The remarkable thing is that The Hague is not typically associated with canals like Amsterdam or Leiden, yet the city does have a valuable, largely intact canal belt that is more than 400 years old. It is a hidden gem that completely surprises visitors.
Every canal cruise by De Ooievaart departs from the Bierkade, where the boats await and the volunteers welcome you with The Hague’s signature humor, warmth, and stories. During the 90‑minute tour, you gain a perspective you would never experience otherwise: almost at water level, where every bridge, façade, and canal drifts past like a living stage set. The guide shares stories about the historic Bierkade, the Royal Stables, Het Lint, the Schilderswijk, and the modern political heart of the city with its ministries and international institutions. The guides are true residents of The Hague, offering stories that range from history and politics to anecdotes, local legends, street names, and typical Hague characters.
De Ooievaart offers a wide range of possibilities that go beyond a simple canal cruise. For company outings, family celebrations, birthdays, or group activities, you can rent a private boat. This gives you your own skipper and guide, making the tour even more personal. In addition, one of the historical boats has been converted into a meeting and workshop space. It is a unique, calming, and creative location that is perfect for team sessions, teambuilding, or brainstorming.
With the Passantenhaven, De Ooievaart offers a mooring spot right in the heart of the city. It’s ideal for anyone wanting to explore The Hague with their own boat, with all facilities within easy reach. Here, you can stay for one or multiple nights to fully experience everything The Hague has to offer. Finally, you can also book tickets for the climb of the Haagse Toren, giving you a panoramic view of the coastline, skyline, and inner canals.
De Ooievaart doesn’t just offer canal cruises — it also provides the Haagse Stadfiets: the perfect way to continue exploring The Hague once you step off the boat. It’s an ideal combination: first drifting calmly over the water, then actively moving through the city. Both experiences reveal a different side of The Hague.
De Ooievaart is not a standard tourist cruise; it is a story of The Hague, told from the water. It’s one of the most beautiful ways to understand where The Hague comes from, where it stands today, and how diverse, creative, and layered the city truly is.
Are you planning to take a canal cruise through The Hague and want to be sure of a parking space? Easily reserve your parking spot online at Q‑Park Centrum. Would you prefer to park elsewhere in The Hague? Then take a look at our complete overview of parking facilities in The Hague.
At Q‑Park Centrum you can park from €15 per day. Reserve your parking space online in advance and be assured of a guaranteed spot. You can easily enter and exit using license plate recognition, and you no longer need to stop by the payment machine. Do you want to see The Hague by bike? You can rent a Haagse Stadsfiets at Mobility Hub Q-Park Centrum. So you can see the city at your own time.
Do you want to know more about the variety of the Boat Tours from The Ooievaart. Check the offers here.