Strasbourg: Private Boat Tour with Captain & Landmarks

Summary

Glide by Strasbourg’s half-timbered houses, bridges, and river life

You’ll float through Strasbourg’s canals with your own captain guiding you past landmarks like Petite France and Strasbourg Cathedral. Expect quiet moments under historic bridges, stories about storks in Orangerie Park, and glimpses of both medieval towers and modern buildings — all at your own pace. It’s an easy way to feel part of the city for a while.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest — we almost missed the dock because I was convinced it was further down the quay (don’t trust my sense of direction). The captain, Jean-Luc, just waved us over with this easy grin like he’d seen it all before. There was something about stepping onto that small boat — not flashy, but clean and kind of cozy — that made me forget the morning rush. The Ill River felt calm under us, even though the city was busy above. I could smell fresh bread drifting from somewhere along the bank; maybe a boulangerie opening up for lunch.

Jean-Luc started pointing out things right away — half in French, half in English. He slowed near Strasbourg Cathedral so we could really see the spires against the sky. There was a moment when we drifted past La Petite France and I tried to take a photo of those timbered houses but only caught my own reflection in the window (classic). The water made everything look softer somehow. We passed under old stone bridges where kids leaned over waving at us, and for a second I felt like part of the city instead of just watching it.

I didn’t expect to care much about modern stuff, but when we floated by the European Parliament and that wild eco-tower (Elithis Danube?), Jean-Luc explained how Strasbourg mixes old and new without blinking. He told us a story about storks nesting in Orangerie Park — apparently they’re kind of celebrities here. At one point he let my friend steer for a minute; she nearly spun us into a slow circle but nobody seemed bothered. It felt like being let in on something local, not just ticking off sights.

The tour included everything — no tickets or lines or fussing with schedules. Just us on the water for an hour or two, seeing places like Vauban Dam and Rohan Palace from this angle you can’t get on foot. Even when it started to drizzle near the Covered Bridges, it just made things quieter somehow. I still think about that view back toward the cathedral as we headed in; it’s different from down low on the river. Anyway, if you want to see Strasbourg without feeling rushed or crowded, this private boat tour is… well, it’s real.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Strasbourg private boat tour highlights

• VIP welcome by the Captain
• Pass Notre-Dame de Strasbourg cathedral
• See Strasbourg Museum of Modern Art
• Pass Saint-Paul de Strasbourg church
• Pass European Court of Human Rights
• Pass autonomous port of Strasbourg
• Pass Saint-Guillaume church
• Pass Rohan Palace
• Pass Historical Museum of Strasbourg
• Pass Alsatian Museum
• Visit Petite France district
• Walk on Vauban Dam terrace
• Visit Covered Bridges
• See European Parliament Strasbourg
• Visit Orangerie Park
• Pass Deux Rives garden
• Pass Elithis Danube Tower

Top questions

How long does the private boat tour in Strasbourg last?

The tour typically lasts around one to two hours depending on your preferences and route chosen with your captain.

What landmarks do you see on this Strasbourg boat tour?

You’ll pass by Strasbourg Cathedral, La Petite France, Vauban Dam, Rohan Palace, Covered Bridges, European Parliament, Orangerie Park, and more.

Is pickup included for this private boat tour?

No hotel pickup is included; you meet directly at the dock location provided after booking.

How many people can join this private boat tour?

The private boat accommodates between 1 to 7 people per booking.

Are infants or small children allowed on board?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller during the tour.

Is there a restroom available on the boat?

Yes, there is a toilet available onboard for your convenience.

Can service animals join this Strasbourg boat tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed on board during your trip.

Is this private boat tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels as there are minimal physical demands involved.

What’s included

Your experience includes private transportation aboard a comfortable small yacht with sunbathing area and onboard facilities like hand shower and toilet; all fees and taxes are covered so you won’t need extra tickets or payments; night lock passage is included if you choose an evening departure; simply meet at the dock at your arranged time after booking—everything else is taken care of by your local captain.