Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise

From November 26, 2026, through January 17, 2027, the canals will serve as the annual canvas for national and international artists during the Amsterdam Light Festival. Our Soeverein and Valentijn will be participating.

Christmas lights and champagne aboard the Valentijn saloon boat on Amsterdam's canals
Gulf background Gulf background Christmas lights and champagne aboard the Valentijn saloon boat, an Official Partner of the Amsterdam Light FestivalThe Soeverein Salon Boat on Amsterdam's Canals, Official Partner of the Amsterdam Light FestivalGulf background Valentijn Salon Boat on the Amsterdam Canals, Official Partner of the Amsterdam Light Festival

For art lovers and foodies

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Nov. 26 through Jan. 17

It’s common knowledge that Amsterdam is beautiful from the water. The view is even more stunning during the Amsterdam Light Festival, when we get to cruise along a route that takes us past 19 striking, moving, and inspiring works of art by 31 artists.

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What if you could turn back time? What if you could change the world with the push of a button? And what do punk rock and Punjab actually have to do with each other? The 15th edition of the Amsterdam Light Festival invites you to see the city in a new light.

Gulf background Gulf background The Sovereign's Enclosed Salon at Night, Amsterdam Light Festival Official PartnerValentijn's Illuminated Salon with Red Sofas, Amsterdam Light Festival Official PartnerGulf background The Soeverein moored at the pier, Amsterdam Light Festival Official Partner

Your Illuminated Cruise

Complete your experience with mouthwatering extras such as an exclusive wine pairing, top-notch main courses and side dishes, or special entertainment, and turn your cruise into the cruise of your dreams.

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At Cruise With Us, we guarantee an evening full of culinary surprises and unforgettable moments!

Gulf background Gulf background The Soeverein Salon Boat on Amsterdam's Canals, Official Partner of the Amsterdam Light FestivalValentijn Salon Boat on the Amsterdam Canals, Official Partner of the Amsterdam Light FestivalGulf background Christmas lights and champagne aboard the Valentijn saloon boat, an Official Partner of the Amsterdam Light Festival

Good to Know

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Daily from 4:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.

The Amsterdam Light Festival runs from Thursday, November 26, 2026, through Sunday, January 17, 2027. The art installations are lit every evening from 4:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. On New Year’s Eve, the lights go out at 9:00 p.m.

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The festival route on the water is just over five kilometers long. Allow one hour to one hour and 45 minutes for the route itself; a Light Festival Cruise therefore lasts at least an hour and a half.

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Would you like to enjoy the tour in the most peaceful setting? Then choose an evening from Monday through Wednesday, or the month of January. You’ll board and disembark within the canal belt, close to the route and away from the crowds around Central Station.

Request the Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise

The evenings around Christmas and New Year's Eve are the busiest, so please make your reservation well in advance. We aim to respond to your request within 24 hours.

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Your Cruise
Valentijn: 2 to 19 people. Soeverein: 10 to 55 people.
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Available only during the festival period.
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We will respond within one business day.
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That's why you should choose your Light Festival cruise with CWU

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Art from the Water

The artworks of the Amsterdam Light Festival are best viewed from the water. From our cozy lounge, you can enjoy them in peace and comfort.

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Complete unburdening

Let us know what you're looking for, and we'll take care of the rest: from the itinerary and wine pairings to the meals and entertainment on board.

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Two charming saloon boats

Valentijn, a "Sailing Monument" from 1913, for 2 to 19 guests. De Soeverein, with an open kitchen, for 10 to 55 guests.

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Five-star level service

All of our employees have experience working in five-star hotels or Michelin-starred restaurants. With us, you’re guaranteed the highest level of hospitality.