Small Group Boutique All-Inclusive Tour (max 12 p) With Captain
Overview
Available languages
1 hour 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Explore Amsterdam's iconic canals on our charming cruise aboard the historic salon boat, Sophie (est 1911). With a maximum of 12 guests, this small-group experience ensures a cozy and personalized journey.
Your host and guide for six days a week is Amsterdam native Boudewijn Metzelaar, also known as "Captain Bow." On Saturdays, one of his trusted friends will step in to guide you.
Whether you want to seat indoors or outdoors, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy the cruise, rain or shine, in true Dutch style.
Indulge in a variety of (alcoholic) drinks and delicious nibbles as you relax and enjoy the view. With a WC on board, your comfort is fully catered to throughout the experience.
Captain Bow’s deep connection to Amsterdam and his unique perspective, shaped by his diverse upbringing, promise insightful stories and engaging conversations. The small group size fosters a warm and friendly atmosphere, making this cruise a truly special way to discover the heart of Amsterdam.
Additional Info
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What To Expect
Amsterdam Canal Ring
All cruises are captained by myself as the captain/owner of the Drift Away. We depart from the Singel no.7 and we will return to this location at the end of the cruise. I do not offer a fixed route, depending on your wishes as guests I will tailor the cruise to you specifically. Due to the custom design of the Drift Away we have access to even the narrowest canals of Amsterdam and are able to pass even the lowest of bridges. If you do not have any preferences I will put together a route which will give you an overview of the canal belt, a few of the small less travelled canals, the Amstel river and the eastern maritime area. As a born and raised ¨Amsterdammer¨ I have a wealth of knowledge about Amsterdams history, culture and the Dutch way of life in general. I love sharing with you about my hometown in an easy going manner, with a good sense of humor and the typical Dutch straight forwardness!
The Jordaan
We will pass through the pitoresque district the Jordaan. The name of the Jordaan finds its origin in the French word Jardin, meaning garden. Many of the streets in the district are named after flowers.
Options
Small Group Boutique All-Inclusive Tour (max 12 p) With Captain
What‘s Included
Little sweet and savoury snacks to nibble on with your drinks are provided
Extensive open bar with local beers, top shelf liqours, soft drinks and hot drinks. You will not be disappointed! I make a killer G&T with local gin
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
558 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Highly recommended
leahhX3072GT,May 29, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Highly enjoyable ride thru the canals. Captain gave great insight. Open bar was well stocked. Outdoor and indoor seating.
Best canal tour ever
57grumpie,May 29, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This is a must. Booked a small group cruise. Picked up from our local hotel by Captain Hans. The laughter started then and did not stop till the end. We walked to the boat, a beautifully restored boat, about a five minute walk.
Awesome Canal Cruise!!
SCOOPs123,May 28, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Loved our canal cruise!!! Captain Hans had a wonderful knowledge of Amsterdam. You could tell how much he loved his city and enjoyed sharing his insights with the guests. Would definitely take this trip again!
Fantastic experience
lisadmartin18,May 28, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Beautiful boat with a really engaging pilot who amended our tour to what we wanted to see. The boat had two other small groups onboard - there were 7 of us in total. We got onboard at 3pm and the tour finished at around 4:45. The pilot was incredibly hospitable and there was a great selection of drinks including alcohol-free options, free flowing. Incredible value and a really enjoyable day out. Suitable for families, friends, couples or solo travellers.
Great canal cruise!
Culture30445135638,May 23, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Captain Hans was terrific—knowledgeable, funny, personable.
The weather was gorgeous...
Kathy M,May 23, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The weather was gorgeous and made for a lovely experience. Our captain, John, was knowledgeable and engaging and made the experience even better with his insight. Well worth the time to slow down and experience so much of Amsterdam
Must book canal tour with drinks & snacks!
Shauna M,May 22, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Look no further for a small intimate canal tour through Amsterdam! Our tour guide was friendly, knowledgable and entertaining. The drinks were great and the snacks provided were lovely. There is a toilet on board and blankets are available if it's chilly and you wish to sit outside.
This is the one!
christopherwQ5271DI,May 20, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We were looking for a small group experience hosted by a true local and Bow's did not disappoint! Beautifully restored family boat. He took us too see less touristy areas along with highlights that are a must see from the water. Fun, funny, informative and a very gracious host. Perfection.
Bow’s Journey
Maps20696025927,May 18, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Bow is the owner and was very attentive, helpful, and knowledgeable. Fun time!
Definitely worth the price compared to the commercial type tours.
MICHAEL D,May 16, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The cruise captain is the man who helped restore the boat and created the tour. It was great. Bow is personable, friendly and knowledgeable about Amsterdam since he was born there. We thoroughly enjoyed the tour and would highly recommend.
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