Dordrecht is a city that’s best appreciated from the water. Its intricate waterways, centuries-old architecture, and lively harbors make boat tours an ideal way to experience the city’s charm. We especially like the Dordrecht: City Canal Cruise, which offers a relaxed, comprehensive view of Holland’s oldest city with enthusiastic guides. The open boats are comfortable, and the 75-minute journey provides excellent photo opportunities and local stories. If you’re into natural scenery, the Biesbosch: National Park Cruise is an excellent choice for exploring one of the Netherlands’ most beautiful parks by boat. For a more in-depth experience combining walking and water, the Dordrecht: City Walking Tour with Boat Ride offers a balanced look at its historic streets and waterways.
Whether you want to glide through the historic city center, venture into wild nature, or enjoy a mix of both, Dordrecht offers a variety of boat experiences. Below, we break down each tour to help you choose the best option for your interests and schedule.
1. Dordrecht: City Canal Cruise
At number 1, the Dordrecht: City Canal Cruise provides a scenic 75-minute journey through Holland’s oldest city. For around $20 per person, you get an intimate view of Dordrecht’s historic architecture, lively harbors, and charming bridges. The open boats are well-designed with rain covers, so weather isn’t a major concern, making it a reliable choice no matter the forecast. The guides are passionate and knowledgeable, sharing local stories that bring the city’s history to life.
This cruise is perfect for travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace and want to learn about Dordrecht’s past while enjoying the scenery. The itinerary begins at Grote Appelsteiger, a scenic spot along the river, and takes you through the Binnenstad, the city’s bustling center. Reviewers often highlight how much they enjoyed the “beautiful views” and “enthusiastic guides,” with many rating it 4.7 out of 5 stars. It’s especially suited for first-timers or those seeking a gentle introduction to Dordrecht’s waterways.
Bottom Line: A straightforward, inexpensive way to see the city’s highlights from the water, perfect for casual visitors and those interested in local stories.
2. Biesbosch: National Park Cruise
Coming in at number 2, the Biesbosch: National Park Cruise offers a 75-minute boat trip through one of the most scenic areas in the Netherlands. For just $18 per person, you’ll be on a comfortable boat with a friendly skipper who acts as your guide, sharing insights into the park’s unique ecosystem. The Biesbosch is known for its wetlands, willow forests, and abundant birdlife, making it a favorite for nature lovers.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on the natural environment. You’ll see why Biesbosch is considered one of the country’s most important national parks and learn about its history and ecological importance. The tour includes a stop at Baanhoekweg 25, where the boat departs, and it’s suitable for those who want a peaceful, nature-oriented experience. Reviewers mention that the tour “really brought the park to life,” and the chance to enjoy chilled drinks onboard adds to the relaxed vibe. The tour’s excellence is reflected in its 4.7/5 rating from 34 reviews.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a peaceful nature experience, and it’s an affordable way to explore the Dutch wetlands.
3. Dordrecht: City Walking Tour with Boat Ride
At number 3, the Dordrecht: City Walking Tour with Boat Ride offers a 2-hour combination of exploring Dordrecht on foot and then cruising its waterways. Priced at $40 per person, it provides a more comprehensive introduction, ideal for travelers who want to understand the city’s past and see its sights from multiple perspectives.
The walk starts at Voorstraat 276 and covers key sights like the Grote Kerk and the historic Harbour Area. The boat cruise, lasting about an hour and a half, gives you a panoramic view of Dordrecht’s waterways, providing a fresh angle on the city’s architecture and layout. While some reviews note that the guide’s explanation was “less passionate,” most agree that the boat ride more than made up for it, with a “better view of the city” from the water. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy a mix of walking and boating, and for travelers eager to see both the streets and waterways in one outing.
Bottom Line: A good value for those wanting a fuller experience with a mix of history, architecture, and waterways, especially if you appreciate guided walking tours.
How to Choose
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, the amount of time you have, and what interests you most. For a quick, scenic overview of Dordrecht, the City Canal Cruise is perfect. If natural scenery is your priority, the Biesbosch National Park Cruise offers an immersive experience in the wetlands. For a well-rounded visit combining history and waterways, the City Walking Tour with Boat Ride provides a more detailed and varied exploration.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons or on weekends, to ensure availability. Consider the weather forecast; rainy days won’t ruin the canal cruise thanks to covered boats, but the Biesbosch tour is more weather-dependent.
Final Thoughts
Dordrecht’s boat tours cover a broad range of interests—from historic cityscapes to wild natural parks—making it easy to find an experience that suits your style. For those seeking a straightforward, affordable introduction, the City Canal Cruise is hard to beat. Nature lovers will appreciate the tranquility and richness of the Biesbosch National Park, while travelers wanting a deeper dive into Dordrecht’s streets and waterways may prefer the combined Walking Tour with Boat Ride.
Whichever you choose, Dordrecht’s waterways promise a memorable perspective on this historic Dutch city. Early booking is recommended to secure your spot, especially during busy times. Prepare to enjoy a different view of Holland’s oldest city—one boat trip at a time.