Passau: Barefoot Passau XL

If you’re exploring Passau, a city famous for being where three rivers meet, chances are you’ll want to see it from the water. The Barefoot Passau XL boat tour offers a fresh take on river sightseeing—sailing along in a vessel designed with a laid-back, natural vibe. We haven’t been on this exact tour ourselves, but based on the details and reviews available, it seems like a charming option for those wanting a relaxed, scenic experience.

What stands out immediately? First, the collaboration with actor Til Schweiger gives the boat a distinctive, casual style—think lots of wood, linen, and straw details that create a welcoming, almost homely feeling. Second, the 75-minute duration makes it a manageable outing, especially if you’re tight on time or want a quick yet memorable view of the city.

A possible drawback? The ticket price at $21 per person is quite reasonable, but keep in mind that food and drinks aren’t included—so if you’re hungry or craving a drink, you’ll need to plan ahead. Still, this tour seems best suited for travelers who appreciate a cozy, scenic cruise and are looking for a different perspective on Passau without fuss or complexity.

This experience is likely perfect for those who love picturesque water views, enjoy a comfortable and casual ambiance, and aren’t fussed about adding extras like food or entertainment. It’s especially good for those wanting a peaceful, scenic escape with a bit of style.

Key Points

• Unique Boat Design: The Barefoot Boat’s collaboration with Til Schweiger gives it a distinctive, cozy style.
• Scenic Passau Views: You’ll enjoy views of the city and the Danube Valley from a relaxing vantage point.
• Short & Sweet: The 75-minute duration makes it an easy addition to your sightseeing plans.
• Affordable Price: At $21, it’s a good value for a water tour with lovely scenery.
• Comfortable Atmosphere: The interior features natural, casual materials, creating a laid-back vibe.
• No Food & Drinks Included: Plan to bring your own or skip them altogether during the cruise.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Barefoot Passau XL Tour

Starting Point and Check-in

The tour kicks off at Anlegestelle A11 – Wurm & Noé, a straightforward location that’s easy to find, especially if you’re familiar with Passau’s river terminals. It’s recommended to arrive about 20 minutes early and show your booking confirmation, ensuring a smooth check-in process. The staff at the ticket office will hand out your tickets, so arriving early helps avoid last-minute stress.

The Boat: A Cozy, Style-Driven Vessel

What makes this boat really interesting is its design and ambiance. It’s built in collaboration with Til Schweiger, who’s left his signature mark on the vessel. The interior is all about natural materials—lots of wood, linen, and straw-plaited accents—that invite a feeling of casual comfort. Once onboard, you’ll want to head to the upper deck, which features a spacious sun lounge perfect for soaking in the views.

The upper deck isn’t just for looks; it’s functional, offering panoramic, all-around sightlines of the rivers, the city, and the surrounding Danube Valley. This means you can enjoy the scenery while relaxing in a cozy, informal setting, making the most of the 75-minute ride.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See

The tour doesn’t involve multiple stops or complex schedules. Instead, it’s a straightforward cruise that highlights key sights along the river confluence and the Ilzmündung (Ilz River mouth).

• Start at the Anlegestelle A11: This is your departure point, and it’s where the atmosphere begins—expect a comfortable boarding process.
• Three-River Confluence: As you sail past this iconic spot, you’ll witness the fascinating meeting point of the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers, which is a highlight in itself.
• Ilzmündung (Ilz River Mouth): Scenic views here are often praised, with the natural landscape providing a picturesque backdrop.
• Return to the starting point: After about 75 minutes, you’ll arrive back at the same dock, feeling relaxed and with plenty of photo opportunities.

More Great Tours Nearby

What You’ll Experience

The scenery combined with the boat’s cozy atmosphere makes for a laid-back but visually appealing experience. One traveler succinctly summed it up as “A beautiful tour on a beautiful ship,” highlighting both the scenery and the vessel’s charm.

The views over Passau and into the Danube Valley are considered noteworthy, especially from the upper deck, which offers a full panoramic perspective. The natural materials and design of the boat create a warm ambiance, making it feel less like just a tour and more like a relaxing journey.

Practical Details & What to Know

The cost is $21 per person, which for a 75-minute water experience feels reasonable, especially given the quality of the scenery and the cozy environment. Since food and drinks aren’t included, you might want to bring a snack or a beverage if you prefer something to sip while taking in the sights—though smoking indoors and bringing outside food aren’t allowed.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it a viable option for some guests with mobility needs. The activity is flexible—free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance—which is always a plus, especially if your plans are still a bit flexible.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for travelers who appreciate a relaxed, intimate atmosphere and enjoy scenic water views without the fuss of larger, more commercial boat rides. It’s ideal for those who like to take their time soaking in the landscape and prefer a cozy, almost “homey” ambiance in their boat.

If you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or even with a small group of friends, you’ll likely find this experience a calming highlight of Passau’s riverscape. It’s less about entertainment and more about enjoying the beautiful scenery at a leisurely pace.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For just $21, the Barefoot Passau XL offers a stunning perspective on this beautiful city. The boat’s design, in collaboration with a well-known personality, makes it feel special without being overly fancy—perfect if you’re after something casual and scenic.

While the experience is straightforward, that simplicity is part of its charm. You’ll enjoy unobstructed views of Passau’s waterways, the meeting of three rivers, and the surrounding landscape in a setting that feels both natural and inviting.

It’s particularly well-suited to those who value good value for money and a quiet, contemplative mood over lively entertainment. If you’re after a peaceful, visually rewarding outing that fits neatly into your sightseeing day, this is a solid choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve your spot ahead of time. You can do so through GetYourGuide or the tour provider, especially during busy seasons.

What time does the tour start?
Availability varies, so check the specific times when booking. The tour duration is 75 minutes, so plan accordingly.

Is the boat accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for guests with mobility needs.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring a camera to capture the views and enjoy the scenic surroundings. Since food and drinks aren’t included, consider bringing a snack if desired.

Are there any restrictions on smoking or eating?
Smoking indoors and outside food and drinks are not allowed onboard.

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

If you’re after a gentle, scenic, and reasonably priced way to see Passau from the water, the Barefoot Passau XL cruise could be exactly what you’re looking for. It’s relaxed, scenic, and offers a cozy atmosphere that makes the city’s rivers and landscapes feel even more special.

You can check availability for your dates here: