Tbilisi is a city that’s as lively on the water as it is on land. With the Mtkvari River winding through the heart of the city, it offers a natural and scenic way to see the sights. Whether you want a quick 30-minute cruise or a private boat ride through Old Town, Tbilisi’s boat tours give you a fresh perspective on its bridges, fortress walls, and bustling streets. We especially like the River Sightseeing Boat Ride for its panoramic views and the Private Boat Trip for a more intimate experience. These tours let you relax while soaking in the city’s charm from the water—something that few land-based tours can match.
If you’re after a lively, social experience with cultural flavor, the Fun Walking Tour with Optional Boat & Wine offers a great combination of sightseeing and local tasting, giving you a sense of Tbilisi’s character before hopping onto a boat. For a special occasion or a more exclusive experience, the Private, Exclusive Boat Ride is an excellent choice—think of it as your own floating balcony above the city.
Quick Overview
In this guide, we highlight 6 of the best boat tours and cruises in Tbilisi. You’ll find options for quick scenic rides, private excursions, and combo tours that blend walking, wine tasting, and river cruising. For instance, the $1 offers a 30-minute cruise perfect for first-timers, while the $1 provides a more personal adventure through the Old City. Each tour offers unique features suited to different interests and budgets.
1. Tbilisi: Fun Walking Tour in Game Format+Optional Boat & Wine
At number 1 on our list, this lively walking tour combines city sightseeing with fun, interactive elements, plus the chance to taste authentic Georgian wine. While primarily a walking experience, it includes an optional boat ride and wine tasting, making it a well-rounded introduction to Tbilisi. The tour covers key landmarks like Rustaveli Avenue, Liberty Square, and the Rezo Gabriadze Marionette Theater. It’s perfect if you want a taste of history, culture, and local flavors all in one go.
What makes this tour stand out is its game format, making it engaging and accessible whether you’re traveling solo or with family. The guide’s local insights help you picture how Tbilisi’s past and present intertwine. The tour lasts about 3 hours and is remarkably affordable at just $10 per person. Ratings are stellar (5.0/5 from 469 reviews), with visitors praising the energetic guides and lively atmosphere. The wine tasting at the end is a highlight—an authentic way to unwind after exploring the city.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a well-rounded, fun introduction to Tbilisi, with the bonus of a relaxed wine experience.
2. Tbilisi: Evening Walking Tour with Optional Wine & Boat Ride
Number 2 offers an evening exploration of Tbilisi that captures the city’s atmosphere at sunset. This tour combines a walk through Old Town’s narrow streets and historic sites with the chance to add a boat ride and wine tasting, creating a memorable start to your Tbilisi visit. The evening light makes landmarks like the Metekhi Church and the Bridge of Peace glow beautifully, offering fantastic photo ops.
The tour’s greatest strength is its relaxed pace and culture. Guides are known for their engaging storytelling, making it easy to learn about Tbilisi’s history and current vibe. The optional boat ride provides a quick but scenic cruise along the river, perfect for seeing the city from a different angle. All told, it lasts around 3 hours, with flexibility in start times and a focus on creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Reviews highlight how fun Freddy, the guide, is and how well the tour balances sightseeing and entertainment. This experience is best suited for those wanting a relaxed, in-depth evening tour that combines land and water.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a warm introduction to Tbilisi’s evening charm, with optional boat and wine tasting to enrich the experience.
3. Tbilisi: River Sightseeing Boat Ride with Welcome Drink
Number 3 is a quick, delightful 30-minute boat ride along the Mtkvari River, making it one of the most popular options for first-time visitors. The tour departs from Cafe Trumway and offers sweeping views of the city’s skyline, bridges, and historic sites like Narikala Fortress and Metekhi Church. It’s a straightforward, scenic ride that’s perfect if you’re short on time but want to see Tbilisi from the water.
What sets this cruise apart is the relaxed pace combined with a “welcome drink” that adds a friendly touch. The open terrace allows for great photo opportunities, especially during the sunset or daytime. Visitors consistently praise the staff for their friendliness and the stunning vistas they get from the boat. As one reviewer notes, “Very friendly staff and great views of Tbilisi.”
Ideal for travelers who want a quick, memorable experience without the fuss of a lengthy tour. The 30-minute length makes it suitable for families, couples, or anyone looking for a taste of river cruising.
