How many guests can fit on a wedding boat in Amsterdam?

  • Thomas van Loon
  • 🕐 6 min leestijd

A wedding on the water in Amsterdam: it doesn’t get much more romantic than that. But before you start dreaming about champagne on the canals and a captain steering you through the city, there’s one practical question you’ll want to answer first. How many guests can actually fit on a wedding boat in Amsterdam? And what else goes into planning such a special day? In this article, we cover everything you need to know, from capacity and costs to routes and what to look out for when booking.

How many people can fit on a wedding boat in Amsterdam?

The capacity of a wedding boat in Amsterdam depends largely on the type of vessel you choose. On Amsterdam’s narrow canals, a practical limit applies: boats are allowed to carry a maximum of 60 people. If you want to accommodate a larger group, bigger vessels are available that can carry up to 150 people, though these sail on the IJ, the Amstel, or in the wider Amsterdam region.

Expecting an intimate group of 20 to 40 guests? A classic salon boat is a perfect fit. Planning a large celebration with more than 100 guests? Then you’ll need a bigger vessel, or you can combine multiple boats. It’s wise to think about your guest list early in the planning process, so you can choose the right boat and avoid any surprises down the line.

We are one of the few boat operators in Amsterdam with vessels large enough for a full wedding. Most companies only offer dinghies or small salon boats, making large weddings simply impossible. With us, they’re not.

What types of wedding boats are available in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam has a varied offering when it comes to getting married on a boat in Amsterdam. The most common types are:

  • Salon boats: The classic choice for a wedding. Atmospheric, elegant, and perfect for groups of 20 to 60 people on the canals.
  • Trekschuiten: An authentic Dutch vessel with an open or covered deck, ideal for a relaxed and convivial wedding celebration.
  • City tenders: Compact, stylish boats for smaller groups, perfect for an intimate wedding ceremony or after-party.
  • Large event boats: For weddings with more than 60 guests, suitable for the IJ or the Amstel.

All boats are electrically powered, which means the only sound you’ll hear during your cruise is the gentle lapping of the water. No engine noise, no exhaust fumes. Just Amsterdam at its finest, surrounded by the people you love.

How much does it cost to rent a boat for a wedding in Amsterdam?

The cost of hiring a wedding boat in Amsterdam varies depending on the type of boat, the duration of the cruise, the number of guests, and the package you choose. As a general guideline, the following price indications apply (based on approximately 50 people):

  • Drinks cruise (1.5 to 2 hours): from approximately €50 to €60 per person
  • High tea cruise (2 hours): from approximately €75 to €80 per person
  • Walking dinner (3 hours): from approximately €110 to €120 per person
  • Three-course dinner (3 to 4 hours): from approximately €120 to €130 per person

Want to know what’s possible for your specific situation? Check out our packages for cruises and events for a complete overview of what we offer.

Keep in mind that the price per person decreases with larger groups. And don’t forget: everything is inclusive of captain and crew. You don’t have to worry about a thing.

What route does a wedding boat take through Amsterdam?

One of the most beautiful aspects of a wedding cruise in Amsterdam is that the city itself serves as the backdrop. Our captains know Amsterdam inside and out and know exactly which routes are the most impressive. Popular highlights of a wedding route include:

  • The Prinsengracht, Keizersgracht, and Herengracht (the famous canal ring)
  • The Amstel Hotel and the Magere Brug, one of the most romantic spots in the city
  • The IJ, with views of Central Station and the modern skyline of Amsterdam-Noord
  • The Amstel, for a quieter and greener stretch of water

For larger weddings or couples looking for something truly special, it’s also possible to venture further into the surrounding region. Think of a cruise toward Volendam, the Zaanse Schans, or the IJsselmeer. Our larger vessels cover a wider sailing area than most Amsterdam boat operators, giving you the freedom to choose a unique route that truly suits you as a couple.

What are the benefits of getting married on a boat in Amsterdam?

Why are more and more couples choosing a salon boat for their wedding in Amsterdam? Here are a few compelling reasons:

  • Exclusivity: The boat is entirely yours. No other guests, no shared spaces. It’s your day, your boat.
  • A unique setting: Amsterdam on the water is simply stunning. No event venue can compete with the canals as a backdrop.
  • All in one: Transportation, catering, and venue are all combined. No need to shuttle between the ceremony and the reception.
  • Atmosphere: On a boat, everyone is close together. That naturally creates a warm, connected atmosphere among your guests.
  • Flexibility: From an intimate drinks reception to a full sit-down dinner, anything is possible on board.

What should you look out for when booking a wedding boat in Amsterdam?

Booking a wedding boat takes some preparation. Here are the most important things to keep in mind:

  • Book early: Popular dates in summer and spring fill up quickly. Especially for weddings, the earlier the better.
  • Check the capacity: Make sure you know how many guests you’re expecting before choosing a boat. Too cramped is uncomfortable, but a half-empty boat doesn’t feel great either.
  • Ask about all-inclusive options: Choosing a package that includes catering, drinks, and crew will save you a lot of stress.
  • Consider accessibility: Unfortunately, boats are not wheelchair accessible. Keep this in mind if any of your guests have limited mobility.
  • Discuss the route: Have specific wishes for the route, or want to stop at a particular location? Discuss this in advance with the boat operator.

If you’re looking to rent a salon boat in Amsterdam for your wedding, it’s also worth asking whether the operator has experience with wedding events. That makes a significant difference in how smoothly everything runs on the day itself.

How Rederij de Nederlanden helps with your wedding boat in Amsterdam

At Rederij de Nederlanden, we know better than anyone how special a wedding on the water can be. We’d love to help you make that day perfect, from your very first question to the final toast on board. Here’s what we take care of for you:

  • A diverse fleet of salon boats, trekschuiten, and larger event vessels, suitable for 12 to 150 people
  • All-inclusive packages with on-board catering, ranging from drinks and snacks and high tea to a full three-course dinner
  • An experienced captain and hostess, so you can simply enjoy the day
  • Custom routes through the Amsterdam canals, across the IJ, along the Amstel, or even into the surrounding region
  • Personal advice to help you find the perfect boat and package for your wishes and budget

We are one of the few boat operators in Amsterdam with vessels large enough for a complete wedding. Get to know us better and discover why so many couples choose us. Ready to start planning your wedding day on the water? Send us a no-obligation inquiry and we’ll be happy to think it through with you.

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