Amsterdam is great on foot. Walking the streets, stopping in coffeeshops, and enjoying some amazing food and beverages from a diverse range of restaurants and cafés is the standard way to see the city, and for good reason. But after a few days of dodging bikes on narrow sidewalks, you realize you are only seeing half the picture. The city was literally built on the water, and getting onto a boat changes the whole pace of your trip.
Experience Amsterdam like never before, no matter the season! Step aboard the Buddha Lounge Boat and discover the city’s iconic canals in total comfort, rain or shine. Don’t worry. You don’t have to sacrifice the social side of the city to do it!
The Buddha Lounge Boat essentially takes the chill vibes that you would experience in a coffeeshop or a smoker-friendly lounge and puts it directly on the canals. With cozy seating, an inviting vibe, and cruises running all year long, this award-winning journey is a must for every traveler. It even won Best 420 Experience at the 2025 Amsterdam Coffeeshop Awards.
Below is a look at why Buddha Lounge Boat’s floating living room belongs at the very top of your Amsterdam itinerary.
Float, Puff, and Unwind
Step onto the deck, and the hectic energy of the city center immediately fades away. The Buddha Lounge Boat feels less like a commercial excursion and more like hanging out at a close friend’s incredibly stylish apartment.
- True freedom comes from a strict Bring Your Own Cannabis (BYOC) policy that lets you enjoy your own stash at your own pace.
- Ultimate comfort is guaranteed by deep, couch-style lounge seating designed for socializing and sinking in deep.
- Pure tranquility defines the ride, thanks to a 100% electric motor that glides silently down the waterways without fumes or noise.
- The perfect soundtrack plays softly in the background, curate to match the changing light of the city.
Instead of staring at the backs of strangers’ heads, you sit facing your friends and fellow travelers, making it incredibly easy to swap travel stories or just stare out at the glowing bridges together.
Built for a Good Smoke Session
The main reason this boat stands out from standard coffeeshops is the setup. Instead of being stuck in a crowded, smoke-filled room indoors, you get fresh air and a constantly changing view while you smoke.
The onboard crew doesn’t treat you like typical tourists. There are no cheesy history scripts or announcements over a loudspeaker. They keep the vibe casual by playing music, keeping the bar stocked with cold drinks, and even serving up snacks. It feels less like an organized tour and more like an open-air session with a mix of travelers from all over.
A welcoming community brings together solo backpackers, couples on romantic getaways, and small groups of friends.
A well-stocked bar serves up chilled beers, local wines, and soft drinks to keep cottonmouth at bay.
Authentic local snacks, including traditional Dutch bitterballen, give you a real taste of Amsterdam comfort food.
Rain or Shine: Buddha Lounge Boat Cruises Year-Round
One of the Buddha Lounge Boat’s best features is that cruises operate year-round, not just in the sunny months. Amsterdam weather can be unpredictable, but you’ll stay comfortable no matter what. A retractable roof ensures that even if it rains, you can keep cruising in cozy warmth and style. This makes it a perfect addition to your itinerary whether you’re visiting in the depths of winter or the height of summer.
Shifting Gears on the Canals
Whether you opt for a green hour cruise to watch the sunset or a late-night trip to see the historic canal rings illuminated by city lights, the experience stays with you. It is a rare chance to slow down and appreciate the city exactly as it was meant to be experienced, unhurried, beautiful, and completely relaxed.
Bring your favorite papers, pick up something special from a local shop, and get ready to experience the award-winning side of Amsterdam.
Ready to see the city in a whole new light? Add the Buddha Lounge Boat to your Amsterdam itinerary and float away from the ordinary.
