Riga’s canal and river cruises offer a unique way to see the city from a different angle. With its mix of historic landmarks, vibrant waterfronts, and charming parks, Riga is especially suited for exploring by boat. We particularly love the Riga Sightseeing Tour by Canal Boat for its relaxed pace and scenic views, as well as the private boat tours that combine luxury with personalized insights. Whether you’re after a quick hour-long cruise or an elegant sunset sail, Riga’s boat experiences deliver memorable moments and spectacular photo opportunities—like catching the freedom monument from the water or viewing the city’s skyline at dusk.
Riga is a city that reveals new sides from the water, with options ranging from group sightseeing cruises to private luxury tours. With a variety of routes and themes, you can find a boat trip suited to your interests—from historical sightseeing to wine tastings and even a WWI memorial visit. Below, we highlight the top tours, helping you pick the best water-based adventure in Latvia’s capital.
1. Riga Sightseeing Tour by Canal Boat
At number 1, the Riga Sightseeing Tour by Canal Boat offers a 1-hour cruise along the Daugava River and Riga City Canal in a cozy eco-friendly vessel. No guide is involved—just a recorded commentary in English that provides an informative background on key sights. Highlights include passing the Freedom Monument, Latvian National Theatre, and Riga Central Market, all viewed from a relaxed, water-level perspective. Many visitors appreciate the flexibility to use tickets when it suits them, making it a perfect spontaneous activity after a day of sightseeing.
The boat’s quiet, vintage charm and easy access from Bastejkalna Park make it accessible and enjoyable. Recent reviews note the peaceful ambiance and lovely views, though some mention the audio volume could be better. This tour is a great choice if you want a tranquil, scenic escape with a splash of local history, especially after a busy day walking the Old Town.
Bottom Line: An affordable, relaxed way to see the city’s main sights from the water, suitable for those seeking comfort and scenic views without a lot of fuss.
2. Riga: Private Boat Tour City Canal and Daugava River
Number 2 on our list is the Private Boat Tour, which elevates the experience with a stylish cabrio tender boat and a local captain. For around $119, you enjoy a 1-hour cruise that’s tailored for comfort and intimacy, perfect for couples, families, or small groups. The guide shares fascinating insights about Riga’s landmarks, from the Freedom Monument to the National Opera, and offers plenty of photo opportunities along the way.
Guests love the personal touch, noting the boat’s comfort and the captain’s friendly attitude. The tour provides a quieter, more exclusive experience compared to larger group cruises. It’s especially good for special occasions or folks who want to avoid crowded tours but still see the city’s highlights from the water.
Bottom Line: A luxurious and private way to explore Riga, ideal for those celebrating or seeking a more personal, relaxed experience.
3. Private Boat Tour experience in Riga (City Canal and Daugava)
At number 3, this Private Boat Tour offers an intimate, tailored experience in a private boat limited to nine people. The tour departs from Eksporta iela 1d and takes you along the City Canal, showcasing Riga’s architecture and green spaces like Kronvalda Park. When weather permits, you can venture onto the Daugava River for added vistas.
Guests praise the comfort and the personalized service, noting that the guide shares local insights in a friendly manner. The focus on exclusivity makes this a great choice for travelers who want a calm, personalized outing without the crowds. The tour is perfect for small groups or couples wanting a quiet, scenic cruise with a flexible itinerary.
Bottom Line: For a private, relaxing cruise with a focus on personal attention and comfort, this tour stands out.
4. Riga: Evening or Sunset Boat Tour with Welcome Drink
Number 4 is the Evening or Sunset Boat Tour, which offers a 50-minute journey through Riga’s waterways with a complimentary welcome drink. It’s perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring, with the chance to see the city’s lights reflecting on the water and catch the sunset over Riga’s skyline.
Guests mention the captain’s friendly nature and the lovely views, especially as the city transitions into night. The short duration makes it suitable for a quick romantic outing or a relaxing pre-dinner drink. No headphones are needed, as the audio guide is played through speakers, adding to the cozy vibe.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for a romantic, relaxed evening, especially if you want to combine sightseeing with a drink and sunset views.
