Canals of Utrecht

The canals of Utrecht in detail

During the cruise you will pass the most important canals and waters of Utrecht. Each canal has its own character and a rich history. Below is an overview of what you will see along the way.

The Oudegracht

The Oudegracht is the most famous canal in Utrecht and flows right through the center. What is special is that the Oudegracht is on two levels: the street level of the city and the water level of the wharf cellars below. At the wharf cellars there are cafes and restaurants directly on the water. The Oudegracht originated around the year 1000 as a dug branch of the Rhine and played a crucial role in Utrecht's trade.

De Nieuwegracht

The Nieuwegracht is younger than the Oudegracht, dug in 1391. A quiet canal with monumental canal houses, linden trees along the water and a serene atmosphere. On the Nieuwegracht are the University Museum, the Pieterskerk and the Catharijneconvent. From the sloop you can see how this canal was built by the episcopal city in the Middle Ages.

The Yard Cellars

The Utrecht yard cellars are unique in the world. At the water level below the street are old warehouse cellars where goods were stored in the Middle Ages right next to the ships. Today it houses cafes, restaurants and small shops. From the sloop you can see the shipyard cellars best, with the facades above you and the cafeteria terraces at street level higher up.

The Stadsbuitengracht and Singel

Around the old center runs the Stadsbuitengracht, also called the Singel. A wider waterway with green banks, the Catharijnesingel park and the 19th century canal Villa’s. the Singel has recently been fully restored after decades of damping, and now forms a complete water ring around the center of Utrecht.

Bridges, churches and historic warehouses

Utrecht has dozens of historic bridges, of which the Stadhuisbrug and the hamburger Brug are the best known. The Dom Tower, the tallest church building in the Netherlands, is visible from almost every canal. Along the canals are centuries-old warehouses that testify to the Utrecht trading period, when Utrecht was the most important city in the Netherlands.

Would you like to read more about the 5 best cruises in Utrecht? In our article on the top 5 best cruises in Utrecht and surroundings – Event on the water read all the possibilities.

Food and drinks on the Utrecht canals

Combine the cruise with a culinary package. The luxury sloop has a bar and a compact grill on board. Unlimited beer, wine, soft drinks, coffee and tea are included in the price. Optionally, you can expand the package with snacks, a walking dinner, a BBQ or a high tea. 

For a BBQ cruise on the canals look at BBQ boat Utrecht. For a pure drink arrangement see borrelboot Utrecht. A party with DJ and music can be arranged via party boat Utrecht.

Would you like to read more about the most beautiful routes in Utrecht? In our article on the most beautiful tour routes in Utrecht – Event on the water read all the possibilities.

Without charge ⤵

How much does a cruise through the canals of Utrecht cost?

The prices are tailored to the duration and the group size. All rates include skipper, service and unlimited beer, wine and soft drinks.

Optional upgrades such as BBQ, walking dinner or high tea are added on top of the basic rate. For the exact rate, request a free quote.

Without charge ⤵