Getting married on a boat in Amsterdam sounds like a dream, but is it actually possible in winter? The short answer is: yes, absolutely. A winter wedding on the water has its own unique atmosphere that a summer wedding simply cannot match. Picture candlelight reflecting off the dark water, a boat filled with warmth and coziness, and an Amsterdam that feels quieter and more mysterious in the winter months than at any other time of year. In this article, we tell you everything you need to know about getting married on a boat in Amsterdam in winter.
Can you legally get married on a boat in Amsterdam?
This is the question most people ask first, and for good reason. In the Netherlands, it is legally possible to have an official wedding ceremony on a boat, but there are a few conditions to keep in mind.
The boat must be moored in Amsterdam during the ceremony. A sailing wedding where the registrar is on board while the boat is moving is, in most cases, not permitted. The official ceremony therefore takes place while you are stationary, after which you can set sail for the celebration. Some couples choose to hold the official ceremony elsewhere and use the boat for the reception, dinner, or party. This is entirely unrestricted and gives you the most flexibility.
Would you like the registrar to come on board? Contact the Municipality of Amsterdam well in advance to discuss the options. The planning process typically takes longer than people expect, especially during the more popular periods.
Is a winter wedding on a boat in Amsterdam possible?
Absolutely. And honestly, winter is one of the most underrated times of year for a wedding on a boat in Amsterdam. The summer crowds are gone, the canals are quieter, and the city takes on a completely different character. Add to that the Amsterdam Light Festival, which takes place every year from December through January, and you have a backdrop that is simply priceless.
The one thing to keep in mind is the cold — but that is easily taken care of. Winter boats are equipped with heated interior salons, ensuring your guests stay warm and comfortable. On our boats, guests can choose to stay inside or step outside to admire the wintry canals. The atmosphere on board in winter may actually be even cozier than in summer: everyone is gathered close together, lights are glowing, and the city glides past outside the windows.
What’s more, winter is often cheaper and more readily available for a wedding boat in Amsterdam than the summer months, when everyone wants to be on the water at the same time.
What type of boat is most suitable for a wedding?
The choice of boat depends largely on the size of your group and the atmosphere you want to create. For a wedding, there are broadly two options:
- Salon boat: classic, elegant, and perfect for intimate weddings of up to around 40 guests. Renting a salon boat in Amsterdam gives you a timeless look that pairs perfectly with a romantic winter wedding.
- Large event boat: suitable for larger groups. We are one of the few boat operators in Amsterdam with vessels large enough for a complete wedding, from ceremony to dinner and party. Most operators only offer dinghies or small salon boats, but our fleet accommodates larger groups without compromising on atmosphere or comfort.
All boats run on electric power, which means it is quiet and peaceful on board. No engine noise cutting through the speeches — just the soft sound of the water.
What does a wedding on a boat in Amsterdam cost?
The cost of renting a boat for a wedding in Amsterdam depends on several factors: the size of the boat, the number of guests, the duration of the cruise, and the package you choose. To give you a general idea:
- Drinks cruise (1.5 to 2 hours, snacks and drinks): approximately $50 to $60 per person
- High tea cruise (2 hours): approximately $75 to $80 per person
- Walking dinner on board (3 hours): approximately $110 to $120 per person
- Three-course dinner (3 to 4 hours): approximately $120 to $130 per person
These are estimated prices based on a group of around 50 people. The price adjusts for smaller or larger groups. Browse our packages for a complete overview of what is possible for a wedding on the water.
What route do you take during a winter wedding?
One of the most beautiful aspects of a winter wedding in Amsterdam on the water is the route. In winter — and especially during the Amsterdam Light Festival — the canals are illuminated with art installations and atmospheric lighting. Our skippers know the city like the back of their hand and know exactly which route offers the most stunning views.
Popular winter routes pass through the classic canal ring, along the Hotel de l’Europe, the Skinny Bridge, and Amsterdam’s illuminated canal bridges. For larger boats, it is also possible to sail across the IJ, with views of the Amsterdam skyline — a moment your guests will not soon forget.
How do you plan a boat wedding step by step?
A wedding on the water requires a little more preparation than a traditional venue, but it is certainly not complicated if you approach it the right way. Here is a handy step-by-step guide:
- Choose the date: select a date in consultation with the municipality if you want to officially marry on board. Allow for a longer lead time.
- Determine the number of guests: this will determine which boat is most suitable.
- Choose your package: just drinks, a full dinner, or a combination? Also consider entertainment on board.
- Book the boat: do this as early as possible, especially if you want to sail in December during the Amsterdam Light Festival. Popular weekends fill up quickly.
- Arrange the details: flowers, music, a photographer. Many of these vendors have experience with weddings on the water.
- Leave the rest to the boat operator: a good operator handles the skipper, food, drinks, and logistics — so you can simply enjoy the most beautiful day of your lives.
For a complete overview of what is possible on the water, you can also visit our page on getting married on a boat in Amsterdam.
How Rederij de Nederlanden helps you get married on a boat
At Rederij de Nederlanden, we understand that a wedding is one of the most important days of your lives. That is why we make sure every detail is taken care of, so all you have to do is enjoy it. Here is what we offer:
- A fleet of our own boats for groups of 12 to 175 people, including winter boats with heated interior salons
- Fully catered packages, from drinks cruises to served three-course dinners
- An experienced skipper and host on board to ensure everything runs smoothly
- Flexible routes through the Amsterdam canals, across the IJ, or along the illuminated artworks of the Amsterdam Light Festival
- Personal customization: no standard packages, but a wedding tailored to your wishes
- We are one of the few boat operators in Amsterdam with vessels large enough for a complete wedding, including dinner and party
Want to find out what is possible for your wedding on the water? Read more about who we are and what sets us apart, or submit a no-obligation inquiry right away. We would love to work with you to create the perfect winter wedding on the water.