Canal Challenge

The Canal Challenge is an energetic team-building rally on the water. Instead of sitting back on a luxury boat, your team powers the vessel! You climb into classic “pedalos” (pedal boats) and race against colleagues through the canals, solving puzzles and completing challenges along the way to win the title of “Canal Conquerors.”

It is active, but it isn’t the Tour de France. The pedal boats are stable and easy to operate. It is designed to be a fun, light workout rather than an endurance test. If you can ride a bike at a leisurely pace, you can participate. Plus, you have a teammate next to you to share the pedaling load!

Our standard pedalos accommodate 4 people (two pedaling, two relaxing/navigating). This makes it perfect for small sub-teams. For the challenge, we divide your large group into these 4-person squads to compete against each other.

It’s not just about speed. Your team receives a game kit and map. You’ll have to navigate to specific checkpoints, answer trivia about Amsterdam, spot hidden details on the canal houses, and maybe even perform a creative photo task. Strategy is just as important as leg power.

Generally, no. The pedal boats are very stable and safe. Unless you decide to jump in (which is not allowed!), you will stay dry. However, since you are on an open small boat close to the water, we recommend leaving expensive electronics in a waterproof bag or locker just to be safe.

Yes. We organize the challenge in quieter parts of the canal belt to avoid heavy commercial traffic. You will receive a full safety briefing before you launch, including navigation rules (always stay right!). Our support crew keeps an eye on the fleet throughout the event.

The entire event typically lasts around 1.5 to 2 hours. This includes the welcome briefing, the pedalo rally itself (usually 60-90 minutes), and the wrap-up at the finish line. It’s the perfect duration to get energized without getting exhausted.

The pedalos are open-topped, so you are exposed to the elements. In case of light rain, we can provide ponchos, and the activity becomes a bit more “adventurous.” In case of heavy storm or dangerous weather, we can reschedule or move you to a covered boat activity (though you won’t be pedaling!).

It is the most sustainable activity we offer! It is 100% human-powered with zero emissions and zero noise pollution. It’s a fantastic choice for companies with strict green policies or CSR goals.

Operating a boat (even a pedalo) requires focus, so we don’t encourage heavy drinking during the race. However, we highly recommend booking a “Post-Race Drinks” package. We can have cold beers and bitterballen waiting for you at the dock or on a nearby terrace to celebrate the finish.

Yes! Bragging rights are good, but a trophy is better. We hold a short award ceremony at the end where we tally the scores (navigation + puzzle answers) and crown the winning team. We can provide a bottle of bubbly or a custom prize for the champions.

Wear comfortable, casual clothing and flat shoes (sneakers are best). Avoid short skirts (as you are pedaling) and high heels. If it’s sunny, bring sunglasses and sunscreen; the reflection off the water can be strong.

This is a brilliant combo. Start with the Canal Challenge to burn off some energy and build up a thirst, then transfer directly onto a Flagship Luxury Saloon Boat for a relaxing dinner or drinks cruise. It’s the perfect “Work Hard, Play Hard” itinerary.

Yes, all our game materials, maps, and briefings are available in English. The challenges are designed to be solvable by international visitors, focusing on observation rather than deep local history knowledge.

Since we need to reserve a fleet of pedalos and arrange the facilitators, this is a group booking. Please contact Flagship Events via our inquiry form or call +31 20 261 2828. We will check availability for your desired date and group size.