Private Boat on the Canals

If you’re visiting Amsterdam, and someone tells you to take a canal cruise, tell them no. I’m not even kidding. My roommate does this at least four times a summer, and I’ve been on a few of those trips myself. The real magic isn’t in the touristy boat with a guide talking over the loudspeaker — it’s in renting your own electric boat and just going wherever you want. You can stop wherever you want, drink whatever you want, and take in the views without a single soul elbowing you in the ribs.

There are companies like Mokumboot, Boaty, and Sloepdelen that rent small boats you can captain yourself. No license needed — just a quick five-minute explanation and you’re off. The canal ring is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it’s not just the architecture that’s stunning. It’s the way the water reflects the buildings, the way the light changes as the sun moves, and the way you can float past the Prinsengracht with a glass of wine in hand while people on the big tourist boats just stare. It’s not a secret anymore, but it still feels like a privilege.

The price is fair — a small boat for two to three hours costs 80 to 120 euros, which breaks down to 15 to 25 euros per person if you’re splitting it with four to six people. That’s a lot cheaper than the 15 to 20 euros per person for a tourist cruise that’s packed with strangers and only lasts an hour. Plus, you get to be in control. You can go slow, or you can speed up, or you can just stop at a bridge and take a picture. It’s your boat, your rules.

I always tell people to go in the late afternoon, between 3 and 7 PM. The light is golden, and it makes everything look like a painting. But here’s the thing — there’s zero shade on the water, so bring sunscreen. You can stop at Albert Heijn first to load up on cheese, bread, and wine. It’s not fancy, but it’s perfect. My friend Sara and I did it last summer, and we literally floated past the Anne Frank House and the Rijksmuseum, which is a surreal way to see Amsterdam. It’s not a typical tourist activity, but it’s one of the most memorable.

It does get booked up fast, especially on sunny weekends, so book ahead. And if you’re not sure where to start, check if that deal’s still on — it’s easy to get a boat for a few hours and just cruise around the canal ring. It’s not just a boat ride, it’s a moment to yourself in a city that can feel overwhelming. If you’re looking for something a little different, and a little more personal, this is it.

There are a few downsides — you have to be comfortable with the idea of navigating a boat yourself, and it’s not for everyone. Also, weather can affect availability, so keep that in mind. But honestly, it’s one of those experiences that makes you feel like you’re really in Amsterdam, not just looking at it from the outside.