Comparing the Finest Boat Tours in Potsdam
Potsdam’s unique location by the water offers a fantastic opportunity to discover its diverse attractions through boat tours and cruises. In addition to classic city tours, we offer you the finest boat trips and ship excursions around Potsdam and Berlin. Compare the best offers now for an unforgettable experience on the water!
Table of contents
Potsdam Boat Tours and Cruise from Potsdam Harbor
Most boat trips are operated by the White Fleet, Potsdam’s leading provider of ship excursions. These boat tours typically run from May to October, with many boats being wheelchair-accessible.
Address
Lange Brücke 6, 14467 Potsdam
Sights and Lakes
Several lakes, connected by the Havel River, surround Potsdam and can be explored on various boat tours, including:
- Templiner See
- Schwielowsee
- Tiefer See (Park Babelsberg, Glienicker Brücke)
- Jungfernsee (Neue Garten)
- Fahrländersee
- Großer Zernsee
- Wublitz
- Schlänitzsee
Enjoy all of this and more on a relaxing boat tour through the beautiful river landscape along the Havel. Keep an eye out, as you may come across some enchanting castles during your journey. Some tours also offer insights into magnificent gardens or the historic Old Town of Werder, located directly on the Havel, hosting the famous Baumblütenfest (Tree Blossom Festival), one of Germany’s largest folk festivals, annually. A boat tour along Potsdam’s chain of lakes is undoubtedly worthwhile, providing you with an opportunity to admire the picturesque landscape of Potsdam and its surroundings.
Ship Cruises, Boat Tours, Island Excursions
Potsdam offers a wide range of boat rides to suit every preference. In addition to classic castle and Havelsee (Havel Lake) tours, you can also choose from themed tours such as the enchanting castle tour at night and relaxing evening cruises. Immerse yourself and select from the diverse offerings we have compiled for you. The following tours are usually available:
- Potsdam Palace tour / Castle Tour
- Havelsee Tour
- Big Island Tour
- UNESCO World Heritage Tour
- Wannsee Tour
| Experience unforgettable moments on the water! Please note that availability for all tours, especially during the summer months, can be limited. Therefore, we strongly recommend booking your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment. With our partners GetYourGuide or Viator, you can easily cancel your tickets up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure in case of unforeseen events. This allows you to plan your trips flexibly and enjoy your excursions with peace of mind. |
Potsdam: Castle / Palace Cruise by Boat
Embark on the popular castle tour – one of the most booked boat trips in Potsdam! In just 90 minutes, you’ll pass by the most breathtaking sights and explore the Havelland landscape from the water. Admire the magnificent castles and enchanting parks of the Hohenzollern dynasty and immerse yourself in history.
The route takes you past the imposing castle in Babelsberg Park, shows you the Flatow Tower and the Court Ladies’ House, and leads you under the historic Glienicker Brücke (Glienicke Bridge) to the Jungfernsee. Along the former border between East and West, you’ll admire impressive castles and gardens. Discover the impressive Sacrower Heilandskirche (Sacrow Church of the Redeemer) and catch a glimpse of the fairytale-like castle on Pfaueninsel (Peacock Island) behind a headland. Another highlight is the New Garden with its Marmorpalais (Marble Palace) and Schloss Cecilienhof (Cecilienhof Palace), where the Potsdam Agreement was signed in the summer of 1945. Enjoy an unforgettable journey through Potsdam’s historical splendor!
Included in the ride:
- Castle tour with a ship from the White Fleet
- Audio description in German and English via speakers
The tours are offered daily from around the end of March to the end of October. Use the following planner to check availability.
Potsdam: The Big Island Boat Tour
The Big Island Tour is one of the most popular boat cruises around Potsdam. Embark on this approximately 4-hour tour and experience Potsdam from all angles, exploring the unique river landscape with its impressive manor houses and grand buildings. Admire the majestic Caputh Castle and the enchanting Babelsberg Palace.
Discover the beauty of the river landscape surrounding Potsdam, with its Havellakes and picturesque villages in the Mark Brandenburg region. Sit back and relax during the journey as you pass by Caputh, the fishing and wine village of Werder (known for the Baumblütenfest), the Sacrow-Paretz Canal in the north of Potsdam, and the impressive structures, castles, and manor houses of the Hohenzollern along the banks of the Havel. Catch a glimpse of the imposing Caputh Castle, the Marmorpalais (Marble Palace), and Schloss Cecilienhof (Cecilienhof Palace) in the New Garden. Sail past Park Glienicke with the Casino designed by Schinkel and discover the Babelsberg Palace along the riverbank.
Enjoy the incomparable panoramic view of the silhouette of Brandenburg’s state capital as you pass through the famous Glienicker Brücke (Glienicke Bridge). Experience a unique change of perspective and be captivated by this unforgettable excursion. Revel in the unparalleled panoramic view of Brandenburg’s capital city.
Included in the ride:
- Boat cruise
| The tours are offered daily from around mid-April to the end of October. Use the following planner to check availability. |
Potsdam: Nighttime Castle Impressions
The Nighttime Castle Impressions tours are offered in July. This romantic spectacle on the Havel includes a three-hour cruise along the beautifully illuminated castles and park landscapes of Potsdam. Additionally, there is a festive castle menu and classical music. Information regarding tickets will be provided as they become available.
Berlin: World Heritage Cruise to Potsdam
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage region between Potsdam and Berlin on a cruise starting from Berlin-Wannsee. Learn more about the buildings along the chain of lakes and admire the picturesque landscape.
