10 departure points across Amsterdam

Choose the departure point that suits your day in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a city best explored by water, and with 10 departure points spread across the city, there is always a Cruise Tours Amsterdam dock nearby. Whether you are stepping off a train at Centraal Station, visiting the Rijksmuseum, or wandering through the Jordaan neighbourhood, you can start your cruise within minutes of wherever you are. Each departure point offers a slightly different experience and access to different cruise types, so choosing the right one can elevate your trip.

All departure points are wheelchair accessible and offer ticket purchasing on-site (except Central Station East, which is a departure-only boarding point for special events). We recommend arriving 10 to 15 minutes before your scheduled departure to ensure a smooth boarding process, especially during peak season from April to October.

Departure points near Amsterdam Centraal

For travellers arriving by train, our Central Station Bridge departure point is the most convenient starting location. Located just two minutes on foot from the main exit of Amsterdam Centraal, it offers canal cruises, open boat tours, and dinner cruises. Nearby on the Damrak, three piers serve as the heart of our operations: Damrak Pier 4, Damrak Pier 5, and Damrak Pier 6 sit between Dam Square and the station, perfect if you want to explore the city centre before or after your cruise. All three Damrak piers offer canal cruises and dinner cruises.

Behind the station, Middenkom Central Station provides a quieter alternative during peak season, accessible via the rear exit in just one minute. For special events such as the Amsterdam Light Festival, Central Station East serves as a dedicated boarding point on Prins Hendrikkade, a four-minute walk east of the station.

Departure points near Museumplein

The museum district is home to our Rijksmuseum departure point, directly in front of the Rijksmuseum on the Stadhouderskade. It offers canal cruises, open boat tours, and pedal bikes, making it easy to combine a museum visit with time on the water. Nearby, Leidseplein sits at the vibrant entertainment square offering open boats and pedal bikes, perfect for combining your cruise with nightlife and dining in the area.

Departure points in the canal belt

The heart of the UNESCO-listed canal ring offers two iconic departure points. On the elegant Keizersgracht, the Emperor's Canal, you board right in the heart of the canal ring near the Nine Streets shopping district — ideal for pedal boating through Amsterdam's most exclusive waterways. The Anne Frank House pier on Prinsengracht sits in the Jordaan neighbourhood, one of the most photogenic areas of Amsterdam, offering both pedal bikes and open boats. Both canal-belt departure points are easily reached via tram 13 or 17 to the Westermarkt stop.

Special-event departure points

During major events such as the Amsterdam Light Festival (December to January), King's Day celebrations, World Pride 2026, and SAIL 2030, several departure points offer special event cruises. The dedicated Central Station East boarding point is specifically used for event departures and large-group embarkation. Check our events page for the latest schedule and availability during these special occasions. Advance booking is strongly recommended for all event cruises as they sell out quickly.