Cocktail cruise – Stromma

We’ve experienced Amsterdam from just about every angle – on foot, by bike, from rooftops, trams and buses, but nothing compares to seeing it from the water. The city takes on a different rhythm from the canals, and when you experience it mixed with the glow of golden hour, a perfectly crafted cocktail and the city’s quiet energy, it becomes something memorable.

These memories were made on Stromma’s Cocktail Cruise, a 75-minute ride through the city’s historic waterways with a refreshing cocktail in hand. Stromma offers a variety of canal cruises in Amsterdam, and there’s something for everyone – from cheese and wine cruises to pizza cruises, open boat rides, and pedal boat rides.

Stromma Netherlands is part of the Swedish Strömma Group, with roots going back to 1912 through historic Amsterdam companies like Rederij Bergmann and Meijer’s Rondvaarten. Now a major name in canal tourism, Stromma’s boats are easily recognisable by their yellow stripe, “Canal Tours Amsterdam” branding, and their bold red “S” logo.

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The Stromma cocktail cruise departure point at Damrak, central Amsterdam.

– Book your cruise with our exclusive discount code ‘THINGSTODO10’ and get 10% extra off –

Snacks and menu on arrival.

You can choose from a selection of great cocktails.

What you need to know

The Stromma Cocktail Cruise in Amsterdam departs from Stromma’s Pier 4 on the Damrak, a short walk from Central Station and near enough to the city’s busiest spots. The moment you step on board though, the buzz of the street fades out. The cruise leaves at 20:15, and boarding starts around 20:00. The cocktail cruise typically operates once a day, leaving from the same time – it’s advisable to check the official website.

There’s free WIFI onboard, and when you book,  an e-ticket is sent straight to your smartphone for easy, seamless boarding. Stromma offers flexibility too: you can cancel or reschedule your cruise free of charge up to 24 hours in advance. For groups of 10 or more, full refunds are available with at least seven days’ notice, and a 50% refund if cancelled between three to six days before departure, giving you the freedom to plan with confidence.

The age limit is over 18, and there are bathrooms onboard.

Cheers! Or as they say in the Netherlands, “Proost”!

Cocktail preparation.

Onboard the Stromma Cocktail Cruise

On arrival, you can start ordering from a selection of cocktails and mocktails. The menu for our cruise included:

Cocktails: Pornstar Martini, Espresso Martini and Lala Paloma.

Gin & Tonics Dry gin and pink gin options.

Mocktails: Passion Mojito and Spiced Mule

Each table also has complimentary olives and nachos with salsa to snack on while you cruise. Note that the menu can change, so if you’re worried about what’s on offer, you can check with Stromma when booking.

As you cruise through Amsterdam’s picturesque canals, you’ll see some of the city’s beautiful landmarks. Whether you go in summer with its magnificent “golden hour” or in winter with its beautiful glow, every season offers something unique – from blossoms and Christmas lights to rays of sun and fiery autumn leaves.

The cruise typically includes sights such as Nemo Science Centre, 17th-century canal houses, the Skinny Bridge and other bridges.

Nemo Science Museum.

Het Scheepvaartmusuem/The National Maritime Museum

Scenic cityscapes of Amsterdam, beautifully lit up for an unforgettable evening on the water.

An unobstructed view of the Skinny Bridge.

Charming canal houses.

The National Opera & Ballet.

Central Amsterdam.

Arrival back at Damrak, one of the city’s most photographed spot.

– Book your cruise with our exclusive discount code ‘THINGSTODO10’ and get 10% extra off –

Our experience

When we got back to the dock, we felt relaxed and energised from seeing the city in this novel and tranquil way, and with a refreshing G&T, of course. On our cruise, there were couples and two small groups, and there was a good atmosphere, but it wan’t too loud – we could still hear the captain talking and mentioning interesting facts about what we were seeing.

If you’re visiting Amsterdam or even living here and want to see the city from a new angle, this cruiseis a gentle reminder that slowing down can be the best part of travel.

It’s a lovely experience for couples celebrating something and small groups of friends and travellers who want to take a break from sightseeing, and enjoy the city in a new light. It’s an especially great option if you’re not in the mood for a loud bar or tourist-heavy tour but still want to experience Amsterdam in a special way.