5. Riga: Riga Canal and Daugava River Sunset Boat Cruise
Number 5 on our list is the Sunset Cruise, lasting about 66 minutes. It’s perfect if you want to experience Riga’s magic during the golden hour, with stunning views of the illuminated cityscape. The cruise often features relaxing music or audioguide commentary, making it a peaceful way to wind down.
Reviews highlight the beauty of watching the sunset over Riga and the friendly crew. It’s well-suited for couples or anyone wanting a gentle, scenic escape at the end of the day. The timing and atmosphere make it a memorable way to see Riga from the water as the city glows.
Bottom Line: A serene, romantic experience ideal for sunset lovers and photo enthusiasts alike.
6. Riga Sightseeing Tour by Canal Boat with Audioguide
Number 6 features a sightseeing tour with audio guide, offering a 1-hour relaxed cruise that passes major sights like the Latvian National Theater and Bastion Hill. The audio guide, available in multiple languages, explains the significance of each sight, adding educational value.
Guests appreciate the comfort of the eco-friendly boat and the ability to listen without headphones, making it accessible for all. The route is well-chosen to highlight Riga’s architectural gems from a peaceful water level, with some reviews noting the quiet, scenic environment and informative commentary.
Bottom Line: A good introduction to Riga’s main sights, especially if you enjoy learning as you cruise.
7. Riga: Private Evening or Sunset Boat Tour
At number 7, the Private Evening or Sunset Boat Tour offers a customizable 50-minute ride for up to 4 people, ideal for small groups or couples wanting a personal experience. It covers key landmarks with a focus on viewing Riga in the evening light or during sunset.
Reviews mention how the private setting makes for a special, intimate experience. The tour is flexible with timing and route, making it suitable for special occasions or just a peaceful moment on the water.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those seeking a private, romantic, or customizable cruise.
8. Riga: Private Boat Tour with Sparkling Wine
Number 8 offers a luxurious twist with the Private Boat Tour with Sparkling Wine. Over 50 minutes to 2 hours, this experience pairs beautiful scenery with bubbly, perfect for celebrations or romantic evenings. The tour covers the city canal and Daugava River, with the guide sharing insights along the way.
Guests love the added touch of champagne glasses and the relaxing, festive atmosphere. It’s a good value considering the inclusion of drinks and the privacy for small groups.
Bottom Line: An indulgent, romantic option for special occasions with a focus on comfort and celebration.
9. Riga: Private Riga Canal Boat Tour with Riga Black Balsam
Number 9 is a delight for those interested in local flavors: the Private Riga Canal Tour with Riga Black Balsam. This 50-minute experience includes tastings of Latvia’s famous herbal liqueur while cruising the canals, making it perfect for curious travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a tasting adventure.
It’s a small, private tour that focuses on Latvian culture and unique flavors, with a knowledgeable guide sharing stories about Riga’s history and the Balsam.
Bottom Line: Best for food and drink lovers wanting a cozy, intimate experience with a taste of Latvia.
10. Riga: Canal and River Daugava Sightseeing Cruise
Number 10 offers a longer, flexible sightseeing cruise that lasts 15 days, making it ideal if you’re in Riga for a while. The cruise covers major attractions like Riga Castle, TV Tower, and Kipsala, with departure times every 30 minutes.
Guests praise the spacious ships, GPS audio guides, and the ability to hop on and off. It’s a practical choice for travelers who want to explore at their own pace or combine the cruise with other sightseeing activities.
Bottom Line: Flexible, comprehensive, and a good value for extended or multi-day sightseeing.
11. Riga: Private VIP Boat Tour on the Daugava River
Number 11 is the VIP experience, riding Latvia’s oldest boat built in 1927, perfect for those seeking exclusivity. This private tour combines sophistication with intimacy, lasting 1 to 2 hours, and offers a peaceful way to enjoy Riga’s riverside scenery.
