of fascinating stories about the city’s history, culture, and notable landmarks.

They’ll share facts about important people from here, as well as local legends that always are fun to learn about.

With cozy blankets provided, along with some sparkling champagne, wine, cheese, and waffles, we can’t recommend this tour enough if you really want to get in some quality time with that special someone.

It’s also perfect if you want to learn more about navigating the city and how to access certain tourist hot spots.

While it’s not required, you do have the option of having the guide play some romantic music as well. It’s all up to what you and your partner would like to do – they’re all very accommodating and there to ensure you have a wonderful romantic evening.

5. Best Private Tour: Private Boat Tour: Champagne Canal Cruise in Amsterdam

• Departure: Oosterdokskade 8, Oosterdokskade 8, 1011 AE Amsterdam
• Includes:  Alcoholic beverages, soda

This next tour is perfect for couples or groups of friends and family, alike. You can reserve the boat for up to 12 people, making it a great way to spend some quality time and have a blast while doing it!

The Private Boat Tour: Champagne Canal Cruise in Amsterdam lasts 1.5 hours full of laughs, adventuring, and learning about this unique city!

Start out by meeting down at the wooden dock next to the “Sea Palace” restaurant. We found the boats to look brand-new, and are in excellent condition. It actually is one of the more luxurious boats we’ve seen, with the wooden sitting area sporting traditional windows and padded seats.

Actually, this traditional vessel is one of just a few in all of Amsterdam that holds the title of “floating monument status” due to its historic traits! If you’re curious, your guide will tell you all about this beauty.

Enjoy unlimited champagne and sip the bubbly while you watch out over the gorgeous canals, as you cruise under bridges and past elaborately-designed homes that line each side.

The boat’s owner will tell you all about the history of the city and offer interesting anecdotes and personal stories, as well.

Enjoy attentive service as you cruise by important landmarks such as the Anne Frank House, Magere Brug, the Red Light District, National Maritime Museum, Heineken Experience, Café de Sluyswacht, Bridge of 15 Bridges, and much more.

We highly recommend checking at least some of those out once you’re on land, and now that you know how to get to them!

6. Best Family Tour: Amsterdam 90-Minute Private Family Canal Cruise

• Departure:  Keizersgracht 198, Keizersgracht 198, 1015 CZ Amsterdam
• Includes: Variety Available

If you’re looking for a fun and affordable excursion to take the entire family on, you’ve found it! The Amsterdam 90-Minute Private Family Canal Cruise tour is a fantastic way to explore the legendary Dutch canals, and see some of the most popular landmarks from a different perspective.

This is a must-do if you’re bringing the entire family along, and is great for all ages! With a max passenger limit of 10 people per boat, you can feel confident you’re going to receive personalized attention and be able to have any of your questions answered by a professional.

They captain will ask you if you have any specific interests, so they can tailor your cruise to them, too. While food and drinks aren’t served on the boat, you’re more than welcome to bring your own. After exploring, you may want to go grab some food, anyway.

This 1.5-hour tour offers quite a bit of flexibility with start times, making it easy to fit into busy schedules.

As you cruise down the charming canals, they’ll teach you all about the city’s history, modern-day attractions, and many stories with cultural relevance. They’ll show you some hidden gems that not many tourists get to see or even know about, too!

If you’re new to the city, they’ll offer some tips on places to visit later, including any restaurant recommendations! This is a fantastic way to learn about local lifestyles here, and how the canals impact them.

They’re an excellent mode of transportation and offer a bit of relaxation away from the crowds.

7. Best Small Group Tour: Amsterdam Small-Group Canal Cruise Plus Snacks and Drinks

• Departure: Keizersgracht 401, Keizersgracht 401, 1016 EK Amsterdam
• Includes:  Snacks, alcoholic beverages, soda, bottled water, fees and taxes

This next tour is always a blast, super affordable, and one of the most highly-rated canal cruises out there! The Amsterdam Small-Group Canal Cruise plus Snacks and Drinks tour is one everyone should try, even if you’ve already done a canal cruise before!

Lasting 2 hours long, it’s a fantastic way to have fun, eat some delicious traditional snacks, and enjoy the views without the crowds. Located right in front of the Museum for Photography, you’ll meet up with your guide where you and the rest of your group will be escorted to the boat.

Due to the space, you will be limited to groups of 12 people. We really enjoyed the configuration of this boat, which is open on the ends but has a glass covering to keep you protected just in case of rain (which can happen even in the summertime!).

It also offers unobstructed views of this gorgeous city, where you’ll be able to fully enjoy the incredible architecture and canal views.

To keep your thirst and hunger at bay, they provide mulled wine and authentic Dutch snacks like the “bitterballen” and “stroopwafel” which are delicious and perfect if you like sweets! Start out in the old quarter of the Jordaan, which is arguably one of the prettiest areas.

Cruise along and spot landmarks such as the Anne Frank house,  Red Light District, National maritime Museum, Hortus Botanicus, and even the East Indiaman ship dating from back to the Golden Age!

You’ll even get to see various “hidden gems” that not too many tourists know about, and can go back to visit them once you’re on land.

Why You Should Take an Amsterdam Canal Cruise Tour

Taking an Amsterdam canal cruise is a great way to experience the city from a unique perspective.

• See the city from a different angle : Amsterdam is of course famous for its canals but taking a canal cruise/tour allows you can see can see sights that visitors walking around don’t get to see. You will get to see the city’s narrow streets, historic buildings and picturesque bridges from the water.
• Learn about Amsterdam’s history and culture : Most canal cruise tours have audio guides or live commentary which can provide interesting information about Amsterdam’s history, architecture and culture. You’ll learn all about the city’s most famous residents, its trading history and its most famous landmarks.
• Relax and unwind: A canal cruise is a relaxing way to spend an afternoon or evening. have a glass of wine while you enjoy the sights. Most canal cruises have food and drink options so you can enjoy a meal or a drink while taking in the views.
• Ideal for all ages : A canal cruise is a great activity for families, couples or groups of friends. It’s a good option for families and is an enjoyable experience for everyone.

What Will You See on Canal Tour/Cruise?

