Has a canal cruise through the Amsterdam canals been on your to-do list for a while? Then plan it during the Amsterdam Light Festival. From November 28, 2024, to January 19, 2025, the light art installations illuminate the city of Amsterdam. During this light festival, you can choose to explore the route on foot or hop aboard a canal cruise. From the water, you’ll have front-row views of the light art installations! We’ll tell you all about cruising during the Amsterdam Light Festival.
Book your tickets for the Amsterdam Light Festival here
What is the Amsterdam Light Festival?
The Amsterdam Light Festival has been an annual event in Amsterdam since 2012. When the days grow shorter and darker, it’s a sign for Amsterdam to adorn the city with stunning lights — those of the Amsterdam Light Festival. During this period, impressive light art installations are displayed throughout Amsterdam. This year, there are 27 unique artworks by both Dutch and international artists.
This year’s theme is ‘Rituals.’ ‘Rituals’ explores the significance of traditions and customs. For example, Soyoun Kim’s artwork ‘The Ice Masters House’ highlights ice skating on natural ice as a quintessential Dutch ritual. Rituals don’t just involve people but also nature. The artwork ‘Mirror Moon’ demonstrates the various phases of the moon. This is just a preview of the extraordinary artworks you can admire during this edition.
Cruising during the Amsterdam Light Festival
The best way to enjoy the Amsterdam Light Festival is on a canal cruise. From the water, you’ll have front-row views of the light art installations. The cruise is designed to take you past all 27 light artworks. Enjoy a glass of wine, beer, or another drink as you stay warm and dry while taking in the beauty of the city.
For those feeling active, you can also choose to walk the light route. The total walking route is approximately 6.5 kilometers long. Starting at Central Station, the route takes you through the canals to Haarlemmersluis and back to Central Station, which is also the endpoint. If 6.5 kilometers feels a bit much, you can shorten the route to suit your preference!
Tickets for the canal cruise
Are you excited and can’t wait to see the light artworks in person? Get your tickets for one of the canal cruises here.
Discover here more about a canal cruise during the Amsterdam Light Festival, including unlimited drinks, live storytelling, and a cozy atmosphere.
Book your tickets for the Amsterdam Light Festival here
Want to learn more about Amsterdam before you embark on the light route? Discover everything about the Amsterdam canals here.