Berlin’s extensive network of waterways makes boat tours a smart way to see the city. The main Spree River route gives you front-row views of Museum Island, the Reichstag, and other central landmarks in just one hour. For the best experience, I recommend the classic daytime sightseeing cruise – it’s efficient and the audio guides are excellent. If you’re hungry, evening dinner cruises offer good German cuisine while passing illuminated landmarks. The hop-on-hop-off boats are handy for travelers wanting to explore at their own pace.
My favorite is the 2.5-hour historical tour that includes both the Spree and the quieter canals – you’ll see a mix of famous sights and hidden corners that most travelers miss. For something special, the sunset cocktail cruises are wonderfully atmospheric.
Check our tested picks for Berlin’s top boat tours below.
Key Points
- Sightseeing cruises along the Spree River offer relaxing experiences showcasing Berlin’s iconic landmarks, with options ranging from 1-hour to 3.5-hour tours.
- Themed and dining cruises provide scenic views combined with delightful dining experiences, including romantic moon boat rides, dinner cruises, and electric yacht tours.
- Hop-on-hop-off tours enable flexible sightseeing of Berlin’s top attractions, with audio guides and an option for a river cruise included in the all-day ticket.
- Unique experiences and entertainment, such as skip-the-line boat cruises, comedy cruises, and aperitif tours, offer engaging and entertaining ways to explore the city.
- Eco-friendly and unique boat options, including electric boat rentals and electric river cruises, provide sustainable and innovative ways to experience Berlin’s waterways.
River Cruise With Tour Guide (Ger./Engl.) Berlin. Hadynski
The River Cruise With Tour Guide (Ger./Engl.) Berlin. Hadynski offers a relaxing 1-hour journey along the Spree River in Berlin.
The open-top, glass-sided boats provide unobstructed views of landmarks like the Berlin Cathedral and Reichstag, while entertaining guides offer live narration in English and German.
The heated ship features comfortable seating, a bar for drinks, and restroom facilities.
With a 92% recommendation rate from 307 reviews, this cruise is a great way to break up sightseeing on land.
Priced at SEK 224.98 per person, it allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience and can accommodate up to 100 travelers.
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Berlin: Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour by Bus and Boat
Hop-On Hop-Off city tours provide travelers an efficient way to explore Berlin’s top landmarks.
With various options ranging from 1-2 days, these tours offer audio guides and live commentary. Prices start at ₹2,235 per person, and packages include combinations with boat cruises, museums, and city passes.
Top-rated tours include the double-decker bus tour with a 4.0 rating, as well as combo packages with attractions like the Icebar, Madame Tussauds, and SEA Life Berlin.
Customers praise the convenience, variety, and value of these hop-on hop-off experiences, which allow them to customize their sightseeing at their own pace across Berlin’s iconic sights.
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Berlin City Hop-On Hop-Off Tour With Optional Cruise
Exploring Berlin’s iconic landmarks has never been easier than with the Berlin City Hop-On Hop-Off Tour. Offering 24- or 48-hour passes, this comprehensive tour takes you to 23 stops across 16 points of interest, including the Brandenburg Gate, Checkpoint Charlie, and Berlin Cathedral.
With commentary available in multiple languages and a kids channel, the tour caters to all travelers. For those seeking an enhanced experience, an optional 1-hour river boat cruise is available.
Conveniently located pickup points, wheelchair accessibility, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance make this tour a hassle-free way to explore the city.
While some guests have reported issues with the ticket redemption process and occasional bus delays, the tour overall receives positive reviews for its frequency, coverage, and helpful staff.
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Berlin at Night: Romantic Moon Boat Ride
Set out on a captivating 2.5-hour romantic moon boat ride along the Spree River and learn about Berlin’s enchanting nightscape.
This experience allows you to relax on the panoramic deck and enjoy the city’s illuminated landmarks, including the German Chancellery, Reichstag, and Berlin Cathedral.
The VIP ticket includes a special treat and a glass of wine, complemented by soft music and wine and cheese specialties from the organic onboard kitchen.
With the option to sit behind the captain, you’ll enjoy a unique perspective of the city’s beauty.
The tour departs from either the Seminarschiff or the Haus der Kulturen der Welt, with the same locations for drop-off.
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Berlin 3-Course Dinner Cruise
Travelers can enjoy a captivating 2.5-hour dinner cruise along the Spree River, taking in views of Berlin’s iconic skyline.
The cruise accommodates a maximum of 72 guests across 12 tables, offering a 3-course dinner with vegetarian options. The menu features Swabian potato salad, pork fillet, and green jelly dessert, accompanied by a glass of Prosecco or mulled wine.