• Architecture : Amsterdam’s canal ring is home to many stunning buildings, including 17th-century merchant houses, grand public buildings and its modern architecture.
• Bridges : Amsterdam has over 1,200 bridges many of which are historic and offer unique views of the city.
• Houseboats : Amsterdam is famous for its houseboats which line the canals and give you a glimpse into the city’s unique culture.
• Landmarks : A canal cruise will take you past many of Amsterdam’s most famous landmarks, including the Anne Frank House, the Rijksmuseum and of course the Van Gogh Museum .
• Bustling streets : As you cruise through Amsterdam’s canals, you’ll also see bustling streets and neighborhoods, giving you a feel for the city’s vibrant energy and lively atmosphere.
• Red Light District – This area is probably one of the more obvious neighborhoods to go adventuring around at night. The iconic red windows and notorious coffee shops are everywhere and while this area is full of tourist traps. You should take a Red Light District tour so you can see all the cool spots like Belushi’s, Hill Street Blues, and Aepjen.

Tour Guides

The Private 1.5 hour Canal Tour in Amsterdam with your Loved One is our Editors Choice for the best canal tour in Amsterdam

Robert Baker

Related articles, the 5 best stonehenge tours from london [2024 reviews], the 5 best wine tours from florence [2024 reviews], the 7 best vatican tours ⛪ [2024 reviews], the 5 best seine river dinner cruises [2024 reviews].

Bruges Canal Tours: Everything You Need To Know

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

During our recent family trip to Europe, Abby and I took a  day trip from Brussels to Bruges , a beautiful town in Belgium. We both wanted to go on one of the legendary Bruges canal tours. I’m so glad we did! This fairytale European city needs to be on your bucket list! 

Where is Bruges?

Bruges is a serene small Flemish town just northwest of  Brussels . Visiting Bruges is a perfect day trip from Brussels and is easily accessible by train.

Bruges is known as an idyllic small European city steeped in historical charm. It’s home to gorgeous canals and many fascinating landmarks. Furthermore, The city also has many great restaurants, pubs, and street-side vendors.

Visiting Bruges, Belgium

If you are visiting Brussels for a few days, taking an extra day to go to Bruges is well worth the time. Its gorgeous canals winding along against ancient stone buildings have led Bruges to be called the “Venice of the North.” 

In this blog post, I want to provide information about taking a Bruges canal tour, highlight the city’s history, and discuss some landmarks you’ll likely see on these Bruges canal tours.

Getting to Bruges from Brussels

From Bruges, you just need to hop on the Belgium intercity train. You can board directly from one of the main Brussels train stations, including Bruxelles-Nord (Brussels North), Bruxelles-Central (Brussels Central), and Bruxelles-Midi (Brussels South).

The Brussels to Bruges train runs all day, and the ride is just over an hour.  

The Belgium train website has a  dedicated page for the Brussels to Bruges train route , which is a great resource. You can buy tickets from that page as well. 

The route trip Brussels to Bruges train tickets are a standard € 32.00 for adults. However, there are a lot of discounted ticket options listed as well, and most are € 17.50 or less. 

The Bruges Canal Tours

Once you arrive in Bruges, you should have a game plan for your canal tour. It’s helpful to know a little bit about the city's layout. 

Bruges rests within a mesh of several canals that penetrate and encircle the city. These canals ultimately allow boat access to the North Sea, located about 20 kilometers north of the city. The town’s access to the North Sea made Bruges a vital shipping hub for centuries. 

The canals lining the town are relatively inaccessible as they are flanked everywhere by houses and other structures. Because of this, there are only a few places, other than bridges, where you can see the canals.  

Therefore, the best way to see these picturesque canals is on a boat tour!

Planning Bruges Canal Tours

There are five landing stages along the canals. These are the only places you can embark on a canal tour. The routes and prices are generally the same across the different tour operators. There are several canal tour operators, each with their own open-air boats.  They pretty much all follow the same route, so in my opinion, the best Bruges canal tour is the one with the shortest line.

Bruges Canal Tour Boarding Locations

Boarding takes place at the following locations. Each tour operator will leave from a different location, so be sure to check their website.

•  Michielssens, Huidenvettersplein 13
•  Coudenys, Rozenhoedkaai
•  De Meulemeester, Wollestraat 32
•  Gruuthuse, Nieuwstraat 11
•  Stael, Katelijnestraat 4

Scroll around the above map of Bruges to get a lay of the land!

The Bruges Canal Tour boat trip takes around 30 minutes. The boats typically operate between 10:00 am and 6:00 pm, with 5:30 often being the last tour. Tours generally operate most of the year, except in January and early February.  

However, tour availability will vary by operator and may change based on events like municipal construction projects, canal restoration initiatives, and severe weather.

Bruges Canal Tours Tickets

Unlike the  canal tours in Amsterdam  and the  Seine River cruises in Paris , you cannot book Bruges canal tour tickets in advance. You buy your tickets directly from the tour companies at the landing stages. As of writing this, the Bruges Canal Tour price for adult tickets is € 12.00, and children’s tickets are € 7.00.

You may need to wait in line at the landing stages to purchase tickets. The canal tours are very popular and will get busy. Bruges has an active cruise ship industry (Norwegian, Holland America, Windstar, Celebrity), and the town will fill up with  cruise  passengers on day excursions.  

The extra traffic means lines for the canal tours will get longer after about 11 am. Before 11 am is the best time to ensure you have shorter lines. It also gives you the rest of the day to explore Bruges.  

TIP: Get in line for your canal tour as early as possible in Bruges. 

Private canal tours are also available. Several companies offer tours with different types of boats. Contact the companies directly to find out more.

There are a couple of great s mall-group Bruges canal tours available through Get Your Guide . They also include a Bruges walking tour. These are a great option if you want to be able to buy Bruges canal tour tickets in advance.

Other Things to Consider

During the canal tour, the boat guide will comment on the significant landmarks and history of the area. During our  day trip to Bruges , our canal tour guide did a great job narrating the tour and pointing out interesting areas, landmarks, and historical sights. Most guides can speak multiple languages and will do their best to tailor the language to the passengers’ needs. 

The boats are cash-only. Be sure to bring a few Euros to tip your tour guide.

If you want to take pictures, try to be at the front, back, or side of the boat. Most of the boats have a line of seats down the middle, but people may block your pictures if you sit there.  

The boats are open-air and uncovered, so be sure to wear your sunscreen! Also, the tours can get pretty chilly, depending on the time of year, so bring a jacket. We love the  Amazon Essentials packable jackets  for our travels.

