Brombachsee: Ship Tour on the Trimaran “MS Brombachsee”

If you’re after a peaceful, scenic escape in Bavaria, the Brombachsee ship tour on the MS Brombachsee might be just what you need. We haven’t taken this exact trip ourselves, but based on reviews and detailed descriptions, it looks like a charming way to enjoy the Franconian Lake District from the water.

What catches our eye about this experience? First, the flexibility of choosing from five different start points—which makes it easier to fit into your trip without extra hassle. Second, the **unique design of the ship itself: a trimaran that’s able to navigate shallow waters and dock almost anywhere, opening up possibilities for a relaxed and accessible cruise.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is that food and drinks aren’t included—these are available for purchase onboard. It’s not a full-day tour, so if you’re looking for an all-encompassing day out, you’d want to plan for some extra activities or meals elsewhere.

The Brombachsee cruise tends to suit travelers who enjoy laid-back, natural scenery and don’t mind a casual, half-hour cruise with the option to buy regional snacks and beverages. It’s especially appealing if you want a gentle way to take in the landscape, perhaps alongside other activities in the area.

Key Points

• Flexible start locations make it easy to fit into your day
• The unique trimaran design allows docking almost anywhere
• Food and drinks are available but not included in the price
• The scenic views and wildlife sightings, including possible beaver encounters
• The tour lasts around 1.5 hours, making it a manageable outing
• Suitable for a variety of travelers, with wheelchair accessibility

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Brombachsee Ship Tour

This ship tour on the MS Brombachsee is a straightforward yet captivating experience. The boat itself is a barrier-free, three-deck trimaran, laid down in 2000, and it’s reportedly capable of carrying up to 750 passengers. The design is quite special, with only 1.40 meters of draft, which means it can dock in almost any shallow spot on the lake, offering a degree of access that’s rare for such vessels.

You’ll begin your journey at one of five possible starting points—these include Absberg, Allmannsdorf, Ramsberg, Enderndorf, and Pleinfeld/Wald. The flexibility in choosing your departure point is handy; it allows you to start close to your accommodation or other activities planned in the area.

Once onboard, the crew makes sure everyone feels comfortable, and the panoramic windows on the middle deck mean you can enjoy the views even if the weather isn’t perfect. Plus, there’s a panoramic elevator across three decks, which adds an extra layer of accessibility for those with mobility challenges.

The Cruise Itself

The main part of the experience is a 1.5-hour scenic drive around the largest of the Franconian lakes, the Großer Brombachsee. The lake covers 8.7 square kilometers, offering vast, peaceful waters and beautiful natural surroundings. As you glide along, you’ll have ample opportunity to observe local plants and animals, with the possibility of spotting beavers, as some reviews highlight.

The crew emphasizes a relaxed atmosphere, and the lack of limitations like sluices and bridges means smooth sailing and an uninterrupted view of the landscape. During the cruise, you can stroll around the decks, choosing between indoor seating with large windows or the wraparound promenade with tables and chairs, perfect for a casual chat or snapping photos.

Food and Drink

While the tour price includes just the cruise itself, the self-service counter offers a selection of regional foods and beverages. You might enjoy Franconian sausages, a fresh salad, or some regional beer brewed nearby. Desserts like ice cream are also available. From the reviews, it sounds like the onboard staff are friendly, and the food offers a nice touch to the experience—though you’ll need to budget extra for these treats.

Wildlife and Scenic Highlights

One of the most appealing aspects of this cruise is the chance to observe the natural habitat. The lake is rich with plant life and wildlife, and if you’re lucky, you might see beavers at work, which adds a delightful element of wildlife watching to your trip. The peaceful setting makes for great photo opportunities and a calm, soothing experience away from busy city life.

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Practicalities

The tour is priced at $18 per person, which we think offers good value for a scenic 1.5-hour cruise—especially considering the unique design and accessibility features of the boat. It’s wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for a broader range of travelers.

You’ll want to bring sunscreen, a sun hat, and a camera—the large windows and open decks are perfect for photos, but sun protection is key. Check availability ahead of time to find the most suitable starting time for your schedule.

The Experience in Real Life: What Travelers Say

Reviewers generally give this experience a solid 4.4 out of 5, which suggests most guests find it worthwhile. One reviewer called Atilla, the guide, “very personable and endeavored to provide us with a wonderful tour,” highlighting the knowledgeable staff as a major plus.

Another traveler from Nuremberg described it as a “lovely day trip” with stunning surroundings—they recommended bringing swimwear if you want to take a dip, which indicates the lake’s inviting nature.

A reviewer noted that the boat was “exactly as advertised”, praising the ample seating options and the wraparound promenade for enjoying the scenery. The mention of windy days on the top deck suggests that you might want to plan for some indoor comfort or dress appropriately.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is suited for those who enjoy relaxed, scenic outings and appreciate natural landscapes without the need for a long or strenuous activity. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a peaceful way to explore the Franconian Lake District. The accessible design makes it a good choice for travelers with mobility issues, and the onboard food options add a casual, comforting element.

Because the tour is relatively short, it’s perfect as a break during a broader trip, or as part of a day spent exploring the lakes and nearby towns. If you’re after a calm, scenic cruise with opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy regional fare, this experience fits the bill nicely.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the cruise?
It lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a comfortable and manageable outing suitable for most schedules.

Are food and drinks included?
No, they are available for purchase onboard. There’s a self-service counter with regional foods, snacks, and beverages, so plan to buy if you want something to eat or drink during the trip.

Can I start the tour from different locations?
Yes, you can choose from five different starting points, which also serve as your endpoint, providing convenience and flexibility.

Is the boat accessible for wheelchair users?
Absolutely, the ship features wheelchair accessibility, with a panoramic elevator across the three decks.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a sun hat, and a camera—the large windows and open decks are perfect for photos and enjoying the scenery comfortably.

Is this a family-friendly activity?
While the provided info doesn’t specify age restrictions, the relaxed nature and scenic setting suggest it’s suitable for most travelers, including families looking for a gentle outing.

Do I need to book in advance?
It’s advisable to check availability beforehand, especially during busy seasons, but you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Brombachsee ship tour on the MS Brombachsee offers a peaceful, scenic break in the heart of the Franconian Lake District. The boat’s unique design, combined with the opportunity to enjoy regional food, wildlife, and lakeside views, makes it a practical and charming choice for a laid-back day out.

If you value easy accessibility, flexibility in start locations, and a relaxing atmosphere with scenic photo ops, this cruise is likely to meet your expectations. The price point, at just $18, provides good value for a 1.5-hour experience that’s both comfortable and memorable.

While it’s not a full-day adventure and food costs extra, it’s an experience that can fit nicely into a broader exploration of Bavaria’s lakes and countryside. Perfect for travelers who want a gentle, scenic cruise with the chance to learn about local wildlife and regional produce.

You can check availability for your dates here: