Basel may be known for its historic Old Town and lively art scene, but it’s also a surprisingly good starting point for exploring Switzerland’s lakes and rivers by boat. Thanks to its strategic location along the Rhine and proximity to scenic lakes and Alpine peaks, Basel offers a variety of cruises and boat tours that cater to different interests. Whether you’re after a day trip into the mountains or a relaxing cruise on Lake Lucerne, you’ll find options that deliver memorable views and authentic experiences. We’re particularly fond of the Mt. Pilatus with cruise on Lake of Lucerne Small Group from Basel, which combines mountain adventure with a lake cruise, and the Basel Rhine: Brunch cruise on Rhykönig, perfect for a leisurely mid-morning treat. These tours showcase the beauty of Switzerland’s natural landscape while offering convenient departures right from Basel.
Quick Overview
This list features guided mountain excursions, lake cruises, and river day trips—each offering a different way to enjoy Switzerland’s stunning scenery. From a small-group tour that ascends Mt. Pilatus with panoramic views and a cruise, to serene river brunch cruises in Basel, all have their own charm. For a full day of alpine exploration, Basel Rhine: Schaffhausen & Stein Am Rhein provides a mix of waterfalls, historic towns, and scenic cruising. For more city-focused adventures, consider the Lucerne small group walking tour and Lake Cruise from Basel, which combines charming streets and lakeside views in nearby Lucerne. Now, let’s explore each tour in detail to help you pick your perfect Swiss boat experience.
1. Mt. Pilatus with cruise on Lake of Lucerne Small Group from Basel
At number 1 on our list, this small group tour offers a well-rounded taste of Swiss mountain grandeur and lakeside beauty. Departing from Basel, you’ll travel in an air-conditioned Mercedes Sprinter to Lucerne in about an hour, then board the iconic “dragon ride” aerial cable car to the summit of Mt. Pilatus. This cable car ride is a highlight, floating in a glass cabin with panoramic views that many compare to flying. The ascent offers stunning vistas of the Alps, lakes, and valleys, and at the top, you can enjoy free time to relax at the restaurant or hike to the summit for even more spectacular views.
After conquering Mt. Pilatus, the experience shifts from mountain to lake when you board a cruise boat on Lake Lucerne. The cruise offers an excellent way to see the region’s scenic beauty from the water, with views of historic towns and surrounding peaks. The tour finishes back in Basel, making it a convenient day trip. With a high rating of 4.5/5 from 69 reviews, this tour is praised for its knowledgeable guide, seamless logistics, and breathtaking scenery. It’s ideal for travelers who want a full day of Swiss mountain and lake highlights wrapped into one manageable trip.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a mix of mountain adventure and lake cruising with a small-group feel, this tour offers excellent value and unforgettable views.
2. Lucerne small group walking tour and Lake Cruise from Basel
Number 2 takes you into the charming city of Lucerne, just a short train ride from Basel. This small group tour combines a guided walk through the cobbled streets of Old Town with visits to iconic sites like the Lion Monument and the Chapel Bridge. The guide brings Lucerne’s stories to life and leads you through its most photogenic corners, with ample opportunity to soak in the atmosphere.
After exploring the city, a one-hour sightseeing cruise on Lake Lucerne offers a relaxed way to see the surrounding mountains and lakeside villages. The boat ride provides calm, scenic views and a chance to unwind after your walking tour. The entire experience lasts about 6 hours, with rave reviews for its friendly guide and well-paced itinerary. It’s perfect for those who prefer a combination of city walking and lake relaxation, with enough time to enjoy both without feeling rushed.
Bottom Line: For a compact but comprehensive taste of Lucerne’s streets and lakes, this tour balances sightseeing, history, and leisure beautifully.
3. Basel Rhine: Brunch cruise on our boat Rhykönig
Number 3 offers a relaxed brunch cruise along the Rhine in Basel aboard the cozy Rhykönig. This 1.5-hour tour is a perfect way to enjoy a leisurely mid-morning meal with a view, combining good food with scenic cruising. The brunch features homemade bread and other hearty options while you drift past Basel’s skyline and riverbanks.
The cruise includes a brief city tour, giving you a different perspective of Basel’s sights from the water. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who enjoy a laid-back experience, combining culinary pleasure with scenic views. Because it runs on availability, checking the schedule in advance is recommended. With a perfect rating of 5/5, this tour is appreciated for its relaxed atmosphere and beautiful river scenery.
Bottom Line: For a relaxing, food-focused experience that showcases Basel from the river, this brunch cruise hits the spot without requiring a full day.
4. Basel: Stein Am Rhein, Schaffhausen, & Rhine River Cruise
Number 4 is a full-day river and town tour that combines a cruise on the Rhine with visits to picturesque towns. Starting from Basel, you’ll travel by train (about 2.5 hours) to explore Stein Am Rhein, famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture and colorful murals. After a guided walk, you’ll cruise along the Rhine to Schaffhausen, home to Europe’s largest waterfall, Rhine Falls. The tour includes time to admire the falls, walk around the town, and soak in the scenic views.
This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive day trip that mixes river cruising, historic towns, and natural wonders. It’s rated 4.3/5, with reviewers noting the scenic boat ride and the stunning waterfalls as highlights. The full itinerary is packed, making it suitable for those comfortable with a long day of sightseeing, and the price reflects its extensive inclusions.
Bottom Line: For a full immersion into Swiss towns, waterfalls, and scenic cruising, this tour offers good value for a diverse day out.
5. Lucerne small group walking tour and Lake Cruise from Zürich
Last on our list, this day trip from Zürich is very similar to the Basel-Lake-Lucerne experience but starts from the Swiss financial hub. It includes a train ride (about 50 minutes) to Lucerne, a guided walk, and a one-hour lake cruise, all wrapped into a 6-hour tour. The route covers Lucerne’s key sights, and the cruise offers more scenic views of Lake Lucerne’s peaceful waters and mountain backdrop.
Rated without a specific score, the tour is a popular choice for Zürich visitors seeking a quick escape into Swiss scenery. Its convenience and focus on highlights make it ideal for those with limited time but a strong desire to see Lucerne and its lakeside beauty.
Bottom Line: If you’re based in Zürich and want a streamlined experience of Lucerne’s streets and lake views, this tour offers a convenient, well-organized option.
How to Choose the Right Cruise or Boat Tour in Basel
When selecting your tour, consider your interests and schedule. If mountain scenery and lakeside cruising excite you, the Mt. Pilatus with cruise is a top pick. For a city-focused day with scenic lakeside views, the Lucerne walking tour plus lake cruise from Basel offers a balanced experience. If you prefer a relaxing river meal, the Basel Rhine brunch cruise is perfect, especially for food lovers.
For those craving a full-day adventure combining castles, waterfalls, and historic towns, the Rhine River cruise to Stein Am Rhein and Schaffhausen provides a comprehensive Swiss experience. Lastly, if you’re based in Zürich but want a quick trip to Lucerne, the small group walking tour from Zürich makes it easy.
Practical tips: Book early, especially for tours with limited availability. Consider your fitness level and time constraints—some tours are full-day, others are more relaxed. Check schedules for seasonal options, as some cruises may only run in warmer months.
Final Thoughts
Basel offers a surprising variety of boat experiences that showcase Switzerland’s natural beauty and historic towns. Whether you’re after a mountain summit combined with a lakeside cruise, a leisurely river brunch, or a full day exploring waterfalls and medieval towns, there’s something for every traveler. For a memorable trip, consider combining a scenic cruise with a city walk or mountain adventure. Don’t forget to book early to secure your spot, especially in peak seasons, and enjoy your Swiss water journey.