Canal Ring (Grachtengordel)
Canal Cruises in Amsterdam · Amsterdam
The Grachtengordel is Amsterdam's ring of canals, laid out in the seventeenth century when the city expanded around its medieval core. Three main canals — Herengracht, Keizersgracht and Prinsengracht — curve around the centre in concentric half-circles, lined with merchants' houses, warehouses, bridges and houseboats. In 2010 UNESCO placed the canal ring on the World Heritage List. The easiest way to see it is from the water: a canal cruise passes under the bridges and along the gabled façades in about an hour, without any walking. This page brings together all our canal cruises through the ring, from the classic daytime round trip to evening cruises with food or drinks.
Tickets for Canal Ring (Grachtengordel)
Practical information
How to get there
The canal ring surrounds the old centre, so you are never far from it: the piers of the cruise companies lie along the main canals and near Central Station, Leidseplein and the museum quarter. Each ticket page names the exact departure point, with a map.
How long to plan
A classic round trip through the ring takes about an hour to 75 minutes; cruises with food or drinks take longer. The duration is stated on each ticket page.
What is included with our tickets
Our tickets are for the cruise itself; the canal ring is public space and free to walk at any time. What is included on board (a drink, snacks, a live guide or audio commentary) differs per cruise and is listed on the ticket page.
Tips
Evening cruises show the bridges and façades lit up; daytime cruises give the clearest view of the gables. For photos, choose a boat with an open deck or a glass roof. Arrive at the pier a little before departure — boats leave on time.
Frequently asked questions
How long is a canal cruise?
A classic round trip through the ring takes about an hour to 75 minutes. Cruises with dinner, drinks or a themed programme take longer; the exact duration is on each ticket page.
Where do canal cruises depart?
From piers along the ring and near Central Station, Leidseplein and the museum quarter. The departure point of each cruise is shown on its ticket page, with a map and the check-in time.
Is the canal ring free to visit?
Yes. The canals, bridges and quays are public space: walking or cycling along them costs nothing. You only pay for a boat trip or for a museum along the canals.