Costs babyshower boot Amsterdam: prices& tips

A pregnancy is one of the most special milestones in life, and that deserves a celebration to never forget. More and more groups of girlfriends and families choose to surprise the expectant mother with a unique celebration on the water. Cruising the historic canals, soft cushions to relax on, a festive snack and drink in hand, and the beautiful decor of the historic buildings around you: a baby shower on a boat is a magical experience. But when you organize such a surprise day, you naturally want to know in advance exactly where you are financially. What are the costs for a baby shower on a boat in Amsterdam city center, how is the price structured and what should you consider when planning?

The final cost for a baby shower on a boat in Amsterdam city center depends on various factors, such as the group size, the length of the trip, the type of vessel and the catering requirements. Whether you opt for an intimate drink on an open sloop or a luxurious, covered saloon boat with extensive high tea: there is a suitable package for every budget and every style. In this comprehensive guide, you'll discover all the target prices, find out how the costs are structured, and we'll give you helpful tips to get the most out of your budget, so you can create carefree memories that stay afloat!

Key insights on the cost of a baby shower on a boat

• Average cost per person: On average, count on an amount between € 45, - and € 85, - per person for a fully catered private tour of 1.5 to 2 hours, including boat rental, skipper, drinks and snacks.
• Price structure: The total price consists of the fixed rent of the boat including experienced skipper, fuel/power and municipal sailing tax in Amsterdam, combined with the chosen catering (drink arrangement, mocktails, sweet bites or a high tea).
• Advantage of larger groups: Since the basic costs of the boat and the skipper are distributed among all those present, the larger your group is (for example, 12 to 20 people), the price per person drops significantly.
• Type of boat makes a difference: A comfortable electric sloop is often cheaper than a classic, covered saloon boat with toilet and heating. However, for a pregnant woman, a salon boat will provide additional luxury and comfort.
• All-in security: With a complete package you avoid surprises afterwards. Fixed packages with unlimited drinks and snacks ensure maximum rest in the planning.

What is the average cost for a baby shower on a boat in Amsterdam city centre?

When you organize a private cruise, you can usually choose between two ways of calculating: a fixed hourly price for the ship where you pay for the catering separately, or an all-inclusive price per person. At events on the Water, we almost always work with complete all-in Group packages. That is so transparent, because every guest knows in advance exactly what her contribution is and you will not be faced with unexpected additional costs afterwards.

For a baby shower on the water, most groups opt for a 1.5 or 2 hour cruise. This is the perfect length of time: long enough to chat, unwrap presents, take pictures and play games, but not so long that it becomes too tiring for the expectant mother. Below you will find an overview of the average target prices for different packages and group sizes in Amsterdam city center.

Do you want to know exactly what such a festive day can look like and immediately get inspiration for the program? Read our article on the baby shower on a boat in Amsterdam for practical examples and creative ideas.

What factors determine the cost of a baby shower on a boat in Amsterdam city centre?

No two baby showers are the same. One group wants a relaxed cruise with cupcakes and mocktails in the sun, while the other opts for a fancy lunch on a historic saloon boat. The final cost of a baby shower on a boat in Amsterdam city centre is determined by a number of important components. By understanding these factors, you can make smart choices that fit within the budget of the invitees.

1. The duration of the private tour

The minimum sailing duration for a private tour on the Amsterdam canals is usually 1.5 hours. A 1.5-hour tour is ideal for a quick, festive surprise. However, if you want to calmly unpack gifts, play a quiz like “guess the baby picture” or “babybingo”, and enjoy an extensive drinks board or high tea, then 2 hours is by far the most popular choice. Each additional half hour provides a slight surcharge for the boat and the skipper, but significantly increases relaxation.

