Tallinn’s charm isn’t just in its cobbled streets and medieval architecture — it’s also in its ability to be explored from the water. Whether you’re arriving on a cruise ship or just want a different view of the city, boat tours in Tallinn offer a fresh perspective and unique experiences. From intimate small-group excursions to scenic cruises across the Baltic, there’s something for every traveler eager to see Tallinn from a different angle. We especially like the Deluxe Tallinn Small-Group Shore Excursion for its personalized approach and efficient itinerary, as well as the Baltic Sea Round Trip for a relaxing overnight escape. If you’re short on time, a day cruise to Helsinki provides a well-rounded taste of the region, combining city sights with travel by ferry.
Tallinn is a perfect city for boat tours because of its compact, walkable old town and stunning seafront views. The cruises not only showcase the city’s medieval skyline but often include stops at notable sites like Peter the Great’s Summer Palace or the Tallinn Song Festival Grounds. These tours make it easy to soak in the scenery without feeling rushed, and they cater to a wide range of interests and schedules. Whether you’re after an enriching guided experience or a scenic cruise to other Baltic capitals, Tallinn’s boat tours deliver memorable moments on the water.
Quick Overview
Our list includes a variety of boat experiences — from guided shore excursions tailored for cruise travelers, bike tours that combine land and water adventures, to overnight cruises crossing international borders. Each offers a different way to explore Tallinn and beyond, with options that suit short visits, family trips, or those wanting a mini Baltic adventure. For detailed insights, check out the Deluxe Tallinn Small-Group Shore Excursion, the Tallinn Bike Tour, and the Baltic Sea Round Trip.
1. Deluxe Tallinn Small-Group Shore Excursion for Cruise Ships
At number 1, this deluxe shore excursion is perfect if you only have a few hours in port. Designed specifically for cruise passengers, it combines a guided walk through Tallinn’s highlights with convenient round-trip transport from your cruise ship or hotel. The tour typically lasts about five hours, making it a perfect way to see the essentials without rushing.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on personalized attention — with no more than 20 guests per guide, you’ll get a more intimate experience. The itinerary covers Toompea Hill for panoramic views, the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and the charming cobblestone streets of Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. You’ll also visit the Town Hall and historic churches, getting a solid sense of Tallinn’s medieval character. After the guided part, you’ll have free time to shop, grab a bite, or simply soak in the atmosphere. The reviews rave about the knowledgeable guides (like Janna), the well-paced itinerary, and how easy it is to get back to your ship on time.
Bottom line: This tour offers a great balance of guided exploration and free time, making it ideal for cruise travelers wanting a hassle-free yet enriching experience.
2. Tallinn Bike Tour from Tallinn Cruise Port
Number 2 on our list is a bike tour, which is a fantastic way to cover more ground in a short amount of time. It’s particularly appealing if you want an active day and to see both the historic and scenic sides of Tallinn. This 3-hour tour starts right at the Tallinn cruise port and takes you along the coastal promenade and into areas that are less accessible on foot.
One of the tour’s highlights is a visit to the Peter the Great Summer Palace, a less-visited but striking sight that you’ll see along the way. The route also includes Kadriorg Park — perfect for photos — and a quick stop at the Tallinn Song Festival Grounds. The tour rounds out with a 20-minute walk in the Old Town, where you’ll have time for shopping and exploring. The bikes are well-maintained, and the guide’s knowledge of Tallinn’s history adds depth to the ride. The reviews highlight how smooth and safe the cycling is, even for those less experienced, and how the guide’s local insight makes the trip memorable.
Bottom line: Best suited for active travelers who want a fast-paced, scenic overview of Tallinn, with plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to enjoy some fresh air.
3. From Tallinn: Overnight Cruise to Stockholm
Number 3 offers a classic Baltic Sea experience: an overnight cruise from Tallinn to Stockholm. This modern cruise ship combines comfort with convenience, offering full onboard amenities and a private cabin. Traveling overnight means you save on accommodation costs while crossing the Baltic, and many ships are eco-friendly, accredited with the Sustainable Travel Finland label.