It’s always helpful to know the history and significance of a city prior to visiting. So, I want to take some time here to talk more in-depth about Bruges and, of course, the canals. Then, I will share some of the incredible landmarks that you will see from your Bruges canal tour. 

The History Of Bruges And Its Canals

Bruges has witnessed a remarkable evolution over the centuries. Its history encapsulates the ebb and flow of urban development, from its Viking origins to a flourishing medieval center, economic decline, and eventual modern-day revival.  

The city’s tremendous ability to adapt to changing circumstances and preserve its cultural heritage is a testament to the strength and perseverance of the Danish people across time.

Origins of Bruges, Belgium

The origin of Bruges can be traced to the 9th century when Vikings established a fortress on the banks of the Reie River. The name “Bruges” is believed to be derived from the Old Dutch word “Burg,” meaning fortress. The city gradually developed into a bustling medieval trade center due to its strategic location and access to the North Sea.

The Golden Era of Bruges

Bruges experienced its golden era during the late medieval period, particularly in the 14th and 15th centuries. The city became a major commercial and cultural hub, attracting merchants, artists, and scholars across Europe.  

Bruges's thriving wool and textile industry and sophisticated network of canals contributed to its prosperity. It was home to the influential Bourse, one of the earliest stock exchanges in the world.

Bruges Economic Decline

Despite its flourishing period, Bruges faced economic challenges in the 16th century. The silting of the Zwin, a vital waterway for trade, led to a decline in maritime activity, impacting Bruges’ economy.  

Additionally, geopolitical shifts and the rise of other European trading centers contributed to the city's gradual decline in prominence.

Modern Times and Revival of Bruges

For several centuries, Bruges endured a period of relative obscurity. However, in the 19th century, efforts were made to preserve its medieval architecture, and the city gained recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2000.  

The 20th century saw a revival in Bruges’ fortunes, with tourism becoming a key driver of its economy. The city’s well-preserved medieval structures, including the Belfry of Bruges and the Basilica of the Holy Blood, attract millions of visitors annually.

What Do You See on the Bruges Canal Tours?

During the Bruges canal tours, your tour guide will highlight many fascinating landmarks. Each place gives you a window into the long history of this amazing city.  

Like many European cities, it’s steeped in lore that spans epochs, and seemingly every bridge or building has a colorful and long legacy.  

Here is a list of many sites you will probably see on the Bruges canal tours. 

Founded in 1245, the Princely Beguinage Ten Wijngaarde boasts serene white-colored house fronts and a tranquil convent garden.  

This UNESCO World Heritage site was once the residence of beguines—emancipated laywomen leading pious and celibate lives. Today, the beguinage is home to the Order of St. Benedict nuns.

Saint John’s Hospital

With an eight-hundred-year history, Saint John’s Hospital has cared for pilgrims, travelers, the poor, and the sick. Explore the medieval wards where nuns and monks practiced mercy, the chapel, and a remarkable collection of archives, artworks, medical instruments, and six paintings by Hans Memling.  

Church of Our Lady

The Church of Our Lady showcases Bruges’ artisans’ craftsmanship through its 115.5 meters high brick tower. The church has valuable art, including Michelangelo’s renowned Madonna and Child, numerous paintings, 13th-century painted crypts, and the tombs of Mary of Burgundy and Charles the Bold. Abby and I visited after our canal tour, and it was incredible! 

Groeninge Museum

Offering a diverse overview of Belgian plastic arts history, the Groeninge Museum features Flemish Primitives, 18th and 19th-century neoclassical pieces, Flemish Expressionism masterpieces, and post-war modern art.

Ambachtshuis Huidevetters

Built by hide tanners, this craft house near Rozenhoedkaai has two wings. The north wing, demolished in 1629, was replaced in 1630 under the guidance of Bruges architect Jan De Smet. The building was restored in 1912. It has been used as a fishmonger and stockfish farm since the mid-19th century.

Belfry & Carillon

Bruges’ tallest tower, the Belfry, standing 83 meters tall, houses a melodic carillon with 47 bells. Climbing its 366 steps rewards you with a breathtaking panoramic view of Bruges and its surroundings.

Fish Market

Originally located at Markt Square, the fish market was moved here in the 18th century due to complaints about the stench. Since the Middle Ages, buyers and sellers have come together at the Bruges fish market. Fresh saltwater fish, once a luxury, is still sold every morning from Wednesday to Saturday.

These small whitewashed almshouses, dating back to the 14th century, are scattered around Bruges. Wealthy townspeople or guilds established almshouses to house poor older adults or widows. Over 46 blocks have been preserved, with 43 still occupied.

Burghers’ Lodge

Situated on Jan Van Eyckplein, the Poortersloge (Burgher’s Lodge) served as a meeting spot for the Society of the White Bear in the late 14th and early 15th centuries. Later, it became the city’s Academy of Arts (1720-1890) and the State Archives (1912-2012).

Visiting Bruges: The “Venice of the North”

Visiting Bruges to take one of the Bruges canal tours is a fantastic way to add something special to your trip to Belgium. Its quaint stone houses, romantic canals, cobbled streets, cookies, waffles, and chocolate make it a bucket-list destination to take friends and family of any age.  

The iconic canals are a dream for photographers. Travel to and around the city is simple and inexpensive. And as you can tell by this post, Bruges canal tours should be on your list. I recommend this trip to everyone!  

Visit the European Travel section of my blog for more adventures in Europe, and you may also enjoy the related posts below.

Our Magical Brussels To Bruges Day Trip

2 Days in Brussels: What We Did

Hotel Indigo Brussels City

European Travel Essentials

How To Plan A Trip To Europe For Your Family 

5 Best Canal Cruise Near Anne Frank House [2024]

Wanna take the canal boat near Anne Frank House? This post compares all the canal tours departing from Anne Frank House to help you have the best canal experience in Amsterdam!

Table of Contents

Is it better to take the canal boat near Anne Frank House?

Absolutely.

It’s way fewer people if you get on the boat near Anne Frank House. The quality of the tour is better. Moreover, resting on the boat after a long walk in the Anne Frank House or Amsterdam City Center is an excellent idea.

Are Canal Cruises in Amsterdam worth it?

Amsterdam canal cruises are one of the best things you can do! You can enjoy the cozy vibe on the boat and enjoy the world-famous canal views from the boat.

I also took the canal cruise in Belgium, but Amsterdam is much better. The Amsterdam Canal area is well organized. Besides, the atmosphere was great, very cozy.

3 Best Smoke-Friendly Canal Cruise from Amsterdam Central Station

What does “Gezelig” mean in English? How can I experience it?

It’s the most challenging word to explain in English.

Dutch people use “Gezelig” to describe a cozy, warm, pleasant, or enjoyable atmosphere that goes beyond physical surroundings.

“Gezellig” is a feeling or ambiance created by people coming together and enjoying each other’s company in a relaxed and comfortable setting.

In short, if you want to experience “Gezelig,” take the canal cruise, and you will understand it easily.

Walking along the canals or Taking the canal cruise?

I recommend both since you can see the little details while walking along the canals in the city, and you can enjoy the cozy ambiance on the boat.

Taking the boat is much more relaxing than walking along the canals. If you have little time in Amsterdam or want a relaxing trip, join the canal tour.

Things to know before taking the boat

Arrive early.

Please arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before departure, so you will get the boat.

Book your tickets in Advance

Most canal cruises depart from Amsterdam Central Station, and only a few embark near Anne Frank House. Therefore, I recommend you reserve the tickets before your Amsterdam trip , so you can pick the best time to enjoy Amsterdam canal views.

Travel Light

You won’t have much space on the boat, so it’s best to travel light for safety.

Best canal cruises near Anne Frank House

Amsterdam classic boat cruise with drinks and cheese.

This tour passes all the essential and popular spots while enjoying Dutch Cheese and unlimited drinks! This is the most Dutch canal cruise of all!

This was a lovely experience, we were presented with a clean, large, classy boat, the staff was very friendly and attentive, and the cheese and wine pours were great! Nice way to see and hear stories about Amsterdam. Amoret_Z ( read more reviews here )

The highlight of the tour

• Unique experience on a luxury old wooden style captain boat you cannot find elsewhere
• Two different types of world-famous Dutch Cheese
• Unlimited wine, beer, and soft drinks
• 5-star rating from nearly 24,000 guests
• The meeting point is with easy access by public transportation
• Maximum 35 guests on the boat

My Experience

I Joined this tour in late November and were very satisfied with it.

The guide was funny and took a local route to beautiful canals and boathouses.

The tour came with a live guide, and he told us Amsterdam’s story in a fun way during this one-hour tour. The time passed really fast because I really enjoyed it.

Pro tip: get on the boat 10 minutes before departure for a good spot!

If you want to have a fun and casual tour, join this one, since it comes with friendly live tour guides.

No-Smoking One-Hour Luxury Electic Canal Cruise

Most popular canal trip from Anne Frank House. This is the best tour if you prefer tours without drinks, food, and no smoking.

The cruise was wonderful. We saw lots of buildings we had not seen before. It was interesting to see how many people lived on the canals in their houseboats. It was really neat to pass under the roadways. The canals were calm and quiet. The crew made sure that we boarded and disembarked safely. Jane ( read more reviews here )

• Open-air and electric boat when it’s nice weather, no lousy air while enjoying the views
• Provide blanket and heating when it’s cold
• Luxury Electric boat with comfy cushions
• 5-star rating from nearly 800 guests
• No smoking boat
• Drinks and food are not included
• Maximum 30 guests on the boat

Try this tour if you cannot pick a perfect date and time to get on the boat!

Top-Rated Small Boat Canal Cruise

Want to explore the Amsterdam Canal like a local? This tour is your best chance.

The tour comes with an electric boat and up to 25 guests. It has an excellent value for its price.

• Multiple tours per day, but sell out fast
• Up to 25 guests

Amsterdam Small-Group Canal Cruise Plus Snacks and Drinks

Do you prefer a boat tour with fewer people? This tour has a maximum of 12 guests onboard. In addition, they can offer vegetarian and gluten-free food for guests upon request.

If you travel with infants or toddlers, join this tour. The tour has infant seats, perfect for families with small kids.

This tour was definitely a highlight and much more personal and intimate than the other tours. Erik was super entertaining and knowledgeable We did the evening cruise and it was beautiful… definitely recommend over the large boat/cookie cutter tours! Theresa ( read more reviews here )

• 2-hour trip
• Includes snacks and Alcoholic Beverages
• Vegetarian and gluten-friendly
• Infant seats and strollers are accessible
• Maximum 12 guests on the boat

Best canal cruises from Rijksmuseum

Besides taking the boat near Anne Frank House, the tour from Rijksmuseum is also an excellent idea, especially after a long day at Rijksmuseum.

Captain Jack Amsterdam

This is the only quality small boat with food and drinks company that departs from Rijksmuseum .

The most memorable parts of the tour: Our tour guide made the tour. He was most knowledgable and could answer any question asked. He was entertaining and made the canal tour fun for all ages. We had 2 teens with us and they too had a blast. Great tour. So sorry forgot the guide’s name but he had a white beard and 60ish. from Jane ( read more reviews )

This tour is your best shot if you want to take a non-smoking small boat trip in Amsterdam. The captain ensures no one smokes during the journey, while others may only prohibit guests from smoking if the guests are not against it.

• 1-hour trip
• Includes snacks and Heineken beer and wine
• less than a 2-minute walk from Rijksmuseum
• Maximum of 20 guests

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• Music Series
• Walking Map
• By The Canal Tour
• The History
• Wagon Tours

Historical Tour

By The Canal: Historical Walking Tour

Preservation Worcester’s By the Canal Tour is a self-guided tour of the streets and buildings of Worcester’s Canal District.  This tour highlights eleven buildings that reflect the history of both the city and the neighborhood.  Nine were built before the Blackstone Canal, which first opened in 1828, was covered over in the late 1800s.  All retain much of their original architectural character.  With the By the Canal Tour you will uncover surprising bits of history and hear stories about the people, events and economy that made Worcester the city it is today.

You can pick up our By the Canal: Canal District Walking Tour brochure at Preservation Worcester’s office at 10 Cedar Street . Or you can download a copy and print it from your computer, from the blue links above.

Virtual Tour

Expand the sections below to hear either the short or extended versions of each tour stop. To take the tour in the suggested order, begin at Union Station and follow the sites numerically.

Visit our Walking Map page for a virtual tour of the Canal District in order of sites, with audio clips available for streaming. Each clip is full of great information about each historical site on the tour!

Our History

Visit our History page for more information on the origins, development and future of the Canal!

Moscow - Russian Rivers and Waterways Port of Call

Moscow is a wonderful city to visit, and travelers on river ship cruise tours to or from St. Petersburg spend a few days in Moscow . This capital city of Russia was our last port on a river cruise tour, and we had about four days to see most of the highlights. Our first day we did an overview driving tour and rode the subway under the Mockba (Moscow) River to Red Square. The next day we toured the State Armory and the Kremlin.

These photos show some of the other highlights you can see with three or four days in Moscow .

The Northern River Terminal is located on the Moscow Canal in the northwest section of Moscow at the Khimki Reservoir.

Most river cruise ships sailing between Moscow and St. Petersburg use the ship as a hotel while in Moscow. Because of traffic, it's often a long drive into the city, but the sights along the way are interesting, and you only have to unpack once for the river cruise.

View of Downtown Moscow from Sparrow Hills

Sparrow Hills is the best place to get a great panoramic view of Moscow. The Sparrow Hills overlook the Mockba River and are near Moscow State University.

Novodevichy Convent in Moscow

Novodevichy Convent in Moscow was founded in 1524, and was once used as a sort of prison for the unwanted wives and sisters of the Tsars. Peter the Great sent both his first wife and his sister to Novodevichy. Since the convent had such famous nuns, it was very wealthy due to the many donations of the Tsars and their families. At one time in the 1700s, the cloister had over 36,000 serfs working in 36 villages. Novodevichy was ravaged by the French armies in 1812, but the brave nuns saved the buildings by disarming the fuses set to blow them up. The Soviets wanted to make the convent into a museum in the early 1920s, but it was again saved.

Novodevichy also has a cemetery with the graves of many famous Russians, including Nikita Khrushchev, Anton Chekhov, Raisa Gorbachev, and Yuri Nikulin.

View of the Mockba River in Moscow, Russia

The Mockba (Moscow) River runs into the Volga via the 79.5 mile long Moscow Canal.

River ships sailing between Moscow and St. Petersburg on the Baltic Waterways embark and disembark at the Northern River Terminal about an hour's drive from the city. The drive time can vary significantly in length because of the heavy Moscow traffic. The river looks peaceful here, as it winds around the cosmopolitan area of Moscow.

Cathedral of Christ the Redeemer (Cathedral of Christ the Savior) in Moscow

The Cathedral of Christ the Redeemer, also known as the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, is the largest church in Russia, holding 10,000 worshipers.

The original Cathedral of Christ the Savior was built over 44 years to celebrate the 1812 victory over Napoleon. It was completed in 1883. Stalin had the church destroyed in 1931, but it was rebuilt using mostly private funds in 1999. The new church is a replica of the original. Note that it took 44 years the first time and only 4 years the second to complete the church! Isn't modern technology impressive.

One interesting tidbit is that it took three attempts to blow up the church in 1931. Stalin planned to build a huge Palace of the Soviets on the cleared land, but engineers determined that the land was too boggy. In the 60 years intervening, the space was used for a variety of things, including a year-round swimming pool!

Vendors' Market and Ski Jump at Sparrow Hills in Moscow

The panoramic view of Moscow from Sparrow Hills is a stopover for most tour groups, so we were not surprised to see a large number of vendors. The ski jump was a surprise, but Moscow gets very cold in winter, so winter sports are very popular. This ski jump is near Moscow State University and has a great view of the city. Seeing this ski jump reminded me of the famous Holmenkollen Ski Jump in Oslo, which also has a great view of that northern capital city.

Russian Soldiers' Memorial in Victory Park in Moscow

Matryoshka dolls for sale in moscow.

I thought this display of dolls was beautiful! The Matryoshka nesting dolls range in price from just a few dollars to thousands of dollars.

Central Museum of Armed Forces in Moscow, Russia

This small band greeted us at the Central Museum of Armed Forces in Moscow. They played a variety of band music and made us all feel very welcome.

Grand Triumphal Arch Celebrates the Victory Over Napoleon in the War of 1812

This arch looks a little like the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, and it is located near the Victory Park Metro Station in Moscow.

This Grand Triumphal Arch is decorated with the coats of arms from the 48 Russian provinces. To celebrate the victory over France in the war of 1812, it also includes bas-reliefs of the "Expulsion of the French." The arch was originally built in 1834, but has only been on this site since 1968.

It is a little ironic that this arch resembles the Paris Arc de Triomphe , which Napoleon built between 1806 and 1836 to celebrate his French victories.

Moscow Metro Station at the Ploshchad Revolyutsii (Revolution Square)

This station near Red Square has many statues honoring the workers of Russia.

Moscow Metro Station near Victory Park

The Metro in Moscow is one of its shining industrial achievements. Construction on the Metro was begun in 1931 and continues today. The system has over 165 stations and 155 miles of track. Over 9300 trains, traveling sometimes as fast as 56 mph, navigate the huge system each day. Almost 10 million people ride the Moscow Metro every day, which is more than the New York and London systems combined. We found the Metro to be very efficient, with trains arriving every few minutes.

Navigating the Metro system can be somewhat of a problem for non-Russian speaking riders. Most of the signage is in Cyrillic only, and the stations are quite large. Trying to find the correct exit while walking long distances underground can be challenging.

On our cruise tour, we rode the Metro as a group with our program director from near Victory Park under the Mockba River to Red Square. Several of the group ventured out on their own during our time in Moscow, and many rode the Metro. They all returned with stories of getting lost underground, but none seemed the worse for the experience, and they all loved telling the tales.

Red Square in Moscow

Red Square in Moscow is a must-see for visitors to the capital city of Russia.

The Kremlin in Moscow, Russia

The Kremlin is a favorite of Moscow tourists. Inside these walls are buildings for the government of Russia, cathedrals, and the wonderful State Armory museum.

Taras Bulba Restaurant in Moscow

We enjoyed a traditional Ukrainian lunch at this cute restaurant in Moscow before checking in at our hotel.

Buses Wait for Passengers Outside Museum

River cruise tour groups are usually divided into groups for the duration of the tour. Each group had their own bus when touring.

Military Airplanes at the Central Museum of Armed Forces in Moscow, Russia

Although much of the military museum was indoors, there was quite a collection of planes, helicopters, missile launchers, and tanks outside.

Foreign Ministry Building, One of Moscow's Seven Stalinist-Gothic Skyscrapers

Seven skyscrapers with layers giving them a "wedding cake" appearance dot the Moscow skyline. The style is considered Stalinist-Gothic.

Russian and American War Veterans at the Central Museum of Armed Forces

Meeting with some World War II Russian War veterans was a highlight of our day at the Central Museum of Armed Forces in Moscow.

Rocket Launchers and Missiles at the Central Museum of Armed Forces in Moscow

The inside of this museum is particularly impressive, but you will need a guide since all of the signage is only in Russian.

Old Arbat Pedestrian Shopping Area in Moscow

We all enjoyed exploring the shops on this mile-long pedestrian shopping area.

Food prices were high in the tourist attraction, with two small pizzas, two small beers, and a bottle of water at an outdoor cafe costing $40. Many of our group ate at the large McDonalds, where prices were more reasonable.

Female Cosmonaut Model at Star City Cosmonaut Training Center near Moscow

Female cosmonauts play an important role in the Russian space program. In 1963, Valentina Tereshkova from Yaroslavl was the first woman in space.

Souvenir Shop in Old Arbat Shopping Area in Moscow

The area of Old Arbat had many English signs to attract the tourist trade.

Centrifuge at Star City Outside Moscow, Russia

This 18 meter centrifuge is the world's largest. The centrifuge weighs over 30000 tons, and the maximum load is 30 G, but most tests are run at 3 or 4 G.

A centrifuge ride is the first test for a cosmonaut, whose entire training school takes from five to eight years. The centrifuge can simulate the extreme force of gravity that cosmonauts (and astronauts) face when going into space. A centrifuge training session lasts about 30 minutes, and the trainee experiences both the centrifugal force as well as the spin of the pod he/she is riding in. Just typing this makes me a little queasy!

Cosmonaut's Bathroom Facilities on First Space Flights at Star City

Just like in the USA, everyone who visits the Star City cosmonaut training center near Moscow wants to know how cosmonauts "go to the bathroom". They have more sophisticated equipment today, but this contraption from the early space flights is fairly self explanatory.

Star City Tank Used for Cosmonaut Weightlessness Training near Moscow

This 12-meter deep pool is used to simulate weightlessness training. The pool is flooded and the cosmonauts perform repair tasks on the model of the International Space Station. SCUBA diving underwater is very similar to the weightless experience the cosmonauts experience when working in outer space.

Mir Space Station Replica at Star City near Moscow

The original Mir disintegrated when it fell to earth in 2001. Mir, which means peace in Russian, was launched in 1986.

Marvel Paull with Statue of Yuri Gagarin at Star City near Moscow

Yuri Gagarin was the first man in space, and the Star City Cosmonaut training center was named after him in 1968.

River Cruise Passengers with Yuri Onufrienko, Russian Cosmonaut at Star City

In case you can't tell, Yuri is the one in the middle. My famous traveling mother, Marvel Paull, is on the left and Dick, a cruise friend is on the right.

A highlight of our day in Star City was a visit with Yuri Onufrienko , a Russian cosmonaut who spent extended time in space at the Mir space station in 1996 and the International Space Station in 2001-2002. Yuri patiently took many questions from our small inquisitive group.

Cosmonaut Space Suit at Star City near Moscow

Cosmonauts sit in this position on take off. Thanks to Jerry G. for the tip about the sign. It says, "Don't touch!"

Stained Glass Window at Star City near Moscow

Program directors at farewell dinner in moscow.

After 16 days of discovery, learning, and fun, we had a farewell dinner with the six Program Directors - Evgeny, Olga, Vladimir, Svetlana, Violetta, and Marina - in Moscow.

The Kremlin is a triangular, walled citadel in the center of Moscow. The Kremlin is considered by most to be the heart of the city. First conceived in the 12th century, the Kremlin (which means fortress) was expanded by Tsar Ivan III (Ivan the Great) during the 15th century. His architects designed the magnificent Cathedral of the Assumption and the Faceted Palace, and the Kremlin was an interesting mix of both Russian and Renaissance styles. During the Soviet time of the 1930s, many of the Kremlin buildings were destroyed or vandalized, and the complex remained closed to the public until 1955.

Today the Kremlin is home to the Russian President and his administration. Many buildings are open to the public, but you may need to be with a guide (check in advance).

I visited the Kremlin when in Moscow on a Russian Waterways cruise tour from St. Petersburg.

The Kremlin was also one of the 21 finalists for the New Seven Wonders of the World.  

Red Square in Moscow, Russia

Red Square's name has nothing to do with Communism or Soviet Russia. The old Russian word for "beautiful" and "red" was the same; the square was supposed to be called "Beautiful Square". Red Square has been the center of Moscow activity since the 16th century when the Tsar cleared the area and allowed vendors, shoppers, and businesses to fill the square. Today this square is surrounded by the Moscow Kremlin, the State Historical Museum, GUM Shopping Mall , and St. Basil's Cathedral .

Many of the important events of the last three hundred years in Russia have been marked by parades or demonstrations in Red Square. Anyone who enters Red Square will have memories from TV or movie reels of this magnificent public square. Those of us who grew up during the Cold War era can remember the parades of soldiers, tanks, and other armaments past Lenin's Tomb just outside the Kremlin Wall. The World War II generation remembers Red Square as the site of a huge victory celebration at the end of the war.

25 Best Things to Do in Moscow

St. Petersburg, Russia

A Guide to Moscow: Capital of Russia, City of Domes

9 Things to See in Moscow's Red Square

Moscow in September: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

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St. Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow: Planning Your Visit

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Regensburg: Planning Your Trip

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The Kazan Cathedral in St. Petersburg

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Pope on a boat!: Francis visits Venice and is seen enjoying a canal tour after asking worshippers to 'pray for him' following health battle which saw 87-year-old pull out of Good Friday procession

By Matthew Lodge

Published: 14:41 EDT, 28 April 2024 | Updated: 15:41 EDT, 28 April 2024

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Pope Francis has visited Venice and took part in a canal tour weeks after asking worshippers to 'pray for him' following a health battle.

The head of the Catholic Church appeared in good spirits in the Italian city on Sunday as he was welcomed to the city by roaring crowds of people.

