Amsterdam Light Festival christmas cruise 

Does Amsterdam Light Festival take place during Christmas?

Yes. Amsterdam Light Festival runs throughout the Christmas period. The 2026–2027 edition takes place from 26 November 2026 until 17 January 2027.

What time are the Amsterdam Light Festival artworks illuminated at Christmas?

The artworks are illuminated daily from 16:30 until 23:00 during the festival period.

Can I take an Amsterdam Christmas canal cruise during the Light Festival?

Yes. Our cruises operate throughout the festival period, including Christmas. You can choose a shared ticket cruise or book an entire boat privately.

How long is the shared Christmas Light Festival cruise?

Our shared cruise takes approximately 75 minutes. Heavy canal traffic can occasionally add up to approximately 15 minutes to the journey.

How much does an Amsterdam Christmas Light Festival cruise cost?

Shared tickets start from €29 per person. Private cruise prices depend on the boat, duration, group size and any food or drinks you add.

What is included with a shared Christmas cruise ticket?

Your ticket includes a 75-minute guided cruise and table bites. Drinks depend on your selected ticket option, ranging from drinks available for purchase to an open bar and Prosecco option.

Is glühwein available on board?

Yes. We offer hot glühwein while stocks last during the winter period.

Are the boats decorated for Christmas?

Yes. During the festive season, our boats are decorated by us with lights and Christmas ornaments to create a warm seasonal atmosphere.

Are the boats covered and heated?

Yes. Our boats are covered and heated with regular and infrared heating, making them suitable for Amsterdam’s winter weather.

Do the boats have toilets?

Yes. Our Amsterdam Light Festival boats have toilet facilities on board.

Can we book a private Christmas cruise?

Yes. You can charter an entire boat for your own Christmas gathering, with options for drinks, catering and a flexible boarding location.

Are Christmas cruise packages available?

Yes. For private groups of 15 or more guests, we offer packages combining the boat with catering and optional drinks.

Can we have Christmas dinner on board?

Private groups can choose from various catering options, including bites, buffets and dining arrangements, depending on the selected boat and group size.

Where does the shared Christmas cruise depart from?

Shared cruises depart from Singel 359 in central Amsterdam.

Can a private Christmas cruise pick us up near our hotel?

Potentially, yes. Private cruises have access to 150+ boarding locations across Amsterdam, subject to the accessibility of your selected vessel.

How far in advance should I book a Christmas cruise?

Christmas is one of the busiest periods of Amsterdam Light Festival. We recommend booking at least three weeks in advance, and earlier for larger private groups or if you require a specific boat and departure time.

Does the cruise operate if it rains or snows?

Yes. Cruises normally operate in rain, snow and cold weather because our vessels are covered and heated. Cruises are only cancelled when conditions make sailing unsafe.

Is an Amsterdam Christmas Light Festival cruise suitable for couples?

Yes. The illuminated canals, Christmas atmosphere and warm historic boats make it particularly suitable for a romantic Christmas date in Amsterdam. Couples can choose shared tickets or book a private boat.

Is it suitable for families with children?

Yes. Families are welcome aboard our shared and private cruises. Children aged 2 and younger can join our shared cruise free of charge.

Can we organise a company Christmas cruise?

Yes. For companies, teams and client events, we offer dedicated Amsterdam Light Festival Corporate Cruises with private boats, drinks, catering and flexible boarding locations.