A high tea on a wedding boat in Amsterdam might sound like something out of a movie, but it’s entirely possible. In fact, it’s one of the most memorable ways to celebrate your wedding day or engagement. Gliding along the Amsterdam canals, surrounded by your loved ones, with a table full of sandwiches, scones, and petit fours — now that’s an afternoon you’ll never forget.
In this article, we’ll explain exactly how a high tea on a wedding boat works, what you can expect, and how to organize it. From the guest list to the costs: we cover everything.
What exactly is a high tea on a wedding boat?
A high tea on a wedding boat combines two things that are each wonderful on their own: the elegance of a classic high tea and the experience of sailing along the Amsterdam canals. During a cruise of approximately two hours, you and your guests enjoy a full high tea arrangement while Amsterdam slowly drifts past.
This is not a standard canal tour with a tray of snacks. A genuine high tea boat in Amsterdam offers a fully catered table with savory bites, sweet pastries, scones, small sandwiches, and tea. Everything is served on board while you sail. It’s a private experience — no other guests on board, just your group.
Can a salon boat in Amsterdam host a high tea on board?
Yes, and renting a salon boat in Amsterdam is actually the perfect choice for a high tea arrangement. A salon boat has a charming, covered interior with tables, chairs, and windows on all sides. That makes it ideal for a high tea: you sit in comfort, enjoy views of the canals, and don’t have to worry about the weather.
Salon boats are also the most classic choice for a wedding boat in Amsterdam. They have a timeless look that suits a wedding or engagement perfectly. We are one of the few boat operators in Amsterdam with vessels large enough for a full wedding or a large high tea group, while most operators only offer smaller rowboats or compact salon boats.
What’s included in a high tea arrangement on a wedding boat?
A good high tea arrangement on a boat consists of several components. Here’s what you can typically expect:
- Savory tier: small sandwiches, quiches, bitterballen, or other savory bites
- Sweet tier: scones with clotted cream and jam, petit fours, pastries, and cookies
- Drinks: a selection of teas, coffee, and optionally a welcome drink such as prosecco or a non-alcoholic alternative
- On-board service: a host or hostess to serve you throughout the cruise
- Captain: always included, so you don’t have to think about a thing
For a wedding high tea in Amsterdam, it’s also possible to personalize the arrangement further. Think of a wedding cake on board, flowers on the table, or a specific theme that matches your wedding style. Simply share your wishes in advance and we’ll make sure everything is just right.
How many people can join a high tea on a boat?
This depends on the boat you choose. On the Amsterdam canals, our boats can accommodate up to around 60 people per vessel. For smaller groups, such as an intimate high tea for 10 to 20 guests, a smaller salon boat is ideal. For larger groups of 40 to 60 people, a more spacious boat is the right choice.
Have a larger group? It’s possible to combine multiple boats so that everyone sails at the same time. Also take a look at our arrangements for an overview of what’s available per group size.
How do you plan a high tea on a wedding boat in Amsterdam?
Planning a high tea on a boat is easier than you might think. Here are the steps involved:
- Choose your date and group size. Keep popular periods in mind, such as spring and summer. In 2026, Saturdays in May and June fill up quickly.
- Select your arrangement. Do you want a pure high tea arrangement, or would you like to combine it with a welcome drink or even a dinner afterward?
- Share your preferences. Do you have dietary requirements, a specific theme, or extra decorations in mind? Let us know in good time.
- Confirm your booking. After discussing all the details, you’ll receive a quote and can finalize your reservation.
- Enjoy the day itself. Everything is taken care of: the boat, the captain, the food, and the service. All you have to do is enjoy.
A wedding canal cruise in Amsterdam or a high tea for an engagement or anniversary requires advance planning. We recommend booking at least four to six weeks ahead, especially during peak season.
What does a high tea arrangement on a wedding boat in Amsterdam cost?
The cost of a high tea boat in Amsterdam depends on your group size, the duration of the cruise, and the options you choose. As a guideline: a high tea cruise averages between €75 and €80 per person for a cruise of approximately two hours, including the full arrangement and on-board service.
Below is an overview of the most popular arrangements:
| Arrangement | Duration | Price per person (estimate) |
|---|---|---|
| High tea cruise | 2 hours | €75 to €80 |
| Drinks cruise | 1.5 to 2 hours | €50 to €60 |
| Three-course dinner | 3 to 4 hours | €120 to €130 |
Prices are based on a group of approximately 50 people. For smaller groups, the price per person may be slightly higher. Looking for a fully customized arrangement? Get in touch for a personal quote.
How Rederij de Nederlanden can help with a high tea on a wedding boat
Rederij de Nederlanden provides complete high tea arrangements on board our classic salon boats along the Amsterdam canals. Whether you’re looking for an intimate wedding boat in Amsterdam for a small group or want to treat a larger party, we take care of everything from start to finish.
- Fully private arrangement: no other guests on board
- Dedicated captain and host or hostess included
- High tea arrangement including savory and sweet dishes, tea, and coffee
- Option to personalize: theme, decorations, dietary requirements
- Capacity of 10 to 60 people per boat on the canals
- Electrically powered boats for a quiet, relaxed experience
Learn more about who we are and discover why so many couples and families choose a high tea on the water. Ready to book or would you like to receive a quote first? Send us a request and we’ll get back to you promptly.