Boat tours remain the quintessential way to experience Giethoorn’s waterways, with most excursions departing from the village center. The best options combine canal cruising with visits to Weerribben-Wieden National Park, where traditional Dutch life thrives among the reeds and waterways. For intimate exploration, the small guided tours (around $50) offer outstanding value, with heated boats and local insights. Splurging on a private boat experience ($200-400) lets you set your own pace and includes perks like regional cheese tastings and wildlife viewing stops. Budget travelers can hop on basic canal tours ($10-20) that still capture the village’s charm in about an hour. Let’s explore the most worthwhile boat tours in Giethoorn.
Key Points
- Giethoorn offers a variety of boat tours, ranging from affordable canal cruises to luxurious private boat tours, catering to diverse budgets and preferences.
- Boat tours provide a unique and tranquil experience, with features like weatherproof electric boats, heating, and complimentary refreshments.
- Tours are generally wheelchair accessible and conveniently located, with flexible booking options and free cancellation available.
- Highly rated tours, such as the Highlights Canal Cruise and the Day Trip from Amsterdam, offer scenic beauty and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
- Specialized experiences, like guided walking tours, cheese tasting, and personalized private tours, add unique and immersive elements to the Giethoorn boat tour experience.
Giethoorn: Canals & Weerribben-Wieden Lake Guided Boat Tour
For a quintessential Giethoorn experience, the Giethoorn: Canals & Weerribben-Wieden Lake Guided Boat Tour offers an immersive journey through the city’s picturesque waterways.
The 1-hour tour allows visitors to glide through scenic canals, passing charming thatched-roof houses and arched wooden footbridges. Guests can explore the Weerribben-Wieden Lake, a nature park accessible only by boat, while learning about local history and fascinating facts from the captain or an audio guide.
The weatherproof electric boat provides a tranquil and comfortable experience. Priced from $10.56 per person, the tour can be booked with flexible start times and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Giethoorn: Canals & Weerribben-Wieden Lake Guided Boat Tour Review
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Giethoorn: 1 Hour Luxury Private Boat Tour With Local Guide
Priced at $158.39 per group (up to 10 participants), the Giethoorn: 1 Hour Luxury Private Boat Tour with Local Guide offers an intimate and personalized experience of the charming waterways.
Aboard a new boat with heating, big windows, and ambient lighting, guests can explore the small bridges, beautiful houses, and a lake with swans, all while a live guide provides commentary in English, Dutch, and German.
The tour is wheelchair accessible and easily accessible by public transport.
While some travelers have noted a lack of commentary, the tour’s overall 3.5/5 rating reflects the beauty of the area and the convenience of the experience.
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Giethoorn: Highlights Canal Cruise and Sightseeing Village
Giethoorn’s Highlights Canal Cruise and Sightseeing Village offers a comprehensive exploration of the charming Dutch town’s picturesque waterways and historic landmarks. Priced at $14.78 per person, this 3-hour experience includes a 1-hour scenic boat ride with an experienced skipper-guide and free time for independent exploration.
The cozy, heated boat with adjustable windows ensures comfort in all weather conditions, while the multi-lingual live guide provides insightful commentary. Wheelchair accessibility, free cancellation, and a convenient “reserve now, pay later” option make this tour accessible and hassle-free.
With an impressive 4.3/5 overall rating, the Giethoorn Highlights Canal Cruise delivers scenic beauty, eco-friendly transportation, and great value for money.
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From Amsterdam: Giethoorn Day Trip With Small Electric Boat
This day trip from Amsterdam to Giethoorn offers a captivating 8-hour experience that allows visitors to enjoy the serene beauty of this unique Dutch village.
Starting at $135.16 per person, the tour includes a 1-hour guided boat cruise on a small electric boat, a guided walking tour, and 2 hours of free time to explore the charming thatched-roof cottages and over 180 bridges and canals.
While not suitable for those with mobility issues, the tour provides a chance to drive your own electric boat and admire the peaceful atmosphere.
With a 4.6/5 overall rating based on 565 reviews, this day trip is a must-visit for those seeking a tranquil escape from Amsterdam.
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Giethoorn: Private Boat Tour With Free Drinks
For those seeking a more intimate and personalized experience in Giethoorn, the private boat tour with free drinks is an excellent choice.
Priced at $316.78 for up to 6 people, the 3-hour guided tour provides scenic views of the Dutch countryside. Complimentary soft drinks are offered on board, creating a relaxing atmosphere as you cruise the waterways.
The tour departs and returns to the AVIA Giethoorn 24/7 Betaalautomaat, with a 15-minute car transfer to Sint Jansklooster.
Participants should note the restrictions, including a maximum weight limit of 309 lbs and not suitable for children under 8 or individuals prone to seasickness.
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Giethoorn: Luxury Private Boat 2 Hour Tour With Local Guide
A luxurious private boat tour in Giethoorn awaits those seeking an immersive experience. The “Giethoorn: Luxury Private Boat 2 Hour Tour with Local Guide” offers a 2-hour journey through the scenic waterways, guided by an experienced local captain.
Accommodating up to 10 participants, the tour showcases the charming bridges, houses, and shops that make Giethoorn a picturesque destination. Travelers can spot wildlife, such as swans, while enjoying the comfort of the new tour boat equipped with heating, large windows, and ambient lighting.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and wheelchair accessibility, this private tour provides a personalized and accessible experience in the heart of Giethoorn’s water-based community.
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Giethoorn: Sightseeing Boat Tour
Visitors to Giethoorn can embark on a captivating 1-hour sightseeing boat tour that showcases the picturesque canals and waterways of this renowned “Venice of the Netherlands” destination.
Priced at just $10.03 per person, the cruise allows guests to learn about Giethoorn’s rich history and culture from a knowledgeable guide.
Passengers will enjoy the natural beauty of Giethoornse Lake and the charming landscapes while having the option to indulge in a cheese tasting at the nearby Henri Willig cheese shop.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a “reserve now, pay later” policy, this boat tour provides a convenient and flexible way to experience the highlights of Giethoorn.
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Giethoorn: Canal Cruise (1,5)Village Centre, Old Town & Lake
Those who seek a more comprehensive tour of Giethoorn’s enchanting waterways can embark on the Canal Cruise (1.5 hours) through the village center, old town, and lake.
Priced at just $10.56 per person, this electric boat tour provides live commentary in multiple languages as you explore the area’s historic thatched-roof houses, charming bridges, and scenic Weerribben-Wieden National Park.
The cruise departs from and returns to Café Restaurant De Rietstulp, with ample nearby parking and public transportation options available.
Boasting an impressive 4.6/5 rating, this tour offers exceptional value and an immersive experience in the picturesque “Venice of the North.”
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Giethoorn : Big Party Boat With Captain
One of the most unique boat tour experiences in Giethoorn is the Big Party Boat With Captain. This 2-hour tour allows groups of up to 6 people to steer the boat themselves, with a captain providing guidance.
Priced at $78.14 per group, it’s a great value for a private boat rental. Reviewers praise the experience, giving it a perfect 5-star rating.
With cushions provided for comfort, it’s an ideal way to explore Giethoorn’s picturesque canals and take in the charming village at your own pace.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a unique way to see the sights, the Big Party Boat With Captain is a must-try activity in Giethoorn.
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Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans and Giethoorn Day Trip With Cruise
For those seeking to explore the charming villages and historic sites beyond Amsterdam, the Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans and Giethoorn Day Trip With Cruise offers a comprehensive experience.
Priced at Kč 2,987 per person, the 10-hour day trip includes pickup, transportation in a Mercedes minivan, and a guided tour of Zaanse Schans.
Travelers can enjoy a cheese tasting, wooden shoe demonstration, and a scenic river cruise in the picturesque village of Giethoorn.
With a 4.9/5 rating based on 43 reviews, the tour is praised for its knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides.
Lunch and various amenities are also included, making this an excellent value for those wanting to venture outside the city.
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Giethoorn Private Tour With Open Boat and Local Captain
Seeking a more intimate exploration of Giethoorn’s picturesque canals and idyllic landscapes? Consider the Giethoorn Private Tour with Open Boat and Local Captain.
This 9-hour excursion offers a personalized experience, with a small group size and a knowledgeable local guide leading the way. Cruise through the village’s tranquil waterways, taking in the charming thatched-roof houses and lush greenery.
Along the way, learn about the town’s unique history and culture. The tour also includes a stop at the Zaanse Schans windmill village, providing a well-rounded glimpse into the Netherlands’ rich heritage.
Priced at $445.61 per person, this private tour promises an immersive and unforgettable visit to Giethoorn.
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Giethoorn: 2 Hours 6 Persons Boat Steeringwheel + Cushions
This 2-hour electric sloop tour allows up to 6 persons to explore Giethoorn’s picturesque canals and lake at their own pace.
Priced from $78.14 per group, it includes the boat, a paper map, and requires a €50 cash deposit.
Passengers can enjoy nature, museums, and cozy terraces, with options for picnics or swimming on islands.
The tour is led by instructors fluent in Dutch, English, and German.
Bookings can be made without upfront payment, with free cancellation 24 hours in advance.
However, the experience isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, individuals over 80, or those without a driver’s license.
Visitors must bring a passport or ID and aren’t allowed to bring pets, baby strollers, alcohol, or drugs.
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Giethoorn: Village & National Park Canal Cruise With Coffee
Explore Giethoorn’s picturesque canals and the Weerribben-Wieden National Park on this 1-hour canal cruise.
Priced from $9.98 per person, the tour includes a guided commentary on the history and culture of the region.
You’ll enjoy scenic views of lush greenery and hidden gems accessible only by boat, along with a complimentary hot drink.
With an overall rating of 4.6/5 from 926 reviews, this experience is praised for its knowledgeable guide, comfortable transportation, and excellent value.
Meeting at the Botenverhuur- en rondvaartbedrijf Koppers Giethoorn, the tour provides an immersive look at the “Venice of the North” and the surrounding national park.
Book now and pay later to secure your spot on this popular canal cruise.
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Giethoorn: Private Guided Canal Cruise With Coffee and Tea
For a truly immersive journey through Giethoorn’s picturesque canals, embark on a private guided canal cruise.
This 1-hour excursion offers an intimate experience, allowing you to explore the charming “Venice of the North” at your own pace. The live guide provides insightful commentary as you glide past thatched-roof cottages, lush greenery, and historic bridges.
Complementing the scenic views, you’ll be served coffee and tea, enhancing your relaxing canal cruise.
With a 4.5 rating from past guests, this tour is an excellent way to discover Giethoorn’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
The price of $83.95 includes the cruise, refreshments, and a knowledgeable local guide.
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Recap
Giethoorn’s picturesque canals and waterways offer an array of boat tours and cruises for visitors to explore the charming village. From private luxury boats to group excursions, these tours showcase Giethoorn’s unique architecture, serene landscapes, and natural wonders. Whether seeking a leisurely cruise or a more intimate experience, travelers can find a boat tour to suit their preferences and make the most of their visit to this enchanting Dutch destination.