Why choose the boarding location at Central Station?
The most easily accessible location in Amsterdam
Amsterdam Central Station is the city’s main transportation hub. Here you’ll find connections for:
- trains
- trams
- metros
- buses
This makes it the most accessible boarding point for a canal cruise in Amsterdam.
Perfect for visitors who have just arrived in Amsterdam
Many visitors start their canal cruise immediately after arriving:
- by train
- from Schiphol Airport
- or upon arrival in the city center
There’s no need to travel through the city first — you can board almost immediately.
Starting point for a cruise through the historic center
From this location, you quickly sail towards:
- the canals of the Jordaan
- the Amstel River
- the historic city center
This makes it an ideal departure point for a classic canal cruise.
How do you reach the boarding location at Central Station?
By train
Amsterdam Central Station is the largest train station in the Netherlands and is easily accessible from all parts of the country and from Schiphol Airport.
From the main entrance of the station, it’s just a few minutes’ walk to the boarding location on Prins Hendrikkade.
By metro or tram
All metro and tram lines stop at Amsterdam Central Station.
From there, follow the exit towards the water (the IJ) and walk to the quay where the cruise departs.
On foot from the city center
The boarding location is within walking distance of popular areas such as:
- Dam Square
- Nieuwmarkt
- Jordaan
From these locations, you can usually reach the departure point within 5 to 10 minutes.
What happens when boarding the canal cruise?
Upon arrival at the boarding location, you will be welcomed by the crew of Flagship Amsterdam.
- The crew will be ready at the quay
- Your ticket will be checked
- You will then board the boat from the dock
Make sure to arrive about 10 minutes before departure so boarding runs smoothly and the cruise can start on time.
Which sights will you see during a canal cruise from Central Station?
During a canal cruise from Amsterdam Central Station, you immediately enter the historic city center. Depending on the route, you will pass famous sights such as:
- the Jordaan
- the Herengracht
- the Skinny Bridge (Magere Brug)
- the Amstel River
- the Nine Streets (De Negen Straatjes)
- historic canal houses
This boarding location provides quick access to Amsterdam’s most famous canals and highlights.
Why are there multiple boarding locations in Amsterdam?
Flagship Amsterdam departs from several locations in the city, including:
- Amsterdam Central Station
- the Rijksmuseum
- the Anne Frank House
This ensures:
- better accessibility from different parts of the city
- a spread of visitors
- different routes through the canals
This way, you can easily choose the boarding location that best fits your schedule.
Useful tips for departure at Central Station
Arrive on time
Make sure to be at the boarding location about 10 minutes before departure.
Look for landmarks
The boarding location is on Prins Hendrikkade opposite the station. The Flagship Amsterdam crew will be there to welcome and assist you.
Check the weather
In good weather, open boats often sail through the canals. Dress appropriately for a comfortable cruise.
Why do many canal cruises depart from Central Station?
Amsterdam Central Station is one of the most popular departure points for a canal cruise because:
- it is the most central location in Amsterdam
- it is easily accessible by public transport
- it is close to hotels and tourist attractions
- it offers direct access to canal routes
For many visitors, this is the easiest and most logical place to start their canal cruise.
