Top Booze Cruise Experiences in Amsterdam
If there is one day when Amsterdam truly feels like the center of the world, it is April 27. The entire city turns orange to celebrate Kings Day, a national holiday in honor of the Dutch King’s birthday. The streets are packed, music is everywhere, and the canals are lined with thousands of boats full of people dancing, laughing, and raising a toast.
For many visitors, Kings Day is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. And while the street parties are legendary, the best way to celebrate is on the water. The Kings Day Boat Party cruise on April 27 gives you front row access to the biggest event of the year, surrounded by festive energy and endless orange vibes. Even better, if you want to keep the fun alive after Kings Day, Amsterdam offers other party cruises such as the Amsterdam Booze Cruise, which runs year round.
Let’s take a closer look at what makes these canal experiences unforgettable.
What is Kings Day?
Kings Day, or Koningsdag in Dutch, is one of the most unique national celebrations in Europe. Every April 27, the Netherlands throws a massive birthday party for the King. Amsterdam, being the capital, is the epicenter of it all. Locals and travelers alike flood the streets dressed in orange, the national color, and the entire city becomes a giant festival ground.
There are street markets, live DJs, open-air concerts, and countless small parties happening on every corner. The atmosphere is electric and welcoming, with locals inviting strangers to join the fun. It is chaotic in the best way possible and for many, it is the highlight of visiting the Netherlands in spring.
Why Celebrate Kings Day on a Boat?
While the land parties are amazing, the canals are where the real magic happens. Amsterdam’s waterways fill with decorated boats, loud music, and waving crowds. On board, people enjoy drinks and dance as the city floats by in a sea of orange.
The Kingsday boat party on April 27 is one of the best ways to experience the holiday. Instead of squeezing through crowded streets, you relax on a boat with unlimited drinks, a lively group of fellow partiers, and a guaranteed spot at the heart of the celebration. You’ll sail past the most iconic parts of the city while soaking up the festive energy from a prime viewing position.
Tickets for these cruises sell out quickly, so it’s smart to book early. Bring something orange to wear, arrive on time, and prepare yourself for one of the most unforgettable days you’ll ever have in Amsterdam.
From Day to Night: Keeping the Celebration Going
After the sun sets and the official Kings Day events wind down, the city does not suddenly go quiet. Amsterdam has a way of keeping the party alive. Many people head to nightclubs or bars, while others prefer to return to the canals for another round of fun. This is where the Amsterdam canal cruise with drinks comes in.
What is the Amsterdam Booze Cruise?
The Booze Cruise is exactly what it sounds like. You and your friends hop on board a comfortable 100% electric boat and enjoy unlimited beer, wine, or prosecco while cruising through the canals. The atmosphere is relaxed yet festive, making it ideal for groups of friends, stag or hen parties, birthdays, or anyone who simply wants to have a good time.
Unlike Kings Day, which happens only once a year, the Booze Cruise runs year round. This means you can enjoy the same spirit of celebration any weekend in Amsterdam. The boats are covered in case of rain, so the party never has to stop because of Dutch weather. With music, drinks, and the historic canal views around you, it is one of the most fun ways to experience the city.
If Kings Day is the ultimate one-day celebration, the Booze Cruise is its year-round sibling that guarantees good times whenever you feel like raising a glass on the water.
Tips for Enjoying Canal Parties in Amsterdam
Whether you are on the Kings Day Boat Party or the Booze Cruise, a few simple tips can make your experience even better:
- Book early: Kings Day cruises especially sell out months in advance.
- Wear orange on Kings Day: It is the unofficial uniform of the day.
- Dress for the weather: Layers are your friend since Dutch weather can be unpredictable.
- Hydrate and pace yourself: With unlimited drinks on board, it’s easy to forget, but water is your best ally.
- Respect the canals: Avoid throwing trash overboard and follow the crew’s instructions to keep the waterways safe and enjoyable for everyone.
Beyond Booze: Other Canal Options
If you are looking for something different, Amsterdam’s canal scene has more than just party boats. Couples often choose private boat tours for a romantic escape, while others try out smoke-friendly cruises for a more relaxed vibe. There are even canal clean-up tours where you can help fish plastic from the water and give something back to the city. Whatever your style, there is a cruise that fits your mood.
Final Thoughts
Kings Day is one of the most exciting festivals in Europe, and celebrating it on a boat takes the experience to another level. The Kings Day Boat Party cruise on April 27 gives you the best seat in town to enjoy the chaos, the music, and the orange-filled energy that makes this holiday so unique.
If you cannot make it in April, or if you simply want to keep the party going after Kings Day, the Amsterdam Booze Cruise is a perfect choice. With unlimited drinks, good company, and the stunning canal scenery, it offers the same spirit of fun any time of year.
So whether you are planning your trip around Kings Day or just a weekend getaway with friends, make sure to save time for a canal party. Amsterdam is best experienced with a drink in hand, floating through its historic waterways, and raising a toast to good times.
FAQs About Canal Cruises in Amsterdam
1. Is it worth doing a canal cruise in Amsterdam?
Yes, it is highly recommended! According to Stromma, Amsterdam’s canal cruise operator, the historic canal ring is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers “one of the best ways to discover the city,” with departures near every major landmark.
2. Where do scenic cruises leave from in Amsterdam?
Cruises typically depart from central, easily accessible locations such as near Amsterdam Centraal Station, Damrak, the Anne Frank House, the Rijksmuseum, and Leidseplein. According to Viator.com, these four departure points are common, allowing you to pick a convenient start for your cruise. Viator and Stromma travel sites also mentions daily departures from Damrak, Central Station, and the Rijksmuseum.
3. Can you walk from Amsterdam cruise terminal to the city centre?
Absolutely. The Passenger Terminal Amsterdam (PTA) is approximately a 10–15 minute walk from Amsterdam Centraal Station, making it quite convenient for visitors. If you prefer not to walk, GVB tram 26 runs frequently between the terminal and Central Station.
4. What hotels do Scenic Cruises use in Amsterdam?
Scenic Cruises typically partner with centrally located, high-end hotels in Amsterdam for their pre- and post-cruise stays, often near the city centre or along the Amstel River. However, specifics vary by itinerary and will be confirmed upon booking.
5. Where do Celebrity Cruises leave from in Amsterdam?
Celebrity Cruises generally depart from the Passenger Terminal Amsterdam (PTA), located on the IJ waterfront near Central Station. This terminal serves as the main hub for cruise ships coming in and out of the city centre.
6. Is alcohol included on Scenic Cruises?
Yes. Scenic Cruises are all-inclusive, which means your fare typically covers unlimited drinks, including premium wine, beer, spirits, and cocktails, alongside meals, excursions, and gratuities.
7. What is the dress code for Scenic Cruises?
Scenic Cruises encourage smart-casual attire. Comfortable layers are appropriate for day wear, while evening meals usually call for a step-up in elegance, collared shirts, blouses, or dresses are common.
8. How many passengers are on a Scenic Cruise ship?
Scenic’s river cruise ships generally accommodate between 150 and 180 passengers, offering a more intimate and personalized experience compared to larger ocean liners.