Groningen: Terrace Boat Experience with a Cozy Bar

If you’re looking for a relaxed, playful way to enjoy Groningen’s waterways, this floating terrace boat might catch your eye. It’s not a historic city cruise or a lengthy sightseeing tour—more of a chill, social experience on the water that combines a cozy bar vibe with scenic views. With a friendly crew and a flexible design, it’s an interesting pick for those wanting to unwind, grab a drink, and soak in some water-based atmosphere.

What I really like about this experience is how accessible it is—both in terms of location and vibe. You’ll find it opposite Groningen Central Station, which makes it super easy to hop on without fuss. Plus, the boat’s open and closing roof means you can enjoy the sunshine when it’s out, or stay dry if the weather turns. The boat’s capacity for up to 75 people means it’s adaptable for anything from small gatherings to larger groups, which makes it versatile. A third plus? The overall friendly atmosphere and the chance to grab a drink or snack while floating around.

The main thing to consider? It’s not a city tour or a sightseeing-focused cruise—so if you’re expecting to see all the main sights of Groningen from the water, this isn’t exactly that. It’s more about enjoying a relaxed social setting on the water, with good company and drinks, rather than comprehensive sightseeing. Also, keep in mind that snacks and drinks are paid for separately, so budget accordingly. This experience is probably best suited for those who want a laid-back, social time rather than a structured sightseeing tour.

Overall, if you’re after a fun, informal way to enjoy Groningen’s water and have some drinks, this floating terrace fits the bill. It’s especially good if the weather’s nice, and you’re in the mood for a casual outing with friends or a small group. Not a tour for history buffs, but definitely a unique way to experience the city’s water side.

Key Points

• Unique floating terrace setting combines the charm of an outdoor bar with a boat experience.
• Flexible cabriolet roof adapts to weather, providing sunshine or shelter.
• Affordable price point at $17 per person makes it accessible for most travelers.
• Friendly crew and cozy ambiance create a relaxed, welcoming environment.
• Ideal for casual groups and celebrations like birthdays or small gatherings.
• Not a city sightseeing tour—focuses on socializing and enjoying drinks on water.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Location and Accessibility

Starting just opposite Groningen’s main station, the boat’s location couldn’t be more convenient. If you search for “Terrasje Speciaal,” you’ll find it easily on Google Maps. The boarding spot is on the left side of the bridge when facing away from the station, marked by a beach flag from the first trip onward. This straightforward access is a big plus, especially if you’re navigating a busy city or arriving by train.

What’s Included and What Not

For the price—around $17 per person—you get a relaxed boat ride with a cozy vibe and access to a bar serving drinks and snacks. The boat is well-equipped with heating in winter and has a clean, accessible toilet onboard. When the weather’s good, the open roof offers fantastic unobstructed views of the sky, and when it rains, the closed roof keeps everyone dry and comfortable.

Snacks and drinks are not included in the ticket price; these are pay-as-you-go at the bar or table. This setup encourages you to enjoy what’s available without feeling like you’re on a strict tour. It also gives you control over how much you want to spend, whether you’re just having a quick drink or settling in for a longer, leisurely float.

The Itinerary and Route

The boat departs from the floating terrace, and its route is quite straightforward. It shuttles back and forth in front of Groningen’s train station and museum, offering scenic water views and a relaxed atmosphere. There’s no detailed city sightseeing involved here, but the water views and atmospheric lighting after sunset create a cozy, intimate ambiance.

Depending on the duration you choose—anywhere from 1 to 3 hours—you’ll have ample time to sip a drink, enjoy snacks, and chat with friends or fellow passengers. The crew keeps things friendly and attentive, making sure everyone is comfortable.

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What to Expect on Board

Once on the boat, you’ll notice the soft cushions on the seating, creating a comfy environment ideal for lounging. The atmosphere is friendly and informal—perfect for small groups, birthdays, or just a lazy afternoon. With soft lighting after sunset, the mood turns even more charming.

The cabriolet roof is a practical feature: on sunny days, you can open it for fresh air and sunshine, offering unobstructed views of the sky above. When needed, it can be quickly closed to shield you from rain or excessive sun. This adaptability means you can enjoy the experience regardless of the weather, which we found to be a thoughtful touch.

Drinks, Snacks, and Atmosphere

The bar offers a wide selection of drinks—beer, wine, and vegetarian snacks, making it suitable for different tastes. From multiple reviews, it’s clear that the staff is friendly and accommodating. One reviewer mentioned how the crew held the boat for a latecomer, highlighting the service quality.

The atmosphere is relaxed, with lighting adding a warm glow in the evening, and soft seating making it easy to settle in. It’s a place where you can genuinely unwind, whether you’re floating solo, with a partner, or in a group.

Who Is It Best For?

This experience is perfect if you want a social, low-key outing rather than a sightseeing marathon. It’s suitable for groups of friends, small celebrations, or anyone looking to enjoy a drink with water views. It’s not tailored to history or city sightseeing, so if that’s your priority, you might want to look elsewhere.

Summary: Who Should Consider This?

Ideal for those who enjoy casual socializing on the water with friends or family. If you’re after a simple, scenic boat ride with drinks and a cozy vibe, this experience hits the right notes. It’s especially good on sunny days, when the open roof truly shines, but the fact that it can be closed quickly makes it reliable in unpredictable weather.

For travelers who want to relax and take in Groningen’s water side without a rigid schedule or a structured tour, this floating terrace is a nice choice. It’s not about sightseeing at every landmark but about enjoying a gentle cruise with good company and drinks in a charming setting.

However, if your trip revolves around exploring the city’s sights, or if you prefer guided tours with historical insights, this might be too laid-back or limited in scope.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for large groups?
Yes, the boat can host up to 75 people, making it suitable for both intimate gatherings and larger parties like company outings or birthdays.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, it’s best to reserve your spot in advance. You can cancel up to 24 hours before the trip for a full refund, which gives some flexibility if plans change.

Where exactly is the boarding point?
It’s at the main station of Groningen, on the left side of the bridge when facing away from the station, marked with a beach flag from the first trip.

Are drinks and snacks included in the price?
No, these are paid separately at the bar or table during the trip.

What’s the weather policy?
The boat has an open roof for good weather and a closed roof to stay dry if it rains. The experience is designed to be adaptable, so don’t worry about weather uncertainty.

How long does the trip last?
You can choose between 1 and 3 hours, with departure times available throughout the day—check availability for your preferred schedule.

Can I bring large luggage or food onboard?
No, large bags and outside food are not allowed, so plan to travel light.

Is it family-friendly?
While there’s nothing specifically mentioned about children, the relaxed, social nature suggests it’s suitable for older kids in a family setting. Just keep in mind the focus on drinks and social atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

This Groningen floating terrace experience offers a genuinely easygoing way to relax on the water, enjoy some drinks, and soak in the local vibe. It’s not a sightseeing tour packed with history or landmarks, but that’s part of its charm—focusing on comfort, socializing, and scenic water views.

The friendly crew, flexible roof, and cozy environment make it a great choice for small groups, friends, or couples looking for a chill afternoon or early evening outing. The reasonable price adds to its appeal, offering good value for the relaxed, friendly atmosphere it provides.

If you’re in Groningen and craving a laid-back water experience with drinks and good company, this floating terrace is worth considering. Just be prepared for a social, informal setting that’s best enjoyed on a sunny day or in good weather conditions.

Enjoy your trip, and I hope this helps you decide if floating on Groningen’s waters with a drink in hand is the laid-back experience you’re after.

You can check availability for your dates here: