Waterbike on Lake Zurich

If you’re looking for a refreshing way to see Lake Zurich, consider trying a WaterBike—a brand-new activity that promises fun, safety, and stunning scenery. Located in Zurich-Enge, just a short walk or quick bus ride from the city center, this experience offers a distinctive perspective of one of Switzerland’s most picturesque lakes. For roughly an hour, you can glide across the water at your own pace, whether solo or tandem, with no prior skills required.

What makes this outing particularly appealing? First, the waterbike itself is surprisingly stable thanks to its catamaran-effect design, making it safe even for those who are nervous around water. Second, the scenic sunset rides and the chance to get close to the water’s surface give it an authentic, almost meditative quality that’s hard to beat in a busy city like Zurich.

On the flip side, a potential consideration is the cost, which includes a CHF 5 fee for a SUP mattress and a CHF 100 deposit in cash—something to be aware of before booking. Still, the overall value lies in the unique experience and the chance to enjoy Lake Zurich in a relaxing, active way. This activity is best suited for families, couples, and solo travelers with a minimum height of 150cm who want to combine sport, leisure, and beautiful views without any need for swimming or special skills.

Key Points

• Unique experience: Waterbiking on Lake Zurich offers a novel way to explore Switzerland’s waters.
• All skill levels: No prior experience needed, and safety is a top priority.
• Scenic and relaxing: Ideal for sunset rides or peaceful lake crossings.
• Accessible location: Easy to reach from central Zurich on foot or by public bus.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for children over 150cm, making it a good family outing.
• Affordable fun: Reasonably priced considering the novelty and scenic value.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive Into the Waterbike Experience

Location and Access

Starting at Mythenquai 59 in Zurich-Enge, the activity is conveniently close to the city center. You can walk there in about 10 minutes from Bahnhof Zürich HB or catch buses 161 or 165, getting off at Schweizer Rück. The meeting point right by the Samigo Amusement Restaurant makes it easy to spot, and the location’s accessibility means you won’t waste much time en route.

What to Expect

For about an hour, you’ll glide over Lake Zurich on a brand-new WaterBike, a kind of aquatic bicycle that looks like a sturdy, wave-resistant catamaran. The activity is available year-round, weather permitting, with guided and non-guided options during the evenings from 19:00-21:00 or during weekends from 09:00-21:00.

The WaterBike itself is remarkably stable and wave-resistant, offering reassurance to those new to water activities. The no-swimming rule and the requirement for life jackets emphasize safety, but the relaxed nature of the ride means you’re free to take in the views without feeling like you need to be an athlete or swimmer.

Experience Highlights

One of the biggest draws is the chance to enjoy a sunset ride—a perfect opportunity for romantic moments or peaceful reflection. During the ride, you can choose to cross the lake, take a leisurely cruise, or even relax on an additional SUP mattress (available for CHF 5). Several reviews highlight how easy and fun it is to operate the WaterBike, with many travelers appreciating the friendly, knowledgeable guides.

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The Authentic Feel

Travelers praise the friendly service and the clear instructions provided—no prior skills or licensing needed. As one reviewer said, “It’s easy to understand and handle,” which underscores its appeal for beginners. The stability of the bike and the beautiful lake views make it feel more like a peaceful floating lounge than a strenuous workout.

The Cost and Value

Though CHF 5 for the SUP mattress and a CHF 100 deposit are additional costs, many find the overall experience worth it. The price reflects the quality, safety standards, and exclusivity of being the only provider in Switzerland of this activity. Travelers often mention feeling it’s an excellent value for the uniqueness of the experience and the scenic payoff.

Reviews and Authentic Voices

Multiple travelers rave about how easy and fun it was, with quotes like “Waterbiking was so much fun,” and “You can go at your own pace and see Lake Zurich up close.” One family appreciated the easy-to-understand instructions and the friendly guide, making it accessible for all ages over 150cm.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear a life jacket at all times—it’s mandatory.
• Bring water if you plan a longer, relaxing ride.
• Keep in mind the CHF 100 deposit in cash, which is returned after the ride.
• Avoid riding near the swimming zone or through the yellow buoys.
• No smoking or fires on the WaterBike—respect the rules for safety and environmental care.
• The activity is not suitable for those under 150cm or anyone who is intoxicated.

Who Will Love This?

This activity appeals to a broad range of travelers: families with kids over 150cm, couples seeking a romantic sunset cruise, and solo adventurers eager to try something different. If you enjoy light sport activities combined with beautiful scenery and a sense of freedom, you’ll find this a worthwhile addition to your Zurich itinerary.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

If you’re looking for a fun, safe way to experience Lake Zurich up close, this WaterBike adventure offers a unique combination of scenic beauty and active leisure. The easy handling and guided support make it accessible even for novices, and the stability of the bike ensures a comfortable ride. The ability to choose guided or free rides, along with options for tandem or solo, makes it flexible for different preferences.

While it’s not the cheapest activity in Zurich, the value lies in the exclusive experience and the chance to see the city’s lakeside from a new perspective. It’s especially suited for those wanting a relaxed, scenic, and authentic water experience without the need for swimming skills or a lot of physical effort.

This activity is a delightful way to combine outdoor fun, scenic views, and a touch of adventure—perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for an easygoing yet memorable experience on Lake Zurich.

FAQ

Is prior experience needed to ride the WaterBike?
No, you don’t need any special skills or a driver’s license. The WaterBike is designed to be easy to operate, even for beginners.

What safety equipment is provided?
A life jacket is mandatory and provided with your rental. The WaterBike itself is stable and designed with safety in mind.

Can children participate?
Yes, children over 150cm in height can enjoy the WaterBike. It’s suitable for families, provided the kids meet the height requirement.

How do I get to the meeting point?
It’s located right by the water at Mythenquai 59 in Zurich-Enge, a 10-minute walk from the city center or easily reachable by bus 161 or 165, disembarking at Schweizer Rück.

What if the weather is bad?
Activities are weather-dependent. Check availability and weather conditions beforehand, as rides are usually scheduled when the weather is fine.

Are there guided options?
Yes, guided tours can be organized on weekdays from 19:00-21:00 or weekends from 09:00-21:00, depending on weather conditions.

What are the costs involved?
The main cost is the rental, plus CHF 5 for the SUP mattress if you want to relax on water, and a CHF 100 cash deposit which is refunded afterward.

Is the activity suitable for non-swimmers?
Absolutely. You don’t need to swim or have prior water skills, just a minimum height of 150cm and a willingness to enjoy the lake from a new angle.

This WaterBike adventure on Lake Zurich combines fun, scenic beauty, and ease of use, making it a standout choice for anyone craving an active yet relaxed day by the water. Whether you’re seeking a romantic moment, family fun, or simply a break from city streets, it’s a simple, memorable way to connect with the lake’s tranquil waters.

You can check availability for your dates here: