Wismar is a charming Hanseatic city that shines from the water. Its location on the Baltic Sea makes it a natural choice for boat tours that reveal both its maritime character and scenic surroundings. We particularly like the electric boat tours for their eco-friendly approach and relaxed pace, especially the cruise past Whale Island with a stop on Poel — a perfect way to combine nature and history without breaking the bank. Whether you’re after a quick harbor cruise or a longer exploration of Wismar Bay, the options are varied and tailored to different interests. For those who love wildlife and local life, the harbor cruise with sea animal fishing offers a unique, hands-on experience.
If you’re visiting Wismar, boat trips are an easy way to see the city from a different perspective, enjoy fresh air, and learn about the region’s maritime heritage. We’ll walk you through the top three options, helping you choose the right one for your schedule and curiosity.
Quick Overview
The boat tours in Wismar range from short harbor sightseeing cruises to longer electric trips that include stops on Poel Island. You can choose a quick hour-long exploration (Harbor Sightseeing Cruise) for a quick overview, or a more immersive experience like the electric boat tour that passes Whale Island and offers a scenic stop on Poel. For those interested in a hands-on, educational adventure, the harbor cruise with sea animal fishing combines maritime sights with insights into Baltic Sea life. Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions to help you pick the best fit.
1. Wismar: Electric Boat Tour past Whale Island with Poel Stop
For around $35, this 2.5-hour electric boat tour offers a relaxed way to enjoy Wismar’s bay and its nearby islands. The e-ship Adler nature, launched in April 2024, provides a quiet, eco-friendly ride that focuses on the natural beauty of the region. The cruise takes you past Whale Island (Walfischinsel), a notable landmark, with commentary about the local flora and fauna.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of scenic cruising and a 30-minute stop in Kirchdorf on Poel Island. It’s an excellent choice if you want to combine sightseeing with a chance to stretch your legs in a charming fishing village. The boat’s modern, eco-friendly design means a quieter trip—no noisy motors—so you can soak in the scenery and listen to the natural sounds. The reviews average a solid 4.3 out of 5, with many visitors appreciating the peaceful ride and the opportunity to enjoy the island views.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for eco-conscious travelers who want a leisurely, nature-focused trip with a taste of island life, all at a reasonable price.
2. Wismar: Harbor Sightseeing Cruise
At just $23 per person for a 1-hour cruise, the Harbor Sightseeing Cruise offers an accessible introduction to Wismar’s maritime landscape. Starting from the city harbor, this trip takes you past the historic fishing village of Hoben and one of Europe’s largest dock halls. It’s a straightforward way to see Wismar from the water, especially if you’re short on time but want to get a good feel for the city’s waterfront.
The passenger reviews are favorable, averaging 4.4 out of 5, with visitors noting the relaxing pace and beautiful views. Since the cruise is only an hour, it’s ideal for families or those who prefer a quick overview rather than a lengthy outing. The boat’s route emphasizes the most picturesque parts of the harbor and provides a good sense of Wismar’s maritime history and current port activity.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a quick, affordable glimpse of Wismar from the water without a big time commitment. It’s an ideal choice if you’re already exploring the city and want a brief maritime tour.
3. Wismar: Harbor Cruise with Sea Animal Fishing and Guide
For $28, this 1.5-hour cruise offers a hands-on experience with Baltic Sea wildlife and harbor highlights. Starting in the Old Port, the boat is operated by Fisherman Karl, who provides live explanations about what’s caught in the fish trap and shares insights into local sea life.
What makes this cruise unique is the interactive element — guests can observe fishing techniques, ask questions, and get a close-up look at Baltic Sea creatures. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy learning about marine ecology or want a more engaging activity during your visit. The 4.8-star rating from 16 reviews indicates strong positive feedback, with many visitors mentioning the informative commentary and authentic maritime atmosphere.
Some travelers note that the cruise is best suited for those who enjoy interactive experiences and don’t mind a slightly longer trip. The inclusion of fisherman Karl’s explanations adds a layer of authenticity that’s hard to find on more traditional sightseeing tours.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for curious travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a live demonstration of Baltic Sea fishing and marine life. It’s especially suited for families or anyone interested in hands-on learning.
How to Choose
Choosing between these options depends on your interests and schedule. If you’re eco-minded and love natural scenery, the electric boat tour (link) offers a peaceful experience with island stops. For a quick introduction, the harbor sightseeing cruise (link) is perfect, especially if you’re short on time. If you want a more interactive adventure, the harbor cruise with sea animal fishing (link) provides tangible insights into Baltic Sea life.
Consider your budget, how much time you want to spend, and whether you prefer a relaxed or engaging experience. Booking early is wise, especially in peak summer months, as these tours tend to fill up quickly.
Final Thoughts
Wismar’s boat tours offer a wonderful way to experience the city’s maritime charm. From the eco-friendly electric cruise that takes you past Whale Island and onto Poel, to the quick and scenic harbor sightseeing cruise, there’s an option for every traveler. For those eager to learn about Baltic Sea life in a hands-on way, the fishing and guide tour provides an authentic, interactive experience.
If you’re planning a visit, consider your interests and schedule to pick the best option. For scenic, relaxed exploration, the electric boat tour is hard to beat. If you’re short on time but want a taste of Wismar’s harbor, go for the hour-long cruise. For a more engaging activity, the sea animal fishing tour will add a memorable, educational touch to your trip. Book early, and enjoy discovering Wismar from its waters.