For a summer party boat in Amsterdam, drink packages typically include a selection of beer, wine, soft drinks, and sparkling wine or prosecco. Most packages are structured around a set number of drinks per person or a fixed duration, and options range from basic packages to full open bar arrangements. The exact options depend on the boat company and the size and type of your group.

Below you will find answers to the most common questions about drink packages for a summer party boat in Amsterdam, from what is included to whether you can bring your own drinks on board.

What types of drinks are typically included in a party boat package?

A standard party boat drink package in Amsterdam usually includes beer, white and rosé wine, prosecco or sparkling wine, and a range of soft drinks and water. Some packages also include basic mixed drinks or a house cocktail. The selection is designed to suit a broad range of guests without requiring them to manage individual orders.

Most summer party boat packages are built around crowd-pleasing choices that work well in warm weather. That means lighter drinks tend to feature prominently: chilled white wine, rosé, lager, and refreshing non-alcoholic options. Premium packages may extend the selection to include spirits, cocktails, or a wider variety of wines.

It is worth checking what is specifically included before booking. Some packages list a fixed number of drinks per person, while others offer unlimited consumption for a set time window. Knowing this upfront helps you match the package to your group’s preferences and budget.

What’s the difference between a drinks package and an open bar on a party boat?

A drinks package gives each guest a fixed number of drinks or a curated selection for a set period, while an open bar means unlimited drinks from a defined menu for the duration of the event. The key difference is consumption limits: a package caps what is included, whereas an open bar does not.

For a summer party boat in Amsterdam, the practical difference matters quite a bit depending on your group. A drinks package works well for shorter trips or groups where moderate consumption is expected. An open bar suits longer bookings, larger celebrations, or groups who want the freedom to drink without counting.

Open bar arrangements are typically priced higher per person because the boat company absorbs the risk of higher consumption. Packages, on the other hand, are more predictable in cost and are often the default option for standard party boat bookings. If your group wants flexibility, it is worth asking whether an upgrade to an open bar is available.

Can you customize a drink package for a summer boat party?

Yes, most party boat companies in Amsterdam allow you to customize your drink package to some degree. Common customization options include swapping certain drinks, adding a welcome cocktail, upgrading to premium wines or champagne, or combining a drinks package with a catering arrangement.

Customization works best when you communicate your preferences clearly at the time of booking. For example, if your group prefers gin and tonic over beer, or if you are celebrating a milestone and want champagne as part of the welcome, these requests can usually be accommodated with advance notice.

Keep in mind that the more tailored the package, the more lead time the boat company may need to arrange it. For summer bookings especially, when demand is high, reaching out early gives you the best chance of getting exactly what you want on board.

How much do drink packages for a party boat in Amsterdam cost?

Drink packages for a party boat in Amsterdam typically range from around 15 to 40 euros per person, depending on what is included and how long the package runs. Basic packages with beer, wine, and soft drinks sit at the lower end, while open bar arrangements or packages with spirits and cocktails are priced higher.

Several factors influence the final price:

  • Duration: A two-hour package costs less than a three or four-hour arrangement
  • Drink selection: Beer and house wine packages are more affordable than those including champagne or premium spirits
  • Group size: Larger groups sometimes benefit from a lower per-person rate
  • Catering combination: Bundling drinks with food often offers better overall value than booking them separately

It is always a good idea to ask for a full breakdown of what is included at each price point so you can compare packages accurately. Some companies include service and glassware in the price, while others charge these separately.

Are non-alcoholic drink options available on Amsterdam party boats?

Yes, non-alcoholic drink options are available on Amsterdam party boats and are included in most standard drink packages. Soft drinks, sparkling water, still water, and fruit juices are commonly offered alongside alcoholic choices, ensuring guests who do not drink alcohol are well catered for.

For groups with guests who prefer not to drink, it is worth confirming in advance that the non-alcoholic selection is adequate. Some companies also offer dedicated non-alcoholic packages or mocktail options, particularly for daytime events or mixed groups that include children or designated drivers.

If your group has specific preferences, such as a particular brand of sparkling water or a specific juice, this is worth mentioning when you book. Most boat companies are happy to accommodate straightforward requests when given enough notice.

Can you bring your own drinks on a party boat in Amsterdam?

Whether you can bring your own drinks on a party boat in Amsterdam depends entirely on the individual boat company’s policy. Many companies do not allow outside drinks because they offer their own drink packages, while some may permit it for a corkage fee or under specific conditions.

Bringing your own drinks is less common on fully serviced party boats, where the experience is designed to be all-inclusive. If you have a specific bottle you want to include, such as a special champagne for a toast, it is best to ask the company directly rather than assume it is permitted.

For most summer party boat bookings in Amsterdam, the convenience of an on-board package outweighs the effort of sourcing and transporting your own drinks. The packages available are usually well-suited to group events, and customization options mean you rarely need to look elsewhere.

How we help you plan the perfect summer party boat experience

Planning a summer party boat in Amsterdam is straightforward when you have the right partner. We offer fully serviced private boat trips on the Amsterdam canals, with drink packages and catering options tailored to your group and occasion. Here is what we bring to your booking:

  • A fleet of more than 40 luxury boats, suitable for any group size or type of event
  • A professional skipper and hostess on board throughout your trip
  • Flexible drink packages, from standard arrangements to open bar options
  • Catering on board, from light bites to a full dinner
  • Multiple departure points across Amsterdam for your convenience
  • Fully customizable arrangements for birthdays, corporate events, and summer celebrations

Whether you are organizing a birthday, a team outing, or a casual summer gathering, we take care of the details so you can focus on enjoying the water. Browse our available occasions and arrangements to find the right fit for your event, or get in touch with us directly to discuss your drink package options and book your summer party boat.