How do you combine catering and a drinks cruise in Amsterdam?

  • Thomas van Loon
  • 🕐 6 min leestijd

Combining a drinks boat with catering in Amsterdam starts with choosing the type of catering that suits your group and occasion, then planning it together with the boat operator. Think appetizers, a walking dinner, or a served sit-down meal — all possible on board. Below, we answer the most frequently asked questions about drinks boats with catering in Amsterdam, so you know exactly what to expect and how to arrange it.

What catering options are available on a drinks boat?

On a drinks boat in Amsterdam, the catering options are more varied than most people expect. From classic appetizers and cheese boards to a walking dinner or a fully served three-course meal — almost anything is possible on board, depending on the duration of the cruise and the size of your group.

The most popular catering formats for a drinks boat are:

  • Appetizers and snacks – ideal for a 1.5 to 2-hour cruise, light and sociable
  • Walking dinner – small dishes eaten standing up, perfect for an informal atmosphere
  • On-board buffet – self-service, works well for larger groups
  • Served dinner – for more formal occasions, with courses served at the table
  • High tea – popular for afternoon cruises, with savory and sweet bites
  • On-board barbecue – a real experience during the summer months

Drinks are included in most packages or can easily be added. Options typically include wine, beer, soft drinks, and non-alcoholic alternatives. Keep in mind that catering is always tailored to the space available on board — a boat has different logistical requirements than a fixed venue.

How does arranging catering for a boat trip in Amsterdam work?

Catering for a boat trip in Amsterdam is arranged in consultation with the boat operator, not independently. The operator coordinates catering through established partners or handles it in-house, ensuring everything aligns seamlessly with the sailing schedule and the layout of the vessel. You don’t need to find a caterer yourself.

The process typically works as follows:

  1. Choosing your package – you indicate what type of drinks reception or dinner you have in mind
  2. Scaling to group size – the amount of catering is determined based on the number of guests
  3. Submitting dietary requirements – vegetarian, vegan, allergies: provide these well in advance
  4. Confirmation and planning – everything is confirmed in writing so the day itself runs smoothly

A practical advantage: because catering is part of the package, you have a single point of contact for the entire event. No separate invoices from three different suppliers, no miscommunication about timing. Everything goes through the boat operator.

How many people can fit on a drinks boat with catering?

A drinks boat in Amsterdam typically accommodates between 10 and 60 people, depending on the type of vessel. When serving catering on board, the practical limit on Amsterdam’s canals is around 60 people per boat. For larger groups, multiple boats can be combined.

A few guidelines by group size:

  • 10 to 30 people – smaller salon boat or city tender, plenty of space for appetizers or a walking dinner
  • 30 to 60 people – larger salon boat, suitable for a full dinner or an extensive buffet
  • 60 to 150+ people – larger vessels outside the canals, or multiple boats sailing together

Keep in mind that catering takes up space. A boat that can carry 60 people is more comfortable with a standing buffet than with a seated dinner. Always discuss this in advance so the operator can recommend the right vessel.

What is the difference between a drinks boat and a dinner cruise?

The main difference between a drinks boat and a dinner cruise in Amsterdam lies in the duration, the type of catering, and the overall atmosphere. A drinks boat typically lasts 1.5 to 2 hours and centers on snacks and drinks in an informal setting. A dinner cruise lasts 3 to 4 hours and includes a full multi-course meal.

In summary:

  • Drinks boat – 1.5 to 2 hours, appetizers, standing or seated, informal, lower cost per person
  • Dinner cruise – 3 to 4 hours, multiple courses, seated at the table, more formal, higher cost per person

For a company drinks reception after a meeting or conference, a drinks boat is often the better choice. Want to truly treat your team or celebrate a milestone? A dinner cruise is more fitting. Both options are private: the boat is exclusively reserved for your group, with no other guests on board.

When is a drinks boat with catering suitable for a corporate outing?

A drinks boat with catering is a great fit for a corporate outing in Amsterdam when you’re looking for an informal, connecting activity that naturally gets people talking to one another. On a boat, you’re literally in close quarters, which encourages more interaction than a fixed venue typically allows.

Situations where a drinks boat with catering works well:

  • Wrapping up a project or quarter
  • Welcome reception for new employees
  • Relationship management with clients or business partners
  • Team building for a department of 15 to 60 people
  • After-party following a conference or corporate event
  • Christmas drinks or end-of-year celebration

A drinks boat is less suitable when your program includes presentations, workshops, or extensive technical equipment. In those cases, a fixed venue is more practical. But for pure connection and a memorable experience, the boat is almost always the better choice.

What does a drinks boat with catering in Amsterdam cost?

A drinks boat with catering in Amsterdam costs on average between €50 and €60 per person for a group of around 50 people. This includes appetizers, drinks, a skipper, and use of the vessel for 1.5 to 2 hours. The exact price depends on group size, the type of catering, and the duration of the cruise.

Indicative prices per package (based on 50 people):

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

The larger the group, the more favorable the price per person tends to be. Always request a custom quote, as the final price is determined by your specific requirements.

How Rederij De Nederlanden helps with catering on a drinks boat

We provide private cruises in Amsterdam for groups of 10 to 150 people, including tailored catering. The boat is always exclusively reserved for your group — no other guests on board. What we offer:

  • Multiple catering formats – from appetizers and walking dinners to a fully served dinner or high tea
  • Completely taken care of – one point of contact for the boat, catering, drinks, and crew
  • Flexible group sizes – boats for 10 to 60 people on the canals, larger vessels for groups of 150+
  • Tailored to your needs – dietary requirements, timing, route, and program are fully customized to your wishes
  • Experience with corporate groups – we have been working with companies, MICE organizations, and event agencies for over 20 years

Want to learn more about who we are and how we work? Find out more on our about us page. Ready to plan your drinks boat? Request a no-obligation quote and we’ll be happy to help you find the perfect package.

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