Free Amsterdam Ferry Map & Guide – GVB Everyone wants to see Amsterdam by boat. Canal cruises are offered all over town and for €15-€20, a canal ride can be a great experience. But if you don’t have the €15-€20, or simply don’t want to be trapped like cattle on a canal boat, there is an option for you. GVB offers FREE ferries rides across the IJ river. These ferries leave from the rear and side of Amsterdam Centraal station. You can see signs for them throughout centraal, just look for the boat symbol with IJ and follow the arrows