Reviews note its exclusivity and the personalized service, making it ideal for special occasions or for travelers who want to splurge on a memorable experience.
Bottom Line: For travelers seeking a truly premium experience with a historical touch, this VIP cruise is unmatched.
12. Riga: Private Riga Canal Boat Tour with Latvian Beer
Number 12 offers a fun, tasting-focused experience with Latvian beers onboard. The Private Canal Tour lasts approximately 50 minutes, making it a lively, social outing. The boat is cozy, and the guide shares stories about Riga’s beer culture.
It’s suitable for groups of up to four, making it a lively way to enjoy local flavors combined with city views.
Bottom Line: A lively, tasty option for small groups wanting to combine sightseeing with Latvian beer.
13. Rowing and Pedal Boats on Riga’s River
For a more active experience, the Rowing and Pedal Boat Rentals give you the chance to paddle through Old Riga’s canals. With the largest pedal boat fleet in the city, it’s an affordable, fun way to explore at your own pace. Open from 10:00 to 20:00, this is perfect for families or active travelers.
While not a guided tour, it offers a personal and flexible experience, with some reviews noting it’s a simple but enjoyable activity.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want independence and a bit of exercise while enjoying Riga’s waters.
14. Riga: Bus Tour for Cruise Guests (Hop-on Hop-off)
Number 14 combines land and water with a hop-on hop-off bus, allowing you to explore more of Riga at your pace. It includes a 60-minute route covering landmarks like the Opera House and Central Market.
This is perfect for travelers who want flexibility and a rundown without rushing. The buses run frequently, so you can tailor your sightseeing to your schedule.
Bottom Line: Best for those who want a flexible, combined transport option for exploring Riga’s main sights.
$35 per person
15. Nāves Sala Island of Death Tour with Boat Ride
For those interested in Latvia’s WWI history, the Nāves Sala Tour offers a 4-hour visit to the island, accessible only by boat. It includes a boat ride across the Daugava and walking tour of trenches and memorials, making it a memorable and sobering experience.
Reviews highlight the emotional impact and the unique opportunity to see a war memorial site preserved in natural scenery. It’s best for history buffs or travelers interested in Latvia’s past.
Bottom Line: A meaningful excursion combining history, nature, and a boat ride—a compelling choice for history enthusiasts.
$83 per person
16. Boat Trip to Jūrmala (Majori)
Number 16 offers a 2.5-hour boat trip to Jūrmala, Latvia’s famous seaside resort. The environmentally friendly “ĒLIZABETE” ship provides heating options in cold weather, making this a comfortable escape to the coast. It’s a relaxing cruise ideal for those wanting a quick trip outside Riga for some beach air and scenic views.
Reviews are modest, but the route’s calm pace and picturesque surroundings suit travelers seeking a leisurely day trip.
Bottom Line: A good choice for a short, scenic coastal getaway from Riga.
$23 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Water Adventure
When selecting among Riga’s boat tours, consider your interests and what kind of experience you’re after. If you prefer a quick overview of the city’s highlights, the canal sightseeing tours or the hop-on hop-off bus are excellent options. For a romantic evening, the sunset cruises or private evening tours shine. Families or active travelers might prefer pedal boats or the longer, flexible sightseeing cruise.
Those seeking a special tasting experience should consider the Black Balsam or sparkling wine tours. If you’re interested in history, the Nāves Sala offers an emotional and educational visit.
Remember to book early in high season, especially for private and sunset tours, for the best availability and prices.
Final Thoughts
Riga offers a wide variety of water-based experiences that cater to different tastes and budgets. For a relaxed, scenic intro, the Riga Sightseeing Tour by Canal Boat is hard to beat. If you want privacy and a touch of luxury, the Private Boat Tours and VIP experiences deliver personalized comfort. For a romantic sunset or special celebration, the evening cruises provide a peaceful, beautiful atmosphere.
No matter your style, Riga’s waterways are an excellent way to see the city from a fresh perspective. Book your preferred tour early, pack your camera, and prepare for some memorable moments afloat.