Visit of Strasbourg by private boat

Exploring Strasbourg by water offers a unique perspective of this historic city, and the private boat tour organized by BATEAU ALSACE delivers just that. For $786 per group, up to 7 people, this 2-hour cruise provides an intimate, scenic experience along the Ill River, with opportunities to see famous monuments, European institutions, and the charming Petite France district. The tour is ideal for those seeking a relaxing way to discover Strasbourg’s highlights, all from the comfort of a fully privatized luxury yacht.

One of the notable strengths of this tour is the inclusion of local delicacies such as charcuterie or cheese platters (optional), enhancing the experience with authentic flavors. The passage through two locks allows the boat to rise 2 meters, adding a scenic element as you smoothly glide through different parts of the city. Guests should be aware that after 7 p.m., a supplement of 64 euros applies for the night passage, which is worth considering for evening outings.

Key Points

• Private and personalized: The tour is exclusively for groups of 2 to 7 people, ensuring a customized experience.
• Two-hour cruise: Enjoy a comprehensive view of Strasbourg’s most famous sights in a relaxed manner.
• Passage through locks: The boat elevates 2 meters during the journey, adding visual interest.
• Flexible departure points: Choose between Quai des Belges P1 or Pont Saint Thomas for boarding.
• Includes Crémant d’Alsace: A bottle of sparkling wine is included, perfect for celebrating or simply enjoying the scenic views.
• Optional tastings: You can order platters of local charcuterie or cheese, but drinks like wine, beer, or champagne are not included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Meeting Arrangements in Strasbourg

The tour begins at Port Autonome de Strasbourg, with two options for departure: Quai des Belges P1 or Pont Saint Thomas. The extra fee of 100 euros for meeting at Pont Saint Thomas can be paid either cash or card. After booking, the provider contacts guests to confirm a departure time based on availability, ensuring a smooth start to the experience.

The end point is back at the same location, making logistics straightforward. The flexible scheduling allows for departure times to be tailored, but travelers should note that night cruises after 7 p.m. require the additional 64-euro fee for passing through the locks.

Highlights of Strasbourg’s Monuments from the Water

The itinerary covers a broad sweep of Strasbourg’s most visually striking sites. You’ll pass by the Elithis Danube Tower, a positive energy housing building in Strasbourg’s Danube eco-district, which offers a modern contrast to the historic city center.

A favorite stop is the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, where the boat glides in front of the building, providing a stunning perspective. The Ponts Couverts, three covered bridges with four fortified towers, are also visible from the water, showcasing Strasbourg’s medieval defenses.

The lively Petite France district, with its cobbled streets, canals, and half-timbered houses such as the Maison des Tanneurs (built in 1572), is a highlight. The tour offers a 25-minute cruise through this picturesque area, giving a taste of its charm without the need to walk.

Other notable landmarks passing by include St William’s Church, a 19th-century Protestant church, and the European Parliament building, along with the European Court of Human Rights. The boat also cruises near the Jardin des Deux Rives, a cross-border park linking France and Germany across the Rhine, illustrating Strasbourg’s international significance.

Detailed View of the Tour’s Stops and Passing Sites

This cruise features a well-structured route with several key sights. You’ll experience short stops and passing moments at locations like Notre Dame Cathedral, Palais Rohan, and Barrage Vauban, each visible from the water.

The Ponts Couverts is seen during a 5-minute cruise, showcasing its historic arches and towers. The European institutions are viewed from a distance, including the European Parliament for 3 minutes, giving a glimpse of Strasbourg’s role in European governance.

The boat also passes by the Notre Dame Cathedral, giving passengers a fresh perspective of its towering spire and intricate façade. The Barrage Vauban, a historic dam, is visible during a 5-minute passage, emphasizing Strasbourg’s engineering heritage.

The tour concludes with a 2-minute cruise past the Médiathèque André Malraux, a cultural hub, and a final glimpse of the Ecluse de Strasbourg locks before returning to the starting point.

Practicalities: Group Size, Languages, and Accessibility

This private tour is designed for up to 7 people, providing an intimate atmosphere. The skipper speaks French, English, and German, making communication smooth for international visitors.

Guests should note that the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, due to the boat’s design. The reservation process involves contacting the provider after booking to confirm the departure time, which ensures flexibility. The activity includes fuel and the skipper, with one bottle of Crémant d’Alsace provided to toast the scenic journey.

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The Experience of a Night Cruise and Additional Options

While the standard 2-hour cruise offers daylight or evening vistas, a night cruise after 7 p.m. is available for those interested in seeing Strasbourg illuminated. However, this requires the additional 64-euro supplement for passing through the locks.

Guests can also coordinate with the provider to order additional drinks or tasting trays for onboard enjoyment, although wine, beer, and champagne are not included in the price. This flexibility allows for a personalized celebration or simply a more luxurious experience.

Review of the Private Boat Tour: What Sets It Apart

This tour’s personalized approach and scenic route make it stand out. The fully privatized yacht ensures a relaxed, exclusive atmosphere, ideal for small groups or intimate celebrations. The stunning views of Strasbourg’s landmarks from the water provide a fresh perspective that walking or bus tours cannot match.

The passage through the locks adds a touch of adventure, and the inclusion of Crémant makes it feel like a special occasion. The friendly captain and comfortable vessel contribute positively to the experience, as highlighted in reviews emphasizing the relaxing atmosphere and interest in the city.

However, travelers should plan for the additional fee if they prefer evening cruises after 7 p.m., especially to enjoy Strasbourg’s night-time ambiance. Also, those with mobility challenges should consider the tour’s suitability, as wheelchair access is not available.

Final Thoughts on the Strasbourg Private Boat Tour

This 2-hour private cruise offers a luxurious, intimate way to view Strasbourg’s most iconic sights. The customizable departure times, professional skipper, and inclusion of local champagne make it a memorable experience for those wanting a relaxed, scenic exploration of the city.

It is particularly well-suited for small groups, couples, or families seeking a personalized adventure on the water. The passage through the locks and views of European institutions add unique elements that set this tour apart from standard sightseeing options.

While the additional fee for night cruises might be a consideration, the overall experience delivers a combination of comfort, exclusivity, and stunning scenery that makes it worth the investment for a special day in Strasbourg.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of the tour?
The price covers the rental of the boat for 2 hours, the skipper, fuel, and one bottle of Crémant d’Alsace.

How many people can join the cruise?
The tour is designed for groups of 2 to 7 people, allowing for an exclusive and private experience.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from Port Autonome de Strasbourg, with two options for boarding: Quai des Belges P1 or Pont Saint Thomas.

Is there an extra charge for evening cruises?
Yes, after 7 p.m., a supplement of 64 euros applies for night cruises to pass through the locks.

Can I order drinks onboard?
You can order tasting trays and additional drinks, but wine, beer, and champagne are not included in the standard package.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, the activity is not suitable for wheelchair users.

How flexible are the departure times?
The provider contacts guests after booking to confirm a departure time based on availability, offering some flexibility.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The data does not specify restrictions for children, but the privatized nature and relaxed pace make it suitable for family groups, provided children are comfortable on boats.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

What makes this tour special compared to other sightseeing options?
Its private setting, scenic route through Strasbourg’s key sites, and luxury yacht experience set it apart, especially with options for evening cruises and customized onboard treats.

This private boat tour offers a refined, scenic way to discover Strasbourg from the water, combining comfort, exclusivity, and stunning views—perfect for those seeking an intimate exploration of this historic city.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby