Why You Can’t Miss These Berlin Boat Tours

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Two of the Most Popular Berlin Boat Tours

Choose between a one-hour and a two-and-15-minute cruise. Be sure to read about my experience and other options before you book your tickets.

My Berlin Boat Tour Experience

I hopped aboard the boat from Friedrichstrasse on a warm November day, thinking this would be a great thing to do in the autumn.

I got a front-row seat on the upper-level deck despite being the very last passenger to arrive.

I’ve been looking forward to this scenic boat tour ever since I arrived in Berlin 2 months ago, and I was bubbling with excitement as I set off to discover Berlin from a whole new perspective – the River Spree!

After admiring the city from its highest vantage point, I was excited to see it now from the water.

I love architecture, and if you do too, you’re going to love this tour.

Here are some of the Berlin landmarks you’ll likely see:

• Berlin Cathedral – This grand domed landmark stands tall along Museum Island
• Museum Island – A UNESCO treasure, home to five world-famous museums
• Berlin TV Tower – Spot the city’s tallest structure piercing the skyline as you cruise east
• Oberbaum Bridge – A red-brick beauty connecting Friedrichshain and Kreuzberg—perfect for a snapshot
• Berlin Hauptbahnhof – Europe’s largest train station, a sleek contrast to the rest of the city
• Reichstag Building – Germany’s Parliament, topped with a glass dome
• Bellevue Palace – The president’s elegant white residence, standing gracefully along the riverbank

The onboard commentary, delivered in German, described each landmark as we drifted past. Headsets were available for English speakers, but I was determined to sharpen my German, so I stuck with it.

Beyond the standard one-hour route, the cruise continues past Charlottenburg Palace, its gardens marking the journey’s midpoint. Turning back, the Westhafen Canal and Berlin-Spandau Ship Canal revealed Berlin’s industrial side—not the most scenic stretch, but a peaceful moment to simply sit back and float.

By the time we returned to Friedrichstrasse, my camera was full, and so was my appreciation for the city.

A bit touristy? Sure.

Would I do it again? Absolutely.

My Travel Take: Which Is Better, the 1 or 2+ Hour Boat Cruise

If you’re short on time, the 1-hour tour is the best way to see the city’s main landmarks, even if you’re visiting for a day.

For a more relaxed experience, the 2.25-hour tour lets you soak in the city at a slower pace—perfect if you enjoy unwinding on the water.

Additional tips:

• If you are planning on spending a few days in Berlin, I recommend you get the Welcome to Berlin Card, which offers discounts on boat tours, bike rides, and walking tours, along with entrance fees to those top Berlin sightseeing sites.

• All of Berlin’s boat trips are licensed, and onboard service is available—grab a drink or a light snack (not included) as you cruise.

More Berlin Boat Tours

Beyond the popular 1-hour and 2.25-hour tours, there are plenty of other ways to explore Berlin from the water.

Here are a few more to tempt you.

Spree Sightseeing Tour on Electric Motor Yacht

Drift through Berlin in style on a quiet electric boat. Whether you prefer the sun deck, a shaded spot, or a front-row seat, you’ll cruise past the government district, Berlin Palace, and more.

Perfect for those who enjoy a more refined, laid-back experience on the water.

• Rated 4.8/5 ⭐
• 75 minutes (half time is learning about Berlin history and the other half is listening to music)
• Check pricing and availability

Dinner Cruise on the Spree with Prosecco

Savour a Berlin dinner cruise with stunning city views. Glide past Museum Island while enjoying a 3- or 4-course meal—vegetarian options included! Start with a welcome drink, settle in, and watch the city lights reflect on the water.

• Rated 4.3/5 ⭐
• 2.5 hour city tour
• Check pricing and availability

World Heritage Cruise to Potsdam

Cruise from Wannsee to Potsdam and sail through history at a relaxed pace. Pass by Peacock Island, Cecilienhof Palace, and the Glienicke Bridge, soaking in the scenic views along the way. A perfect off-the-beaten-path experience for slow travellers.

• Rated 4.5/5 ⭐
• 3 hours
• Check pricing and availability

Spree Boat Tour to Müggelsee

Take a break from the city with a peaceful cruise down the River Spree to Müggelsee, Berlin’s largest lake. Enjoy the laid-back vibe, with the option to hop off in Köpenick for a quick stroll before the boat returns 30 minutes later. Don’t miss the Captain of Köpenick statue and the charming Köpenick Palace along the way.

• Rated 4.5/5 ⭐
• 3.5 hour boat ride
• Check pricing and availability

Sunset Catamaran Cruise

Watch the sunset bathe Berlin in golden light as you drift along the Spree on a serene solar catamaran, taking in the city’s iconic sights. This is also one of the few wheelchair-accessible cruises, making it a great option for everyone to enjoy.

• Rated 4.5/5 ⭐
• 2.5-hour boat trip
• Check pricing and availability

Final Thoughts

I’ve taken boat trips on the Seine in Paris and the Vltava in Prague, and this Berlin cruise now ranks right up there with my favourites.

If you enjoy this tour, I highly recommend the Berlin food tour next. It’s a walking tour filled with fascinating local stories and delicious street food to sample along the way!