The 87-year-old was seen smiling as he visited an art exhibition which was being held inside a women's prison and talking to female inmates who had their artworks on display.

He also took part in a trip to Saint Mark's Basilica in the centre of the city, before holding mass outside in St Mark's Square where he told the crowds his job was 'not easy.

Francis's Sunday morning visit represented an increasingly rare outing for the 87-year-old, who has been endured health and mobility problems that have ruled out any foreign trips so far this year.

Pope Francis waves at Gondoliers as he arrives in Venice for a rare public outing on Sunday morning

The head of the Catholic Church waves at crowds who lined the water's edge as he leaves the women's prison on Guidecca island. One group of fans hold a sign saying 'Benvenuto Papa Francesco', which means 'Welcome Pope Francis'

The Pope smiles as he enters St Mark's Basilica in Venice ahead of Sunday Mass this morning

Francis gets on a boat after meeting with artists at the Biennale exhibition in Venice on Sunday

In March he had unexpectedly withdrawn from a Good Friday procession to 'preserve his health', after battling respiratory problem all winter which have made it difficult for him to speak.

That last-minute decision had raised questions about how long Francis can continue to lead the Catholic Church, although he appeared to be in much better form in Venice on Sunday.

READ MORE  'Pray for me... and until next time': Ailing Pope Francis, 87, makes Easter Monday speech from Vatican window as he renews plea for peace

Venice, with its 121 islands and 436 bridges, isn't an easy place to negotiate, but Francis pulled it off, arriving by helicopter from Rome, crossing the Giudecca Canal in a water taxi and then arriving in St. Mark's Square in a mini popemobile that traversed the Grand Canal via a pontoon bridge erected for the occasion.

During an encounter with young people at the iconic Santa Maria della Salute basilica, Francis acknowledged the miracle that is Venice, admiring its 'enchanting beauty' and tradition as a place of East-West encounter, but warning that it is increasingly vulnerable to climate change and depopulation.

'Venice is at one with the waters upon which it sits,' Francis said. 

'Without the care and safeguarding of this natural environment, it might even cease to exist.'

However, the trip was also unusual because it came as Venice, sinking under rising sea levels and weighed down by the impact of over-tourism, is in the opening days of an experiment to try to limit the sort of day trips that Francis undertook on Sunday.

Venetian authorities last week launched a pilot programme to charge day-trippers 5 euro (£4.20) apiece on peak travel days. The aim is to encourage them to stay longer or come at off-peak times to cut down on crowds and make the city more liveable for its dwindling number of residents.

For Venice's Catholic patriarch, Archbishop Francesco Moraglia, the new tax programme is a worthwhile experiment, a potential necessary evil to try to preserve Venice as a liveable city for visitors and residents alike.

Pope Francis, pictured on a boat after leaving a women's prison on Sunday, crossed the Giudecca Canal in a water taxi

Pope Francis waves to the crowds as he leaves Giudecca island in Venice on Sunday morning

Francis smiles as he travels to holy mass in St Mark's Square in Venice in a mini popemobile

Pope Francis presides over mass at St Mark's Square during a rare visit to the city of Venice this morning

The Pope, flanked by bodyguards, arrives in St Mark's Square in Venice in his last event during his half-day trip to the city

Speaking to an estimated 10,500 people, Francis echoed those views, adding: 'Venice, which has always been a place of encounter and cultural exchange, is called to be a sign of beauty available to all.

'Starting with the least, a sign of fraternity and care for our common home.' 

In his first trip outside Rome in seven months, he called for prisoners to view their time behind bars as a chance for 'moral and material rebirth' as he viewed their artworks.

READ MORE  Ailing Pope Francis calls for end to fighting in Gaza as he gives Easter Mass at St Peter's Square - after 87-year-old pontiff sparked fresh health fears by cancelling appearance at Good Friday procession

Francis travelled to the lagoon city to visit the Holy See's pavilion at the Biennale contemporary art show and meet with the people who created it.

Because the Vatican decided to mount its exhibit in the women's prison, and invited inmates to collaborate with the artists, the whole project took on a far more complex meaning - touching on Francis's belief in the power of art to uplift and unify, and of the need to give hope and solidarity to society's most marginalised.

Francis hit on both messages during his visit, which began in the courtyard of Giudecca prison where he met with the women inmates one by one.

As some of them wept, Francis told them: 'Paradoxically, a stay in prison can mark the beginning of something new, through the rediscovery of the unsuspected beauty in us and in others, as symbolised by the artistic event you are hosting and the project to which you actively contribute.'

Francis then met with Biennale artists in the prison chapel, decorated with an installation by Brazilian visual artist Sonia Gomes of objects dangling from the ceiling, meant to draw the viewer's gaze upwards.

He urged the artists to embrace the Biennale's theme this year of Strangers Everywhere, to show solidarity with all those on the margins.

'Art has the status of a 'city of refuge', a city that disobeys the regime of violence and discrimination in order to create forms of human belonging capable of recognising, including, protecting and embracing everyone,' Francis said.

The Vatican exhibit turned the Giudecca prison, a former convent for reformed prostitutes, into one of the must-see attractions of this year's Biennale, even though to see it visitors must reserve in advance and go through a security check.

The Pope's apparent good spirits will be welcome to followers of the Catholic Church after his battle with ill health in recent months, which saw him pull out of the traditional Good Friday procession. 

Thousands of people gathered in St Mark's Square to watch the Pope give mass on Sunday morning

Visitors watch on as they attend mass in St Mark's Square this morning, which was held by Pope Francis

Before holding mass, the Pope prayed in front of the relics of Saint Mark in Saint Mark's Basilica

Gondoliers gathered on the canals of Venice as they awaited the arrival of Pope Francis on Sunday morning

In a brief statement on Friday, March 29, the Vatican had said that 'to preserve his health ahead of tomorrow's vigil and the Easter Sunday mass, Pope Francis will this evening follow the Way of the Cross at the Colosseum from the Santa Marta Residence', where he lives. 

READ MORE  Pope Francis uses first ever US TV interview to slam climate change deniers as 'fools' and insists 'climate change exists'

Days later he held Mass at Saint Peter's Square from a window, during which he told people: 'Please do not forget to pray for me.'

He lightheartedly added: 'Have a good lunch, and until next time.'

