Ghent Completely – 90-minute boat tour (DUTCH ONLY)

Discover Ghent from the Water on a 90-Minute Dutch-Guided Boat Tour

The Ghent Completely boat tour offers a lively and detailed look at the city’s history through its waterways. Priced at a reasonable rate, it lasts 1.5 hours and is guided in Dutch, making it ideal for those who enjoy engaging storytelling in that language. The tour departs from Korenlei 4a at the Green Boathouse, with a chance to see some of Ghent’s most celebrated sights from a unique perspective.

While the tour is well-suited for Dutch speakers, it covers an impressive range of locations, from majestic cathedrals to ancient port walls, with a focus on the visual beauty and historical significance of each site. The tour’s pace and comprehensive itinerary make it a standout choice for travelers eager to understand Ghent’s past and present through a scenic boat ride.

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Key Points

• Duration: 90-minute guided boat tour in Dutch
• Start Point: Green Boathouse, Korenlei 4a
• Main sights: St Bavos Cathedral, Belfry, St Nicholas Church, and the Ancient Port
• Waterways: Sail over 3 different waterways in Ghent
• Unique features: Pass through tunnels under Laurent Square and glide past historic mercantile houses
• Highlights: Castles of the Counts, the Princes Court, and the old Fish Market

Starting Point at the Green Boathouse in Korenlei

The tour begins at the Green Boathouse located at Korenlei 4a, a central and accessible spot along the Ghent waterfront. Check-in is straightforward, and the meeting point offers a convenient launch for exploring Ghent’s waterways. The tour ends back at the same spot, making logistics simple for travelers.

Because the guide speaks only in Dutch, it’s best suited for those comfortable with the language, though the visual nature of the sights makes it accessible even for non-Dutch speakers. The tour runs rain or shine, with umbrellas provided onboard, so travelers should dress appropriately for the weather.

Marvel at Ghent’s Iconic Landmarks from the Water

One of the tour’s main strengths is the wide array of sights included within its 90-minute span. Travelers get a close-up view of St Bavos Cathedral, famed for its impressive architecture, and the Belfry, which dominates Ghent’s skyline. The St Nicholas Church is also prominent, offering insight into the city’s religious history.

Beyond the churches, the boat passes through the Ancient Port of Ghent, where the quay walls and mercantile houses reveal the city’s historic trading and shipping importance. The Old guildhalls of various trades like boatmen, masons, and fishmongers stand as reminders of Ghent’s bustling medieval economy.

Traversing Under Laurent Square and Exploring the Waterways

A notable feature of this tour is the opportunity to go through tunnels under Laurent Square, providing a glimpse into Ghent’s underground infrastructure. The boat also sails over three different waterways, showing the diversity of Ghent’s canal system.

Travelers can expect to see the Riverside of Nederschelde, the Reep, and the Scaldis water lock—all vital parts of Ghent’s water management and trade routes. The crossings offer both scenic views and historical context, making the waterways as interesting as the land-based sights.

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Passing Historic Castles and the Princes Court

The boat tour offers a rare perspective of Ghent’s castles of the Counts and the Princes Court, which are situated along the water. These impressive structures highlight the city’s medieval power and architectural prowess. The Castle of Gerald the Devil and the Episcopal Palace are also visible, showcasing Ghent’s layered history from noble residences to religious authority.

The boat’s route also takes in the old Fish Market facing the Meat Hall, offering a view of Ghent’s once-thriving trade districts. The 13th-century monasteries that housed Augustinians and Dominicans are visible from the water, providing a sense of the city’s past religious landscape.

Exploring the Quay Walls and the Historic Market Area

Along the route, the boat glides past quay walls lined with mercantile houses, illustrating Ghent’s long history as a trading hub. Opposite the marina, you’ll find charming teahouses where locals and visitors alike relax, adding a lively touch to the picturesque scenery.

The old Law Courts and the Opera building are also visible from the water, emphasizing Ghent’s cultural and judicial history. The Handelsbeur concert hall adds a contemporary layer to the historic setting, reflecting Ghent’s vibrant arts scene.

Local Narration and Practical Tips for the Tour

The live guide provides commentary in Dutch, sharing stories about each site as the boat cruises along. Review impressions note that the guiders deliver clear explanations with a touch of humor, making the experience both informative and entertaining.

While no guidance is available in other languages, the visual tour of monumental buildings, waterways, and tunnels provides enough context to enjoy the experience. Travelers should be prepared for weather variations; umbrellas are available, and the tour proceeds rain or shine.

The Experience for Different Types of Travelers

This boat tour is an excellent choice for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and waterway explorers. Its comprehensive itinerary covers many of Ghent’s most significant sights in a compact format, offering a thorough overview without feeling rushed.

However, since the tour is only guided in Dutch, non-Dutch speakers should consider their comfort level with the language or supplement with a guidebook or audio guide. The group size tends to be manageable, and the overall experience provides a solid introduction to Ghent’s waterways and historic landmarks.

Booking Flexibility and Practical Details

The tour operates rain or shine, with umbrellas available onboard. Tickets are valid for one trip only, and full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Travelers can reserve their spot and pay later, allowing flexibility for planning.

The duration of 1.5 hours makes it easy to include in a day full of sightseeing or as part of a larger exploration of Ghent. It is scheduled regularly from April 1 to October 31, with departures every Saturday and Sunday at 11:00.

Comparing This Tour to Similar Waterway Experiences in Ghent

While this specific Dutch-only guided boat tour offers a detailed route through Ghent’s most iconic sites, there are other options available, such as guided city walking combined with canal trips or medieval center tours. However, the focused water experience in Ghent Completely stands out for its length, coverage of waterways, and historical emphasis.

The tour’s ability to pass through tunnels and sail past castles gives it a distinctive edge in experiencing Ghent from the water, unlike shorter or less comprehensive trips.

Final Thoughts on the Ghent Completely Boat Tour

This 90-minute boat tour offers a thorough and scenic overview of Ghent’s impressive architecture, waterways, and historic sites. With clear, humorous guidance in Dutch and a route that covers many landmarks—from cathedrals to castles—it provides a wise choice for those wanting an accessible, engaging introduction to the city.

While the language restriction might limit non-Dutch speakers, the visual splendor and impressive sights more than compensate. This tour is particularly suited for history buffs and waterway fans, and its convenient schedule and flexible booking options make it a practical addition to any Ghent visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this boat tour suitable for non-Dutch speakers?
Since guidance is only in Dutch, non-Dutch speakers might find it less accessible, though the visual landmarks offer plenty of context.

Can I cancel my ticket?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are umbrellas provided in bad weather?
Yes, umbrellas are available onboard in case of rain, as the tour goes rain or shine.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is at the Green Boathouse, Korenlei 4a.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts 1.5 hours.

What sights are included?
Major sights include St Bavos Cathedral, Belfry, St Nicholas Church, the Ancient Port, castles of the Counts and Princes Court, and the old Fish Market.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not explicitly stated, the route and scenery are suitable for most ages, but keep in mind the language is Dutch.

What seasons does the tour operate?
From April 1 to October 31, with departures every Saturday and Sunday at 11:00.

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