Amsterdam’s iconic canals have been the heart of the city for centuries, and exploring them by boat is an essential experience for any visitor. Pure Boats offers a luxurious and eco-friendly alternative to traditional canal tours, combining the timeless charm of Amsterdam’s waterways with modern sustainability practices. The boats themselves are beautiful and immaculate, making the cruise that much more elegant and memorable.
What Makes Pure Boats Different?
Pure Boats stands out in Amsterdam’s crowded canal tour market by operating fully electric boats. These whisper-quiet vessels glide through the UNESCO World Heritage canals without the noise and pollution of traditional diesel-powered boats, offering a more peaceful and environmentally responsible way to experience the city. Given inclement weather, the boats are covered for guests to be protected from the elements while still being able to enjoy the views.
The company’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond their electric fleet. Pure Boats focuses on small group experiences, typically limiting tours to 8-12 passengers, which creates a more intimate atmosphere and reduces the environmental impact per tour. Many of their tours also offer drinks and hors d’ouerves, which add to the festive ambiance of the experience.
Tour Options and Experiences
Pure Boats offers several tour options to suit different interests and schedules:
Classic Canal Tours: These 60-90 minute cruises take you through Amsterdam’s famous canal ring, passing by historic merchants’ houses, charming bridges, and iconic landmarks like the Anne Frank House and the Skinny Bridge. Knowledgeable guides share insights about Amsterdam’s Golden Age history and modern culture. Our guide was not only knowledgable, he was funny, entertaining and amicable, making everyone feel at home, all the while as he guided the boat, served drinks, pointing out landmarks, answering questions and sharing history along the way.
Evening Cruises: As the sun sets and the city lights begin to twinkle, Amsterdam’s canals take on a magical quality. Evening tours offer a romantic perspective on the city, perfect for couples or anyone wanting to see Amsterdam’s famous canal houses illuminated against the night sky. Several of the couples in our group were either newlywed, or celebrating engagements and anniversaries. A perfect date night, Valentines date or special occasion option.
Private Charters: For special occasions or customized experiences, Pure Boats offers private boat rentals where you can create your own itinerary and enjoy the canals at your own pace.
Why Choose an Electric Canal Tour?
Choosing an electric boat tour offers several advantages. The silent motors allow you to hear your guide clearly and enjoy conversations without shouting over engine noise. You’ll also notice more of Amsterdam’s ambient sounds—church bells, street musicians, and the gentle lapping of water against the historic quays.
Electric boats produce zero emissions, helping preserve Amsterdam’s air quality and contributing to the city’s ambitious sustainability goals. Amsterdam aims to become carbon-neutral, and companies like Pure Boats are leading the way in sustainable tourism.
Booking Your Pure Boats Experience
Tours typically depart from central locations near Amsterdam Centraal Station or other easily accessible points along the canals. Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak tourist season (April through September) and around major holidays.
Prices are competitive with traditional canal tours, and many visitors find the enhanced experience and environmental benefits well worth any small premium. Most tours include audio guides in multiple languages, though live guides are available on certain departures.
Tips for Your Canal Tour
To make the most of your Pure Boats experience, dress in layers as temperatures on the water can be cooler than on land, even in summer. Bring a camera to capture Amsterdam’s picturesque canal houses and bridges, and consider booking a tour during golden hour for the best lighting.
If you’re visiting Amsterdam and want to experience the city’s famous canals in an environmentally conscious way while enjoying a peaceful, intimate atmosphere, Pure Boats offers an excellent option that combines tradition with innovation.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning Amsterdam enthusiast, a canal tour with Pure Boats provides a sustainable and memorable way to appreciate one of Europe’s most beautiful cities from its most iconic vantage point—the water.
