PBT BLOG
There are boats you hire for a cruise. And then there are boats where, the moment you step on board, you feel as though you have become part of a story.
De Lieve belongs to the latter category.
This classic salon boat was built in 1935 as a corporate vessel for Ketjen, the company now known as AkzoNobel. After spending many years in Amsterdam, De Lieve embarked on a remarkable journey through Europe, travelling along canals and rivers before eventually returning to her original home: Amsterdam.
Today, she once again cruises the historic canals of Amsterdam.
A Boat with a Past
In 1935, the world looked very different.
De Lieve was built at a time when a vessel was not merely a means of transport, but also a statement of prestige. Her original role as a corporate vessel meant that she was used for representative and business purposes.
That character can still be felt today.
As you step aboard, you discover a classic salon boat where wood, space and refined details come together. Her history has not been hidden behind a modern interior. Instead, it remains an integral part of the experience.
From Amsterdam to Europe's Waterways
Perhaps the most fascinating part of De Lieve's story is that her history extends far beyond Amsterdam.
After her years in the Dutch capital, the boat travelled to other parts of Europe. She navigated canals and rivers, making a literal journey through Europe's waterways.
Eventually, De Lieve returned to Amsterdam.
A vessel that once departed from this city came back years later to the place where her story began.
And that is where she still sails today.
Back on Amsterdam's Historic Canals
This is what makes a private boat tour aboard De Lieve different from an ordinary canal cruise.
As you travel through Amsterdam, you are not simply cruising historic waterways. You are sitting aboard a piece of living maritime heritage.
The canal houses, bridges and historic warehouses passing by provide the backdrop. De Lieve adds her own history to the scene.
It is Amsterdam from two perspectives at once: the history of the city and the history of the boat.
Space for an Intimate Experience
De Lieve can accommodate up to 12 guests for drinks and up to 10 guests for a seated dinner. She also features a spacious interior and an open aft deck, allowing you to enjoy the cruise indoors or outside, depending on the weather.
This makes her an ideal setting for a variety of occasions.
A relaxed private cruise with friends. A birthday celebration with family. Lunch on the water. Or a romantic dinner as Amsterdam slowly glides past.
The boat is large enough to offer comfort, yet intimate enough to preserve the personal atmosphere of a private boat tour.
Why Is She Called De Lieve?
The name actually suits her remarkably well.
De Lieve has a warm and welcoming character. Her wooden finish and classic interior create an atmosphere that encourages you to slow down and enjoy the moment rather than seek out grand spectacle.
This is a boat where you do not simply look at Amsterdam.
You take the time to experience it.
A Varend Monument
De Lieve is also part of the full Private Boat Tours fleet, which has been recognised by the Federatie Varend Erfgoed Nederland as Varend Monument – a Historic Vessel Monument.
This is the highest classification within the Dutch heritage fleet system.
A cruise aboard De Lieve is therefore about more than a luxury canal tour.
You are stepping aboard a vessel that is itself part of Dutch maritime history.
A Piece of History That Keeps Sailing
Perhaps that is ultimately what makes De Lieve so special.
She left Amsterdam, travelled across Europe and eventually returned to the city where her story began.
Today, she once again cruises the Amsterdam canals.
And every time De Lieve rounds a corner, passes beneath a historic bridge or glides alongside an old canal house, she adds another chapter to her long history.
Would you like to experience Amsterdam aboard the historic De Lieve?