2. The type of vessel: Open sloop or covered saloon boat

In Amsterdam you can roughly choose between two categories of boats:

• The luxury open sloop: Delicious in spring, summer and early late summer. You sit close to the water, have a panoramic view over the canals and experience the ultimate Amsterdam cosiness. In the unlikely event of rain, many sloops can be equipped with a flexible roof. An open sloop is generally the most economical option in terms of boat rental.
• The classic saloon boat: These stylish ships are fully covered, heated and equipped with large windows. For a baby shower, a salon boat has two very big advantages: there is always a toilet on board (indispensable for a pregnant woman!) and you are 100% guaranteed to be protected from the elements. A saloon boat also exudes pure luxury, although the hourly rate is usually slightly higher than with a standard sloop.

3. Group size

The size of your party directly affects the price per person. Because the fixed components (the rent of the ship, the professional skipper and the municipal sailing rights in Amsterdam) are converted over the number of people, the more friends and family members sail along, the friendlier the price per guest turns out. A baby shower with 16 people is often noticeably cheaper per participant than an intimate tour with 8 people.

4. Catering and beverage packages

Catering forms a substantial part of the cost of a baby shower on a boat in Amsterdam city centre. A baby shower is all about pampering, but there is one important detail to consider: the ‘mom-to-be’ drinks alcohol-free of course! Fortunately, there are fantastic options available:

• Alcohol-free options & mocktails: Elderflower lemonades, fresh fruit water, non-alcoholic gin and tonics and festive non-alcoholic bubbles.
• Drinks for guests: An all-inclusive drink package with chilled wine, beer, soft drinks and sparkling water ensures that no one is thirsty.
• Zoete bites en high tea: Mini cupcakes (optionally with pink or blue toppings), macarons, brownies, fresh fruit and topped sandwiches.
• Luxury wine boards: Generously filled with cheeses, charcuterie, olives, freshly baked bread and dips. Always make sure that there are enough safe treats for the pregnant woman (no raw milk cheeses or raw meat).

For more details on combining boating and delicious food you can take a look at our page on a cruise with catering in Amsterdam.

5. Embarkation point and sailing area in Amsterdam city centre

The boarding place matters a lot for the comfort of the expectant mother. Popular boarding places in Amsterdam city centre are for example near the Central Station, the Jordaan, the Keizersgracht or the Amstel. Some specific jetties in the heart of the center charge municipal mooring rates, which are included in the quotation. A boarding point close to a parking garage or tram stop is ideal so that the pregnant guest of Honor does not have to walk far.

Detailed overview of the costs per part

Are you preparing the budget for the girlfriend Group? To give you a crystal clear insight into how a budget is built, below is an indicative breakdown of the individual components that make up the total price.

Open sloop or covered saloon boat: what suits your baby shower best?

One of the most important considerations when determining the cost of a baby shower on a boat in Amsterdam center is the choice between an open sloop and a covered saloon boat. Both vessels have their own unique charm and price level.

The open sloop: sailing with the wind in your hair

If you opt for a sloop, you opt for an informal, cheerful and summery atmosphere. You sit on comfortable cushions around a central table where the drinks and snacks are displayed. Because sloops sail quietly and electrically, you can effortlessly talk to each other and enjoy the music in the background. The costs for an open sloop are usually a bit lower than for a saloon boat. It is a fantastic choice for the months of May through september. Keep in mind that most sloops do not have their own toilet on board; however, the skipper can always schedule a sanitary stop at a restaurant on the canal.

The saloon boat: ultimate relaxation and comfort for the expectant mother

Do you celebrate the baby shower in autumn, winter or early spring? Or do you simply want maximum certainty about the comfort of the pregnant guest? Then a classic Amsterdam saloon boat is the perfect option. Saloon boats have a rich historical character with lacquered wood, copper details and velvet upholstery. They are equipped with heating, spacious seating areas and an on-board toilet. This ensures optimal rest: no one has to worry about fresh weather, wind or sudden downpours. Although the cost per hour for a saloon boat is slightly higher, the ship offers an unparalleled luxurious look that fits perfectly with a festive milestone.

Are you still in doubt about which ship best suits your company? Read more about the possibilities in our article about a boat trip with skipper.

Practical example calculations: what do you pay per person?

To get a clear picture of the total cost of a baby shower on a boat in Amsterdam city centre, we have developed three realistic calculation examples. This way you can immediately see how the costs per person turn out with different choices.

Example 1: the cozy summer sloop with 14 girlfriends

You rent a luxury electric boat for 2 hours including skipper and unlimited drinks (beer, wine, soft drinks and non-alcoholic bubbles for the pregnant woman). In addition, you choose an extensive selection of snacks and festive cupcakes.

• Boat rental including skipper (2 hours): € 420,-
• Drinks package (14 persons x € 19,50): € 273,-
• Luxury cocktail and cupcake platter (14 persons x € 16,50): € 231,-
• Municipal shipping tax Amsterdam (€ 2,80 p.p.): € 39,20
• Total costs: € 963,20
• Costs per person (14 persons): ca. € 68,80

Tip: often the expectant mother herself does not pay and the remaining 13 girlfriends put in her share. In that case, each girlfriend pays about € 74, -.

Example 2: The stylish high tea on a saloon boat with 10 people

An intimate, luxurious baby shower on a classic saloon boat with toilet and heating. During the 2-hour cruise you will enjoy a complete high tea with hearty sandwiches, tarts, tea and a festive glass of mocktail/prosecco.

• Boat rental classic saloon Boat (2 hours): € 520,-
• High tea package including tea & bubbles (10 persons x € 28,50): € 285,-
• Municipal navigation tax (€2,80 p. p.): € 28,-
• Total costs: € 833,-
• Costs per person (10 people): ca. € 83,30

Example 3: the large family & friends cruise with 22 people

A cozy group consisting of sisters, girlfriends, aunts and (in-law)mothers. You Sail 2 hours on a spacious saloon boat or extra large sloop with drinks package.

• Spacious boat including skipper (2 hours): € 550,-
• Drinks package including snacks (22 persons x € 29,50): € 649,-
• Municipal navigation tax (€2,80 p. p.): € 61,60
• Total costs: € 1.260,60
• Costs per person (22 persons): ca. € 57,30

Useful savings tips for a baby shower on the canals

Do you want to organize a spectacular baby shower on the water, but have agreed on a strict budget with the group of friends? With these smart tips, you can keep costs under control without sacrificing party atmosphere or luxury:

1. Choose the right time

On weekends (especially on Saturday afternoons), the demand for boats in Amsterdam city centre is highest. Do you have the opportunity to sail on a Friday afternoon or a Sunday morning? Often there are more favorable rates or quieter sailing routes available. A trip of 1.5 hours instead of 2.5 hours also saves considerably directly in the boat rental.

2. Have a clear guest list

Because the fixed boat rental is distributed among the participants, the price per person drops quickly when more people come along. Ask guests to confirm their presence in a timely manner so that you know exactly which type of boat is the most efficient in terms of capacity.

3. Bring your own decoration

Many boat rental companies offer styling packages, but you can also bring your own baby shower decoration in consultation. Think of beautiful flag lines, ribbons and personalized napkins in pink, blue or neutral gold/green. Please note: confetti, glitter and plastic serpentines are usually not allowed due to the environment and the cleaning of the canals, but with stylish balloons and fabric garlands you can turn the boat into a festive picture in no time!

4. Opt for an all-inclusive package

It sometimes seems more profitable to pay for individual drinks, but in practice, all-in packages with unlimited drinks often turn out to be much more profitable. Everyone can enjoy relaxed enjoyment without anyone worrying about the balance of the bill.

Are you looking for inspiration for a relaxing cruise with friends? Take a look at our guide to the hot tubs in Amsterdam for practical planning tips.

Why a baby shower on a boat in Amsterdam city centre is a guaranteed success

Organizing a baby shower in a busy lunchroom or at home in the living room can be quite regulated and stressful. At home you are busy with the preparation, serving and the huge dishes afterwards, while in a public cafe you often sit close to other guests and have little privacy for personal games and speeches.

