Groningen: City canal cruise (with unlimited drinks)

Thinking about spending an hour or so floating through Groningen’s charming waterways? This city canal cruise offered by Borrelvloot is a popular choice for visitors wanting a laid-back way to see some of the city’s highlights. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy unlimited drinks and a friendly, informal atmosphere, making it a nice break from wandering on foot.

What we really like about this cruise is how cozy and social it feels — it’s perfect for sharing with friends, family, or even a small group of colleagues. Plus, the stunning views of Groningen’s iconic landmarks are a definite highlight. On the flip side, the experience isn’t geared towards those who prefer a highly structured or educational tour, and it’s not accessible for wheelchair users. This is a good pick for anyone wanting a relaxed, fun way to get a different perspective on the city.

This experience is especially well-suited for those who want to combine sightseeing with a casual drinking session. It’s ideal for groups celebrating a special occasion or just looking to unwind on the water. If you’re after a scenic, social, and reasonably priced outing, this cruise could be just what you’re after.

Key Points

• Relaxed and social: Perfect for groups wanting a casual, fun experience.
• Stunning city views: Iconic landmarks are highlighted along the route.
• Unlimited drinks included: A great way to enjoy the cruise without worries about extra costs.
• Flexible options: You can add on extras like snacks or a BBQ.
• Accessible considerations: Not suitable for wheelchair users.
• Short and sweet: About 1 to 1.5 hours long, fitting easily into a day of sightseeing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Is the Groningen Canal Cruise Like?

Imagine cruising along serene canals, surrounded by Groningen’s charming architecture and lively streets. The Borrelvloot offers a 1 to 1.5-hour tour, starting from Schuitendiep, a location close to the city center, making it easy to add onto your day of exploring. As you glide through the waterways, you’ll admire landmarks while enjoying unlimited drinks—think beers, soft drinks, or perhaps wine if you upgrade your experience.

The atmosphere onboard is cozy and laid-back, with music adding to the convivial vibe. The boat is guided by experienced skippers who share interesting tidbits about Groningen’s past and present, offering a nice balance between sightseeing and storytelling. Based on reviews, many visitors find that the information shared about the city is engaging but not overly detailed, making it ideal for a relaxing break rather than a deep history lesson.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour kicks off at Schuitendiep 1022, where you’ll look for the Borrelvloot name to find your boat. The route is straightforward, with the boat cruising through the city’s canals, giving you excellent vantage points of some of Groningen’s most recognizable sights. The cruise lasts around 1 to 1.5 hours, a perfect length for combining with other activities or a leisurely lunch.

While specific stops aren’t detailed beyond the start and end points, the route likely encompasses key sections of the city’s waterways, giving you views of historic buildings, scenic bridges, and lively areas. The overall experience is less about navigating a complex itinerary and more about enjoying the views and company.

When you arrive back at Schuitendiep, you’ll find yourself only minutes from Groningen’s vibrant Poelestraat, known for its cafes and restaurants—making it easy to continue your day without much hassle.

The Drinks and Extras: What’s Included?

For just $26 per person, this cruise includes:

• A canal cruise with a guide sharing insights
• Unlimited drinks (probably soft drinks and beers, depending on your preferences)
• Music to set the mood

What’s not included are snacks or additional food options, unless you choose to add them. You can also enhance your experience with extras such as a snack platter, BBQ, or beer tasting, which makes this experience flexible for different occasions—from casual outings to small celebrations.

A big plus is that the drinks are unlimited, so you can relax, chat, and enjoy the scenery without worrying about extra costs or running out of refreshments.

The Experience: Atmosphere and Highlights

The overall vibe onboard is cozy, friendly, and unpretentious — it’s less about formal touring and more about having a good time. Music adds to the upbeat environment, and the unlimited drinks make it easy to mingle or simply unwind. Several reviews highlight how “super cozy and nicely presented” the experience is, with one traveler mentioning it as a “beautiful trip on the canals of Groningen.”

The landmarks you see along the way are a bonus, but the main attraction is the relaxed pace, the friendly hosts, and the chance to enjoy Groningen from a different perspective. The guide’s stories are engaging, offering snippets about the city that make the experience richer without feeling overly educational.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for small groups, friends, or couples looking for a laid-back way to see Groningen. It works well for those celebrating a small occasion or simply wanting a fun break during a day in the city. Since it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, those with mobility issues might need to look for alternative ways to explore Groningen’s waterways.

If you’re after a more structured or historical tour, you might find this a bit casual. But if your goal is to relax, sip drinks, and enjoy lovely views with minimal fuss, this experience hits the spot.

Pricing and Value

At $26 per person, the price is quite reasonable given the included unlimited drinks and the scenic route. It’s a relaxed, social experience that offers good value, especially considering the convenience of starting near the city center and the friendly atmosphere onboard. The ability to add extras like snacks or a barbecue for an additional fee makes it adaptable to different tastes and occasions.

When you compare this to other experiences in Groningen, it’s a straightforward, affordable way to enjoy the city’s canals without the hassle of planning multiple activities. It’s not a full-day tour, but that makes it easy to fit into a broader sightseeing schedule.

Final Thoughts

If you’re seeking a casual, scenic cruise that combines beautiful views with good company and unlimited drinks, this Groningen canal tour is a strong contender. It’s ideal for small groups or couples who want to unwind and see the city from its waterways. The relaxed atmosphere, friendly guides, and nice blend of sights and socializing make it a memorable addition to any Groningen trip.

The main selling points are the stunning views of iconic landmarks and the social vibe fostered by the unlimited drinks and music. It’s a laid-back experience that’s less about strict touring and more about enjoying the moment and the company you’re with.

While it’s not perfect for everyone—those with mobility issues or those seeking a highly educational experience might want to consider alternatives—it offers a genuine, enjoyable way to see Groningen from the water, at a price that feels fair for what you get.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
This experience is designed for adults, especially since the minimum drinking age is 18. It’s not recommended for children.

Can I bring my own snacks?
Snacks are not included, but you can choose to bring your own if you’d like, although onboard snacks aren’t part of what’s offered.

What languages are the guides speaking?
The guides are available in Dutch and English, making it accessible for most visitors.

Is the cruise accessible for wheelchair users?
No, unfortunately, this experience is not suitable for wheelchair users.

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

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise lasts approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, making it a compact and manageable experience.

Where does the cruise start and end?
It begins and ends at Schuitendiep 1022, just a short walk from the lively Poelestraat area, perfect for continuing your day afterward.

If you’re after a relaxed, social way to see Groningen’s canals and enjoy some drinks, this tour offers a genuinely enjoyable experience. It’s not the most elaborate or formal, but that’s exactly what makes it appealing to travelers looking for an authentic, easygoing break in the city.

You can check availability for your dates here: