Groningen Terrace Boat: 1 Hour on the Water with Bar

Drift past the Oosterhaven with a drink in hand, roof open to the sky

A one-hour boat tour of Groningen that doubles as a floating terrace, with a cabriolet roof you can open on clear days or close against rain, a bar serving drinks and snacks, and views of the Oosterhaven, Central Station and the Groninger Museum. The boat carries a guide in English or Dutch, WiFi on board, and a restroom.

Step-by-step itinerary

Boat trip with terrace and bar

• Board the terrace boat
• Enjoy views with cabriolet roof
• Relax with drinks and snacks
• Use accessible toilet on board

The experience

The boat leaves from the Oosterhaven, Groningen's charming harbor on the edge of the city center, where moored ships (both historic and modern) line the water. Once aboard, you control the experience: open the cabriolet roof on sunny days for an unobstructed view of the sky, or close it quickly if rain arrives. The bar stocks summer beers, refreshing wines, and warm vegetarian snacks, so you order what you want when you want it. A guide in English or Dutch narrates the route, and WiFi keeps you connected if you need it.

The hour takes you past Groningen Central Station, the 1896 landmark with its neo-Gothic facade and ornate interior, and the Peerd van Ome Loeks, a bronze statue near the station that captures a beloved local tale. You'll see the Groninger Museum, the striking contemporary building with its golden tower and brightly colored pavilions designed by architects including Philippe Starck. The boat has a clean, accessible restroom on board and can accommodate dietary restrictions. Let the staff know when you board if you need vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free options.

What’s included

• One-hour boat tour with a live guide in English or Dutch.
• cabriolet roof that opens and closes.
• bar access with drinks and snacks available to order.
• WiFi on board.
• restroom on board.
• all fees and taxes.

Before you book

Days and timesSaturdayDeparts at 16:45

Book up toStart time

AgesAdult (4 and older) · Infant (under 4): free

GroupUp to 60

Live guideEnglish and Dutch

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.

Prices and times updated 12 days ago

Good to know

Easy physical levelPets welcomePublic transport nearbyInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Bootje Speciaal B.V.

Is this one for you?One hour is short enough to fit between other plans in your day: long enough to drift past the harbor, the station and the museum without rushing. If you want a full afternoon of sightseeing, pair this with a walking tour of the city center afterward.

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Top questions

What languages is the guide in?

Live guide in English and Dutch.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Infant (under 4): free.

What is the Oosterhaven and what will I see there?

The Oosterhaven is a charming harbor on the edge of Groningen's city center that plays a significant role in the city's maritime history. You'll see picturesque views with moored ships, both historical and modern, contributing to the area's unique character, and the boat departs from this location.

Can I open and close the roof during the boat ride?

Yes, the cabriolet roof opens on sunny days for an unobstructed view of the sky and closes quickly to keep you dry if unexpected rain arrives, so you control the comfort level throughout the hour.

What drinks and food are available on the boat?

The bar serves a wide selection including summer beers, refreshing wines, and warm vegetarian snacks. Dietary restrictions such as vegan and gluten-free can be accommodated if you inform the staff when you board.

What landmarks will I pass on the water?

The route passes Groningen Central Station, the historic 1896 transportation hub with neo-Gothic architecture; the Peerd van Ome Loeks, a bronze statue near the station depicting a local folklore tale; and the Groninger Museum, the contemporary building with its distinctive golden tower and colorful pavilions.

Is WiFi available on the boat?

Yes, WiFi is available on board, and there is also a clean, accessible restroom for passengers.