Lucerne is a city where you can enjoy Switzerland’s stunning scenery both on land and on water. Its location on the shores of Lake Lucerne makes it ideal for boat tours, while the surrounding mountains offer incredible cable car and cogwheel railway rides. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing cruise with panoramic views, a scenic mountain excursion, or a mix of both, Lucerne has options that fit every traveler’s taste. We’re especially fond of the Mt. Pilatus cable car and cogwheel train tour for its dramatic mountain vistas, and the 1-hour panoramic yacht cruise for a quick, relaxing snapshot of the lake’s beauty.
If you’re considering your options, read on for our detailed reviews of the top cruises and boat tours in Lucerne, helping you pick the best experience to suit your interests, schedule, and budget. From scenic lakeside rides to land-and-water combo adventures, there’s a route for every water lover.
Quick Overview
This list covers a variety of tours: from mountain summit trips combining cable cars, trains, and hikes (see the Mount Pilatus experience), to quick lake cruises (like the 1-hour panoramic yacht). There are full-day packages, including mineral baths and self-guided adventures (see the Rigi day trip), as well as private options for those seeking a more personalized experience (such as the private city walk and yacht cruise). Each tour offers a different blend of scenery, activity, and comfort, so read on to find your perfect match.
1. Lucerne: Mt. Pilatus Cable Car, Cogwheel Train & Lake Cruise
At number 1 on our list, the Lucerne: Mt. Pilatus Cable Car, Cogwheel Train & Lake Cruise is a standout for its comprehensive experience, rating an impressive 4.7/5 from over 1,700 reviews. For around $190, you get a 5.5-hour journey combining breathtaking cable car rides, a historic cogwheel railway, and a relaxing lake cruise. This trip is ideal if you want to see the Swiss Alps from multiple perspectives while enjoying a variety of transportation modes.
The tour kicks off at Best of Switzerland Tours AG in Lucerne before heading up Mt. Pilatus via cable car—an experience that offers jaw-dropping views of the snow-capped peaks and alpine forests. After a gentle hike at the summit, you descend on the world’s steepest cogwheel railway, an engineering marvel. During summer, the boat cruise on Lake Lucerne completes the journey, providing tranquil water views back to the city. Guests love the enthusiastic guides and the chance to stand outside on the deck for photo opportunities. A typical review states, “Spectacular ride up Mount Pilatus in a cog-wheel train. Our guide Andrea was exceptionally nice and gave us plenty of info.”
Bottom Line: This tour beautifully combines adventure, scenery, and variety, perfect for active travelers who want an all-in-one mountain and lake experience.
2. Lucerne: 1-Hour Cruise on Panoramic Yacht
For those looking for a quick yet scenic water experience, the Lucerne: 1-Hour Cruise on Panoramic Yacht ranks highly with a 4.6/5 rating from over 1,500 reviews. At just $39, it offers a relaxing 60-minute ride with stunning views of luxurious lakeside villas, rolling hills, and the Swiss Alps. This is an excellent choice if you’re short on time but want to see some of Lake Lucerne’s best scenery.
Departing from Pier 7, you’ll settle into the modern yacht, which features an upper deck with an adjustable roof and a water terrace suspended above the lake. Along the way, you’ll listen to an audio guide that shares insights into the area’s landmarks, making it both educational and restful. Reviewers mention that the boat is very clean and modern, and the scenery is “spectacular.” Many appreciate the opportunity to sit outside and enjoy the sunshine or go inside for warmth and refreshments.
Bottom Line: If you want a quick, comfy cruise that provides fantastic views and a peaceful break from sightseeing, this is a perfect option.
3. From Lucerne: Mt. Pilatus Gondola, Cable Car, and Boat Trip
Coming in at number 3, the From Lucerne: Mt. Pilatus Gondola, Cable Car, and Boat Trip is a half-day adventure rated 4.7/5 by over 1,140 reviewers. For about $141, it incorporates a full spectrum of transport modes—from a boat across Lake Lucerne to gondola and cable car rides up Mt. Pilatus, culminating in a scenic descent on the cogwheel railway.
This tour’s uniqueness lies in its multi-modal approach, allowing travelers to enjoy views from the boat, gondola, aerial cableway, and cogwheel train. Guests rave about the amazing vistas from every leg of the trip, though some mention the crowded tram ride as a minor drawback. The flexible format means you can opt for a quick visit or linger longer at the top. Many travelers appreciate the independence, noting that they could explore at their own pace.
Bottom Line: This is an excellent choice for those who want a comprehensive, flexible way to experience Mt. Pilatus with minimal hassle.
4. Lucerne: Round-Trip Catamaran Cruise on Lake Lucerne
Ranked number 4, the Round-Trip Catamaran Cruise on Lake Lucerne offers a peaceful hour on a modern vessel rated 4.4/5 by nearly 1,000 reviews. At $37, it’s a budget-friendly way to enjoy the serenity of Lake Lucerne, with views of mountains and lush forests.
The cruise departs from Pier 7, giving you a chance to sit back and take in the scenery without the noise of larger boats. Reviewers say, “It’s a beautiful moment I think you are not expecting,” and the scenery is spectacular. The boat has snacks, drinks, and bathrooms, making it a comfortable, no-fuss experience. Perfect for a quick break in your day or as part of an itinerary that includes other land-based activities.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a short, relaxing water experience with minimal planning.
5. Lucerne: Lake Lucerne 1st Class Cruise with Gourmet Lunch
For a more indulgent experience, number 5 on our list is the Lake Lucerne 1st Class Cruise with Gourmet Lunch, rated 4.3/5. It costs about $143 for a 2-hour cruise that includes a delicious 3-course meal served in a luxurious setting. This tour is perfect if you want to combine stunning scenery with fine dining.
Starting at Luzern Bahnhofquai, you’ll enjoy scenic views of the surrounding mountains, historic monuments, and attractions as you relax aboard a first-class vessel. The reviews highlight the beautiful views and the excellent food, though some mention that the service can be a bit rushed. The meal options include vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, prepared from regional ingredients, making it a culinary highlight.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a comfortable, gourmet experience on the lake with spectacular views.
6. Lucerne: Walking and Boat Tour with Cheese & Wine Tasting
This small-group walking and boat tour combines sightseeing, tasting, and local flavor. Rated 4.7/5, at $108 per person, it offers a guided walk through Lucerne’s landmarks like the Chapel Bridge and Lion Monument, plus a one-hour boat cruise on Lake Lucerne, and a cheese and wine tasting.
Participants love that it takes you beyond the usual tourist spots, with guides sharing personal stories and local insights. The cheese and wine tasting at the end adds a friendly, authentic touch. The tour is well-paced, making it perfect for those who want to experience both the city and lake without feeling rushed. One review says, “Luis and Alexandra were AMAZING! I have done many European walking tours and this was one of the best.”
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want a mix of sightseeing, local tastes, and a relaxed pace.
7. Lucerne: Boat Trip, Mount Rigi Train, & Mineral Baths Ticket
Number 7 offers a self-guided day exploring Mt. Rigi, rated 4.8/5. For about $184, this pack includes a scenic boat cruise, regional train, and cable car rides, plus time at the famous mineral baths at Rigi Kaltbad.
This tour is perfect for those who enjoy independent exploration. Guests rave about the stunning boat ride and the thermal baths, describing the experience as “divine,” even with mixed weather conditions. The flexible schedule means you can spend as much time as you like at each stop, making it a good value for adventurous travelers.
Bottom Line: Best for those who want to craft their own Rigi adventure with options for relaxation and exploration.
8. Independent Rigi Tour from Lucerne With Cruise
For those who prefer planning their own trip, the Independent Rigi Tour with a lake cruise scores a solid 4.0/5 from over 80 reviews. At $163, it offers pre-booked tickets for boat, cogwheel train, and cable car, giving you the freedom to set your own pace.
