Customer case: Canals and events in Amsterdam An unforgettable experience on the water
An exclusive canal boating through Amsterdam, combined with a complete event on board. For a group of 45 colleagues’s, a special afternoon was organised in which relaxation, cosiness and the discovery of Amsterdam were central.
Amsterdam is known worldwide for its historic canals, characteristic canal houses and unique atmosphere. But what if you combine this particular environment with a fully-maintained event on the water?
In this customer case we show how Event on the Water can turn a regular canal boat into a complete event, including a private boat, professional skipper, catering and entertainment.
The solution: A private canal boat with catering and entertainment
Event at the Water put together an arrangement in which the historic Amsterdam canals formed the setting for a pleasant afternoon.
For the event a comfortable salon boat was selected with sufficient space for all guests. Thanks to the large windows, the participants could enjoy the view over the canals.
A historic sailing route through Amsterdam
The canals sailed along several well-known locations in the city centre of Amsterdam.
During the tour guests could enjoy:
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The Herengracht: renowned for its stately canal houses and historical architecture.
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The Keizersgracht: one of Amsterdam's most famous canals, with impressive monumental buildings.
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The Prinsengracht: a lively moat with characteristic bridges and historic buildings.
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The Skinny Bridge: one of Amsterdam's most photographed bridges.
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The Amstel: with beautiful views over the water and the surrounding historical buildings.
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The Golden Bend: a special part of the Herengracht with impressive mansions.
The exact sailing route was adapted to the available sailing time, the wishes of the group and the current sailing possibilities.
The combination of historical sights and a relaxed program created a unique experience that you don't experience in the same way from shore.
Catering on board: A complete care package
An important part of the event was catering.
Guests were welcomed on arrival with a drink. They could then enjoy an extensive drink package during the canal ride.
The arrangement consisted of:
Beverage arrangement
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Beer, wine and sodas.
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Unlimited drinks during the agreed arrangement period.
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Professional operation on board.
Snacks
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Luxury cold and hot drinks.
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Various vegetarian options.
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Little culinary dishes.
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Juice tailored to the wishes of the group.
By organising all catering in advance, the client had nothing to worry about.
The staff on board provided the service, while guests could relax and enjoy the surroundings.
What do guests say about us?
Our customers
The course of the event: From receipt to closure
2 p.m. - Reception on board
The guests gathered at the agreed starting point in the centre of Amsterdam.
Upon arrival they were welcomed by the crew and could immediately enjoy a welcome drink.
2.30 p.m. Departure through the Amsterdam canals
The boat left for a relaxing trip through the historic centre.
While sailing, conversations arose between fellow ’s, while the beautiful canals provided a special background.
3 p.m. - Drinking and catering
The first snacks were served and the drinks remained available during the sailing.
Guests could walk around freely, talk to each other and enjoy the view.
4:00 p.m. - Cosiness and music
The background music provided a relaxed atmosphere.
Meanwhile, the boat sailed along several well-known sights, including monumental canal houses and characteristic Amsterdam bridges.
5 p.m. Return and closure
After about three hours the boat returned to the agreed final location.
The program provided sufficient space for relaxation, cosiness and conversations.
Why a canal boating in Amsterdam is ideal for events
An event on the water offers various advantages over a traditional event location.
1. A unique event location
A private boat is a special location that constantly changes views. The historic city centre of Amsterdam is the setting for the event.
2. Full privacy
At a private canal boating the group exclusively has the booked boat. There are no other company on board.
3. Suitable for different group sizes
Event on the Water offers opportunities for both small companies and large groups.
From an intimate ten-person cruise to a large-scale corporate event with hundreds of guests: Depending on group size, an appropriate boat is selected.
4. Customized catering and entertainment
A canal canal can be expanded with different arrangements.
Think of a drink, lunch, dinner, barbecue, walking dinner or live entertainment.
5. Comfortable sailing in every season
Many boats have a roof and heating. As a result, canals and events in Amsterdam are not only suitable for the summer months.
Groups can also enjoy a private boating in autumn and winter.
What events can you organize on the Amsterdam canals?
Canals are suitable for various business and private occasions.
