Light Festival Amsterdam - discovery by boat
Enjoy the Amsterdam Light Festival boat tour on our classic and luxury private boat Undine, equipped with a minibar, integrated heating system, and double-pane windows to prevent fogging, ensuring clear views of the light installations in any weather. The cozy experience includes warm blankets for comfort during the cold winter months. Undine fits up to 8 passengers and features a professional skipper who guides you safely through the illuminated canals of Amsterdam along a curated 6.5-kilometer route showcasing over 20 international light artworks. This unique cruise offers a magical atmosphere with a stocked minibar serving Champagne, wine, beer, and soft drinks, making it perfect for families, couples, or groups celebrating special occasions. Whether admiring the spectacular light art or savoring the cozy ambiance, the private boat tour provides an unforgettable way to experience the Amsterdam Light Festival in comfort and style.
Introduction to the Light Festival Event
Every winter, the Amsterdam Light Festival transforms the city’s historic canals into a dazzling open air museum of light art. This year, the festival returns with the inspiring theme “Legacy,” inviting visitors to reflect on what we leave behind for future generations. As you glide through illuminated Amsterdam on a covered boat, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking display of 20 light artworks created by renowned international artists. Each light installation tells its own story, turning the city into a living gallery after dark. Whether you’re an art lover, a history enthusiast, or simply seeking a magical evening out, the Amsterdam Light Festival offers a unique way to experience the city. With an audio guide available on board, you’ll learn about the artists and their creations as you cruise past glowing bridges and shimmering quays. Choose from a variety of cruise options—many with drinks and snacks included—and discover why the Amsterdam Light Festival is one of the city’s most anticipated events of the year.
Amsterdam Light Festival boat tour PRIVATE
Classic boat Undine fits up to 8 passengers. For larger groups, please contact us for a bigger boat. Private boat tours can host up to 35 people and last about 2 hours, while standard festival tours last 75 to 90 minutes. Private boat hire starts around €399 for groups of 10 and does not require a license for self-skippered options, allowing you to enjoy your own boat experience. Undine is a narrow, historic luxury boat built in 1920. It easily navigates the narrow canals in the historic city center. A professional skipper is on board to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey through the illuminated canals. Explore the festival and take a short detour to the magical Point of 7 Bridges, where seven illuminated bridges form an amazing tunnel effect at night. The sailing route usually follows a 6.5-kilometer path along iconic canals like Herengracht and Prinsengracht. The festival is suitable for children and couples seeking a romantic activity. The boat is cozy and comfortable, with classic, high-end interiors and a well-stocked minibar. Celebrating something special? A cold bottle of Champagne is always ready to be served. There is also a selection of white and red wines, beers, and soft drinks available for purchase. Many private tours include drinks, enhancing the unique experience.
Compared to a regular cruise, the private Amsterdam Light Festival boat tour offers a unique experience, with special features such as a curated route, the option for your own boat, and the expertise of a dedicated skipper, making your festival sailing truly memorable.
One of the 20 light objects of the Light Festival 2022/2023
Light Art and Exhibits
The heart of the Amsterdam Light Festival lies in its extraordinary collection of light art and installations. Each year, international artists are invited to interpret the festival’s theme—this year, “Legacy”—through innovative and thought-provoking artworks. As you embark on a canal cruise, you’ll have a front-row seat to monumental structures that transform the city’s bridges and waterfronts, as well as more intimate pieces that invite quiet reflection. The light artworks are designed to spark conversation and wonder, offering new perspectives on Amsterdam’s rich history and vibrant present. With the open air experience of a canal cruise, you’ll enjoy unobstructed views of the illuminated city, while the onboard audio guide shares fascinating stories about the artists and their creative process. The Amsterdam Light Festival is more than just a visual spectacle—it’s a celebration of art, storytelling, and the enduring spirit of the city.
Dinner Cruise option during the Light Festival private boat tour
Saloon boat Undine comes also with an onboard minibar – serving you chilled organic white wines, beer (Heineken, Hertog Jan), as well as Champagne. But also soft drinks, coffee and tea are available for purchase during your private tour. Find here an overview of their drink menu.
