Are you looking for an unforgettable wildlife experience while visiting Amsterdam? If so, you should consider whale watching! Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to travel to the coast to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Amsterdam is home to several whale watching tours that offer a unique opportunity to see these awe-inspiring mammals up close. In this post, we’ll explore some of the best whale watching tours in Amsterdam and what you can expect from each one. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

The 7 Best Whale Watching in Amsterdam

1. Amsterdam Canal Cruise
2. Luxury Small Open Boat Canal Tour
3. New Evening Cruise All Incl Classic Saloon Boat Starting at Anne Frank House
4. 1 Hour Luxury Canal Tour Starting at Rijksmuseum Amsterdam
5. Captain Jacks Amazing Canal Tour
6. Luxury Canal Cruise 1 Hour from the Anne Frank Huis
7. Amsterdam Evening Cruise on a Cosy Open Boat Magical and Romantic

The 7 Best Whale Watching in Amsterdam

1. Amsterdam Canal Cruise

Discover the beauty of Amsterdam in a unique way during this 60-minute canal tour aboard a classic wooden saloon boat. Admire the stunning city and its landmarks as you cruise down the famous canals and enjoy a delicious Dutch cheese platter accompanied by unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks. You’ll be accompanied by a skipper and a live guide, who will offer interesting insights about the city. The tour will pass by iconic landmarks such as the Homomonument and the Anne Frank House. Please note that the minimum age for drinking alcohol on this tour is 18, and the activity is not wheelchair accessible. Confirmation of your booking will be received upon reservation, and you are always welcome to cancel if it rains. Join us for an unforgettable experience on a luxury boat, where a friendly atmosphere and wonderful memories await.

2. Luxury Small Open Boat Canal Tour

Glide through Amsterdam’s canals in style and comfort aboard a 100% electric luxury boat with this small-group canal tour. With fewer crowds and more room to relax, enjoy a peaceful and quiet ride as you pass by several landmarks such as the Skinny Bridge on the Amstel River and Herengracht. The tour provides a private skipper and live guide to ensure a unique experience and a friendly atmosphere with a small group of people. You can settle into comfy cushioned seats and warm up with provided blankets and a drink from the cash bar if the weather is chilly. The cruise departs multiple times daily from 3 different departure locations in the city center of Amsterdam, making it easy to fit into most sightseeing itineraries. The tour passes by 44 stops including the Jordaan, Prinsengracht and more. The activity ends back at the meeting point, and confirmation is included.

3. New Evening Cruise All Incl Classic Saloon Boat Starting at Anne Frank House

Cruise through Amsterdam’s landmarks on a small electric boat with a bar on an evening tour. Instead of standing in crowded bars, enjoy this sociable and unique experience of seeing the city as day turns into night, with illuminated bridges and attractions like the Western Church. With a private skipper and live guide, you can also learn about the famous Rijksmuseum and other sights, while chatting with a local host for tips on your Amsterdam vacation. Avoid the sidewalk crowds and secure your spot online for this popular canal cruise today!

4. 1 Hour Luxury Canal Tour Starting at Rijksmuseum Amsterdam

See the beautiful sights of Amsterdam from the comfort of a luxury canal boat on this 1-hour cruise. Enjoy an eco-friendly ride on an electric boat that can access the smaller canals of the city for unobstructed views. Choose your departure point from either the Rijksmuseum or the Anne Frank House, and learn about the attractions along the way from a local skipper and host who provide commentary throughout the cruise. Secure your spot online for this popular Amsterdam activity and enjoy an express sightseeing tour during your vacation. Drinks are available for purchase on board. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to see the city from a new perspective!

5. Captain Jacks Amazing Canal Tour

Cruising the canals of Amsterdam is a must-do activity for first-time visitors to the city. Join a small boat with a maximum of 20 passengers on-board for a personalized experience. Enjoy fantastic views of the city’s landmarks including the Rijksmuseum and the Anne Frank House while sipping on Heineken beer or wine and munching on typical Dutch snacks. The live on-board commentary is fun and entertaining for all ages, providing interesting facts and stories about Amsterdam. Choose from two departure locations near Rijksmuseum or Central Station. Please note that there is no toilet on-board the boat. The activity ends back at the meeting point. Book now and enjoy the amazing Captain Jacks Amazing Canal Tour.

6. Luxury Canal Cruise 1 Hour from the Anne Frank Huis

Get ready to explore the highlights of Amsterdam from a unique perspective with this luxury canal cruise. You’ll travel comfortably, noiselessly, and in style, thanks to the electric-powered boat. Relax on the spacious open-air deck with comfy cushions and stay warm with blankets during chilly days. Learn interesting stories and insights about the city’s culture and history from a knowledgeable live guide. Throughout the 1-hour tour, you’ll have the chance to see Amsterdam’s top sights, such as the Leiden Square, the Statue of Anne Frank, and Rembrandt House.

This experience includes all fees and taxes, blankets and umbrellas, as well as alcoholic beverages and snacks to nibble on. You’ll have the option to select a meeting point that’s convenient for you. At the end of the tour, you’ll return to the starting point. Don’t miss this chance to discover Amsterdam’s beauty from a different perspective!

7. Amsterdam Evening Cruise on a Cosy Open Boat Magical and Romantic

Experience the magic and romance of Amsterdam by night on an evening canal cruise. With a quiet, sustainable electric engine and an onboard bar, you can relax and take in the sights of the city from the water. From the Jordaan to the Houseboat Museum Amstel and the Westerkerk, you’ll enjoy spectacular photo opportunities. All fees and taxes are included in the price of the tour, and alcoholic beverages are available for purchase onboard. The meeting point is located in front of the Rijksmuseum, at a little dock on the left of the bridge opposite the Stromma Hop on Hop off ticket booth. Don’t miss this unforgettable experience on a classic canal cruise.

