Customer case: Private boat parties in Amsterdam An unforgettable feast on the canals
Celebrating a birthday, organizing an anniversary or just having a special evening with friends and family? One private boat party in Amsterdam offers a unique combination of cosiness, exclusivity and the beautiful Amsterdam canals as decor.
At Event on the water we help groups to find the right party boat for a fully maintained private event. From an intimate drink with friends to an extensive party with music, drinks and catering: Almost every party gets a special atmosphere on the water.
In this customer case we leave by a illustrative practical example See how a private boat party in Amsterdam can be organized, what opportunities there are and why more and more people are choosing a private party on the water.
The wish: An exclusive private party on a boat in Amsterdam
Imagine. A group of 35 friends and family members wants to organise a special birthday. Instead of a traditional party in a café, restaurant or party room, a private party is chosen on a boat in Amsterdam.
The wishes for the event are clear:
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A private boat that is only accessible to guests.
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A trip of about three hours through Amsterdam.
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A cozy festive atmosphere with music.
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An extensive drink arrangement with beer, wine and soft drinks.
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Options for snacks and catering on board.
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A comfortable boat with roof and heating.
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A central starting point in Amsterdam.
The main starting point is that guests can enjoy carefree, without having to deal with the organisation, operation or sailing route.
The solution: A private party boat with skipper and catering
For this type of event Event op het Water can select a suitable private party boat from the offer of connected shipping companies in Amsterdam.
For example, a company of 35 people can choose a comfortable salon boat or a larger covered boat. Which boat fits best depends on the desired atmosphere, season, group size and activities on board.
For this example we choose an attractive salon boat with enough space for the guests to get together.
What do guests say about us?
Our customers
What can be arranged on board?
Private boat with experienced skipper
The boat is reserved exclusively for the company. A professional skipper takes care of the sailing trip, so that all guests can relax and enjoy the party.
Beverage arrangement
A beverage pack with beer, wine and soft drinks can be prepared in advance. Depending on the chosen boat and shipping company, different arrangements are possible, including unlimited drinks during the agreed sailing time.
Snacks and catering
From deluxe snacks and bitter garnish to tapas, an extensive buffet or a complete dinner: catering can be tailored to the character of the party.
Music and entertainment
A private boat party is not complete without appropriate music. Depending on the boat and the current sound rules, guests can use a music installation or request additional entertainment, such as a DJ, singer or saxophonist.
Comfort in different weather conditions
Many boats have a roof and heating. Therefore private boat parties are not only suitable for summer, but also for autumn and winter.
The experience: Festivals between historic canal houses
The party starts at a pre-arranged starting point in Amsterdam. As guests board, the crew is ready to welcome everyone.
As soon as the boat leaves, the surroundings turn into a special setting. The hustle and bustle of the city makes way for a relaxed atmosphere on the water.
During the sailing trip guests can enjoy views of historic canal houses, characteristic bridges and famous sights.
A possible sailing route through Amsterdam
Depending on the size of the boat, the sailing time and the applicable sailing rules, the route can take you to several known locations.
The Herengracht
One of Amsterdam's most famous canals, with impressive canal houses and monumental facades.
The Prince Canal
An atmospheric route along historic buildings, houseboats and cozy Amsterdam neighbourhoods.
De Amstel
The Amstel offers a wider sailing environment and beautiful views of the city.
The Skinny Bridge
One of Amsterdam's most photographed bridges and a popular background for group photos’s.
The Golden Bend
A special part of the Herengracht, known for the stately canal houses of Amsterdam history.
While sailing, guests can talk to each other, dance where it is safe and allowed, enjoy drinks and celebrate together.
The big advantage? The environment is constantly changing, while everyone stays together.
Why choose a private boat party in Amsterdam?
A party on a boat distinguishes itself from a traditional party location in different ways.
1. Full privacy and exclusivity
At a private boat party the boat is rented exclusively for its own company. There are no unknown guests present, giving the party a personal and private character.
2. A unique party location
Amsterdam is known worldwide for its canals. A party on the water combines the cosiness of a private event with the special view of the historic city centre.
3. All in one location
Boating, drinks, food and entertainment can be combined. This way guests do not have to move between different party locations.
4. Suitable for different group sizes
Whether it's a birthday with 15 people or a big private party with more than 100 guests: There are different types of boats available.
5. A customized party
The duration of the sailing trip, catering, music and equipment can be adapted to the needs of the organizer and the possibilities of the chosen boat.
Which boat would suit your private party?
Not every private party asks for the same type of boat. Therefore, it is important to determine in advance which atmosphere and facilities are desired.
| Type of boat | Suitable for | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Open or covered boat | Small to medium-sized groups | Informal, cozy and close to the water |
| Saloon boat | Birthdays, anniversaries and private parties | Atmospheric, comfortable and often heated |
| Party boat | Larger private parties | More space for entertainment and catering |
| Passenger ship | Large groups and extensive events | Spacious reception options and various packages |
| Event ship | Big private parties | Extensive possibilities for music, catering and entertainment |
The actual capacity, accessibility and facilities vary by ship.
How much is a private boat party in Amsterdam?
The price of a private boat party in Amsterdam depends on several factors. There is therefore no standard rate applicable to any company.
The main factors determining prices are:
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Group size: The number of guests determines which type of boat is suitable.
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Sailing time: A two-hour tour has a different price than a four-hour party.
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Type of boat: a luxury salon boat has a different pricing than a big party boat.
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Drinks: e.g. after-calculation or pre-arranged drinks.
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Catering: from simple snacks to an extensive dinner.
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Entertainment: For example a DJ, singer or saxophonist.
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Date and availability: the chosen day and season may affect the offer.
At Event on the Water you can request a free quote, tailored to your group size, budget and wishes.
This gives you insight into the possibilities before making a final choice.
The result: A full party on the water
A well organized private boat party revolves around more than just the boat. It is about the combination of a suitable location, a relaxed atmosphere and a program that matches the company.
In the example described, all the key elements come together: an exclusive salon boat, an experienced skipper, catering, drinks and a sailing trip along the Amsterdam canals.
The result is a festive concept in which the organizer doesn't have to be constantly engaged in practical matters and the guests can enjoy a special experience together.
This makes a private boat an attractive alternative to a regular party room or catering location.
Why organize a private boat party via Event on the Water?
Event on the water has been active as a mediation platform for private cruises, boat arrangements and events on the water since 2017.
We help individuals and companies to find a suitable boat for their event.
Our advantages:
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A wide choice of different types of boats and arrangements.
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Opportunities for small and large companies.
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Private cruises with professional skipper.
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Catering, beverage arrangements and custom entertainment.
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Personal assistance in finding a suitable boat.
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Request a quote without obligation.
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Besides Amsterdam also possibilities in Rotterdam, Utrecht, Haarlem and The Hague.
Whether you want to organize an intimate birthday party or an extensive private event with dozens of guests: we will be happy to help you find an appropriate solution.
Frequently asked questions about
private boat parties in Amsterdam
How much is a private boat party in Amsterdam?
The costs depend on the group size, the type of boat, the sailing time and any extra’s such as catering, beverage arrangements and entertainment. Through Event on the Water you can request a tailor-made offer.
How many people can attend a private boat party?
There are several boats available in Amsterdam for small and large groups. From smaller boats for about 10 people to larger passenger and event ships for hundreds of guests. The maximum capacity varies by boat.
Can I rent a private boat for a birthday in Amsterdam?
Yes. A birthday on a private boat is a popular opportunity. You can opt for a cozy drink, a dinner cruise or a more extensive party with music and entertainment.
Is there a skipper present at the boat party?
On private cruises with skipper the boat is operated by a professional skipper. So you do not have to sail yourself and can enjoy the event together with your guests.
Can I drink unlimited during a private boat party?
For various packages, an unlimited beverage package is possible, for example with beer, wine and soft drinks. The exact content and conditions are pre-adjusted.
Can I bring a DJ or live music on a party boat?
On selected boats there are possibilities for a DJ, singer or other entertainment. This depends on the facilities on board, the route and the noise rules in force.
Can private boat parties also take place in winter?
Yes. Several boats have a roof and heating, so a comfortable party can also be organized during the colder months.
Can I bring catering myself on board?
Most manned private boats provide catering via the shipping company or a connected caterer. Self-produced catering is usually not allowed. Event on the Water can help to create an appropriate arrangement.
Where can guests quit for a private boat party in Amsterdam?
There are several starting locations in Amsterdam. Which location is suitable depends on the chosen boat, the sailing route and the operational possibilities. The pick-up point shall be adjusted in advance.
How long does a private boat party take in Amsterdam?
For example, a private boat party can take two, three or four hours. Longer packages are also subject to availability and the possibilities of the shipping company can be discussed.
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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