Amsterdam Canal Cruise
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Port
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Activity Level
Easy Activity
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Excursion Type
Information Not Currently Available
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$120
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 1½ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
17th-Century Canal Ring Area of Amsterdam Inside the Singelgracht
The historic urban ensemble of the canal district of Amsterdam was a project for a new 'port city' built at the end of the 16th and beginning of the 17th centuries. It comprises a network of canals to the west and south of the historic old town and the medieval port that encircled the old town and was accompanied by the repositioning inland of the city's fortified boundaries, the Singelgracht. This was a long-term program that involved extending the city by draining the swampland, using a system of canals in concentric arcs and filling in the intermediate spaces. These spaces allowed the development of a homogeneous urban ensemble including gabled houses and numerous monuments. This urban extension was the largest and most homogeneous of its time. It was a model of large-scale town planning, and served as a reference throughout the world until the 19th century.
Amsterdam has always had strong ties to the water. Spread out over 70 islands, this cosmopolitan city boasts 60 miles of canals and 1,000 bridges. As early as the 13th century, tiny ships sailed from this port into the challenging Zuider Sea. In the 15th century, Amsterdam became a major trading center. Today, is most famous for its narrow, gabled houses lining the canals.
Board a glass-topped canal boat at the cruise terminal for a 1.5-hour ride through Amsterdam's canals passing major monuments such as the Maritime Museum, the Town Hall. You will view the city center from a completely different angle and glide past corners built in the Middle Ages where, nowadays, passage by regular transport is logistically impossible. Lined with numerous trees and monumental buildings, the famous crescent-shaped Herengracht, Keizergracht and Prinsengracht Canals provide the setting for your leisurely cruise. Although many canal houses have now been converted into offices, shops and restaurants, there are still many functioning as private residences.
During the canal boat ride, you'll have the opportunity to sip some wine, beer or soft drinks as you sample Dutch cheese and crackers .
Please note: Tour does not operate on holidays. Canal boats are not wheelchair accessible. Not advisable for guests using a wheelchair or for those with mobility limitations.