Strasbourg’s picturesque waterways make it a perfect city for boat tours and cruises. Whether you want a romantic private ride past illuminated monuments or a full-day adventure along the Rhine, the city offers options that suit various interests and budgets. What sets Strasbourg apart is its stunning blend of Gothic architecture, European institutions, and lively districts like Petite France — all best appreciated from the water. For a truly personal experience, we love the BOAT ALSACE Visit Strasbourg in a private boat + Captain, which offers an intimate, customizable cruise with a VIP touch.
If you’re curious about combining sightseeing with some relaxation and outdoor fun, the Cruise on the RHINE and visit Strasbourg by private boat provides a full-day experience that takes you beyond the city limits, with stops for swimming and paddleboarding. For shorter, more focused city tours, the Visit of Strasbourg by private boat lets you explore major landmarks in just two hours, perfect for those with limited time or prefer a more relaxed pace. And during Christmas, the Christmas in Strasbourg on a private boat offers a festive way to see the city’s holiday lights and markets from the water.
1. BOAT ALSACE Visit Strasbourg in a private boat + Captain
At number 1 on our list, this private boat tour stands out for its personalized approach. The small luxury yacht, designed for just 1 to 7 people, guarantees an intimate experience with robust attention to detail. The 2-hour cruise takes you past Strasbourg’s key sights, including the Notre-Dame de Strasbourg cathedral, the lively Petite France district, and the European Parliament. The tour includes a friendly welcome from the captain, who will steer you through Strasbourg’s waterways while offering drinks and snacks (extra charge).
What makes this tour unique is the exclusivity — you’re on your own private vessel, allowing flexibility in departure times and a relaxed atmosphere. The captain’s local knowledge ensures you’ll see the city’s highlights from the best angles, with plenty of time for photos. Many reviews praise Cedric’s warm demeanor and the “magical” experience, especially during Christmas when the city’s lights glow beautifully on the water. This tour is an excellent choice for couples or small groups seeking a special, private way to see Strasbourg and its iconic monuments.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a tailored, luxurious experience with the convenience of a private captain. It’s a bit pricier but offers personalized service and a memorable experience.
2. Cruise on the RHINE and visit Strasbourg by private boat
At number 2, this full-day cruise combines the charm of Strasbourg with an excursion along the Rhine River. Starting in the morning, you’ll cruise past Strasbourg’s Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Petite France district, then leave the city through a lock to sail toward Gambsheim or Offendorf. The boat accommodates up to 7 people, ensuring a cozy yet comfortable journey with music and the option for swimming, paddleboarding, or just lounging on deck.
The itinerary includes a stop for lunch in Kehl, a lively German border town, where you can enjoy local cuisine at the port’s restaurant. The afternoon allows for swimming in warm, clear waters and relaxing in nature — a great way to combine sightseeing with some outdoor fun. The reviews highlight how smoothly the day runs, with many calling it “relaxing and interesting,” and the boat’s amenities making it feel like a floating retreat. The trip is perfect for active travelers who want to see Strasbourg from a different perspective and enjoy some leisure time on the water.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those seeking a mix of sightseeing and recreation, especially if you enjoy swimming or paddleboarding during your cruise.
3. Visit of Strasbourg by private boat
At number 3, this 2-hour private boat tour emphasizes a flexible route designed to showcase Strasbourg’s most famous landmarks. The boat departs from two starting points: Quai des Belges or Pont Saint Thomas. It provides a panoramic view of the city’s icons, such as the Notre-Dame Cathedral, the European Parliament, and the Petite France district. The tour includes passage through two locks, with a modest surcharge of €64 after 7 p.m., making it a good option for evening cruises as well.
One of the highlights of this tour is the chance to enjoy the city’s sights from the water while sitting or lying comfortably on a fully privatized vessel. Optional local charcuterie or cheese platters can be added for a more indulgent experience. The reviews mention the “friendly captain” and the “comfortable boat,” making it ideal for travelers wanting a relaxed but rundown of Strasbourg’s main attractions in a short time.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers short on time who want an elegant, customizable cruise focusing on Strasbourg’s top landmarks.
4. Christmas in Strasbourg on a private boat
At number 4, this festive cruise offers a cozy 2-hour tour during Strasbourg’s famed Christmas season. Departing from Pont Saint Thomas, the boat is decorated and designed to maximize holiday cheer. The cruise covers the city’s illuminated market squares, cathedral, and European institutions, all from the warmth and comfort of a VIP vessel with a complimentary bottle of Crémant.
This experience is highly recommended during December, as the Christmas lights and markets create a magical ambiance from the water. Reviews consistently note the “best nautical activity” rating and the “recommendations from 100% of customers,” emphasizing its popularity and quality. It’s an excellent choice for families or couples looking to combine sightseeing with holiday festivities. The tour’s intimate setting makes it easy to soak in Strasbourg’s festive spirit without the crowds.
Bottom Line: A joyful, seasonal option perfect for celebrating Christmas in Strasbourg, especially if you want a private, festive outing.
$807 per group up to 7
How to Choose
Choosing the right boat tour in Strasbourg depends on your budget, time, and interests. If you want a luxurious, private experience with personalized service, the Boat Alsace private cruise is a top choice. For those wanting a full day of sightseeing and outdoor fun, the Rhine cruise offers a mix of relaxation, swimming, and scenic stops. If you’re limited on time but want a comprehensive city overview, the short private boat tour allows you to see Strasbourg’s highlights comfortably. During winter, especially around Christmas, the festive cruise provides a magical holiday experience.
When booking, consider the tour duration, the number of people, and whether you prefer a daytime or evening cruise. The best time to go is in spring or summer for outdoor activities, though Strasbourg’s winter lights make holiday cruises particularly special.
Final Thoughts
Strasbourg’s waterways offer a wonderful perspective on the city’s beauty, whether you’re after a private romantic cruise, a full-day Rhine adventure, or a festive holiday outing. For an intimate, tailor-made experience, the Boat Alsace tops our list, but if you’re after a longer, more active day, the Rhine cruise covers a lot of ground in style. Shorter travelers or those interested in city panoramas might prefer the 2-hour private tour, which hits all the highlights.
No matter your choice, booking early is wise, especially during peak seasons like Christmas or summer. Strasbourg’s waterways are a highlight that shouldn’t be missed — they add a special touch to your visit that’s both relaxing and unforgettable.