In short
- Keep children away from unguarded canal edges.
- Stay off the reddish-colored cycle paths.
- Choose a closed boat or morning cruise for comfort.
In this article
Exploring the historic 17th-century waterways with your family is very popular. However, the canal ring has over 100 kilometers of water and very few guardrails. You need a solid plan to keep children safe and entertained.
Are the Amsterdam canals safe for kids walking?
You must monitor children closely because most canal edges are unguarded.
Do not let children walk directly on the immediate edges of the canals. The water is about 2.6 meters (8.5 feet) deep. Falling in is extremely dangerous. You must also watch out for fast-moving bicycles. Keep your family off the reddish-colored cycle paths.
Can children swim in the canals?
No, swimming in the central canals is prohibited.
Heavy boat traffic, submerged debris, and poor water quality make swimming unsafe. Keep your family on land or safely inside a tour boat.
What is the best way to see the canals with kids?
A guided boat cruise is the safest and easiest option for families.
Standard tours last 60 to 75 minutes. This duration works well for younger attention spans. Many boats have glass tops, keeping children safely enclosed while offering clear views of the bridges.
Are there restrooms on the canal boats?
Only select larger or premium boats have on-board restrooms.
If you travel with young children, check the boat amenities before booking. The Morning Canal Cruise features an on-board restroom, which is a rare luxury. It also includes fresh orange juice and a Dutch specialty.
What should children wear for a canal cruise?
Dress children in layers and bring a windproof jacket.
Chilly winds blow off the water, even in the summer. Bring comfortable, flat walking shoes for the uneven cobblestones near the boarding areas. If you choose an open boat, bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare.
Which boat tour works best for families?
Choose based on duration and the amenities your family needs.
Shorter trips cost less and keep kids engaged. Longer trips often provide snacks, drinks, and more space to move around. Prices and availability change.
Questions travellers ask
How deep is the water in the Amsterdam canals?
The average depth of the Amsterdam canals is approximately 2.6 meters (8.5 feet).
Are there guardrails along the Amsterdam canals?
Most central areas do not have guardrails. You must keep children away from the immediate, unguarded edges to avoid falling in.
Does the I amsterdam City Card cover kids' canal cruises?
One free standard canal cruise is included with the I amsterdam City Card.