On request, it is also possible to have a 2 or 3 course dinner on board and combine it with the Amsterdam Light Festival. You can order a la carte on board from restaurant Red (for the starter or desert) and Black (for the main course). We also have a vegan friendly dining option which is the Vegan Sushi Bar. For the ones preferring more fine dining, we recommend to choose for Van de Kaart. However, for the fine dining option we need to know your food choices beforehand and it can not be decided spontaneously ordered a la carte on board.
The dinner cruise option is especially popular during the winter months, when the heated and covered boat ensures a comfortable and cozy experience as you enjoy the illuminated cityscape. An expert host or guide is available on board to share local knowledge and stories about the light art installations and the city, making your Amsterdam Light Festival boat tour even more immersive.
In case you would like to have specialty non-alcoholic drinks (Kombucha, fresh juices etc.) the company is willing to try to accomodate also those special wishes upon request.
Logistics and Planning
Visiting the Amsterdam Light Festival is simple and convenient, with a range of cruise options and departure locations to suit every preference. Cruises set sail from Central Station and other key spots throughout the city, making it easy to join the festivities no matter where you’re staying. Choose between cozy covered saloon boats for a warm, comfortable ride, or opt for an open boat for a more immersive experience. Many cruises include drinks and snacks on board, so you can relax and enjoy the illuminated cityscape with friends or family. The festival runs from November 27th to January 18th, and tickets are in high demand—especially for popular dates like New Year’s Eve. To secure your preferred time and departure location, it’s best to book your tickets in advance. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a romantic evening, or a fun night with friends, the Amsterdam Light Festival offers a cruise suitable for every group and occasion.
How to book?
As an official partner of the Amsterdam Light Festival, we offer exclusive access to the event.
To book an Amsterdam light festival boat tour on Undine you can make a reservation via the following ways:
In case you wish to combine it with a dinner cruise, you would need to book at least a 2.5 hr tour (1 course) and select your preferred restaurant.
Book directly online via the reservation system
Use the Whatsapp button on the left corner to make your reservation or contact us via +31 6 390 510 68
Tickets for boat tours sell out quickly, particularly on weekends and holidays, so early booking is recommended. Departure locations for most tours include Central Station and near the Anne Frank House. To ensure a smooth boarding process, please arrive at the dock at least 20 minutes early.
You can also call us in case you need further assistance for choosing the right boat. We have also larger boats available and can also advise about the right boat for your needs and wishes.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
The Amsterdam Light Festival is truly a one-of-a-kind event, blending stunning light artworks, captivating installations, and the enchanting backdrop of illuminated Amsterdam. With its convenient location, variety of cruise options, and welcoming atmosphere, the festival is perfect for families, friends, and couples alike. The “Legacy” theme adds a thoughtful dimension, encouraging visitors to reflect on the impact of art and the stories we pass on to future generations. Don’t miss your chance to experience this unforgettable evening—book your tickets now and discover the magic of the Amsterdam Light Festival for yourself. Whether you’re admiring the glowing artworks from a warm, covered boat or strolling along the canals, you’ll be part of a celebration that lights up the city and leaves a lasting impression on all who visit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The festival runs annually from November 27th to January 18th, with the lights illuminated from Sunday to Tuesday between 5:00 PM and 10:00 PM, and from Wednesday to Saturday between 5:00 PM and 11:00 PM. During the Christmas holidays, the lights are on daily until 11:00 PM.
Our tours depart from convenient locations such as Central Station and near the Anne Frank House, making it easy to join the cruise from central points in Amsterdam.
Public canal cruises typically last between 75 to 90 minutes, while private boat tours can last approximately 2 hours, accommodating up to 35 people.
No, private boat hire options are available without requiring a boating license, allowing you to enjoy an Amsterdam Light Festival cruise on your own boat with an experienced skipper.
Yes, the boats used for the festival cruises are heated and covered, ensuring a warm and cozy experience even during the cold winter months.