Wismar is a charming Hanseatic port city in northern Germany, full of maritime atmosphere, medieval architecture, and lively harbor scenes. For travelers seeking to deepen their experience of this Baltic gem, the city offers a variety of tours that showcase its natural beauty, maritime culture, and local charm. Among these, we particularly like the Wismar: Grand Round-trip Electric Boat to Walfisch Island for its relaxed pace and scenic views, and the Harbor Cruise with Sea Animal Fishing and Guide for its engaging local insights. Whether you’re into boat rides, exploring on foot, or learning about Baltic Sea life, Wismar has an option for you.
We’ve rounded up the top experiences to help you make the most of your time in this historic port. From gentle electric boat trips to lively harbor cruises and quick walking tours, each offers a chance to see Wismar from a different angle. Read on to discover which one fits your travel style.
Quick Overview
Our list features three highly-rated tours each with a unique focus. The electric boat trip to Walfisch Island offers a peaceful way to enjoy the bay and stopover on Poel (more info). The harbor cruise with sea animal fishing combines maritime sightseeing with engaging local stories (more info). Finally, the express walk with a local provides an intimate, hour-long exploration of Wismar’s landmarks and culture (more info). Each caters to different interests, whether you want relaxing scenery, cultural insights, or a quick overview.
1. Wismar: Grand Round-trip Electric Boat to Walfisch Island
Sailing the Bay of Wismar on the electric e-ship Adler nature is a quiet, eco-friendly way to experience the area. This 3-hour round-trip takes you across the bay, passing the island of Walfisch and offering a 30-minute stopover in Kirchdorf on Poel Island. The boat, in service since April 2024, provides a smooth and silent ride—perfect if you’re tired of noisy engines and want to enjoy nature’s sounds.
What makes this trip stand out is its balance of scenic cruising and a brief stop in Kirchdorf, giving travelers a taste of local island life without a full day commitment. The focus on sustainability makes it appealing to eco-conscious travelers. The route crosses the tranquil waters of the bay, with views of Wismar’s historic skyline softly fading in the distance. The stop on Poel Island allows for a quick exploration or relaxing lunch before heading back.
This tour is ideal for those who enjoy peaceful boat rides and want a scenic escape that’s easy on the environment. It’s particularly good for visitors with limited time but who still want to see the coast from a different perspective.
Bottom Line: A gentle, eco-friendly way to see Wismar’s bay, featuring a charming island stop, perfect for nature lovers and those wanting a relaxed day on the water.
2. Wismar: Harbor Cruise with Sea Animal Fishing and Guide
For a more engaging and lively experience, the Harbor Cruise with Sea Animal Fishing and Guide is hard to beat. At just $28 per person for 1.5 hours, this tour offers an up-close look at Wismar’s maritime scene combined with fascinating insights into Baltic Sea life. Starting in the Old Port, the boat takes you around Wismar Bay while a knowledgeable guide, like Fisherman Karl, explains the local fish traps and shares stories about what’s happening beneath the waves.
What sets this cruise apart is its interactive element—guests often get to watch or even participate in sea animal fishing, making it a fun and educational experience for families and curious travelers alike. The guide’s commentary brings the harbor and bay to life, revealing details about commercial fishing, local maritime history, and marine ecosystems. If you’re interested in Baltic Sea ecology, this tour offers a rare peek behind the scenes.
This trip is perfect for those who want a short, lively introduction to Wismar’s port activity while learning about the sea animals that inhabit these waters. It’s also a good choice for families or anyone seeking a hands-on experience.
Bottom Line: An engaging harbor tour blending sightseeing with interactive sea animal fishing, giving you a lively, informative introduction to Wismar’s maritime world.
3. Wismar: Express Walk with a Local in 60 Minutes
If you’re short on time but want to get a real feel for Wismar’s medieval charm and local vibe, this 60-minute guided walk is perfect. Led by a local guide, the tour starts at Bahnhofstraße 1 and covers key landmarks, including St. Nicholas Church and the Am Markt square. It’s designed to maximize your experience—showing you Wismar through the eyes of someone who knows its secrets.
The guide shares insights into Wismar’s Hanseatic heritage, pointing out architectural details that might otherwise go unnoticed. You’ll also get tips on where locals hang out and recommendations for cafes, bars, and restaurants to try after your walk. The small group size (up to 8 travelers) ensures an intimate experience and plenty of opportunity to ask questions.
What makes this tour stand out is its efficiency—it’s a great way to orient yourself in Wismar, especially if your schedule is tight. Plus, it offers insider tips that you won’t find on a generic map.
Bottom Line: A quick, personalized introduction to Wismar’s sights and culture, ideal for travelers who want to get their bearings and discover local favorites in a short time.
How to Choose
Choosing the right tour depends on your interests, schedule, and what kind of experience you’re craving. If you prefer a relaxing scenic view and eco-focused journey, the Grand Round-trip Electric Boat offers a peaceful way to see the bay. For an engaging, family-friendly activity packed with marine insights, the Harbor Cruise with Sea Animal Fishing is a great pick. If you’re short on time but want to connect with Wismar’s history and local scene, the Express Walk with a Local provides a quick, authentic taste.
Consider your budget, physical activity level, and interests. The boat tours are more leisurely and scenic, while the walking tour is fast-paced but rich in insider info. Booking early is recommended, especially in peak summer months, to secure your preferred time slot.
In summary, Wismar offers a diverse lineup of tours to suit different travelers. For a serene escape on the water, the electric boat trip delivers scenic beauty with sustainability in mind. If you want an active, lively experience with marine stories, the harbor cruise with fishing is ideal. For those pressed for time but eager to explore, the local-guided walk provides an authentic, condensed glimpse of the city. Whichever you choose, booking in advance ensures you’ll enjoy Wismar’s warm hospitality and maritime charm without a hitch.