Vilnius may be best known for its compact Old Town and vibrant street life, but exploring Lithuania’s capital from the water reveals a different side of this Baltic city. Whether you’re keen on a scenic day trip to Trakai, complete with a boat ride on the lakes, or want a private boat party to celebrate with friends, Vilnius offers options that suit a range of interests. One of our favorites is the Vilnius: Trakai, Uzutrakis Manor, Hill of Angels, Boat Ride tour, which combines history, lakeside scenery, and cultural stops — and offers a boat ride, weather permitting. You’ll enjoy a relaxed way to see Trakai’s medieval castle and explore Uzutrakis Manor’s exquisite French-style park.
If you’re after something more casual or a celebration on the water, the Klaipeda/Vilnius/Kaunas: Private Boat Party is ideal. With options to bring your own snacks or enjoy a jet ski ride, it’s perfect for a memorable gathering on a stable, two-story pontoon. Both options highlight the diversity of boat tours in Vilnius, from day excursions to private celebrations, giving travelers plenty of choices.
Below, we’ll review each of these tours in detail, helping you find the perfect boat experience for your trip — whether you’re interested in history, nature, or just relaxing with friends.
1. Vilnius: Trakai, Uzutrakis Manor, Hill of Angels, Boat Ride
At number 1 on our list, this 5-hour day tour takes you out of Vilnius into the medieval town of Trakai, famous for its lakeside castle. The tour not only includes visits to the castle and UZUTRAKIS MANOR — home to stunning French park landscapes — but also offers the chance to enjoy a boat ride on the lakes, weather permitting. The boat ride is a highlight, providing a peaceful way to see the lakes and islands that define the area.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of historical sites, lakeside scenery, and cultural experiences like tasting traditional kibinai pastries. Many reviews emphasize the quality of the guides, such as Daiva and Giedrius, who share detailed insights into Lithuania’s history and local customs. Visitors also appreciate the flexible itinerary and the opportunity to walk through the picturesque Hill of Angels, a serene spot for reflection.
Given the 36 reviews averaging 4.5/5, this tour offers excellent value, especially for those interested in history, nature, and local cuisine. It’s suitable for travelers who want a comprehensive day trip with a relaxed pace and meaningful stops.
Bottom Line: If you want a well-rounded experience that combines history, lakeside views, and a boat ride, this tour provides a memorable day out from Vilnius.
2. Klaipeda/Vilnius/Kaunas: Private Boat Party
For a completely different experience, the Private Boat Party offers a festive way to enjoy Lithuania’s waterways. Priced at $406 for groups up to 15, this 2-hour journey on a stable, two-story pontoon makes for an ideal celebration or casual outing. You can bring your own snacks and drinks, making it customizable, or opt to visit the nearby Yacht Club restaurant for catering.
What makes this option special is the ability to feel the thrill of a jet ski ride while cruising, adding an adventurous twist to your water outing. The boat’s size and stability make it comfortable for small groups, and the option to tailor the experience means you can focus on relaxing, taking photos, or celebrating special occasions. Although reviews aren’t available for this particular tour, the price point and inclusivity of a small bar add to its appeal.
This tour is best suited for groups looking for a fun, flexible outing — whether it’s a birthday, bachelor party, or just a memorable day with friends. The key consideration is that it’s a shorter experience, so if you want a leisurely, sightseeing cruise, the day trip to Trakai might suit you better.
Bottom Line: For a lively, private celebration with options for jet skis and snacks, this boat party is perfect. It’s less about sightseeing and more about fun on the water.
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour in Vilnius
Deciding between these options depends on what you’re after. If you’re interested in exploring the lakes and castles around Trakai with a good mix of culture and scenery, the Vilnius: Trakai, Uzutrakis Manor, Hill of Angels, Boat Ride tour is a solid choice. For those celebrating a special event or wanting a more casual, private experience, the Private Boat Party offers flexibility and fun.
Practical considerations include your budget, time constraints, and interests. The day trip offers more sightseeing, while the private boat is shorter and more personalized. Booking early is advised, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred date and group size.
For a well-rounded trip, consider combining a day trip with some time exploring Vilnius itself, then topping off with a private boat party for a celebratory finale.
Final Thoughts
Vilnius’s boat tours provide a refreshing way to see the city and surrounding regions from the water. The Vilnius: Trakai tour is perfect for history enthusiasts and nature lovers wanting a full-day experience, while the private boat party adds a fun, social element for celebrating with friends. Both offer unique ways to enjoy Lithuania’s lakes and waterways, making your trip more memorable.
If you’re visiting during the warmer months, I recommend booking in advance. Whether you prefer a scenic boat ride or a lively private party, Vilnius’s water-based options won’t disappoint. Take your pick, and enjoy your time on Lithuania’s lakes and rivers.