If you love a good drink and want a view that moves, canal cruise bars are the perfect combo. You hop on a boat, order a cocktail, and let the city glide by. No need to hunt for a seat in a crowded club – the water becomes your lounge, the lights of the houses become your backdrop.
1. The Amsterdam Riverboat Party runs every Friday and Saturday. They serve a Dutch gin fizz that’s cheap and tasty, and the DJ spins house beats that sound great over the water. Arrive early; the first tickets are usually sold out in minutes.
2. Canal Heat focuses on craft beers and local snacks. Their beer list changes every two weeks, so you get a fresh taste each visit. They also have a small dance floor on deck – perfect for a quick shuffle before the boat pulls back to dock.
3. Sunset Sail Bar is the go‑to for sunset lovers. The crew mixes a signature orange‑blossom spritz that matches the sky at golden hour. Bring a camera; the photo ops are unbeatable.
Book ahead. Most popular cruises fill up fast, especially on weekends. Use the website or app to lock in a spot and grab a discount code if you’re a repeat visitor.
Dress for the deck. The boat can get chilly after dark, so bring a light jacket. Flip‑flops are fine, but sturdy shoes help if the boat rocks a bit.
Mind the etiquette. Keep the volume at a level that lets you talk to the person next to you. The crew works hard to serve drinks quickly, so a friendly “cheers” goes a long way.
Try the specials. Most cruise bars rotate a “drink of the night.” It’s usually a local spirit or a creative twist on a classic cocktail. Ask the bartender for the story behind it – you’ll sound like a pro.
Pair your drink with a quick bite from the onboard kitchen. Small plates like bitterballen, cheese boards, or shrimp cocktail keep you satisfied without missing the view. If you’re hungry for more, most routes stop near popular dockside cafes where you can hop off for a short walk.
Finally, keep an eye on the route map. Some cruises focus on the historic center, while others head toward the modern skyline. Choose the one that matches your vibe – romantic canals, bustling nightlife, or a mix of both.
With these tips, you’ll get more than just a drink. You’ll get a moving night out that feels like a private party on water. So grab a seat, order your favorite cocktail, and let Amsterdam’s canals do the rest.
Skip the usual bar scene and try Amsterdam’s pub crawls by boat, a creative way of hopping between bars on the city’s famous canals. This article breaks down how these canal bar crawls work, where to start, local tips, and what you can expect along the way. Discover trusted services, canal-side breweries, and practical advice for private or group tours. Whether you live in Amsterdam or you're just visiting, this twist on nightlife is both fun and uniquely Dutch. Ready for a different take on Amsterdam’s social scene?
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