Company outings and staff parties
A company outing on the water offers colleague’s the opportunity to come together outside the usual working environment.
Combine the cruise for example with a drink, dinner or team building activity.
Birthdays and family parties
An anniversary or family day becomes extra special when you sail through the Amsterdam canals together with friends and family.
Bachelor parties
A private boat offers an original setting for a bachelor party. Different festive arrangements are possible depending on the type of boat.
Weddings and anniversaries
The historic canals of Amsterdam form a romantic environment for a wedding celebration, anniversary or festive reception.
Business meetings and networking drinks
A business drink on a salon boat is a special way to receive relationships, bring colleague’s together or celebrate a corporate anniversary.
Which boats are suitable for canal trips and events?
Event at the Water works together with various professional shipping companies in Amsterdam and offers a varied range.
Open Sloops
Suitable for smaller groups who want to enjoy the Amsterdam canals in good weather.
Luxury salon boats
Ideal for business events, private drinks, dinners and exclusive meetings. Salonboats usually offer more shelter and comfort.
Passenger ships
Suitable for larger companies, extensive catering arrangements and company events.
Event ships
For large company parties, network meetings and entertainment events, larger ships are available. These sail on suitable routes depending on their size and local rules, for example on the IJ.
The final choice depends on the number of guests, the desired program, the catering and the available budget.
The result: A special joint experience
In this example, several elements came together: a historic sailing route, comfortable accommodation, well-kept catering and a relaxed atmosphere.
The combination of a private boat and a fully equipped program made it possible to bring the guests together in an original way.
That is exactly what makes canals and events in Amsterdam so attractive: the city is not only the destination, but also an important part of the experience.
Book canals and events in Amsterdam at Event on the Water
Do you want to organise a canal or event yourself in Amsterdam?
Event on the Water helps to find a suitable boat and to put together an appropriate arrangement.
Whether it's a small private boat, a luxury dinner cruise, a corporate drink or a large-scale event: There are various possibilities.
What can you expect?
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A wide range of private boats and event ships.
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Canals for small and large groups.
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Facilities for catering, drink arrangements and entertainment.
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Professional skippers and experienced crew.
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Advice on sailing route, boarding location and program.
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A quote tailored to your needs and group size.
Besides Amsterdam, Event on the Water also offers tours and events in Rotterdam, Utrecht, Haarlem and The Hague.
Frequently asked questions about canals and events in Amsterdam
How much is a private canal trip in Amsterdam?
The cost of a private canal boating depends on the type of boat, the group size, the duration and any extra ’s such as catering and entertainment. Through Event on the Water you can request a tailor-made offer.
Can I organize a complete event on a boat in Amsterdam?
Yes. You can combine a private canal boating with catering, drinks arrangements, music and various forms of entertainment. The possibilities vary by boat.
How many people can I book a canal boat for?
There are boats available for small company from about ten people, but also larger passenger and event ships for hundreds of guests.
Is a canal boat suitable for a company outing?
Yes. A private canal boat is suitable for staff trips, company drinks, business meetings, network drinks and anniversaries.
Can we eat and drink on board?
Yes. Depending on the chosen boat you can book different catering packages, such as drinks, lunch, dinner, barbecue or an extensive buffet.
Can we choose our own sailing route?
In consultation it is often possible to pass on preferences for the sailing route. The final route depends on the boat, the available sailing time and the applicable sailing rules.
Are the boats covered and heated?
There are several covered and heated boats available. Open boats can also be provided with roofing and heating depending on their design.
Where can we leave for a canal trip in Amsterdam?
There are several possible boarding locations in Amsterdam Centrum and beyond. The available locations depend on the type of boat and the operational capabilities.
Can we arrange music or entertainment during the voyage?
Yes. On suitable boats, for example, a DJ, singer, saxophonist or other forms of entertainment can be arranged. The noise rules in force shall be taken into account.
How can I book a canal or event in Amsterdam?
You can easily request a free quote via Event on the Water. Please indicate the desired date, group size, sailing time and any requirements for catering or entertainment.
Questions or a tailor-made solution?
The advisors of Event op het Water are happy to answer your questions and offer free advice. Feel free to contact us, available 7 days a week.
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