6 hours
Culture Vultures, Family Friendly, First Timers, Uniquely Dutch
Dutch, English, Espanol, Francais, German, Italian
11.45
12:00
18:00
In Amsterdam North, at the jetty of the former NDSM shipyard, your friendly host welcomes you onboard. After the mooring lines have been cast off, the tour starts directly on the ‘IJ’. Cruise through the port of Amsterdam and see large cargo ships and perhaps a giantcruise ship on its way to the Cruise Port Amsterdam. Then, From Amsterdam: Boat Cruise to Zaanse Schans sets course in the direction of Zaandam.
Once you pass the ‘Wilhelmina lock’, the tour continues up the river ‘Zaan’. From 1800, this was the center of the food industry. Especially cocoa imports through the Amsterdam harbor led to growth of initially small companies. Today, these companies are among the largest in the world. See one of the world’s oldest industrial areas with old warehouses and historic factories. Enjoy the views from a unique perspective. If the weather is nice, you can sit on the panoramic deck. Otherwise, enjoy the comfort of the ship’s luxurious interior. Small bites and refreshments are available to purchase onboard.
Upon arrival at the Zaanse Schans, it’s time to explore the village. The Zaanse Schans is a residential area where you relive the Dutch traditions and culture of the past. Admire historic houses, see authentic windmills from the inside and learn more on typical Dutch trades. Stroll past the bakery museum. Can you resist the smell of fresh cookies? Or visit the Clog workshop and witness a demonstration of clog making. At the Cheese factory, watch the process of cheese making and taste some of the famous Dutch delicacy. After your two hour visit to the Zaanse Schans, the boat is waiting to take you back to Amsterdam.
Note: Step aboard the Marken Express to explore the Dutch countryside in Volendam and Marken.