Getting married in Amsterdam is already something special — but getting married on the water? That takes it to a whole new level. More and more couples are deliberately choosing a wedding on a boat in Amsterdam in 2026, and for good reason. The water creates a unique atmosphere that no banquet hall in the world can match. In this article, we explain why this trend is growing so strongly, what to expect in terms of costs and capacity, and how to plan such a day step by step.
Why are more and more couples choosing to get married on a boat?
The classic wedding venue — a castle or a restaurant — is beautiful, but many couples want something that truly stays with them. A wedding on the water in Amsterdam offers exactly that: a backdrop that constantly changes, the scent of the canals, the soft sound of lapping water, and Amsterdam’s iconic canal houses as the scenery. No two cruises are ever the same.
On top of that, a boat creates a natural sense of intimacy. Your guests are literally close together — there’s no large hall where people drift off into separate groups. Everyone is present, engaged, and near one another. That makes the atmosphere warmer and more personal than at most fixed venues. And it’s simply an unforgettable story to tell for years to come.
What are the advantages of a wedding on the water in Amsterdam?
There are several reasons why a wedding boat in Amsterdam has become so popular:
- Unique setting: Amsterdam from the water is breathtakingly beautiful, especially in the evening light or in spring.
- Private and exclusive: The boat is entirely yours. No other guests, no shared spaces, no strangers walking through your celebration.
- Everything in one place: The ceremony, dinner, drinks, and dancing can all take place on board.
- Electric and quiet: Our boats run on electric power, which means no engine noise — you can talk, laugh, and toast without raising your voice.
- Flexible program: From an intimate lunch to an elaborate multi-course dinner, anything is possible.
An added bonus: transportation is no issue. Your guests board at a single location and don’t have to worry about a thing. No parking hassles, no arranging taxis. Just step on board and enjoy.
How many guests can join a wedding boat in Amsterdam?
This is one of the most frequently asked questions, and the answer depends on the boat you choose. On Amsterdam’s canals, the maximum is 60 people per boat. Planning a larger wedding? We can combine multiple boats so that everyone still travels together and the day feels like one big celebration.
For weddings with more than 60 guests, we deploy larger vessels that sail outside the canals — for example, across the IJ or toward the IJmeer. These ships accommodate up to 150 people. We are one of the few shipping companies in Amsterdam with boats large enough for a full wedding, while most operators only offer small canal boats or salon boats. That makes a significant difference when you have a larger group.
Want to find out which boat best suits your group? Take a look at our options for getting married on a boat in Amsterdam for a first impression of what’s available.
How much does it cost to get married on a boat in Amsterdam?
The cost of renting a boat for a wedding in Amsterdam depends on several factors: group size, the package, the duration of the cruise, and any extras such as entertainment or a specific menu. Below is a general overview based on our packages:
- Drinks cruise: approximately €50 to €60 per person, duration 1.5 to 2 hours
- High tea cruise: approximately €75 to €80 per person, duration 2 hours
- Walking dinner on board: approximately €110 to €120 per person, duration 3 hours
- Three-course dinner: approximately €120 to €130 per person, duration 3 to 4 hours
Prices are indicative and based on 50 people; they may vary depending on your specific wishes. For a wedding, we recommend getting in touch for a custom quote so you have a clear picture of the total cost.
How do you plan a wedding on a boat, step by step?
Planning a wedding on the water doesn’t have to be any more complicated than planning a regular wedding. Here’s a practical approach:
- Set the date and group size: Popular months are April through June and September through October. Book as early as possible — the best dates fill up quickly.
- Choose the type of boat: Salon boat, city tender, or a larger vessel? This depends on your style and the number of guests.
- Put together the program: Just dinner, or also drinks beforehand and a party afterward? Would you like live music on board?
- Arrange the officiant: If you want to officially marry on the water, check with the City of Amsterdam whether this is possible at your desired location.
- Choose your package: Browse our wedding on the water packages to see which catering style suits you best.
- Confirm and coordinate: Send out the invitations, designate a point of contact for the day itself, and leave the rest to us.
What packages are available for a wedding on the water?
For a wedding on the water in Amsterdam, there are several options to choose from. You can opt for a light afternoon celebration with high tea and sparkling wine, an extensive walking dinner where guests mingle and sample dishes, or a classic three-course dinner where everyone is seated as the city glides past. Anything is possible — and everything is completely private: the boat is exclusively for your group.
Popular add-ons for weddings include:
- Live music or a DJ on board
- Decorations and flowers of your choice
- A welcome drink upon boarding
- A photographer joining the cruise
- A customized route, for example past your favorite spot in Amsterdam
The combination of a unique setting, exclusivity, and the freedom to tailor everything to your own taste makes a wedding boat in Amsterdam one of the most personal wedding venues there is.
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. We take care of everything from start to finish, so that on the day itself you don’t have to think about a thing.
- Our own fleet with boats for 12 to 150 people, suitable for both small and large weddings
- One of the few shipping companies in Amsterdam with boats large enough for a complete wedding
- Fully private: no other guests on board — the boat is exclusively yours
- All-inclusive packages including skipper, host or hostess, catering, and drinks
- Electric, quiet boats for a relaxed and atmospheric experience
- Fully customizable: from the route to the menu to the decorations
- More than 10 years of experience with special occasions on Amsterdam’s waterways
Want to find out what we can do for your wedding? Read more about who we are and how we work, or get started right away and send us a no-obligation inquiry. We’d love to work with you to make the most beautiful day of your lives even more unforgettable.