The journey takes you from Wannsee on the Havel River to Potsdam and back, crossing the UNESCO World Heritage region of the castles and gardens of Potsdam and Berlin. Experience Prussian history from the water and witness beautiful natural landscapes along the Wannsee and the Oberhavelseen. The tour takes you from Wannsee to Kladow, passing by the Peacock Island, Nikolskoe, and the Church of Peter and Paul. It continues to Moorlake via the Sacrow-Paretz Canal, then passes Schloss Cecilienhof with the old dairy through the Glienicker Bridge. The cruise proceeds to Schloss Babelsberg, past the Flatow Tower, the Hans-Otto-Theater (Schiffbauergasse), and the Freundschaftsinsel, before arriving at Potsdam/Lange Brücke and returning to Berlin.
Potsdam: Private Harbor and Castle Sightseeing Cruise
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and architecture of Potsdam on a luxurious cruise aboard a private yacht. Explore Potsdam in a small group with a private boat and captain, allowing for a relaxed and intimate experience.
The cruise begins with stunning views of the harbor, showcasing Schloss Babelsberg, the Flatow Tower, and the Damenhaus. You’ll continue over the historic Glienicker Bridge to the Jungfernsee, which presents itself as a UNESCO World Heritage site with its lush gardens and majestic castles. As you pass by the picturesque Peacock Island with its quirky castle, you’ll also admire the unique Marmorpalais in the New Garden.
Discover the historic Schloss Cecilienhof, where the Potsdam Agreement was signed in 1945. Let yourself be enchanted by the fascinating landmarks and the unique atmosphere on this exclusive boat trip. Enjoy the comfort and elegance of a private yacht as you experience the beauty of Potsdam from an entirely new perspective.
Additional Themed Boat Tours
Throughout the year, in addition to the traditional castle cruises, island tours, and UNESCO World Heritage cruises, there are various themed tours offered. These include evening cruises, night-time castle impressions, “Havel in Flames,” “Wannsee in Flames,” as well as brunch cruises, culinary themed cruises, and special tours. For more information on these themed tours, please inquire directly with the provider.
Summary of the Best Potsdam Boat Tours & Island Cruises & Potsdam Ship Cruises
Experience Potsdam aboard a private yacht with up to 6 people. In the table below, you will find offers for private boat tours.
Do you want to drive a boat yourself? Rent boats in Potsdam through our partner Click&Boat or Samboat and explore the city on your own from the water. If you also wish to discover Berlin from the water, we recommend the best boat tours in Berlin.
| Secure your tickets for your desired day as soon as possible, as tours are often booked out early and spaces are limited. With GetYourGuide or Viator, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your desired date and receive a full refund – no risk for you. Book now and look forward to an unforgettable experience! |
| About this activity | Book now / more informations |
|---|---|
| River Cruises | |
Potsdam: Palace Tour by Boat  See the most beautiful sights of Potsdam and discover the hill landscape from the water in only 90 minutes. Admire the countless palaces and wonderful parks from the Hohenzollern Dynasty and see a true piece of history. (GetYourGuide) |  |
Potsdam by Boat: Island Cruise Discover all of Potsdam on this very special boat trip and explore the unique riverscape surrounded by impressive manor houses and magnificent buildings. Admire Caputh Castle, Babelsberg Castle and other beautiful sights. (GetYourGuide) | |
Berlin-Wannsee to Potsdam 3-Hour World Heritage Cruise Explore the UNESCO World Heritage region between Potsdam and Berlin on this 3-hour cruise from Berlin-Wannsee. Learn interesting facts about the magnificent buildings along the chain of lakes and admire the picturesque scenery. (GetYourGuide) | |
2-Hour Seven Lakes Tour from Berlins Wannsee Enjoy an approximately 2-hour tour of the idyllic Havel Lakes. Venture beyond Little Wannsee to Pohlesee, Stölpchensee, Griebnitzsee, Glienicker Lake, Jungfernsee and over the Havel, then back to Wannsee again. (GetYourGuide) | |
| Private Cruises | |
Wannsee: 4h Private Seven Lakes Boat Tour with Skipper Discover Wannsee's stunning lakes and surrounding landscapes, including Tiefensee, Babelsberg Castle, and Griebnitzsee, while sailing on a private yacht. (GetYourGuide) | |
Potsdam: Private Harbor and Castle Sightseeing Cruise Discover Potsdam's stunning landscapes and architecture, including Glienicke Bridge, Babelsberg Palace, and Flatow Tower, while sailing on a private yacht around the harbor. (From € 369 per group up to 4, GetYourGuide) | |
4h Private Havelland Discovery Boat Cruise with Skipper Cruise on a private yacht through the Havel lakes landscape from Potsdam to see the picturesque towns of Caputh, Petzow, Ferch, Geltow, and Werder from the water. (From € 379 per group up to 2, GetYourGuide) | |
Daytrip: Private Wannsee Lake and Werder Yacht Cruise Discover Potsdam on a private, round-trip yacht tour. See city landmarks and the picturesque Werder Havel and Hermannswerder islands, and relax on the calm waters. (GetYourGuide) | |
Rent a Boat Rent over 50,000 yachts and boats worldwide at the best price - 130,000 customer reviews for making the right choice. Rent a boat with the market leader, Click&Boat. | |
| If you not only want to explore Potsdam but also Berlin from the water, we recommend one of these best Berlin boat trips. | |
Renting & Self-Driving Boats in Potsdam
If you are capable of driving a boat yourself, there is also the option to rent boats in Potsdam. Feel free to explore offers through our parner Click&Boat or Samboat.
Potsdam & BerlinWelcomeCard
Potsdam Discover Potsdam on a bus tour with the Potsdam & Berlin WelcomeCard, offering a free ride and saving €17 on your day ticket. It also includes free admission to the Museum Barberini and many other Berlin attractions. It’s worth it (More information).