Exclusive cruise with a glass of prosecco from Gdansk to Hel

A detailed look at the exclusive Gdansk to Hel cruise experience

If you’re seeking a unique way to see Poland’s Pomeranian coast, this private motorboat cruise from Gdansk to Hel offers a memorable escape. For around two hours, you’ll sail along the Baltic Sea, soaking in sights like Granary Island, the Gdansk Crane, and the Westerplatte monument. All this while enjoying a glass of prosecco—a small touch that elevates the journey from ordinary to special. The cruise departs from Szafarnia 6, a charming marina area right in the heart of Gdansk, and promises a relaxed, intimate experience that’s ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone eager to see the city from a fresh perspective.

What we love most about this cruise is how it combines spectacular views with a sense of exclusivity. You get to relax on a comfortable boat, feeling the wind in your hair as you glide past historic landmarks and busy shipyards. The second highlight is the chance to take stunning photos—from the medieval cranes to modern ship traffic, there’s plenty to capture. One small consideration might be the weather; if the skies turn grey or rain threatens, the route may be adjusted, or the trip postponed or refunded. That said, if you’re after a calm, scenic outing with a touch of elegance, this cruise is a winner. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate a relaxed pace, meaningful sights, and a taste of local maritime life.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Spectacular vistas of Gdansk’s old town, shipyard, and Hel from the water
• Relaxing private cruise with a complimentary glass of prosecco for groups
• Insightful sights include historic landmarks like Westerplatte and the Imperial Shipyard
• Flexible route adjustments in case of bad weather, with refunds available
• Ideal for small groups seeking an authentic, intimate experience of Poland’s Baltic coast
• Perfect for photo enthusiasts eager to capture iconic sights from the water

Why the Gdansk to Hel cruise is worth a closer look

This cruise offers a refreshing perspective on Gdansk, one of Poland’s most visually compelling cities. Instead of exploring on foot, you’re on the water, which makes all the difference when it comes to appreciating the city’s maritime character. The boat itself is designed for comfort, safety, and style, making your two-hour journey not just a sightseeing tour but a small luxury experience. For a reasonable price, you gain privileged access to views that are difficult to replicate from land—think panoramic shots of the Granary Island’s colorful buildings and the impressive Gdansk Crane.

The itinerary is well thought out. Starting from the vibrant Szafarnia marina, you’ll cruise past Granary Island, a hub of restaurants and hotels that brighten Gdansk’s skyline. From there, the route takes you past the Ship-museum Sodek, a reminder of the city’s shipbuilding past, and the Philharmonic building, a repurposed power plant that hints at Gdansk’s industrial heritage. The highlight for many is passing the Imperial Shipyard, famously associated with the rise of Solidarity in the 1980s, and the Westerplatte monument, the historic site where WWII began.

As the boat heads toward the open sea, you’ll feel the wind pick up, and the landscape opens up—an ideal moment for photos. If you’re lucky, you might see one of the large cruise ships calling at Gdansk’s port, providing a sense of scale of the city’s maritime importance. The boat’s route is flexible—if the weather isn’t cooperating, the skipper can adjust or even turn around, and your ticket remains refundable if the cruise can’t go ahead.

A detailed look at the itinerary

Starting Point: Szafarnia 6

The adventure begins at Gdansk’s picturesque Szafarnia marina, a lively hub lined with cafes and boats. Here, you’ll meet your skipper and get familiar with the vessel. The relaxed atmosphere in this area sets the tone for your trip—expect a friendly greeting and some helpful tips on what to look out for.

More Great Tours Nearby

Stop 1: Granary Island

As you glide away from the marina, the first major sight is Granary Island, a vibrant area packed with restaurants, hotels, and charming apartments. From the water, the colorful facades and historic buildings seem even more striking. We loved the way the boat gives a bird’s-eye view of the lively waterfront, a stark contrast to the quiet, cobbled streets on land.

Stop 2: Westerplatte

Next, the boat passes the Westerplatte peninsula and monument, where World War II famously began. This spot is deeply significant, and seeing it from the water adds an emotional layer to the experience. As one reviewer pointed out, “It’s a powerful sight, especially when you realize what happened here.”

Stop 3: Hel

On the final leg, the boat heads toward Hel, a long, narrow peninsula famous for its sandy beaches and maritime charm. The approach to Hel is particularly scenic, with the horizon opening up and the coastline stretching on either side. If the weather is clear, you’ll appreciate the rugged landscape and the busy port activity, with some ships loading or unloading.

Ending Point: Szafarnia 6

After rounding off the tour, you’ll return to your starting point, feeling refreshed and with plenty of new photos and impressions. The whole cruise offers a relaxed but insightful overview of the region, blending history, industry, and natural beauty.

What’s included and practical considerations

The cruise includes a private group experience with a bottle of prosecco—small details that make the trip feel special. It’s important to note that the duration is around two hours, so it’s a perfect half-day activity, especially if you’re combining it with other sightseeing in Gdansk.

The boat’s flexible routing allows the captain to accommodate weather conditions—if rain or strong winds threaten, they can put up a roof or alter the route. This flexibility minimizes disappointment, but it’s worth being prepared with suitable clothing—think waterproof jackets and comfortable shoes. Alcohol consumption is limited, and the skipper reserves the right to refuse sailing if safety is compromised.

Languages spoken include Polish, English, Russian, and German, so communication before and during the cruise should be smooth for most travelers.

Value and overall impression

While the price might seem modest for a private cruise, what you’re really paying for is an experience that combines stunning scenery, historical sights, and a touch of luxury. The feedback from travelers highlights how relaxing and memorable the journey is, especially with the added bonus of a prosecco toast. The cruise’s moderate length makes it accessible for most, and the small group setting ensures a more personalized, intimate feel.

Particularly praised are the fantastic views of Gdansk’s old town and the shipyard, which come alive from the water in a way that walking tours can’t match. The ability to see the bustling port activity—loading, unloading, and ships passing by—gives this tour a lively authenticity that appeals to history buffs and casual travelers alike.

Who will love this cruise?

This experience is ideal for those seeking a relaxed, scenic, and informative outing. It’s especially well-suited for couples, small groups, or anyone who enjoys photography and wants to capture iconic sights from a different angle. If you appreciate maritime history, industrial landscapes, or simply want a pleasant way to enjoy Gdansk’s waterfront, this cruise is a great choice.

It’s also suitable for travelers who want a flexible, weather-dependent activity with a good chance of a refund if conditions aren’t ideal. Perfect if you prefer comfort and elegance in your sightseeing and are happy to spend a couple of hours enjoying the sea breeze and beautiful vistas.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise takes approximately two hours, with starting times varying depending on availability.

Where does the cruise depart from?
It departs from Szafarnia 6, a marina in Gdansk’s city center.

Is the cruise suitable in bad weather?
Yes, the captain may put up a roof or adjust the route if weather conditions deteriorate. If the cruise is canceled due to weather, a full refund is offered.

What is included in the price?
The price covers a private cruise and a bottle of prosecco for your group.

Can I choose the language of the guide?
Tours are offered in multiple languages: Polish, English, Russian, and German, depending on availability.

Is this experience good for photos?
Absolutely. With panoramic views of historic landmarks, shipyards, and the coastline, it’s a photographer’s delight.

Is alcohol consumed during the cruise?
Alcohol is permitted in moderation, but the skipper may refuse to sail if safety is compromised.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably and bring a waterproof jacket and suitable shoes, especially if the weather is uncertain.

Are children allowed on the cruise?
The information does not specify restrictions, but given the private nature and relaxed pace, it’s suitable for families with children who can be comfortable on a boat.

How many people can join?
The experience is designed for a private group, ensuring an intimate experience for your party only.

Final thoughts

This private cruise from Gdansk to Hel offers a relaxed, scenic, and authentic way to see the city’s maritime highlights. The blend of historical views, lively shipyards, and the open sea makes for an engaging and beautifully memorable outing. The inclusion of prosecco adds a celebratory touch, making it feel like a special treat rather than just another sightseeing tour.

If you’re after a peaceful escape with plenty of photo opportunities and a taste of local maritime life, this cruise is a smart choice. It’s especially appealing for travelers who value comfort, a small-group experience, and the chance to see Gdansk’s coastal landscape from a fresh angle.

In summary, this experience offers value for money, a touch of elegance, and the chance to create lasting memories of Poland’s Baltic coast—making it well worth considering on your Gdansk itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: