Amsterdam’s Canal Cruises Rank Among World’s Best Experiences

Amsterdam’s famous canal cruises have been named one of the top 10 best travel experiences in the world by TripAdvisor. The “All-Inclusive Amsterdam Canal Cruise by Captain Jack” came in 3rd place on the prestigious Travellers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best list. This shows how much visitors love taking a leisurely boat ride along Amsterdam’s picturesque canals to see the historic buildings and charming bridges.
Last year, nearly 10 million people stayed overnight in Amsterdam, more than before the pandemic. The city’s tourism industry is thriving, with the canal cruises being a major draw for travellers. These iconic boat tours offer a quintessentially Dutch experience, immersing visitors in the beauty and history of Amsterdam’s famous waterways.
The canal cruises take passengers on a relaxing journey through the city’s heart, gliding past the iconic gabled houses, bridges, and landmarks that have made Amsterdam such a beloved destination. Cruisers can admire the city’s stunning 17th-century architecture, snap photos of the charming houseboats lining the canals, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this unique European capital.
However, this huge influx of tourists has also created challenges for Amsterdam. Mayor Femke Halsema is grappling with managing the impact on the city’s infrastructure and resources. For example, Halsema has capped the number of cruise ships allowed to dock and discouraged certain types of tourism like stag parties and guided tours of the red-light district.
Despite these efforts, Amsterdam remains one of the most visited cities in the world. The city’s liberal policies still draw many foreigners to cannabis and sex work, which have become a major part of Amsterdam’s reputation. Halsema acknowledges it is complex to balance Amsterdam’s identity as a tolerant city and deal with the downsides of mass tourism.

As the city continues to attract visitors from everywhere, its canal cruises stand out as a beloved experience that showcases Amsterdam’s unique charm and heritage. The TripAdvisor ranking serves as a testament to the lasting appeal of this classic Dutch activity that allows travellers to immerse themselves in the beauty and history of Amsterdam’s famous waterways.
The canal cruises offer a leisurely and picturesque way to explore the city, with many tour operators providing informative commentary about the sights and history. Visitors can choose from a variety of cruise options, from intimate small-group tours to larger vessels that accommodate more passengers.
Many canal cruise companies also offer additional experiences, such as dinner or cocktail cruises, allowing travellers to combine their sightseeing with dining or drinks while taking in stunning views. These added amenities have further cemented the canal cruises as a must-do activity for anyone visiting Amsterdam.
Despite the challenges of managing tourism, Amsterdam’s canal cruises remain a beloved and iconic part of the city’s identity. The TripAdvisor recognition is a testament to the enduring appeal of this quintessential Dutch experience, which continues to draw visitors from around the world who want to immerse themselves in the beauty and history of Amsterdam’s famous waterways.