Szczecin is a city that comes alive from its waterfront. While many travelers explore on foot, the waterways offer a whole new perspective on this Baltic port city. From cruising along the Odra River to relaxing on the shores of Dąbie Lake, Szczecin’s boat tours showcase the city’s natural beauty and maritime charm. Personally, I love the idea of exploring unseen corners only accessible by water, like the quiet areas of the port or the concrete shipwreck – a quirky and memorable sight.
If you’re looking to blend scenic views with local stories, the Szczecin: cruise around the port is an excellent choice. For a longer, more relaxed experience that explores lakeside scenery, the Cruise to the Dąbie Lake offers a peaceful escape. And for those wanting a deep dive into Szczecin’s history and charm, the Old Town Private Walking Tour & Sightseeing Cruise combines land and water exploration with a personal guide. Keep reading for detailed reviews to help you choose the perfect boat outing.
1. Szczecin: cruise around the port
At number one, the Szczecin: cruise around the port offers a one-hour journey that takes you through Szczecin’s bustling port area from a water perspective. This cruise is particularly appealing because it explores parts of the Odra River that are impossible to see from land, revealing the industrial waterways and quiet corners of the harbor. It’s a great way to see this busy port in a relaxed manner, with informative commentary about Szczecin’s maritime history.
What makes this tour stand out is its ability to show travelers hidden waterways and natural surroundings that often go unnoticed. With a rating of 4.3 out of 5 from 36 reviews, it’s clear that many visitors enjoy the short but scenic trip and the chance to see the city from an uncommon angle. The trip is perfect for those with limited time but wanting a genuine maritime experience. The boat itself is comfortable, and the captain shares insights into Szczecin’s port operations and ecology.
Bottom line: If you want a quick, scenic introduction to Szczecin’s port life and water views, this cruise is an ideal pick. The shorter duration also makes it a good option for families or travelers with tight schedules.
2. Szczecin: Cruise to the Dąbie Lake
Next on our list, the Cruise to the Dąbie Lake is a two-hour adventure that explores both the Święta River and the picturesque shores of Dąbie Lake. For around $25 per person, this cruise delivers a relaxing excursion filled with nature, stories, and a few surprises, such as a concrete shipwreck that adds a quirky touch.
This tour is unique because it combines waterway exploration with nature-focused highlights, including stunning sunsets over the lake. The captain shares fascinating stories about the area, making this experience both scenic and educational. The reviews show strong approval, with a 4.3/5 rating from 13 reviews, especially praising the mix of harbor sights and lakeside tranquility. Many visitors mention how they enjoyed “plenty of nature to enjoy” along with views of the harbor.
The cruise is well-suited for people wanting a balance of sightseeing and relaxation—it’s a good choice for nature lovers, photographers, or anyone wanting to escape the urban hustle for a couple of hours.
Bottom line: For a peaceful, scenic ride with interesting sights like the concrete shipwreck and beautiful sunset views, this cruise offers solid value and a memorable experience.
3. Szczecin Old Town Private Walking Tour & Sightseeing Cruise
Our third pick combines the best of land and water with the Szczecin Old Town Private Walking Tour & Sightseeing Cruise. This 3-4 hour experience offers an intimate look at Szczecin’s historic center, led by a private guide. After exploring highlights such as the Market Square, Chrobry Embankment, and the Pomeranian Dukes’ Castle, you’ll hop aboard a boat for a one-hour cruise around the port.
What makes this tour special is its personalized approach—your guide’s insights make history come alive, and the combined itinerary ensures you see both city highlights and maritime views. With a perfect 5/5 rating from reviews, it’s clear that this experience delights travelers seeking a comprehensive taste of Szczecin’s culture and scenery. The guide shares stories and legends, enriching the visit beyond just sights.
While the price isn’t listed, the value here is in the personalized experience and the depth of exploration. It’s ideal for history enthusiasts or travelers who prefer a more curated, relaxed pace.
Bottom line: If you want an immersive, private tour that explores Szczecin’s historic landmarks and port, this combined experience is hard to beat.
How to Choose Your Szczecin Boat Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your interests, schedule, and budget. The port cruise is perfect for a quick overview, especially if you’re short on time or traveling with family. The Dąbie Lake cruise suits nature lovers or those wanting a tranquil escape, especially for sunset views. The private walking and cruise combo offers a full culture, ideal for history buffs or travelers seeking a more personalized experience.
Think about the best time to go—summer months bring more sunlight and warmer weather, making lakeside views and sunset cruises even more enjoyable. Booking early is recommended, particularly for the private tour, as spots fill up quickly.
Final Thoughts
Szczecin offers a surprising variety of boat tours that reveal different facets of the city, from lively ports to peaceful lakesides and historic shorelines. For travelers wanting a quick water experience, the Port Cruise is an excellent choice. If you prefer a relaxed nature escape, the Dąbie Lake cruise provides beautiful scenery and fascinating sights. For those wishing a deeper dive into Szczecin’s history and sights, the Private Old Town tour combined with a water cruise offers a comprehensive experience.
Whatever your interests, Szczecin’s waterways invite you to see the city from a different perspective. Book early, choose the experience that fits your style, and enjoy exploring this Baltic gem from the water.