Description
Let’s talk about Pure Amsterdam company outings. Trust me, these aren’t your average corporate snooze-fests. Picture you and your work buddies cruising Amsterdam’s iconic canals on a smart electric boat, turning a few heads along the way. That’s the sort of outing we’re talking about.
Pure Boats, the team behind these outings, has given the whole “team building” idea a serious upgrade. They have four classic electric canal boats, restored with real care. These are proper luxury boats, designed by an in-house team of superyacht designers, so they feel a little different from the usual canal cruise.
And it isn’t just about looking good, though you will look pretty fine aboard one of these. Pure Boats aims to give you a proper Amsterdam experience, with local gin in your glass and Dutch nibbles on your plate. If it isn’t Dutch, it probably won’t be on the menu.
They’re serious about sustainability, too. The boats were upcycled from salvaged materials, so you can enjoy a craft beer and the canal views knowing the boats got a second life. Not bad for an office day out, eh?
Key Features
So, what makes these Pure Amsterdam company outings stand out? A few things:
- Luxury Boats: These are polished, head-turning vessels, not your standard tourist boats. You’ll feel a bit like an Amsterdam VIP.
- Small Groups: No sardine-can feeling here. Pure Boats keeps things intimate, so you can actually hear yourself think and have a decent chat with your colleagues.
- Local Flavors: Forget generic snacks and drinks. You’ll get local treats like Dutch farmhouse cheese, seasonal craft beers, and quality European wines. It’s a little taste of the region, right there on the water.
- Sustainability Focus: Pure Boats takes its green credentials seriously. The boats are fully electric, and the company aims for a zero-waste environment. You can feel good about the outing, even after one too many local beers.
- Personalized Experience: The crew does more than steer the boat. They’re your Amsterdam guides, ready with local recommendations and insider tips.
- Comfort is Key: These boats are designed for comfort as well as good looks, so you can sit back and relax as you glide through the canals.
- Insta-Worthy Views: Let’s be honest, part of a company outing is giving your social media followers something to envy. With Amsterdam’s canals as your backdrop, your Instagram photos should be pretty good.
Best Time to Visit
When’s the best time to book one of these for your company outing? That’s the beauty of Amsterdam: it’s charming in every season. Here’s what to expect throughout the year:
Spring (March to May): Amsterdam really shows off in spring, with tulips blooming across the city. The weather warms up without getting too hot, which makes a canal cruise comfortable. You might even catch King’s Day celebrations in April. Now that’s a party.
Summer (June to August): It’s peak tourist season, and for good reason. The weather’s lovely and the days are long, so you can cruise at 9 PM and still have daylight. Summer evenings work well for unwinding after a day of meetings, though expect crowds and higher prices.
Fall (September to November): My personal favorite. The crowds thin out, the leaves turn golden, and the city takes on a cozy feel. It can get chilly, but that’s what blankets and hot drinks are for. You might also catch cultural events like the Amsterdam Fringe Festival.
Winter (December to February): Don’t write off winter. The lights reflect on the canals, and if it snows, you might get a proper winter wonderland cruise. A warm drink and frosted canal-side buildings make a lovely combination. Just pack your woollies.
Amsterdam weather can change quickly, though. It might be sunny one minute and raining the next, so come prepared. Pure Boats equips its boats for all weather conditions.
One tip: book well ahead for a summer outing. These cruises are popular, and you don’t want to miss out because you put it off (like that report you still haven’t finished… yeah, I see you).
How to Get There
Alright, let’s talk logistics. Getting to your Pure Amsterdam company outing is easier than explaining why you need a third coffee break. Here’s the lowdown:
By Air: If you’re flying in from out of town, you’ll land at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. It’s a major hub, so finding a flight shouldn’t be a problem. From there, you have a few options:
- Train: The quickest way to the city center. Trains run every 10-15 minutes and take about 20 minutes to reach Amsterdam Central Station.
- Bus: Slower but cheaper. The Amsterdam Airport Express (bus 397) will get you to the city center in about 30 minutes.
- Taxi: Pricier, but it offers door-to-door service. Just make sure you use an official taxi to avoid getting ripped off.
By Train: If you’re coming from elsewhere in the Netherlands or from a nearby country, the train is your best bet. Amsterdam Central Station connects to major European cities. Dutch trains are usually more punctual than that one colleague who always shows up early to meetings. You know who you are.
By Car: Driving to Amsterdam? Brave soul. Traffic can be a nightmare, and parking is expensive. If you have to drive, consider parking at a P+R (Park and Ride) on the outskirts and taking public transport into the city.
Getting to the Boat: Once you’re in Amsterdam, finding the Pure Boats dock should be straightforward. The boats usually depart from central locations, often a short walk from major landmarks. The exact location can vary by cruise, but Pure Boats will send you clear instructions when you book.
If you’re feeling adventurous (or have had one too many team lunches), why not rent a bike? It’s a very Amsterdam way to get around. Just remember, the bike lanes are serious business. Don’t be that tourist wobbling into oncoming cyclists.
Amsterdam’s public transport is good, too. Trams, buses, and metros can get you pretty much anywhere. Grab an OV-chipkaart (public transport card) and you’re ready to go.
And if all else fails, follow the canals. You’ll find your way eventually. Getting a little lost and stumbling across hidden gems is part of the fun here.
Whether you’re flying, taking the train, driving, or biking, getting to your Pure Amsterdam company outing is part of the adventure. Leave enough time for a pre-cruise coffee (or maybe something stronger). You’re on Dutch time now, so take a moment to enjoy it.
Once you’re on that boat, cruising down the canals with a local beer in hand, you’ll forget about the journey. It’s all about the destination, and what a destination it is. Rally the team, pack your sense of adventure (and maybe a rain jacket, just in case), and get ready for a company outing that could become office legend. Proost!