Opting for a private tour of the Amsterdam canals solves all these concerns in one fell swoop:

• 100% privacy: The entire boat is reserved exclusively for your own group. No other tourists or strangers around you, so you can share emotional moments, funny anecdotes and gifts in peace.
• The most beautiful decor in the Netherlands: The iconic Mansions, The Bridges of the Prinsengracht, Herengracht and Keizersgracht and the romantic Amstel form the perfect background for the most beautiful maternity photos.
• Carefree enjoyment: The skipper takes care of the route, docks safely and creates a relaxed atmosphere. All you have to do is get in and enjoy the fun.
• A special experience for the expectant mother: The gentle swaying of the water is surprisingly soothing. Sitting on luxurious pillows with a mocktail and delicious food, she immediately feels pampered.

Step-by-step plan: how to organize a flawless baby shower on the water

So that the surprise succeeds perfectly and the preparation goes smoothly, we have prepared a useful step-by-step plan for you:

1. Set up a secret group App: Gather the girlfriends, sisters and moms in a WhatsApp group (without the mom-to-be of course!). Measure the available dates and set a target budget.
2. Take stock of the mother's wishes: Does she like a sweet high tea, or is she more in the mood for a savory sideboard? What pregnancy requirements does she have? Make sure the catering is tailored to this.
3. Choose the type of boat: Based on the season and the preference for an on-board toilet, decide whether to choose an open sloop or a covered saloon boat.
4. Request a free quote: Give your desired date, group size and specific wishes. This way you will quickly receive a clear overview of the costs of a baby shower on a boat in Amsterdam city center.
5. Plan the surprise and the boarding place: Make sure that the partner of the expectant mother takes her to the center of Amsterdam with an excuse. Make sure the group is already ready on the boat or on the Quay when they arrive!
6. Enjoy an unforgettable cruise: As soon as the bunches come loose, the party can begin. Take beautiful photos & # 8217; s and enjoy a fantastic day on the water!

FAQs about the cost of a baby shower on a boat in Amsterdam city centre

How much does a baby shower on a boat in Amsterdam Centrum cost per person on average?

On average, the costs are between € 45 and € 85 per person. This amount usually includes a private tour of 1.5 to 2 hours, experienced skipper, fuel, sailing tax and a drink and snack package (such as a high tea or drinks plateau). The exact price depends on the group size and the type of ship chosen.

Is there a toilet on board?

On classic saloon boats there is almost always a modern toilet. On open sloops this is usually not the case. Because pregnant women have to go to the toilet more often, the skipper can, if desired, plan a stopover at a catering establishment on the canal in advance.

Can we order alcohol-free mocktails and special pregnancy snacks?

Yes! At a baby shower, we always take the expectant mother into account. We serve festive alcohol-free alternatives, such as sparkling mocktails or alcohol-free bubbles, and ensure that the appetizers are fully aligned with pregnancy nutrition guidelines (no raw milk cheeses, raw fish, or raw meat).

Can we bring our own cake or decoration on board?

Bringing your own decorations such as balloons, garlands and themed signs is almost always possible in consultation. A special baby shower cake can also often be brought. Please indicate this in advance when booking, so that the skipper can prepare plates and forks for you.

What happens if it rains on the scheduled day?

If you choose a covered saloon boat, you will always be warm and dry with a beautiful view over the canals. Are you booking an open sloop? Then most sloops are covered with a comfortable tent cover in less weather, so that the party can always continue comfortably.

How far in advance should we book The Boat?

Especially for the popular Saturday and Sunday afternoons in spring and summer, we recommend booking 4 to 8 weeks in advance. This way you have the most choice of available boats, desired departure times and convenient boarding places in the center of Amsterdam.

Celebrate the ultimate baby shower with an event on the Water

A baby shower on the canals of Amsterdam is without a doubt the most festive and stylish way to surprise a pregnant girlfriend, sister or daughter. With the rippling water, a beautiful historical environment, delicious drinks and tasty snacks, you give the expectant mother a day that she will remember with a smile for years to come.

At Event op het Water we like to think along with you about all the details. Whether you opt for a sunny sloop with mocktails or an elegant saloon boat with a royal high tea: we ensure that everything is arranged to perfection. Curious about the exact costs for your company? Contact us today and request a free quote. Together we make it the most fun event on the water!