Interlaken is one of Switzerland’s most scenic spots, famous for its breathtaking mountain vistas and crystal-clear lakes. What better way to soak in this stunning landscape than from the water? Whether you’re after a relaxing day on the lakes or an adventurous small-group outing, Interlaken offers a range of boat tours that cater to different tastes. We particularly like the Boat Day Pass on Lake Thun and Lake Brienz for its flexibility and stunning scenery, and the Beatus Caves & Lake Thun Cruise for a more curated, all-in-one experience. For travelers on a budget, the Day Pass for Lake Thun & Brienz offers excellent value and the chance to explore at your own pace. Keep reading for detailed insights on each of these top-rated options.
Quick Overview
Our list covers a variety of boat experiences. The Boat Day Pass on Lake Thun and Lake Brienz gives you unlimited access to both lakes for a full day, perfect for those who want independence. The Beatus Caves & Lake Thun Cruise combines a natural underground adventure with a scenic cruise and an optional small-group tour, ideal for travelers seeking a guided, more personalized day. Meanwhile, the Lake Thun & Brienz Day Pass offers a straightforward, economical way to enjoy two beautiful lakes with scheduled cruises and optional upgrades. Now, let’s explore each in detail to help you choose the best fit.
1. Interlaken: Boat Day Pass on Lake Thun and Lake Brienz
At number one, the Boat Day Pass on Lake Thun and Lake Brienz is a flexible, all-day ticket that lets you explore these two iconic Swiss lakes at your leisure. The pass is valid for one day, allowing unlimited boarding on scheduled boats, so you can hop on and off as often as you like. This ticket is ideal for travelers who want to soak up the scenery without the constraints of a set itinerary. During the spring and summer months, you’ll also have the chance to enjoy Lake Brienz, adding variety to your lake adventures.
What makes this pass stand out is its value and freedom. You can plan a relaxed day, visiting lakeside villages, castles, or waterfalls along the way. The boat rides are comfortable and offer stunning views of the Jungfrau Region’s towering peaks. Reviewers consistently praise the clean, well-maintained boats and punctual schedules. One reviewer noted, “Very nice day cruising Lake Thun. The scenery was stunning,” rating it 5/5. Another appreciated the flexibility, saying, “Wish timetable was easier to read, but overall a great activity.”
Bottom Line: If you value independence and want a straightforward way to see Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, this pass offers excellent value for a full day of cruising.
2. Beatus Caves, Panoramic Bridge, Nature Park Blue Lake and Lake Thun Cruise
For a more curated, small-group experience, the Beatus Caves, Panoramic Bridge, Nature Park Blue Lake and Lake Thun Cruise provides a full day of natural wonders and scenic sightseeing. Limited to just six participants, this tour emphasizes comfort and personalized attention. Starting with a pickup in Interlaken, your day includes a visit to the St. Beatus Caves, where you’ll walk illuminated pathways through impressive stalactites and stalagmites — an underground world formed over millions of years.
After exploring the caves, you’ll enjoy a transfer to Beatenbucht for a scenic boat cruise on Lake Thun, lasting about an hour. Then, the highlight is crossing the Sigriswil Suspension Bridge, a 340-meter-long walkway offering incredible views of the Bernese Oberland’s iconic peaks — Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau — and the Gummischlucht gorge below. This tour is perfect for travelers looking for a deep dive into natural beauty combined with some of the best viewpoints accessible from Interlaken.
The tour’s reviews reinforce its appeal, with travelers praising the guide’s humor and knowledge. One reviewer wrote, “Mike was AMAZING! Funny, extremely informative, and a joy to spend the day with.” The curated stops and intimate setting make this a favorite for families, couples, or anyone wanting a more personal experience outside the typical tourist trail.
Bottom Line: For those who want a balanced mix of underground wonders, iconic bridges, and scenic lakes with the benefit of a small-group setting, this tour offers a memorable day.
3. Attraction Ticket: Day Pass for Lake Thun&Brienz Boat Cruise
If you’re after a budget-friendly way to see these stunning lakes, the Day Pass for Lake Thun & Brienz Boat Cruise is a simple, flexible ticket. Priced at $145 per person, it grants access to all scheduled boats on both lakes for one day. This means you can hop on scheduled cruises, explore lakeside towns, and enjoy the waters at your own pace.
This pass offers great value if you’re comfortable creating your own itinerary. The itinerary includes a 2-hour cruise on Lake Thun and a similar cruise on Lake Brienz, both known for their crystalline waters and striking mountain backdrops. You can stop off at charming villages like Spiez or Brienz for sightseeing, dining, or just soaking in the views. For those looking to upgrade, there’s an option to enjoy first-class seating on the upper deck for the best views.
Guests have appreciated the convenience of having all the cruises covered without the hassle of buying tickets separately. One reviewer said, “It’s a fantastic way to see both lakes at a reasonable price,” making it a good choice for travelers who want flexibility without a guided tour.
Bottom Line: For independent explorers who want to cruise and stop at their own pace, this day pass combines affordability and convenience.
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour in Interlaken
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time, and what kind of experience you’re after. The Boat Day Pass on Lake Thun and Lake Brienz suits travelers who want freedom and flexibility, while the small-group tour offers a curated experience with insider insights and fewer crowds. If you prefer to organize your day and save money, the Lake Thun & Brienz Day Pass is a practical, budget-friendly choice.
Also, think about your interests. If underground caves and suspension bridges excite you, the guided Beatus Caves & Lake Thun Cruise is the way to go. For those who want a self-directed day filled with lakeside walks and villages, the full-day lake pass provides maximum independence.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak summer months when these tours can fill up fast. Check availability and specific times for each tour to match your travel schedule.
Interlaken’s boat tours offer a wonderful way to see some of Switzerland’s most stunning scenery from the water. Whether you prefer a flexible day pass, an intimate guided tour, or a simple cruise ticket, there’s an option for every type of traveler. For a relaxing, scenic escape or a natural adventure, these boat experiences are well worth planning into your Interlaken trip.