Ghent Completely – 90-minute boat tour (DUTCH ONLY)

If you’re looking to see Ghent from a unique vantage point, this Ghent Completely boat tour is a solid choice. While it’s offered only in Dutch, it offers a comprehensive look at the city’s historic architecture and waterways in just 1.5 hours. We’ve researched this experience to help you decide if it’s a good fit for your trip, especially if you enjoy relaxed, guided city explorations by water.

What really caught our attention is how this tour manages to cover so many key sights—from cathedrals to medieval port areas—all from the comfort of a boat. Plus, the live Dutch guide adds a local flavor that can make the history come alive. On the flip side, the tour’s language limitation might be a barrier if you don’t speak Dutch, so keep that in mind if language accessibility is important for you.

This adventure is best suited for travelers interested in historical sights, scenic waterways, and a relaxing pace. If you’re comfortable with a Dutch-only guide and looking for a well-rounded overview of Ghent’s waterways and landmarks, this tour could be just what you need.

Key Points

• Language: Guided only in Dutch, so some language barrier if you’re not fluent.
• Duration: 90 minutes—perfect for a relaxed sightseeing break.
• Coverage: Extensive, exploring major landmarks like St Bavos Cathedral, Belfry, and the ancient port.
• Experience: Travel through three waterways and tunnels, with views of castles and historic buildings.
• Group Size & Price: Check availability for specific times, but generally a small group experience.
• Weather: Goes rain or shine, umbrellas are provided if needed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Ghent by Water: An Honest Breakdown

When you think of exploring Ghent, many imagine walking through quaint streets or visiting its museums. But experiencing the city from its waterways adds a whole new perspective. This 90-minute boat tour offers just that—an engaging journey through Ghent’s centuries-old architecture and vibrant waterways, all guided by a live Dutch-speaking guide.

What’s Included and What to Expect

The tour includes a boat trip with a live guide, which adds personality and local insight, although only in Dutch. If you’re not fluent in Dutch, you might miss some nuances, but the visuals and landmarks speak for themselves. The tour is designed to give you a rundown of Ghent’s most iconic sights.

Starting at the Green Boathouse on Korenlei, you’ll set off on a journey that lasts about 1.5 hours. The tour’s route takes you across three different waterways, providing views of historic castles, quays, and mercantile houses. The itinerary is quite packed, covering:

• The St Bavos Cathedral, with its stunning architecture
• The Belfry, a symbol of Ghent’s independence and history
• The St Nicholas Church—a medieval masterpiece
• The tunnels under Laurent Square, adding a touch of adventure
• The Ancient Port of Ghent, lined with old quays and warehouses
• The castles of the Counts and Princes Court, showcasing medieval power centers
• The Old Fish Market and the historic Meat Hall
• The 13th-century monasteries, once home to Augustinians and Dominicans
• The episcopal palace and the Castle of Gerald the Devil
• And more, including the old Law Courts, Opera, and the Handelsbeur concert hall

The Experience from the Water

Traveling along Ghent’s waterways, you’ll get fantastic views of quay walls, mercantile houses, and scenic marina teahouses. The boat’s gentle glide offers a peaceful interlude amid the city’s hustle, and the perspective from the water highlights how intertwined Ghent’s history is with its waterways.

One reviewer pointed out, “Mooi, duidelijke info met een vleugje humor,” which suggests that the guide provides clear explanations with a light touch, making the experience enjoyable and informative. Another reviewer called it “geweldig, hele leuke tour, geweldige stad,” emphasizing how much they enjoyed both the tour and Ghent itself.

The Practical Side

The tour costs are generally reasonable for a guided experience, but bear in mind that guidance is only in Dutch. If you don’t speak Dutch, you might still appreciate the sights and visuals, but some details could be lost. For those who do understand Dutch, this is a chance to hear local stories and insights directly from a native speaker.

The timing is straightforward—check availability for the scheduled departures, which, from April through October, run every Saturday and Sunday at 11:00. The tour runs in all weather conditions; umbrellas are provided if it rains, so you can stay dry while enjoying the views.

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Is It Worth It?

Considering the length and scope, this tour offers excellent value for those who want a quick, scenic overview of Ghent’s waterways and historic sites. It’s especially appealing if you’re a visual learner or someone who prefers experiencing a city from the water rather than just walking through it.

The main limitation is the language barrier—if you don’t speak Dutch, you might miss some commentary, but the sights themselves are spectacular enough to make it worthwhile. The route’s variety ensures you see everything from medieval castles to lively quays, giving you a balanced glimpse of Ghent’s layered history.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This boat tour is ideal for history buffs, photographers, and water lovers. It suits travelers who don’t mind a Dutch-only guide and who want to soak in the city’s atmosphere without rushing. Families with older children might also enjoy the leisurely cruise, especially if they’re interested in architecture and history.

If you’re short on time but want a rundown of Ghent’s waterways, this tour hits the mark. It’s not for those seeking multilingual guidance or a highly interactive experience, but it’s perfect for a relaxed, informative, and picturesque introduction to this charming Belgian city.

Final Thoughts

The Ghent Completely boat tour offers a relaxed, scenic way to explore the city’s historic waterways and landmarks in just 90 minutes. It’s a great choice if you’re interested in seeing Ghent from the water, learning about its history, and enjoying peaceful views of medieval castles and quays.

While the Dutch-only guide might be a drawback for some, the visual spectacle and the chance to explore areas like the Ancient Port and Laurent Square tunnels make it worthwhile. It’s a solid option for travelers who appreciate a laid-back tour with plenty of sights packed into a short timeframe.

If you’re after a unique perspective of Ghent and don’t mind the language limitation, this cruise can be a highlight of your trip. For those with a curiosity about the city’s history and waterways, it’s an experience worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-Dutch speakers?
While guidance is only in Dutch, the boat route offers plenty of visual sights, so even if you don’t understand every word, you’ll still enjoy the views and the landmarks.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 90 minutes, making it a manageable, relaxing way to see many key sights without a long commitment.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers flexibility if your plans change.

What’s the starting point?
The check-in is at the Green Boathouse, Korenlei 4a, and the tour ends back at the same spot.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
No, it runs rain or shine. If it rains, umbrellas are provided.

Is this tour good for families?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the gentle cruise could appeal to older children interested in sights and history. Assistance dogs are allowed, but pets are not.

What time do the tours run?
From April 1 to October 31, the tours are scheduled every Saturday and Sunday at 11:00.

All in all, this boat tour offers a practical and scenic way to experience Ghent’s history and waterways. It’s well-suited for those who enjoy a relaxed, guided cruise and are comfortable with a Dutch-language guide. If those points align with your travel style, it’s a solid choice for your Ghent visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: