{"id":43811,"date":"2026-07-14T14:56:08","date_gmt":"2026-07-14T14:56:08","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/denederlanden.com\/?post_type=kennisbank&p=43811"},"modified":"2026-07-14T15:45:48","modified_gmt":"2026-07-14T15:45:48","slug":"what-are-the-options-for-an-open-bar-on-a-drinks-boat-in-amsterdam","status":"publish","type":"kennisbank","link":"https:\/\/denederlanden.com\/en\/knowledgebase\/what-are-the-options-for-an-open-bar-on-a-drinks-boat-in-amsterdam\/","title":{"rendered":"What are the options for an open bar on a drinks cruise in Amsterdam?"},"content":{"rendered":"

On a drinks cruise in Amsterdam, you can choose from a variety of drink packages: from a consumption arrangement with tokens or a drinks package per table, to a full open bar where all drinks are included for a fixed price per person. Which option works best depends on your group size, budget, and the atmosphere you want to create. In this article, we answer the most frequently asked questions about drink packages on a drinks cruise in Amsterdam<\/a>.<\/p>\n

What drink packages are available on a drinks cruise?<\/h2>\n

On a drinks cruise in Amsterdam, there are generally three types of drink arrangements: a consumption package (you pay per drink or with tokens), a drinks package for a fixed duration, or a full open bar where all drinks are included throughout the cruise. Most private boats offer all of these options, depending on group size and the client’s preferences.<\/p>\n

With a consumption arrangement<\/strong>, everyone pays individually or costs are settled afterward. This is useful if you expect that not everyone will drink the same amount. A drinks package<\/strong> works with a set number of drinks per person \u2014 for example, beer, wine, and soft drinks for a set number of hours. An open bar<\/strong> goes one step further: for the entire duration of the cruise, all drinks are freely available at no additional cost.<\/p>\n

For corporate outings and group events, an open bar or drinks package is by far the most popular choice. It creates a relaxed atmosphere where no one has to think about costs, and it makes the logistics considerably easier for the organizer.<\/p>\n

How much does an open bar on a drinks cruise in Amsterdam cost?<\/h2>\n

The cost of an open bar on a drinks cruise in Amsterdam averages between \u20ac25 and \u20ac50 per person<\/strong> for a cruise of 1.5 to 2 hours. This amount is often part of an all-inclusive package, which also covers boat rental, a skipper, and any snacks. The exact price depends on group size, the duration of the cruise, and the selection of drinks available.<\/p>\n

A complete drinks cruise including an open bar, snacks, and a private boat quickly comes to \u20ac50 to \u20ac60 per person<\/strong> for a group of around 50 people. The larger the group, the more favorable the price per person tends to be. For smaller groups, the price may be slightly higher, as the fixed costs of the boat are spread across fewer people.<\/p>\n

If you want more than beer, wine, and soft drinks \u2014 such as cocktails, champagne, or a more extensive selection \u2014 most operators charge a supplement. It’s wise to discuss this in advance so there are no surprises on the day itself.<\/p>\n

What is the difference between an open bar and a consumption arrangement?<\/h2>\n

The key difference lies in how drinks are billed. With an open bar<\/strong>, you pay a fixed amount per person upfront and all drinks during the cruise are included. With a consumption arrangement<\/strong>, you pay per drink \u2014 either through tokens, a tally sheet, or a bill settled afterward.<\/p>\n

An open bar is ideal if you want to create a carefree atmosphere and don’t want guests to worry about costs. It’s also simpler to manage administratively: you know exactly what you’ll spend in advance. A consumption arrangement can work out cheaper if part of your group drinks little or no alcohol, but it requires more organization and can make the atmosphere feel slightly less relaxed.<\/p>\n

For corporate groups and company outings, an open bar or drinks package is almost always the better choice. It fits the all-inclusive approach where the organizer wants everything taken care of and guests can focus entirely on enjoying each other’s company.<\/p>\n

Can you combine non-alcoholic options with an open bar on a boat?<\/h2>\n

Yes, absolutely \u2014 and it’s actually standard practice on most drinks cruises in Amsterdam. An open bar typically always includes soft drinks, water, and juice alongside alcoholic beverages. On request, you can expand the selection to include non-alcoholic beer, non-alcoholic wine, or mocktails, so that non-drinkers can fully enjoy the experience as well.<\/p>\n

It’s a good idea to mention this at the time of booking so that there’s a sufficient non-alcoholic offering on board. Especially with larger corporate groups, it’s completely normal for some attendees not to drink alcohol, and a good operator will accommodate this without charging extra.<\/p>\n

If you want a fully alcohol-free arrangement \u2014 for example, for an international delegation or a specific audience \u2014 that’s possible too. You can opt for a drinks package without alcohol, focusing on quality soft drinks, coffee, and tea.<\/p>\n

How do you combine an open bar with snacks on a drinks cruise?<\/h2>\n

The most popular combination on a drinks cruise is an open bar paired with a selection of savory snacks. Think bitterballen, cheese, charcuterie, and other classic Dutch bar snacks served continuously throughout the cruise. This forms the foundation of a drinks cruise and is typically included as standard in most all-inclusive packages.<\/p>\n

If you want to take things further, you can upgrade the experience to a dinner cruise<\/a> or a walking dinner on board. Multiple courses are served while the boat is underway, transforming the cruise into a full culinary experience. The combination of food, drinks, and sailing creates an evening that guests will remember for a long time.<\/p>\n

For corporate outings, it’s also possible to organize a buffet on board or opt for a plated set menu. The boat is always exclusively reserved for your group, meaning you can tailor the layout and program entirely to your needs.<\/p>\n

What should you look out for when booking an open bar for a corporate outing on the water?<\/h2>\n

When booking an open bar for a corporate outing on the water, there are a few things you’ll want to get right. First: what exactly is included in the open bar?<\/strong> Always ask about the exact drink selection, the duration, and whether there is a maximum number of drinks per person. Some providers apply a soft cap or close the open bar half an hour before the end of the cruise.<\/p>\n

Second: how are non-alcoholic options and special dietary requirements handled?<\/strong> Make sure you communicate these in advance so there’s something on board for everyone. Third: is the price inclusive or exclusive of VAT?<\/strong> This is particularly relevant for corporate bookings and expense reporting.<\/p>\n

Other things to consider:<\/p>\n