The self-guided format appeals to travelers who don’t mind a bit of research and timing, but appreciate the convenience of bundled tickets. Reviewers mention that the views are breathtaking and that connections are straightforward, though some note the gondola was closed due to maintenance during their visit. Still, the flexibility makes it attractive.
Bottom Line: Ideal for independent travelers comfortable with some planning, seeking flexible mountain access.
9. Luzern Elegance: Private City Walk and Panoramic Lake Cruise
If privacy and personalized attention are your priorities, this private city walk combined with a panoramic cruise is rated 5/5 but has limited reviews. For $311, it offers a 4-hour tailored experience exploring Lucerne’s Old Town, Lion Monument, and Chapel Bridge, finished with a private cruise.
This is perfect for romantic getaways or small groups who want an intimate, customized experience. The personal guide makes sure you see local secrets and highlights, creating a more immersive visit.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers seeking exclusivity and personalized attention in Lucerne.
10. Mount Pilatus Summit from Lucerne With Lake Cruise
Number 10 offers a full afternoon in the Swiss Alps, perfect for a seasonal trip. Rated 4.5/5 from 1,131 reviews, the Mount Pilatus Summit experience includes gondola, cable car, cogwheel train, and boat rides over 5 hours. For around $203, you get a comprehensive package with stunning mountain vistas and lakes.
The itinerary highlights the beautiful ascent via gondola and cable car, reaching 7,000 feet at the summit. The descend on the cogwheel train and optional boat cruise allow travelers to see multiple aspects of the landscape. While some mention cloud cover blocking the views, many appreciate the experienced guides and smooth transfers.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those wanting a full, scenic day in the mountains with plenty of photo opportunities.
11. Lucerne: Private Walking Tour with Panoramic Yacht Cruise
This private tour offers a personalized 2-hour exploration of Lucerne, rated 2.3/5 from 3 reviews. For $113, it combines walking through city highlights with a panoramic yacht cruise. It’s ideal if you want a quick, intimate overview of the city’s architecture and waterfront.
Tour guides share stories about Lucerne’s hidden corners, architecture, and history, making it a good choice for first-time visitors craving a tailored experience. One reviewer called the guide “amazing,” highlighting the personalized attention.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers who value a custom experience over longer tours.
12. From Zurich: Pilatus & Lucerne with Cruise Private Day Trip
Our final pick is a full-day private tour from Zurich, rated 5/5. For approximately $664, it covers Pilatus Mountain, a scenic cruise, and a guided walk in Lucerne, with hotel pickup and private driver. The 9.5-hour journey offers maximum flexibility for those who want personalized attention.
Guests love the seamless logistics and comprehensive itinerary, making this ideal for travelers with limited time who want a fully curated Swiss experience. The private guide ensures you get the most out of each stop, with tailored recommendations.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking a private, all-inclusive day exploring Swiss lakes, mountains, and cities without any planning hassle.
How to Choose the Right Cruise or Boat Tour in Lucerne
When picking your ideal water experience, consider your budget, time availability, and activity level. If you’re short on time but want to see both mountains and lakes, the Mt. Pilatus cable car and cogwheel train (see details) offers a full, diverse day. For a quick scenic lake cruise, the panoramic yacht (check it out) is perfect.
Those who want more luxurious dining can opt for the first-class lunch cruise (more info), while travelers craving personalized attention might prefer a private tour like the Luzern Elegance (see it here).
Timing, weather, and physical fitness are key—some tours involve hikes or steep rides, so plan accordingly. Booking early is always wise, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred slot.
Final Thoughts
Lucerne offers a remarkable variety of cruises and boat tours that showcase Switzerland’s lakes and mountains from multiple angles. For breathtaking mountain vistas combined with lake cruises, the Mt. Pilatus experience is a top pick. If your focus is on relaxation and scenery, the panoramic yacht cruise or the catamaran makes for a peaceful escape. For those wanting a customized trip, private options are available that tailor the experience to your pace and interests.
No matter your choice, booking early will help ensure you get the best times and availability. Take your pick, pack your camera, and prepare for some of the most memorable water views in Switzerland.