This Amsterdam canal cruise is the No. 1 experience in the world—here’s what it's really like

Nothing epitomizes Amsterdam’s storybook charm quite like its 165 winding canals. Dating back to the late 16th and early 17th centuries, these waterways are more than just a postcard-perfect curiosity: they’re an essential transportation network for the Dutch capital. So it’s no surprise that canal boat tours have become a quintessential “when in Amsterdam” experience, with dozens of operators to be found along the routes.

But one company, Flagship Amsterdam, stands out. Its fleet of open-air electric saloon boats is adorned with polished wood detailing, and decked out with inviting tangerine-colored cushions and a working bar in the center. Flagship also offers a convenient docking point less than a dozen steps from the Anne Frank House and a welcoming crew. A promising start, to be sure—but to find out why this outfitter’s Amsterdam Luxury Canal Cruise was rated Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice No. 1 Top Overall Experience in the World (99 percent of the over 13,000 reviewers gave it a 5.0, or “excellent” rating) this year, I had to experience it for myself.

During a recent trip to the city, I stepped on board on a sunny afternoon and was greeted by skipper Faried and host Ariana. With 30 passengers aboard the Lucky Stripper (which Faried was quick to clarify was the name of the boat, not him), we set off down the Prinsengracht.

The in-the-round bench seating instantly fostered a sense of camaraderie among the passengers, which the crew leaned into by having everyone introduce themselves. I found myself among an international group of American, British, Norwegian, German, Colombian, and Italian travelers (the tours are offered in English). Faried gave us the lay of the land, noting that Amsterdam boasts more than 1,200 bridges, which meant we’d pass under one as often as every 30 seconds. “I'm a pretty good skipper, but a lousy doctor, so please don’t stand up,” he said, as Ariana took our drink orders. We sipped on sodas, wines, and cocktails (I opted for the Flagship Passion cocktail, a fruity drink with touches of vanilla and mint) as Faried delved deeper into the city’s history.

Gliding through the waterways, the tour felt like one part party boat and one part culture lesson. We learned about the link between the city’s architecture and economy (the picturesque canal houses were built narrow since they were taxed based on width), as well as stopped by an Instagram hotspot on the Reguliersgracht canal where seven bridges can be seen at once and a curvy houseboat that some have nicknamed “the Kim Kardashian.”

Somehow in the space of an hour, Flagship managed to forge bonds among us passengers (I struck up conversation with my seatmates between each snippet of the skipper’s commentary), show us a highlight reel of city sights (we cruised by The Jordaan, Leiden Square, the Rijksmueum, The Amstel, Bourbon Street Music Club, Easy Times Coffeeshop, and the Dutch National Opera and Ballet, among many other noteworthy spots), and pique our curiosity to see even more (the crew was eager to share tips on other must-see Amsterdam spots; see their must-visits below.)

Flagship also offers canal tours that depart in front of the Rijksmuseum and Oosterdokpalace, but it’s the departure point I opted for, in front of the Anne Frank House, that’s earned the accolades. And I can see why: My 5 p.m. cruise was perfectly timed to follow up my 2:45 p.m. Anne Frank House tour—with just enough time in between to grab fries at the famed Wil Graanstra's Frietkraam around the corner.

But what really makes this tour one to remember, beyond its ease and conveniences, is the people behind it. “We like working here—we have a lot of fun,” says Flagship crew member Giulla Kurt. “And we pass those good vibes along to the people.”

After disembarking, I chatted with the Flagship Amsterdam team for their top pre- and post-cruise recommendations.

NDSM Wharf: An old shipyard has transformed into a buzzy new area with plenty of cafes and bars, says Jules Altena. Tourists rarely go since it’s across the IJ, but it’s easily accessible by the free ferry, he says. “It’s like the hipster place of Amsterdam, with a lot of new startups and street art.”

Winkel 43: “It has the best apple pie, and the whole street is quite fun, with restaurants and bars,” says Tiber Van Boeschoten. I headed straight there after the tour and can vouch for the pie.

Buitenzwembad Marineterrein: Canal swimming is absolutely legal and this spot is designed for it. “There are stairs, or you can just jump right in,” Van Boeschoten says. During your dip, you’ll get a great view of the NEMO Museum, too.

Noordermarkt: This historic market dating back to the 17th century has a wide range of products like antiques, books, and vintage clothes on Monday mornings and Saturdays, says Brigit Heddes.

Het Amsterdam Bos: To experience a completely different side of the city, Heddes suggests heading to the Amsterdam Forest for a walk or to catch concerts, theater productions, or films at the Bostheater.

Pampus Fort Island: Also off the beaten path is this human-built island that’s home to a 19th century fort, accessible by ferry, Heddes says.

A’DAM Lookout: Not for the faint of heart, but Van Boeschoten also says that you can have an overview of the city from the “beautiful swing” 20 stories up in the area. (I went for a ride, which was both terrifying and thrilling.)