Classic Saloon Boats of the Netherlands
Discover the craftsmanship and timeless charm of Dutch saloon boats—elegant vessels built for luxury, restored for today, and cruising through the canals of Amsterdam with historic grace.
What Is a Saloon Boat?
A saloon boat (salonboot) is a low, elegant canal vessel designed for comfort and style. Developed in the 19th century, these boats feature enclosed cabins, wooden interiors, and panoramic views, making them ideal for quiet, upscale canal cruises.
The Legacy of Dutch Boatbuilding
Timeless Design & Materials
Crafted from fine mahogany, teak, and brass, each saloon boat is a unique work of art, combining form and function. From the Golden Age to modern day, the Dutch have mastered waterborne elegance.
Stofberg Werf in Mijdrecht
At Stofberg Werf, master boatbuilders restore historical saloon boats with precision and pride. This renowned wharf blends tradition with innovation, breathing new life into vessels like Delphine and Avanti.
In the heart of the Netherlands, where canals crisscross historic towns and cities, a unique tradition floats quietly through time: the art of building saloon boats. Known locally as salonboten, these elegant vessels represent the golden age of Dutch boat building—a harmonious blend of function, form, and refined craftsmanship.
Today, they continue to glide through Amsterdam’s waterways, not only as luxurious charter boats but also as floating monuments to Dutch maritime ingenuity.
What Is a Saloon Boat?
A saloon boat is a classic motorized vessel with a partially or fully enclosed cabin (the “salon”), often finished with fine woodwork, large windows, and comfortable seating. Originally developed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, these boats were designed for the elite—wealthy families, mayors, and industrialists—who used them to travel in comfort along canals and rivers.
With their low profile and silent electric motors, saloon boats are perfectly suited for the narrow, bridge-laced canals of cities like Amsterdam, Utrecht, and Leiden.
Dutch Tradition Meets Timeless Design
Saloon boat building in the Netherlands draws on centuries of shipbuilding expertise, particularly from regions like Friesland, North Holland, and along the IJsselmeer. Dutch boatyards have long been known for their ability to merge practicality with elegance, producing vessels that are both sturdy and beautiful.
Traditionally, saloon boats were crafted from mahogany or teak, and the interiors often featured polished brass, velvet seating, hand-blown glass lamps, and period details. Each boat was custom-built—no two were exactly alike.
Featured Vessels
Delphine
Built in 1915, Delphine is a gentleman’s launch with removable roofing and teak wood detailing—ideal for romantic open-air canal tours in Amsterdam.
Avanti
Spacious and classically restored, Avanti offers 360-degree views thanks to its openable sides and roof. Fully heated and equipped for year-round cruising.
Maritime Heritage
Het Scheepvaartmuseum
Located in Amsterdam, The National Maritime Museum showcases Dutch seafaring history and gives context to the evolution of canal cruising vessels.
Fries Scheepvaart Museum
Situated in Sneek, this museum preserves regional boating culture and highlights traditional craftsmanship essential to saloon boat heritage.
Luxury on the Canals Today
Modern-day saloon boat experiences offer fine dining, private tours, and an unmatched perspective of Amsterdam’s historic waterways—onboard vessels where every detail tells a story.
Book Your Cruise
Ready to step aboard? Join a private dinner cruise or charter a classic saloon boat and glide through Amsterdam’s history in true Dutch style.