Berlin: Evening JAZZ Cruise with “Markus Ehrlichs” Jazz Trio

Imagine cruising through the illuminated streets of Berlin as a talented jazz trio sets a soulful soundtrack for your evening. For around $53 per person, you get to see Berlin’s iconic sights—Holzmarkt 25, the Oberbaumbrücke, the Badeschiff, and the Hoppetosse—all from a historic passenger boat, while enjoying the lively sounds of Markus Ehrlich’s flexible Eingreiftruppe.

This 3-hour experience offers a unique blend of music, city views, and a relaxed atmosphere. We love how the boat’s intimate size—fitting only around 40 guests—creates a feeling of being part of something special. Plus, the jazz sounds, which change and evolve thanks to the band’s spontaneous style, keep things unpredictable and exciting.

One thing to consider is that food and drinks are not included in the ticket price, but there’s a bar onboard offering a good selection, so bring some cash or cards along. This cruise tends to attract music fans, nightlife seekers, and those wanting a scenic, laid-back way to experience Berlin after dark. If you enjoy live music with a splash of city lights, this will likely suit you well.

Key Points

• Authentic Berlin views from the water, passing iconic landmarks and the historic old town.
• Live jazz trio with a dynamic, energetic sound that makes the night feel lively and spontaneous.
• Intimate setting, with a cozy boat limited to about 40 guests, ensuring a personal experience.
• Flexible itinerary: hop on or off at stops like Holzmarkt 25 or the government district.
• Affordable price for a 3-hour, music-filled cruise with stunning cityscapes.
• No included food or drinks, so plan accordingly, though bar options are available onboard.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

The Berlin: Evening JAZZ Cruise is a well-thought-out way to spend an evening in the German capital, especially if you’re seeking an authentic, local vibe rather than a tourist-heavy tour. The boat departs from Alte Börse at Burgstraße 27, a convenient spot in central Berlin, and the activity lasts about three hours—enough time to relax, soak in the sights, and enjoy some top-notch musicianship.

The Itinerary and Sights

The cruise begins at the mooring “Alte Börse”, where you’ll arrive about 15 minutes early to settle in. As the boat glides through the waterways, you’ll pass Holzmarkt 25, a hub of creative energy and nightlife, with its lively bars and restaurants. The Oberbaumbrücke, one of Berlin’s most recognizable bridges, offers a striking silhouette against the evening sky.

Further along, you’ll see the Badeschiff, a floating pool and bar on the Spree River, and the Hoppetosse, a popular party boat with colorful lights and a bohemian feel. The cruise also takes you through the government district and past historic buildings, giving you a water-level perspective on Berlin’s political and cultural heart.

The Jazz Music

The band, led by Markus Ehrlich, is a standout feature. Their lineup is known for being in a state of flux, with changing programs and arrangements that keep the music lively and fresh. Reviews mention how “the band creates a great atmosphere” and “really connects with the audience”. The sound is energetic, soulful, and impeccably played, with some reviews noting that the music is not too loud—perfect for relaxing and chatting as you glide through the city.

The band’s spontaneity is a big charm. With an “improvisational” style, they seem to fly by the seat of their pants in the best way, making each cruise a little different. We loved the way this unpredictability adds to the energy and keeps the experience engaging for repeat visitors.

The Atmosphere and Group Size

Since the boat only holds around 40 guests, the vibe is intimate and cozy. As Annette mentioned in her review, this “keeps everything really intimate,” which allows for a more personal connection with the band and fellow travelers. Many guests appreciate this sense of closeness, making it feel more like a private party than a large tour.

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Practical Details

Food and drinks are not included, but a well-stocked bar offers a variety of beverages. This means you can sip a drink while soaking up the views and tunes. We recommend arriving at least 15 minutes early, as requested, to secure your spot and get comfortable.

The tour is offered in German and English, making it accessible for international visitors. It’s worth noting that wheelchair users are not accommodated, so plan accordingly if needed.

Price and Value

At $53 per person, this cruise offers solid value, especially considering the unique combination of sightseeing and live music. The ticket price covers a 3-hour cruise, a live jazz performance, and the experience of being on the water—something you can’t easily replicate on land.

We think it’s a particularly good deal for music lovers, couples, or small groups looking for a relaxed yet lively way to end an evening in Berlin. The personalized atmosphere and quality musicianship make it stand out compared to other generic city tours.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the musicians’ talent and the relaxed vibe. Annette, a local herself, highlights how the band “creates a great atmosphere” and that the ship is “super cozy”, making it feel like a private gathering. Others appreciate the sound quality, noting that the music isn’t overpowering, and that the city lights and skyline provide a stunning backdrop.

One guest mentioned that it was a “wonderful finale” to a trip, with the stars shining above and the music filling the night. These authentic comments underscore how memorable and enjoyable the experience can be.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

If you’re someone who loves live music and enjoys watching a talented band improvise and connect with their audience, this cruise will hit the spot. The small group setting makes it ideal if you prefer a more personal experience, rather than a large, impersonal tour bus.

This cruise also appeals to those wanting to experience Berlin from a different perspective—water-based sightseeing combined with entertainment. It’s perfect for romantic evenings, small groups of friends, or even solo travelers looking for a relaxed, cultural activity.

However, if you’re seeking a full dinner or a more formal concert experience, this might not be the right fit, as food isn’t included and the focus is primarily on the music and scenery.

The Sum Up

The Berlin: Evening JAZZ Cruise with Markus Ehrlichs’ Jazz Trio offers a memorable way to experience the city’s vibrant nightscape. The combination of live, energetic jazz and the water-level views of Berlin’s landmarks creates an atmosphere that’s both relaxing and lively. The intimate size of the boat ensures a personal connection with the performers, making it more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s a chance to enjoy the city’s soundtrack from a unique vantage point.

This experience is best suited for music fans, couples seeking a romantic outing, and those wanting a different way to see Berlin after dark. If you appreciate quality live jazz and a cozy ambiance, you’ll find this cruise to be a delightful highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Is food included in the cruise?
No, food and drinks are not included, but a bar is available onboard with a good selection.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 3 hours.

Where does the cruise start?
It begins at the mooring “Alte Börse” at Burgstraße 27 in Berlin.

Can I hop on or off at stops?
Yes, you can hop on or off at each stop along the route.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The experience is offered in German and English.

Is it suitable for children or families?
The experience is typically geared toward adults and may not be suitable for young children or wheelchair users.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing, especially for cooler evenings on the water.

Is it a good value for the price?
Yes, considering the live music, scenic views, and intimate setting, it offers good value.

Will I see iconic landmarks?
Absolutely, passing by famous sights such as Holzmarkt 25, Oberbaumbrücke, Badeschiff, and the government district provides a scenic water-level tour of Berlin’s highlights.

This jazz cruise is a charming, authentic way to enjoy Berlin’s nightlife and scenery. Whether you’re a jazz enthusiast or simply looking for a relaxing evening with a touch of local culture, this experience promises memorable moments on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: