Located on the Baltic coast of Poland, throngs of tourists flock in great numbers to visit Gdansk, the most prominent city in the region of Pomerania.

Poland's principal seaport, Gdansk, is a popular maritime destination for pleasure cruises and those wanting to take in the city's architectural charm — influenced by a host of wealthy merchants that have shaped the city's past since the Second World War.

Take a Gdansk boat tour to discover its unique buildings, historical locations and elegant yet industrial skyline.

You will find below everything you need to know about boat tours, one of the most fun outdoor activities in Gdansk.

What are the most popular boat tours in Gdansk?

Gdansk lies at the southern edge of Gdansk Bay and at the mouth of the Motlawa River, which connects Gdansk with the Polish capital, Warsaw.

Many boat tours depart from Gdansk Bay and take visitors on a historical boat trip around the surrounding area. The itinerary includes a cruise from Gdansk to see the city from a different perspective and learn about its complex past of Polish, Prussian and German rule.

Gdansk city cruise on a historic Polish boat

Climb aboard a replica of a historical Polish boat and embark on a small-group cruise of Gdansk city waterways. Pass through canals and historic shipyards to see locations unavailable to larger boats.

The boat excursion includes a cruise on the Motlawa River in the center of the Old Town. You'll see several popular tourist attractions, including a famous 15th-century wooden crane, charming ancient houses and the water gates that lead to the city.

Gdansk sunset cruise on a historic Polish boat

On this boat trip, you'll take in blazing views of red-hued sunsets as the sun sinks into the Gdansk shipyard. Additionally, you'll marvel at the monuments on Granary Island and the ruins of the Teutonic castle from a replica of an iconic polish boat.

Cruise around the city's Old Town and the historic Gdansk Shipyard, where the country's Solidarity trade union movement began in the 1970s.

Gdansk Motlawa River yacht cruise

The typical itinerary of this boat excursion starts at the water tram stop on the banks of the River Motlawa. It is a luxury cruise where you'll take in some of Gdansk's most popular tourist sites. You'll make a pit stop at the Marina of Gdansk before returning to your starting point at the Green Bridge.

How much do boat tours in Gdansk cost?

River yacht boat tours from Gdansk cost around €12 to €14 per person for a 45-minute excursion. Historic Polish boat tours in Gdansk cost from €12 to €16 per person and last from 1 to 1.5 hours. For a Gdansk Sunset cruise, prices cost around €13 per person.

Which places are visited with a boat tour from Gdansk?

Malbork Castle

A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Gdansk's top tourist attractions, Malbork Castle is an immense redbrick castle perched on the banks of the sluggish Nogat River.

Visitors can discover the castle by land, but the best way is to enjoy a private boat tour where you'll see this historic attraction from a different perspective.

St. John's Church

Visitors can gape at this awe-inspiring redbrick church severely damaged during the Second World War. This stunning piece of architecture dates back to the 1300s and has been renovated after being burnt and left abandoned after World War II.

The sweeping towers of the church and town hall are visible from many cruises and offer the perfect photo opportunity during your boat trip in Gdansk.

Gdansk Old Town

Marvel at the many mesmerizing monuments and buildings in Gdansk on board a boat tour around the region.

On most of the tours, you can expect to cruise through Motlawa, the center of the Old Town, where you will see an array of tourist attractions, including the remnants of the Teutonic castle, for a taste of Poland's redbrick architectural history.

Additionally, most boat tours will pass the famous 15th-century wooden crane and offer you the chance to see lovely old tenement houses.

How long does a boat trip last?

Boat trips from Gdansk range from 45 minutes to two hours. Longer boat tours can last a full day, in which you'll visit a range of points of interest in Gdansk and the surrounding regions.

Your knowledgeable guide will be available to tell you stories about the area and answer any questions you may have on your tour. Full-day tours tend to start early and last around six hours.

Where do boat tours leave from?

The starting point of your boat trip depends on the destination of your tour. Gdansk shipyard is a popular hub to start your cruise. It was once a workplace for almost 180,000 people and has only recently opened to the public.

While the Gdansk shipyard is a popular pickup point, check the specific meeting place for the tour you decide to take, as it may vary from different locations in the Gdansk center. Other ports along the river also act as the starting point for several cruises on boat tours.

A cruise from the Vistula River by sea will allow you to soak up the maritime ebb and flow of the Vistula River. Alternatively, set off from the Cruise Ship Port of Gdansk for a private shuttle which will take you to your destination of choice in Gdansk city center.

When is the best time for a boat trip in Gdansk?

The best time to go on a boat excursion in Gdansk is between May and September, when average temperatures are usually 25 degrees during the balmy months and frequently have plenty of sunshine. Winter temperatures can reach as low as 3 degrees, and you may find that many tourist areas in this region may be closed.

Travel tips

Warm layers are recommended during the cooler months, especially on yacht excursions which can be quite windy
Bring a camera to capture some of the charming buildings and monuments you'll pass during your cruise.
Bringing refreshments and snacks is recommended, as not all boat tours include them.

Boat Tours in Gdańsk