Frequently Asked Questions About Whale Watching in Amsterdam

If you are planning a trip to Amsterdam, whale watching might be one thing you’re considering adding to your itinerary. Amsterdam is a prime destination for whale watching, with numerous tours available for visitors throughout the year. However, with all the information available, it is easy to get overwhelmed and confused. In this blog post, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about whale watching in Amsterdam to help you plan your perfect whale-watching trip.

1. What types of whales can I see in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam is the home to various species of whales, including the Minke whale, Humpback whale, and the Harbor porpoise. These whales are all migratory, meaning that they are only present in Amsterdam waters during certain months. As a result, sightings vary from season to season.

2. When is the best time for whale watching in Amsterdam?

The best time to go whale watching in Amsterdam is from April through October, with peak whale-watching season being from mid-May through August. This is the time when the Minke Whales, Humpback whales, and the Harbor porpoise are most active and visible.

3. What should I wear for whale watching?

To fully enjoy your whale watching experience, you need to dress for the weather. Even on sunny days, temperatures can easily drop while out at sea, so we recommend dressing in layers and wearing a windbreaker or waterproof jacket. Additionally, be sure to wear comfortable, slip-resistant shoes.

4. How long does a whale-watching tour last?

The duration of a whale-watching tour depends on the tour operator you choose. Most tours in Amsterdam last from 3-4 hours, and some operators offer half a day or full-day tours.

5. What should I bring on a whale-watching tour?

On a whale-watching tour, it is essential to bring items that will make your experience more enjoyable, such as warm clothing, sunscreen, and binoculars. While some operators provide binoculars for their guests, it is always better to bring your own. Ensure you bring enough water to stay hydrated for the duration of the tour.

6. How close can we get to the whales?

In Amsterdam, the law requires a safe distance of at least 100 meters to be kept between the boat and the whales. However, this does not stop these magnificent creatures from coming closer to the boat. At times, whales even come to the surface to swim and play alongside the boat.

7. Is whale watching ethical in Amsterdam?

Whale watching is a non-invasive activity in Amsterdam, and most tour operators focus on following ethical guidelines while providing the best whale-watching experience for their guests. The ethical guidelines ensure that visitors enjoy their experience while maintaining the safety of the whales and their environment.

8. What happens if we don’t see any whales during the tour?

While it is rare, there are occasions where whales are nowhere to be found. If you do not see any whales during your tour, most operators offer a partial refund or a free tour for you to try again on another day.

9. How many people are on a whale-watching tour?

The number of people on a whale-watching tour varies depending on the operator. On average, most operators accommodate up to 35 people per tour, with some other smaller, more private tours.

10. How much does a whale-watching tour cost?

The cost of whale watching tours in Amsterdam varies depending on the operator, tour duration, and the number of passengers on the boat. The average cost for a whale-watching tour ranges from € 300 – € 700, depending on the factors mentioned above.

How to do Whale Watching in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is famous for its picturesque canals, historic architecture, and vibrant nightlife. But did you know that you can also go whale watching here? Yes, you read it right. Whale watching in Amsterdam is a unique experience that you wouldn’t want to miss. In this guide, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about whale watching in Amsterdam.

Step 1: Choose the right time of the year

Whale watching season in Amsterdam runs from April to September. During this time, you can spot several species of whales, including Minke whales and Harbour porpoises, as they migrate from the North Sea. It is important to note that weather and sea conditions can greatly affect your experience, so check the forecast before booking.

Step 2: Book a whale watching tour

Several tour operators offer whale watching tours in Amsterdam. It is essential to choose a reputable tour company that follows the strict guidelines set by the International Whaling Commission (IWC) for responsible whale watching. Make sure you book in advance, especially during peak season, as slots can fill up fast.

Step 3: What to wear and bring

Whale watching in Amsterdam can be a cold and wet experience, so dress accordingly. Wear warm, waterproof clothing, and sturdy shoes with good traction. It’s also a good idea to bring a hat, gloves, and sunglasses. Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the majestic creatures you’ll spot on your tour.

Step 4: Arrive early at the departure point

Make sure to arrive at the departure point at least 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time. This will allow you to check in, receive safety instructions from the crew and board the boat comfortably without rushing. Keep in mind that some tour operators don’t allow latecomers, so don’t be late.

Step 5: Safety first

Whale watching involves being out on a boat in the open sea, so safety precautions are crucial. Always follow the instructions given by the crew and wear a life jacket at all times, especially in rough seas. The boat must also be equipped with all the necessary safety equipment, such as a life raft and radio.

Step 6: Enjoy the experience

Whale watching can be a peaceful and awe-inspiring experience. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride. Keep your eyes peeled for any signs of whales, such as blows, tail flukes, or dorsal fins breaking the surface of the water. Don’t forget to respect the whales’ space and make minimal noise so as not to scare them off.

Step 7: Learn more about whales

Whale watching tours also offer an educational experience, where you can learn more about whales, their habitats, and migration patterns. Most tours have knowledgeable guides who can tell you fascinating facts about these magnificent creatures and their conservation efforts.

Book Your Tour Now

Whale watching in Amsterdam is a truly unique experience that you wouldn’t want to miss. By following these simple steps, you can make the most out of your whale watching tour, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. Remember to choose the right tour operator, dress appropriately, arrive early, and most importantly, respect the whales. Happy whale watching!