Szczecin isn’t just a city of concrete and history; it’s also a fantastic place to experience from the water. With its busy port, meandering rivers, and scenic lakes, Szczecin offers a range of cruises and boat tours that reveal different sides of this northern Polish city. Whether you’re after a quick glimpse of the port, a relaxing sunset, or a tasty wine cruise, there’s an option that will suit your mood and schedule. We’re particularly fond of the Old Town Private Walking Tour & Sightseeing Cruise for its combination of land and water exploration—making it an ideal introduction for first-timers.
All these tours provide a fresh perspective on Szczecin, spotlighting everything from nature and architecture to local flavors. They vary from short, one-hour rides to more immersive experiences, so you can pick the one that fits your time and interests. Below, you’ll find a detailed breakdown of each tour to help you decide which water adventure matches your travel style.
1. Szczecin: cruise around the port
At number 1 on our list, the Szczecin port cruise offers a one-hour journey that’s perfect if you want a quick, scenic snapshot of the city’s maritime hub. This cruise takes you along the Odra river, exploring parts of Szczecin that are only accessible from the water. It’s a great way to see the port activities, industrial zones, and natural beauty that surround the city, all from a comfortable boat. The cruise is rated 4.3 out of 5 based on 36 reviews, reflecting its popularity among visitors and locals alike.
What makes this trip stand out is its focus on areas you can’t see from land, giving you a unique water perspective on Szczecin’s bustling port area. The trip is full of beautiful scenery and intriguing curiosities about the city’s waterways. Travelers who love quick, scenic excursions or want to combine a boat ride with sightseeing will find this cruise a solid choice. Keep in mind, availability varies, so it’s best to check ahead for your preferred time.
Bottom Line: A short but insightful way to experience Szczecin’s port life and natural surroundings.
2. Szczecin: Sunset cruise
Number 2 on our list is the Sunset cruise, which runs for about two hours. Imagine drifting along the Święta River and Lake Dąbie while watching the sky turn brilliant shades of pink and orange—sounds pretty idyllic, right? This cruise is rated 4.3 out of 5 based on 6 reviews, emphasizing its charm despite a smaller sample size. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a romantic or peaceful experience late in the day.
The highlight of this tour is the chance to see the Dąbie Lake and a concrete shipwreck, which adds an intriguing industrial touch to the natural beauty. It’s a relaxing way to unwind after a busy day, especially if you enjoy spectacular sunsets and water views. The cruise offers informative commentary, and during the trip, you can admire the changing colors of the sky, making it a memorable experience.
One review notes, “Si hubiera altavoces a ambos lados del barco se oirían mejor las explicaciones durante la excursión,” (if there were speakers on both sides, it would be even better)—a gentle reminder that some might wish for a tad more narration. Still, the tranquil setting makes it a top pick.
Bottom Line: A lovely sunset experience ideal for couples or anyone wanting a peaceful evening with stunning views.
3. Szczecin: Chocolate cruise with a polish guide
Number 3 is the Chocolate cruise, a two-hour journey along the Odra river that combines a sweet theme with sightseeing. This cruise stands out because it’s not just about the views but also about indulging your senses with the smell and taste of chocolate while enjoying the gentle breeze on the water. It’s rated 4.3 from reviews, and the focus on fun and flavor makes it a delightful alternative to more traditional cruises.
The cruise emphasizes chocolate, with local Polish treats and a lively atmosphere. It’s an ideal option for chocolate lovers or families looking for an interactive experience. The relaxed pace and enjoyable theme make it a memorable outing, especially if you’re interested in learning about local confections and enjoying a laid-back environment.
While the details note “fun” as a key highlight, some passengers might wish for a more detailed explanation of the chocolate’s origins or pairing options. Still, the light-hearted tone and unique theme set it apart.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a playful, tasty cruise with a local twist.
4. Szczecin Old Town Private Walking Tour & Sightseeing Cruise
Number 4 combines the best of both worlds: a private walking tour of Szczecin’s Old Town paired with a sightseeing cruise around the port. This combined experience spans 3 to 4 hours, making it a more comprehensive introduction to the city. Rated 5 out of 5, it’s clear this tour hits the mark for its detailed storytelling and personalized approach.
You start with a private guide exploring highlights like the Market Square, Chrobry Embankment, and Pomeranian Dukes’ Castle. Then, the tour shifts to a 1-hour cruise that offers a different view of Szczecin’s port and waterways. The guide shares legends and historical insights, making it perfect for history buffs or anyone wanting a deep dive into Szczecin’s culture.
Guests describe the experience as “Sehr informativ. Alles OK,” emphasizing the high-quality narration and personalized attention. This tour is best suited for travelers who want an immersive day combining land and water exploration, with flexibility to tailor the experience.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those who want a full, in-depth look at Szczecin’s history, architecture, and port life in one outing.
5. Szczecin: Wine tasting cruise
The final entry, the Wine tasting cruise, offers a two-hour journey along the Odra river with a focus on local wines and beautiful sunset views over Lake Dąbie. This cruise is rated 4.3 out of 5 and is ideal if you’re interested in sampling West Pomeranian vineyards while enjoying the tranquil waters of Szczecin.
During this experience, you’ll sip on a selection of local wines and enjoy the harbor and lake scenery. It’s perfect for wine lovers looking to combine their hobby with the relaxing ambiance of a boat ride. The combination of wine tasting and a scenic sunset creates a refined, intimate atmosphere.
While some reviews don’t specify the exact wines or vineyards involved, the overall experience offers good value for those wanting a leisurely, social activity. It’s best suited for adults seeking a casual, cultured experience on the water.
Bottom Line: A relaxing, flavorful way to enjoy Szczecin’s waterfront with a touch of local wine and sunset views.
How to Choose the Right Szczecin Boat Tour
When deciding which cruise or boat tour to book in Szczecin, consider your interest level, time availability, and budget. If you’re short on time, the port cruise offers a quick yet interesting overview. For a romantic evening, the sunset cruise is hard to beat—especially if you love natural beauty. Families and curious travelers might prefer the chocolate cruise or the Old Town combined tour, which provide deeper insight and fun themes.
If you’re a wine enthusiast, the wine tasting cruise offers a sophisticated way to unwind. Be sure to check availability and book early, especially for popular times like sunset or weekends. For those seeking a complete experience, the private walking and sightseeing cruise provides a well-rounded day exploring Szczecin’s cultural and maritime highlights.
Final Thoughts
Szczecin offers a surprising variety of water-based adventures, from quick port explorations to leisurely sunset sails and themed tastings. The top pick for a quick introduction is the cruise around the port, but if you want a deeper dive into the city’s history and scenery, the Old Town private tour combined with a cruise truly stands out. For a unique treat, the chocolate and wine cruises add delightful flavors to your water experience.
Whatever your preference, these tours promise a different perspective on Szczecin—so don’t wait too long to book your preferred experience. Early planning ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable water journeys in this charming Polish city.