A Vatican source previously said that there was 'no particular concern' about his health and that the decision to pullout had been 'simply a measure of caution'.

The Argentinian Jesuit had also cancelled his participation in the 'Via Crucis' in 2023, but that followed a three-day hospital stay for bronchitis, and was announced well ahead of time. Weeks later, he underwent a hernia operation.

Francis, who never takes holidays, made his last trip in September, to the southern French city of Marseille. In December, he cancelled a much-anticipated attendance at the COP28 climate summit in Dubai. 

The Vatican has not yet confirmed a planned trip to Asia and Pacific Ocean nations for this summer.

Francis has previously left the door open to stepping down if he can no longer do the job. That would follow the example of his immediate predecessor, Benedict XVI, who in 2013 became the first pope since the Middle Ages to voluntarily step aside.

But in a memoir published in March, Francis wrote that he did 'not have any cause serious enough to make me think of resigning'.

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Orange crush: Boats packed with revelers tour Amsterdam canals to celebrate the king’s birthday

Thousands of people took to the canals of Amsterdam on Saturday to celebrate the Dutch king’s 57th birthday. Dressed in orange - the national color - they packed small boats and sailed down the historic waterways of the capital. (AP video by Ahmad Seir)

People dance on a boat during King’s Day celebrations in Amsterdam, Netherlands, Saturday, April 27, 2024. (AP Photo/Peter Dejong)

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An orange-clad man applauds for a girl playing violin as his orange-clad dog, bottom right corner, runs off during King’s Day celebrations in Amsterdam, Netherlands, Saturday, April 27, 2024. (AP Photo/Peter Dejong)

Two girls sell orange pastries during King’s Day celebrations in Amsterdam, Netherlands, Saturday, April 27, 2024. (AP Photo/Peter Dejong)

Mud, a rain soaked blanket and wet items are being sold during King’s Day celebrations in Amsterdam, Netherlands, Saturday, April 27, 2024. (AP Photo/Peter Dejong)

An orange-clad man and his orange-clad dog listen to a girl playing violin during King’s Day celebrations in Amsterdam, Netherlands, Saturday, April 27, 2024. (AP Photo/Peter Dejong)

An egg explodes on impact as a reveller takes part in a game during King’s Day celebrations in Amsterdam, Netherlands, Saturday, April 27, 2024. (AP Photo/Peter Dejong)

AMSTERDAM (AP) — Decked in the national orange color, dancing to music, and eating orange-glazed pastries, many in the Netherlands Saturday are marking King’s Day , celebrating the birthday of their monarch who is enjoying a very slight rise in popularity as per a national poll.

As King Willem-Alexander celebrated his 57th birthday with his family in the northeastern city of Emmen, people across the country engaged in the traditional “free markets” held on that day, selling second-hand toys, books and other items. Others toured through the historic canals of the capital, Amsterdam as orange smoke from flares held aloft one boat drifted over vessels of all shapes and sizes jostling for space on a busy canal.

“Celebrating your birthday with your own family is the most beautiful thing you can experience. I’m very happy everybody is back,” Willem-Alexander told Dutch broadcaster NOS during a walkabout in Emmen, 190 kilometers (120 miles) northeast of the Dutch capital.

An annual poll published by the NOS for King’s Day showed Willem-Alexander’s popularity edging up very slightly since last year to 6.6 out of 10. His Argentine-born wife, Queen Maxima, scored 7.1 out of 10 in the poll of 1,015 people, conducted earlier this month.

The royals’ popularity took a hit during the COVID-19 pandemic after Willem-Alexander and his family went on vacation in Greece during a partial lockdown. The royals cut short their break amid national uproar and Willem-Alexander took the unusual step of issuing a video message to express his regret and contrition for the trip.

The king’s three daughters, Amalia, Alexia and Ariane have all spent time out of the country recently — Ariane has been studying in Italy while Alexia has taken a gap year to travel. The eldest and heir to the Dutch throne, Amalia, also returned ahead of the king’s birthday after being forced to leave her student accommodation in Amsterdam and move to Madrid following threats from the criminal underworld.

Amalia, 20, who is studying politics, psychology, law and economics at Amsterdam University, told NOS she was “extremely grateful to everybody who made it possible” for her to live in Spain, where she said she was able to enjoy more freedom than in the Netherlands.

But, she added: “I’m glad to be back.”

Orange crush: Boats packed with revelers tour Amsterdam canals to celebrate the king's birthday

AMSTERDAM — Decked in the national orange color, dancing to music, and eating orange-glazed pastries, many in the Netherlands Saturday are marking King's Day , celebrating the birthday of their monarch who is enjoying a very slight rise in popularity as per a national poll.

As King Willem-Alexander celebrated his 57th birthday with his family in the northeastern city of Emmen, people across the country engaged in the traditional “free markets” held on that day, selling second-hand toys, books and other items. Others toured through the historic canals of the capital, Amsterdam as orange smoke from flares held aloft one boat drifted over vessels of all shapes and sizes jostling for space on a busy canal.

“Celebrating your birthday with your own family is the most beautiful thing you can experience. I’m very happy everybody is back,” Willem-Alexander told Dutch broadcaster NOS during a walkabout in Emmen, 190 kilometers (120 miles) northeast of the Dutch capital.

An annual poll published by the NOS for King’s Day showed Willem-Alexander’s popularity edging up very slightly since last year to 6.6 out of 10. His Argentine-born wife, Queen Maxima, scored 7.1 out of 10 in the poll of 1,015 people, conducted earlier this month.

The royals’ popularity took a hit during the COVID-19 pandemic after Willem-Alexander and his family went on vacation in Greece during a partial lockdown. The royals cut short their break amid national uproar and Willem-Alexander took the unusual step of issuing a video message to express his regret and contrition for the trip.

The king’s three daughters, Amalia, Alexia and Ariane have all spent time out of the country recently — Ariane has been studying in Italy while Alexia has taken a gap year to travel. The eldest and heir to the Dutch throne, Amalia, also returned ahead of the king’s birthday after being forced to leave her student accommodation in Amsterdam and move to Madrid following threats from the criminal underworld.

Amalia, 20, who is studying politics, psychology, law and economics at Amsterdam University, told NOS she was “extremely grateful to everybody who made it possible” for her to live in Spain, where she said she was able to enjoy more freedom than in the Netherlands.

But, she added: “I’m glad to be back.”