On some routes we recommend specific trips. But of course you can also rent a boat or choose from our extensive list of packages. For smaller groups we recommend our luxury canal cruises.
The architecture route
Are you a fan of architecture, then you should definitely make this trip. During this cruising route you will encounter a lot of buildings that you have probably never seen from the mainland. We give you a completely different view of the city on this unique experience of Amsterdam’s architecture. The Canal Belt is one of the most famous structures in the capital, but certainly not the only highlight. Cruise with us on, among other things, the IJ and the Oostelijke Haven. Let your eyes be pampered as you sail past the 23 architectural gems. View the full route including a visual representation of the route here
*Warning; this route crosses the IJ. Ask us if the rented boat is suitable for this trip. Ask us if the rented boat is suitable for this trip.
On this page you will find a list of the best sailing routes in Amsterdam. The Amsterdam waters are a unique piece of world heritage where old and new are beautifully combined. To give you an unforgettable day on the water, we have listed the best cruising routes in Amsterdam together with Waternet. Sail along the most beautiful routes of the IJ and the canals through the old town.
We start with a short introduction about the city itself and then take you on the different routes. If you already know which route you are going to cruise.
Tip: save the page of the selected cruising routes on your phone and impress your party with your city knowledge.
Important: Are you considering sailing the IJ, the Kostverlorenvaart or the Nieuwe Herengracht? Always do this in consultation with us for your own safety; it is not always allowed to navigate these waters.
Everyone is familiar with the waters in our capital. You are undoubtedly aware of its rich history, but what makes Amsterdam so special to view from the water?
The city has a rich trading history and has been granted its name and city rights since the 13th century. Amsterdam carries its current name since the 13th century, since then most changes have taken place. By the 17th century, the city “really” grew and the city had about 200,000 inhabitants.
The canals were constructed to cope with this growth. Which we still enjoy today. The canals have been included on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 2010. This makes the ring of canals part of our cultural heritage. At the time of writing, the city had approximately 870,000 inhabitants.
A bit of history in a nutshell. When you cruise through the canals you can see and feel the beautiful coherence of old and new. Let your thoughts wander by our experienced skippers. They can not only sail well, but also tell beautifully about our favorite city.
The red light district route
Who doesn’t know the historic ‘Red Light District’? A place where everyone must have been. ‘De Wallen’ is the name for a street in the oldest part of the city. This usually concerns the area between Warmoesstraat and Zeedijk. However, the red light district only covers the eastern part of the ramparts.
So there is much more to see! What is definitely worth it is the Old church on the red light district. Are you a fan of history and do you want to marvel at the rich history of Amsterdam’s city center? Then we recommend that you take this route. And explore the old parts of the city.
Important: cruise this route clockwise due to the one-way traffic on the Oudezijds Voorburgwal. No worries, our skippers know better than anyone how to cruise.
A route through the greenest part of the city. A real city safari from the boat, where you have a perfect view of the green life of the city.
In addition to the beautiful greenery, you will pass NEMO, the maritime museum and sail past Artis at the back. Look closely, who knows, you might see a zebra, giraffe or elephant!
Over the years, our capital has grown into one of the most cultural cities in the Western world. The culinary route takes you past our favorite spots for a delicious snack, a cooling drink, or a refreshing ice cream! * You sail along beautiful places where you can moor, stay seated and let yourself be pampered, because the service will bring your food on board.
It is also possible to purchase a packed lunch halfway through the route. * For if you don’t want to miss anything.
Mr. H.P. Berlage was a skilled architect who designed many buildings. He designed the urban plan for this district and it is certainly a special route full of beautiful sightings!
During a visit to the US in 1911, Berlage was very impressed by the works of Frank Lloyd Wright. This is the main reason that Berlage designs always have some American influence, right up to Berlage’s latest design. So you not only see Berlage’s work, you also come across inspiration from the work of Frank Lloyd Wright.
In addition to Berlage’s designs, you also pass by the great bridge designs by Kramer and visual artworks by Krop. This cruising route will take you further along the most famous Berlage designs.
So far our overview of the best sailing routes in Amsterdam. If you have a tip about other fun cruising routes in Amsterdam, we would love to hear from you!