The cruise departs from the Tallinn Passenger Terminal D and arrives in Stockholm at Vartahamnen. During the 16.5-hour journey, you can enjoy dining, entertainment, and relax in your cabin. The reviews are simple but positive, with one mentioning, “The food was excellent,” highlighting the quality onboard experience. This option is ideal if you want a seamless way to see both capitals without packing and unpacking multiple times.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers seeking a comfortable, hassle-free way to see Stockholm while enjoying the amenities of a cruise ship. It’s a relaxing, no-fuss option for Baltic travelers.
4. Baltic Sea Round Trip: Tallinn-Stockholm-Tallinn Mini-Cruise
The Baltic Sea Round Trip is a full 41-hour mini-cruise that takes you from Tallinn to Stockholm and back, with two nights onboard and a full day in Stockholm. This is a good option if you want to combine sightseeing with a mini-sea vacation. The cruise includes private cabins, dining options, shopping, and entertainment, making it feel more like a floating hotel than just transit.
This tour suits those who are looking for a scenic journey across the Baltic, especially families with kids under six who travel free with adults. The reviews appreciate the value — the price of about $113 per person includes everything, making it a budget-friendly way to visit both cities without extra hotel costs. The onboard experience includes access to duty-free shops and multiple dining options, giving a relaxed vibe after a day of sightseeing ashore.
Bottom line: This is a good pick for those wanting an extended, leisurely cruise with the chance to explore two major cities at a relaxed pace.
5. Helsinki Day Cruise from Tallinn
Number 5 is a day trip to Helsinki, perfect if you want to see a Scandinavian city while you’re in Tallinn. This small-group tour begins with hotel pickup in Tallinn, followed by a ferry ride across the Gulf of Finland. Once in Helsinki, you’ll explore by foot and air-conditioned transport, visiting sites like Helsinki Cathedral and Senate Square.
The cruise itself offers a comfortable ferry ride, with some reviews emphasizing how smooth and enjoyable the crossing was. The tour covers the main sights in about 12 hours, giving you enough time to see the highlights without feeling rushed. It’s ideal for travelers who want a quick jaunt into Finland’s capital and enjoy a compact, well-organized day.
Bottom line: Excellent for those based in Tallinn who want a taste of Helsinki without committing to an overnight trip, especially if they have a full day available.
$289.65 per person
How to Choose
Picking the right boat tour depends on your interests, schedule, and budget. If you’re arriving on a cruise and want a quick, personalized tour, the Deluxe Tallinn Small-Group Shore Excursion is hard to beat. For active explorers, the Tallinn Bike Tour offers a fun, energetic way to see the city’s sights. Travelers looking for a relaxing Baltic getaway might enjoy the Baltic Sea Round Trip with its overnight sailing. If a quick dip into Scandinavian culture appeals, the Helsinki Day Cruise makes for a great day trip.
When booking, consider the amount of time you have, whether you want a guided experience or a self-directed exploration, and your budget. Booking early is wise, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and cabin.
Final Thoughts
Tallinn’s boat tours offer a versatile way to experience the city and its surroundings, whether you prefer a guided land-based tour, a scenic bike ride, or a relaxing cruise to Stockholm or Helsinki. For a personalized, comprehensive experience, the Deluxe Tallinn Small-Group Shore Excursion stands out. Those seeking adventure and activity will love the bike tour, while travelers with a bit more time might enjoy the Baltic Sea Round Trip or the overnight cruise to Stockholm. And if you’re in Helsinki, the day cruise from Tallinn is a convenient way to see Finland’s capital.
No matter which option you choose, booking in advance will help ensure you get your preferred dates and accommodations. With these choices, you’re set for an unforgettable water-based adventure in and around Tallinn.