Gdansk, with its captivating waterfront, historic shipyard, and lively marina, is a natural hub for boat tours. Whether you’re seeking a scenic river cruise, a culinary experience on the water, or a private getaway, the city offers a diverse range of options. We particularly enjoy the guided round-trip cruise to Westerplatte for its rich historical commentary and charming 17th-century style galleon, and the Motława River Cruise with pierogi tasting for a delightful mix of local cuisine and scenic views. These experiences give you a chance to see Gdansk from the water while learning about its fascinating past and vibrant present.
If you’re interested in a more luxurious or private experience, the exclusive cruise with a glass of prosecco offers a quiet, elegant way to enjoy the city’s skyline. For those looking for an active water adventure, the boat on the Motława where you can pilot the vessel yourself is perfect. With so many options, from educational to indulgent, Gdansk truly caters to every taste on its inviting waters.
1. Gdansk: Guided Round-Trip Cruise to Westerplatte
Setting sail from Gdansk’s Old Town aboard a 17th-century style galleon, this cruise immerses you in the city’s maritime history. With a live commentary available in multiple languages, you’ll learn about Westerplatte’s significance and Gdansk’s port heritage as you glide past historic docks and landmarks. The cruise lasts about 80 minutes, making it a perfect introduction for first-time visitors.
What makes this tour stand out is the authentic vessel, which adds a touch of historical charm, and the lively onboard atmosphere with live music and a bar. Many reviews praise the punctuality, engaging guides, and the opportunity to enjoy food and drinks while taking in the scenery. It’s ideal for travelers who want a relaxing yet educational experience with a bit of fun. The combination of historical sights, ambiance, and commentary offers excellent value for around 80 minutes of sightseeing.
Bottom Line: A great way to combine Gdansk’s history with a scenic cruise aboard a beautifully restored ship, perfect for families and history buffs alike.
2. Gdańsk: Motława River Cruise with Pierogi Tasting
This 70-minute cruise offers more than just views — it’s a culinary adventure. Savor freshly cooked pierogi, topped with crispy fried onions and cracklings, as you glide past Gdansk’s iconic quays and historic buildings. The intimate, open-deck boat for just 12 passengers creates a cozy setting for enjoying traditional Polish flavors on the water.
What makes this experience special is the blend of sightseeing and tasting, giving you a taste of local cuisine while admiring the city’s architecture from the river. The reviews highlight the delicious pierogi and the unique perspective of Gdansk’s waterfront. It’s well-suited for food lovers or anyone wanting a more relaxed, culinary-focused cruise. Priced at around $33, it offers good value for a memorable, food-filled hour.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a relaxed, tasty way to see Gdansk’s historic port from the water.
3. Gdansk: 8:30PM Evening Cruise With Live Music on Black Pearl
This 2-hour evening cruise offers stunning views of the illuminated Shipyard, Westerplatte, and the Tricity skyline. The highlight is the live music onboard, featuring lively performances that add to the festive atmosphere. The Black Pearl vessel provides a comfortable setting for relaxing with drinks from the onboard bar and soaking in Gdansk’s nighttime beauty.
Guests enjoy the opportunity to see Gdansk’s landmarks lit up against the night sky while listening to music, creating an unforgettable experience. With a relaxed pace and great reviews praising the music, it’s ideal for couples or anyone looking to enjoy the city at dusk with a drink in hand.
Bottom Line: An atmospheric way to experience Gdansk’s sights after dark, with live music and a comfortable vessel.
4. Gdansk: Exclusive Cruise with a Glass of Prosecco
For those seeking a quieter, more intimate experience, this private motorboat cruise offers a luxurious hour on the water with a glass of prosecco. Departing from Szafarnia, the tour takes you past Gdansk’s Old Town, Granary Island, and the shipyard. It’s perfect for celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a peaceful moment with stunning photos of the city’s skyline.
The tour is priced at $277 per group, making it a premium but very personal experience. The reviews are glowing, and the setting is intimate enough for couples, small groups, or families wanting privacy. The combination of beautiful scenery and a relaxed atmosphere makes it an excellent choice for a memorable, exclusive outing.
Bottom Line: A refined way to explore Gdansk in style, ideal for romantic getaways or small celebrations.
5. Gdansk: Private Westerplatte Cruise with a Glass of Prosecco
This 2-hour private motorboat tour includes visits to key sites like Westerplatte, the Gdansk Shipyard, and Wisłoujście Fortress, all from the comfort of your own boat. The tour departs from Szafarnia and includes a glass of prosecco, giving you a relaxed, tailored experience with stunning photo opportunities.
It’s a perfect option for small groups wanting a personalized experience, whether celebrating a special occasion or just exploring at your own pace. The flexibility to customize the itinerary and the scenic views of the old town and port make this a top choice for travelers who prefer exclusivity.
Bottom Line: An ideal private option for those who want to see Gdansk’s highlights in comfort and style, with added flexibility.
6. Gdańsk: Shipyard and Port Cruise with Pierogi Tasting
This 70-minute cruise explores Gdansk’s shipyard and port, blending industrial history with culinary delights. While cruising through the port, you’ll enjoy pierogi with fried onion and cracklings, making the experience both educational and tasty. The boat passes by the shipyard and port area, offering a different perspective on the city’s industrial side.
