Top Netherlands Canal Cruises - page 5

I cannot overstate how amazing this canal cruise was. It was worth every penny. Don't do the 15 euro cruises with 100 people on them. Captain Sebi's boat seats 10 folks max and it's such a delightful intimate experience. His boat has a cover so you can still take your tour if it's raining and there is a delightful outdoor deck you can sit on when the weather is nice. When I was planning my trip to Amsterdam, I was like "ugh, are these canal tours even worth it they seem really touristy and basic." A friend of mine told me that a) yes I absolutely have to but b) find a tour that seats no more than a dozen folks. I am SO glad I listened to her! With the smaller group, Captain Sebi has the GOOD booze (nice wine, high end local gin and Jenever) and Danish snacks (that he picks up freshly made from his cousin's restaurant). Captain Sebi was born and raised in The Netherlands and has lived in Amsterdam for decades. He has wonderful stories and his smaller boat allows you to go down the smaller canals in the extremely cute residential neighborhoods. I'll also note that as an American, the 80 euro price point ensures your fellow cruisers are more sophisticated travelers who are excited to be in Amsterdam for more than just the red light district. You're not going to get croc-wearing weirdos who complain about things being "different from America." My group was a fantastic group of folks who I genuinely enjoyed spending time with. One of the couples on the tour actually went TWICE they liked it so much and I nearly went again later in the week with coworkers who came in for a conference (the timing just didn't work out). Truly - do not do any other canal tour other than Olivier's and Captain Sebi's. You will not regret it and if I visit Amsterdam again, I'm booking his tour again!