There are various river cruises that start from Amsterdam. You can choose river cruises where you will see the skyline of Amsterdam on a Panorama deck boat, you can choose for a Harbour cruise or a cruise that goes along the Amstel River. Do you like to know more about the different river cruises starting in Amsterdam? Read the blog and find out.
The blog in short:
- River cruises with style, starting right in the city
- Travel options that make life easier for seniors
- Scenic, modern routes worth posting about (even if you won’t)
Amsterdam departures: where can you go?
Plenty of people assume cruises start in southern ports. Truth is, Amsterdam’s one of Europe’s strongest river cruise hubs. With direct access to the IJ and the Rhine, you’ll find trips heading out daily—north, south, and everything in between.
Some routes linger in the Netherlands, showing off spring tulips and canal towns. Others wind through Belgium and Germany, hitting historic cities like Cologne or Strasbourg. Expect variety. Expect options. And expect smooth boarding, right in the city.
Why cruises from Amsterdam are different
Start with the city itself. Your view from the ship? Gabled roofs, canal boats, streetlights reflecting in the water. And then—before you know it—you’re drifting past farmland and windmills.
What are the real benefits of a river cruise in Amsterdam?
There’s something deeply satisfying about seeing Amsterdam from the water—especially when you’re doing it without the crowds, the stoplights, or the stress. A river cruise offers a smooth, slow-paced way to experience the city’s highlights, with none of the hassle. Other benefits are:
- Discover famous hotspots without setting foot on a map
- Enjoy panoramic views of Amsterdam’s skyline from the river
- Learn more through live commentary or guides on board
- Relax in comfort with food, drinks, and plenty of photo moments
Not all cruises are created equal
Some come with suites and silverware. Others keep it simple but smart. There are routes designed around slower days and minimal transfers—ideal for seniors. There are younger crowds and more budget-conscious lines.
What’s worth checking before you book?
Think about what matters to you onboard. Before booking, consider the following points and think about what matters most to you on board the river cruise. For example, on what time do you like to go on the tour? Take a look at the following criteria you should thing about before attending the cruise:
| Topic | Tip |
|---|---|
| Daylight | Go for a balcony or at least choose a window cabin. |
| Working remotely | Check the reviews to make sure the Wi-Fi quality is good. |
| Highlights | Check beforehand which highlights you’d like to see. |
| Departure point | Confirm which location in Amsterdam you’ll be departing from. |
The booking bit doesn’t need to be a headache
At Amsterdam Boat Cruises you can look at different river cruises and easily book one upfront. That said, don’t rush it. Read the traveler comments, double-check what’s not included, and book ahead if you care about cabin location.
So why do people keep picking Amsterdam?
Cruising from here just makes sense. The logistics are solid, the options are wide, and the vibe is amazing. It is a city that knows how to send you off in style.
At Amsterdam Boat Cruises, we’ve got several river cruises ready for you to explore. Want to start from here and see where the river takes you? Reserve your seat on our site. Questions? Contact our team—we’ll help you find something that actually fits your day out.