Bottom Line: A perfect short cruise for a quick scenic overview of Tbilisi with a friendly atmosphere and a refreshing welcome drink.
4. Tbilisi: Boat Tour – Private Exciting Boat Trip in Old City
Next up is a private 30-minute boat ride tailored for those who prefer exclusivity and personalized service. This tour takes you along the Mtkvari River, offering panoramic views of Metekhi Church, the Peace Bridge, and Narikala Fortress. What makes this trip special is its private setting, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery without crowds.
During this cruise, you’ll capture impressive photos of old Tbilisi’s skyline and landmarks. The guide’s attention to detail and expert commentary help you understand each sight while enjoying the peaceful ride. Reviews mention how the experience creates “lasting memories” and note the friendly staff who are eager to accommodate special requests, like beverages.
This tour is best suited for couples, small groups, or anyone seeking a more intimate experience. The 30-minute duration is a good balance—long enough to see the highlights but not so long that it becomes tiresome.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting to enjoy a private, scenic boat ride and take home incredible photos of Tbilisi’s riverfront.
5. Tbilisi: Kura River Sightseeing Boat Tour
Number 5 offers a 30-minute cruise along the Kura River, giving a different perspective of Tbilisi’s landmarks. This tour emphasizes the city’s bridges, the Fortress of Narikala, and the Metekhi Church, all from the gentle flow of the river. It’s a great way to see the city’s layout without walking, especially if you’re tired or pressed for time.
The highlight here is the chance to enjoy a glass of Georgian wine while cruising—adding a relaxed, social element. Many reviews mention how the boat ride allowed them to take stunning photos and appreciated the friendly, professional staff. The scenic views during sunset are often praised as particularly beautiful.
This tour appeals to travelers looking to combine sightseeing with a leisurely drink and some downtime. The accessible duration makes it a flexible choice if you want a quick, enjoyable boat experience.
Bottom Line: A lovely, laid-back cruise with wine, ideal for those wanting local flavor and scenic views from the river.
6. Tbilisi: Private, Exclusive Boat Ride & with Welcome Drink
Our final entry is a 30-minute private boat ride designed for maximum comfort and exclusivity. This experience features a welcome drink and a relaxed cruise past Old Tbilisi’s most iconic sights, including the Bridge of Peace, Metekhi Church, and Narikala Fortress.
The private setting allows for a more personalized commentary and tailored experience. The guide’s flexibility and the intimate atmosphere make this a top choice for couples celebrating special occasions or anyone wanting a quiet, scenic escape on the river. The cruise’s length and the included drinks make it a great value, especially for travelers who prefer a more exclusive experience.
Reviews highlight the friendly staff and the stunning photos taken during the cruise. It’s particularly suited for those looking for a romantic or special occasion cruise in a relaxed setting.
Bottom Line: An excellent option for couples or small groups seeking a private, scenic, and comfortable boat ride with a personal touch.
How to Choose Your Perfect Boat Tour in Tbilisi
When selecting a boat tour in Tbilisi, consider your budget, available time, and interest in private versus group experiences. Shorter cruises like the River Sightseeing Boat Ride are ideal if you’re on a tight schedule or want a quick highlight. For a more relaxed, intimate outing, the Private Exciting Boat Trip or the Private Exclusive Ride provide privacy and personalized service.
If you love combining land and water activities, the Fun Walking Tour with optional boat and wine tasting offers a good mix, especially if you want to start your visit with a rundown. For those seeking a social, casual experience with local wine, the Kura River Sightseeing Boat Tour or the Private Boat Ride with Welcome Drink are excellent choices.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak tourist season, to secure your preferred time slot and enjoy the best views and service.
Tbilisi’s river tours cover a spectrum of interests—from quick scenic glimpses to private, romantic escapes. For first-timers, the 30-minute river cruise is perfect to get your bearings. If you’re celebrating or want a special experience, the private boat rides deliver exclusivity and memorable photos. And for those who want to blend sightseeing with local culture, the walking tours with optional boat rides are a fantastic way to soak up the city’s vibrant spirit.
Whatever your style, these boat experiences add a special touch to your Tbilisi visit—so don’t wait too long to book, and enjoy seeing this captivating city from the water.