While guests praise the scenic vistas and service, some find the meeting point difficult to locate and have mixed reviews about the food quality and payment methods.
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Skip-the-line Boat Cruise and Berlin’s Old Town Guided Tour
For those looking to both skip the lines and explore Berlin’s rich history, the Skip-the-line Boat Cruise and Berlin’s Old Town Guided Tour offers a compelling combination.
This 3.5-hour experience begins with a relaxing boat cruise along the Spree River, allowing visitors to admire Berlin’s iconic landmarks from the water.
The tour then transitions to a guided exploration of the city’s historic Old Town, covering key sites like the Berlin Cathedral, Lustgarten, and Nikolaiviertel.
With skip-the-line access, guests can maximize their time and avoid lengthy queues.
Priced at $51.74 per person, this tour provides an efficient and informative way to experience Berlin’s top attractions.
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Berlin Boat Sightseeing Tour on Electrified Vintage Yacht
Situated along the scenic Spree River, FLAGSHIP.BERLIN offers a unique boat sightseeing experience aboard an electrified vintage yacht.
This 30-passenger tour provides a relaxing and luxurious atmosphere, with comfortable seating and blankets available. While drinks aren’t included, they can be purchased on board, including tea, coffee, and cocktails.
The pre-recorded audio commentary, however, has been critiqued for its low volume. The tour earns high marks, with 92% of 134 reviewers recommending it.
Accessibility is limited, as the vessel isn’t wheelchair-accessible, though service animals are allowed.
For those seeking a leisurely exploration of Berlin’s architecture and scenery, this vintage yacht tour comes highly recommended.
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Berlin: Evening City Sightseeing Cruise
The Berlin: Evening City Sightseeing Cruise offers a captivating way to experience the city’s iconic landmarks and architecture under the enchanting glow of the night.
This 2-hour cruise along the River Spree provides guests with stunning views of landmarks like the Reichstag Building, the Berlin Cathedral, and the Museum Island.
With an optional audio guide, travelers can learn about the history and significance of these sites as they float by.
Priced at $31.57 per person, this cruise is a popular choice for visitors looking to see Berlin’s illuminated skyline from the water.
The cruise’s 3.2 rating out of 70 reviews suggests it’s a solid option for those seeking a leisurely evening on the river.
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Laughing Spree – English Comedy Show on a Boat
Stepping away from the serene evening cruises, the Laughing Spree offers a lively and uproarious alternative for those seeking an exhilarating night on the waters of Berlin.
Docked in Friedrichshain, this English comedy show on a boat features a rotating cast of talented comedians entertaining audiences with their diverse comedic styles.
With a 96% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, the Laughing Spree is a must-try experience.
Guests can secure their admission in advance, enjoy a free shot upon entry, and enjoy the friendly atmosphere and engaging audience interaction.
Whether you’re a local or a tourist, the Laughing Spree promises an unforgettable night of laughter and memories aboard a boat with stunning views of the East Side Gallery.
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Berlin: Spree Boat Tour to Müggelsee
Visitors can embark on a captivating 3.5-hour boat tour from Treptow Harbor to the picturesque Müggelsee, Berlin’s largest lake. Priced from $23.13 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a flexible “reserve now, pay later” option.
The scenic cruise along the Spree River showcases Köpenick’s town hall, palace, and the “Captain of Köpenick” landmark. Onboard amenities include outdoor and indoor seating, food and drinks, and friendly staff.
With an overall rating of 4.5/5 based on over 1,600 reviews, the tour provides excellent value and a relaxing experience amidst beautiful park landscapes.
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Berlin 4-Course Sunset Dinner Cruise Including Drinks
Embarking on a 2.5-hour dinner cruise along the River Spree, travelers can indulge in a captivating 4-course German cuisine experience while witnessing the illuminated city monuments of Berlin.
This intimate cruise accommodates a maximum of 72 guests, offering three menu options – meat, fish, and vegetarian. Diners will enjoy a welcome drink and complimentary beverages throughout the journey.
While reviews praise the food quality, service, and atmosphere, some note inconsistencies and noise levels.
The cruise departs from and returns to the Rosengarten meeting point, with hotel pickup and drop-off included. Accessibility is limited, and late arrivals or no-shows won’t receive refunds.
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Berlin: Sightseeing Cruise From Berlin Main Station
Travelers can take a leisurely sightseeing cruise along the River Spree, departing from Berlin Main Station.
The 1-hour cruise provides a relaxing way to see the city’s top attractions, including the Reichstag, TV Tower, and Friedrichstraße.
With a 4.3 rating, this cruise is a popular option among visitors. Tickets cost $23.13, making it an affordable activity.
The cruise operates year-round, allowing travelers to enjoy the city’s scenery in any season.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local, this sightseeing cruise is an excellent way to experience the beauty of Berlin from a unique vantage point.
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Evening Aperitif Tour Aboard the Motor Yacht Fitzgerald
For those looking to continue their sightseeing journey in Berlin with a more relaxed and intimate experience, the Evening Aperitif Tour Aboard the Motor Yacht Fitzgerald offers a delightful alternative.
Guests can enjoy cocktails and lounge music while cruising through the city’s center, taking in the sights without the constraints of a traditional tour.
With a maximum of 30 travelers, the tour provides a cozy and personalized atmosphere. Positive reviews highlight the relaxing ambiance and attentive crew, making it a great way to end an evening in Berlin.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is conveniently located near public transportation, allowing most travelers to participate.
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Berlin: Boat Tour Along the River Spree
One popular way to experience Berlin’s iconic landmarks and cityscape is through the captivating Berlin: Boat Tour Along the River Spree.
The 2.25-hour cruise offers an informative and scenic journey, with commentary available in 12 languages. Highlights include the government district, Bellevue Palace, Berlin Cathedral, and Museum Island.
Priced from $30.52 per person, the tour provides excellent value, and travelers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
While live guides are unavailable, the audio commentary ensures an engaging experience.
With an overall rating of 4.3/5 based on over 10,000 reviews, this boat tour is a must-do for those seeking a relaxing and panoramic perspective of Berlin.
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Berlin East Side Tour 2.5 Hour Cruise With Commentary
Departing from the Anlegestelle Alte Börse, the Berlin East Side Tour 2.5 Hour Cruise With Commentary provides an in-depth exploration of the city’s architecture and history from the unique vantage point of the Spree River.
The cruise features live commentary in English and German, offering insights into both famous and lesser-known landmarks. With a maximum capacity of 55 travelers, the tour allows for an intimate and personalized experience.
Onboard amenities include a bar, restrooms, and accessibility for strollers and service animals, though the vessel isn’t wheelchair-friendly.
Reviews highlight the tour’s relaxing atmosphere and the impressive views of the city, though some note challenges with the dual-language commentary.
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Berlin: Boat Tour Through the Old and New Berlin
This sightseeing boat tour provides a captivating journey through Berlin’s old and new landmarks, immersing passengers in the city’s rich architectural heritage and modern landmarks.
The 1-hour tour departs from Reederei Hadynski, near Hackescher Markt, and passes key sites like the Humboldt Forum, Museum Island, and the Reichstag. Priced from $20.06 per person, the tour offers panoramic views and an audio guide in English and German.
Onboard, travelers can enjoy friendly service and refreshments. While not wheelchair-accessible, the tour encourages arriving early for the best seating.
With an overall rating of 4.3/5, this boat tour is a popular way to experience Berlin’s iconic sights from the water.
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Berlin Sightseeing Boat Tour on the Spree
Nestled along the banks of the Spree River, the Berlin Sightseeing Boat Tour offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the city’s rich history and architectural wonders.
This 1-hour cruise showcases iconic landmarks, including the Alte Börse and the Berliner Dom.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly and allows service animals.
Onboard, passengers can enjoy snacks, use the toilet, and purchase drinks from the bar.
However, the audio commentary can be inconsistent, especially for English speakers.
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Berlin: World Heritage Cruise to Potsdam
Visitors can embark on a captivating 3-hour cruise from Berlin-Wannsee to Potsdam, exploring the UNESCO World Heritage region along the Havel River. Priced from $23.13 per person, the cruise offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Passengers can enjoy scenic highlights like Pfaueninsel, Cecilienhof Palace, and Babelsberg Palace, while learning about Prussia’s rich history. Onboard, they’ll find comfortable seating, food and drinks available for purchase, and well-maintained facilities.
The cruise departs from a dock near Wannsee station, with the recommendation to arrive early for preferred seating. With an overall rating of 4.5/5 based on 1407 reviews, this cruise is ideal for those seeking a leisurely and scenic experience.
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Berlin: Electric Boat Rental for Self-Driving 2 Hrs
Travelers seeking a unique and eco-friendly way to explore Berlin’s waterways can embark on a self-guided electric boat rental adventure.