Many reviews appreciate the unique combination of sightseeing and gastronomy. It’s suitable for travelers interested in Gdansk’s shipbuilding legacy and local food. For $33 per person, you get a brief but enriching tour with a focus on the city’s working-class roots and modern revival.
Bottom Line: A good pick for history and foodies wanting a more industrial view of Gdansk’s water.
7. 45 Min Cruise on the Motława River – Gdansk
This short but sweet 1-hour cruise offers quick views of Gdansk’s skyline aboard a VIP vessel. It’s perfect for those on a tight schedule or who want a quick introduction to the city’s waterfront. The boat is described as comfortable and safe, making it suitable for families and first-time visitors.
It’s well-reviewed for its friendly staff and the breathtaking sights it offers along the river. Though brief, it provides an excellent snapshot of Gdansk’s historic architecture and lively port activity.
Bottom Line: A perfect quick trip for travelers who want a taste of Gdansk from the water without a long commitment.
8. Exclusive cruise with a glass of prosecco from Gdansk to Hel
This 2-hour luxury motorboat cruise takes you from Gdansk to Hel, with a glass of prosecco in hand. It’s ideal for those wanting a scenic, relaxing escape out to the Baltic Sea. The tour includes stops on Granary Island, Westerplatte, and Hel, offering a variety of views and photo ops.
The experience combines cruising with a touch of luxury, making it suitable for special occasions or travelers wanting a peaceful escape from city life. The reviews mention the beautiful scenery and the wind in your hair, making it a memorable day trip.
Bottom Line: A splendid blend of relaxation and scenery, perfect for a romantic or leisurely day by the sea.
9. Gdansk: 4-Hours Private Boat Tour with Skipper
This customizable private boat tour lasts four hours, giving you the freedom to explore Gdansk’s water from your own vessel. With a professional skipper aboard, you can visit the city’s sights, stop for a swim at a scenic beach, or tailor the route to your interests.
Reviewed as highly professional with a 5/5 rating, this option is best for groups who want a flexible, private experience. You can enjoy Prosecco, fresh fruits, and mineral water while cruising. It’s an exceptional choice for special occasions or those who want a more personalized adventure.
Bottom Line: The most flexible, private way to see Gdansk from the water, suitable for groups wanting a bespoke experience.
10. Gdańsk: Boat Tour on the Motława
This 1-hour tour offers a hands-on experience—pilot your own boat on the Motława River without needing a license. It’s a rewarding way to see Gdansk from the water while actively participating in the cruise.
Guests rave about the easy-to-operate vessel and the unique perspective from the water. It’s perfect for adventure seekers or families with children who want a fun, interactive experience. The boat is fully equipped with an audio guide, adding to the educational aspect.
Bottom Line: For active travelers, this self-piloting cruise adds a sense of accomplishment and fun to exploring Gdansk.
11. Gdansk: Cruise on the Motława River with Glass of Wine
This hour-long cruise provides a relaxing way to enjoy Gdansk with a glass of wine in hand. Starting from Stara Stocznia, you’ll take in the views of historic shipyards and the old town from the water.
The combination of scenic views and a drink makes it ideal for couples or those celebrating something special. The reviews highlight the tranquil atmosphere and the beauty of the city’s historic waterfront.
Bottom Line: A charming, leisurely cruise that’s perfect for unwinding with a drink and taking in Gdansk’s waterside scenery.
12. Gdansk: Luxury Dinner Cruise in the Old Town
This 100-minute dinner cruise combines fine dining with stunning views. You’ll enjoy a 3-course Italian meal while drifting past Gdansk’s most beautiful historic buildings on a luxurious wooden vessel. The cruise offers a romantic setting perfect for a special night out.
Guests praise the delicious food and the panoramic city views. It’s a pricier option, but for those wanting a memorable culinary experience on the water, it’s hard to beat. The cruise departs from Hilton Gdansk, and reservations are recommended.
Bottom Line: The top choice for couples seeking an elegant dinner with city vistas in a cozy setting.
13. Gdansk/Sopot: Private Catamaran Cruise
This 1-hour private catamaran cruise along the Baltic coast is perfect for celebrating special occasions or just relaxing. It features a panoramic sun deck, a customizable sound system, and add-ons to enhance your experience.
Ideal for small groups, the catamaran offers a quiet, upscale way to enjoy the coastline, with options to set the mood with music and scenery. The reviews note the beautiful views and the ability to tailor the cruise to personal preferences.
Bottom Line: A luxurious, flexible choice for a private, memorable day on the water along Poland’s Baltic coast.
How to Choose the Right Cruise in Gdansk
When selecting your ideal boat tour, consider your budget, interests, and how much time you have. If you want a quick introduction, the 45-minute Motława cruise offers a snapshot of the city’s waterside. For a culinary twist, the pierogi tasting cruise combines sightseeing with local flavors. Looking for romance? The private prosecco cruise or dinner cruise provide intimacy and elegance, perfect for couples.
Active travelers or families will appreciate the self-piloting boat experience or the private 4-hour tour where you can customize your day. Book early, especially in summer, to secure your preferred date and time.
Gdansk’s water-based tours range from lively, musical cruises to tranquil private charters, ensuring every traveler finds something special. For history lovers, the guided Westerplatte cruise offers a compelling narrative. For those wanting a taste of the sea, the Hel day trip or the Baltic coast catamaran are ideal. No matter what you choose, exploring Gdansk from the water is a rewarding way to see this vibrant port city.