Every winter, light artworks transform the canals. The best way to see them? From the water, on your own private boat.

A festival made for the water

Every winter the Amsterdam Light Festival brings artists from around the world to the city. Their light artworks are placed along the canals, on bridges and even above the water, turning the historic centre into an open-air gallery after dark.

Because so many works are designed to be seen from the water, a boat is the most natural way to experience the festival. You glide from artwork to artwork, see the reflections in the canals and enjoy the city in a completely different light.

Why go private instead of a tour boat

Festival evenings are busy. On a private salon boat you avoid the crowded tour boats and enjoy the artworks with only your own group. You can talk, toast and take photos at your own pace, while our skipper takes care of the route.

Only your own group on board
Heated cabin with large windows
Drinks, bites or dinner of your choice
A skipper who knows the city

Combine light art with drinks

The evening lights cruise is a natural fit for the festival: drinks and bites on board while you sail through the illuminated canals. A high wine cruise adds paired wines and savoury bites — perfect for a cold winter evening.

Or make it a dinner

For a truly memorable evening, choose a candlelight dinner cruise. You enjoy a multi-course dinner by candlelight while the light art passes by outside the windows. It is a favourite for anniversaries, client dinners and small celebrations.

Festival and New Year's drinks

The festival runs into January, so it combines perfectly with a New Year's reception on the water. Your guests toast the new year and see the city's light art along the way.

Tips for the best festival cruise

Festival evenings fill up quickly, so request your preferred date early. Weekday evenings are often quieter on the water. Dress warmly if you want to step out on deck for photos — inside, the cabin stays comfortably warm.