For $261.87 per group (up to 12 participants), they can enjoy a 2-hour cruise on whisper-quiet, emission-free electric boats. Highlights include discovering areas like Treptow, Kreuzberg, and Rummelsburg, with access to Müggelsee.
The boats are equipped with life vests, sun canopies, Bluetooth radio, and a cooling box. Guests can also swim, barbecue aboard, or bring their own food.
A €650 refundable deposit is required before the tour. With an overall rating of 4.8/5 from previous travelers, this electric boat rental offers a memorable way to experience Berlin from the water.
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Berlin Hop-On Hop-Off Bus and Boat Options
Berlin offers travellers a range of hop-on hop-off bus and boat tour options to explore the city’s iconic landmarks and attractions.
One such tour, with mixed reviews, provides an audio guide in over a dozen languages and free earphones. While some guests appreciated the scenic route and coverage of major sights, others reported confusion over bus identification and unclear audio commentary.
Operational challenges include inconsistent intervals, limited hours, and difficulties with the app.
Alternatively, walking tours may provide a more engaging experience. Careful research is advised to ensure a satisfactory tour experience when visiting Berlin.
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Berlin: 1-hour Electric River Cruise
For a relaxing jaunt along the city’s waterways, the 1-hour Electric River Cruise whisks passengers through Berlin’s picturesque canals and the Spree River.
Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by over 2,600 reviews, this cruise offers a comfortable and eco-friendly way to sightsee, with a glass roof protecting guests from the elements.
At $20.06 per person, it’s an affordable option that provides a unique perspective of Berlin’s landmarks and architecture.
Whether you’re seeking a peaceful respite or a novel way to explore the city, the Electric River Cruise is an excellent choice for a leisurely experience on the water.
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Berlin: Boat Sightseeing Cruise With Audioguide
Exploring Berlin’s waterways from a different perspective, the Boat Sightseeing Cruise With Audioguide offers a comprehensive 1-hour tour along the Spree River and its picturesque canals.
With a glass-enclosed boat and an included audioguide, travelers can learn about the city’s iconic landmarks such as the Reichstag, Museum Island, and the Berlin Cathedral as they glide through the tranquil waters.
Priced at $23.13 per person, this cruise provides an excellent opportunity to see Berlin from a unique vantage point and gain a deeper understanding of the city’s rich history and architecture.
The 4.3-rated tour is a convenient and informative way to explore Berlin’s iconic sights.
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Berlin: Electric Yacht Cruise With 4-Course Dinner
What better way to experience Berlin’s picturesque waterways than an electric yacht cruise with a delectable 4-course dinner?
This 2.5-hour tour provides a unique and intimate dining experience on the river. Cruising silently on an electric yacht, you’ll admire the city’s landmarks while savoring a gourmet meal.
The tour has a 4.7 rating and costs $92.38 per person. With guaranteed seating and a professional English-speaking crew, this is an excellent option for those seeking a relaxing and refined way to explore Berlin from the water.
The electric yacht’s glass roof also allows for unobstructed views, making it a popular choice for special occasions.
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Berlin: Evening Sightseeing River Cruise on the Spree
Why not experience Berlin’s historic landmarks from the comfort of a river cruise along the Spree?
This 2-hour evening sightseeing cruise offers a relaxed way to see famous sights like the Bundestag, Berlin Cathedral, and Museum Island. Priced at $33.79 per person, the cruise features comfortable lounge seating on the upper deck and a heated interior with large picture windows.
Food and drinks are available for purchase on board. The cruise starts and ends at Alt-Moabit 91, and the itinerary may be subject to change.
With an overall rating of 4.4/5 from 57 reviews, this cruise provides a unique perspective of Berlin from the water.
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Berlin: Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus With Boat Cruise Option
For those seeking a comprehensive way to discover Berlin’s top attractions, the Berlin Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus with Boat Cruise Option provides a convenient and flexible sightseeing experience.
Priced from $47.52 per person, the all-day ticket allows travelers to explore the city at their own pace, hopping on and off at key sites like the Brandenburg Gate, Checkpoint Charlie, and the East Side Gallery.
The package includes a 1-hour river cruise on the Spree, as well as free WiFi, a GPS audio guide, and a city map.
With departures every 8-15 minutes during peak season, this hop-on-hop-off tour offers an efficient way to see the highlights of Berlin.
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Recap
Berlin offers a variety of cruises and boat tours to suit different preferences. Travelers can choose from guided river cruises, hop-on hop-off tours, romantic night cruises, and dinner cruises. Whether you want to explore the city’s landmarks, enjoy a meal, or simply relax on the water, there’s a boat tour in Berlin to meet your needs.