Copenhagen is a city that’s best experienced from the water. Its canal system, lively harbors, and historic waterfront make boat tours a perfect way to see the city’s sights without the crowds or the hassle of navigating on foot or bike. We’ve found options for every budget and style, from eco-friendly electric boats to private luxury cruises. One of our favorites is the Copenhagen: Guided Canal Tour by Electric Boat, which offers a personal touch, eco-friendly travel, and insightful commentary in an intimate setting.
Whether you’re after a quick overview or a leisurely afternoon cruise, Copenhagen has a wide range of boat experiences. From hop-on-hop-off options that combine land and water sightseeing to social and private tours, there’s something for every type of traveler. Below, we’ll walk through the top experiences to help you pick the perfect waterway adventure.
The list includes guided canal tours, hop-on-hop-off boat and bus combos, social boat outings, private luxury cruises, and even self-drive rentals. Each offers a different way to explore Copenhagen from the water, with reviews and details to help you decide what’s right for your trip.
1. Copenhagen: Guided Canal Tour by Electric Boat
At number 1, the Copenhagen: Guided Canal Tour by Electric Boat is a standout for its eco-friendly approach and small-group intimacy. This electric boat tour offers a personalized experience with informative commentary by a bilingual guide. Tourists love the relaxed pace and the chance to explore Copenhagen’s hidden corners that larger boats often miss. Priced at $41 per person, it’s a fantastic value for a 1- to 65-minute ride depending on your schedule. Reviewers highlight how Nina and Kim, guides with real local knowledge, make the experience special.
Unique to this tour is its environmentally friendly vessel and the personal attention it offers. During the trip, you’ll see historic and modern buildings lining the harbor, with opportunities for questions and photos. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed, informative, and intimate experience.
Bottom Line: This is one of the best choices if you want a personalized, eco-conscious cruise with friendly guides and flexible timing.
2. Copenhagen: Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with Boat Tour Option
The Copenhagen Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with Boat Option offers a flexible way to explore both land and water. For $34, you get a 1-day pass that includes unlimited bus hop-offs at major attractions like Nyhavn, Amalienborg Palace, and the Little Mermaid, plus a 1-hour boat cruise through the canals. It’s ideal for travelers who want to customize their visit and see key sights at their own pace.
This tour’s highlight is the ability to disembark and reboard as often as you like, making it easy to explore Copenhagen’s neighborhoods, parks, and historic sites. The boat cruise adds a scenic perspective, especially around the harborfront. Reviewers appreciate the ease of combining bus and boat, along with the helpful guides and commentary available in multiple languages.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers wanting a comprehensive, flexible sightseeing experience that includes land and water.
3. Copenhagen: Old Canals and Hidden Gems Social Boat Tour
For a more relaxed, social experience, the Old Canals and Hidden Gems Social Boat Tour is a 3-hour journey designed for conversation and discovery. Led by an engaging captain, you’ll cruise through old canals and urban hotspots, learning about Danish architecture, sustainability, and lifestyle. The small group, friendly guides, and options to buy drinks onboard make it a perfect laid-back afternoon.
Passengers rave about the captain Josephine and her insider tips, making this more than just a sightseeing trip. It’s ideal if you enjoy socializing, local insights, and scenic views away from crowds. The boat is cozy and well-equipped with heating pads and blankets, ensuring comfort even when the weather isn’t perfect.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers seeking a relaxed, social, and insightful boat experience with a personal touch.
4. Private Copenhagen Boat cruise in Scandinavian mahogany boat
If exclusivity is what you’re after, the Private Copenhagen Boat cruise in Scandinavian mahogany boat offers a luxurious, personalized experience. For around $94 per person, this private tour lasts about an hour and includes a tailor-made itinerary, often passing by Copenhagen’s most famous buildings, Christianias beach, and Copenhague’s stunning canal architecture.
The emphasis is on making your trip memorable—whether you want to chat, relax, or even take a swim. The owner makes conversation a priority, adding a convivial, hygge atmosphere. Guests love the elegance of the mahogany boat and the flexibility to customize stops like the Queen’s castle or Opera House views.
Bottom Line: Ideal for couples or small groups looking for an intimate, luxurious cruise with a personal captain.
5. Copenhagen: 1, 2 or 3-Hour Boat Rental (No License Required)
For those who want to take control, the Copenhagen: 1, 2 or 3-Hour Boat Rental allows you to captain your own vessel without needing a license. For $134 per group (up to 8 people), you get 2-3 hours of private freedom on Copenhagen’s harbor. With a provided map, you can design your route, stop for photos, or just relax on the water.
Reviewers love the ease of use, with many saying it’s the perfect activity for families or groups of friends. The boat is easy to operate, and the experience offers a unique perspective on the city’s harborfront and landmarks like the Opera House and the Royal Palace.
Bottom Line: Best for adventurous travelers wanting self-guided exploration with a small-group or family-friendly setup.
6. Copenhagen Bus and Boat ticket, Valid 48 Hours
The Copenhagen Bus and Boat ticket, Valid 48 Hours provides a flexible, all-in-one ticket for two days of sightseeing. At $56, it covers both the double-decker bus and canal boat routes, allowing unlimited hopping on and off at major sights like Nyhavn, Amalienborg, and the Little Mermaid.
This option suits visitors who want to see as much as possible without rushing. The biggest advantage is unlimited access over 48 hours, so you can explore at leisure, combining walking, biking, and boat rides. Reviewers note that the system is well-organized and easy to use, making it an excellent value for multiple days.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, flexible way to explore the city at their own pace.
7. Copenhagen: Electric Boat Canal Tour with Guide
This Electric Boat Canal Tour with Guide offers a cozy, guided experience in a small cover boat. It’s a 1-hour trip where you leave the helm to the captain and just enjoy the sights. The boat is heated, and blankets keep you warm in cooler weather, making it ideal for year-round touring.
Passersby include Copenhagen landmarks like the Opera House, the Royal Palace, and Christiania, all seen in comfort. The reviews highlight the attentive guide and the beautiful, quiet route that’s perfect for couples or small groups. It’s a quieter alternative to larger, noisy boats.
Bottom Line: Great for those seeking a relaxed, guided experience with a small group in a comfortable setting.
8. Shore Excursion: 2-Hour Copenhagen Segway Cruise
The Copenhagen: Shore Excursion 2-Hour Segway Cruise combines fun with sightseeing. Meeting at Langelinie Pier, you’ll learn to operate a Segway before setting off past the Little Mermaid, the Royal Palace, and Holmen. It’s a quick, energetic way to cover major sights without the fatigue of walking.
Guests rave about the personalized guidance and the ease of riding a Segway, with many mentioning the knowledgeable guide and the enjoyable experience. The tour is suitable for beginners, and the hour-plus ride is perfect if you’re short on time but want to see a lot.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers wanting a fun, efficient way to explore Copenhagen’s top sights.
9. Copenhagen: Private Guided Boat Tour with City Highlights
This Private Guided Boat Tour offers a fully customizable experience. With your own guide, you can choose how long to stay on the water—anywhere from 1 to 4 hours—and enjoy music, drinks, and the chance to swim or relax.
This tour is perfect for groups seeking an exclusive, tailored experience. Reviewers highlight Oni’s knowledge and flexibility, making it a real highlight for those wanting personalized service. The focus is on comfort and enjoyment, with the option to include stops at favorite sights or quiet spots.
Bottom Line: Best for those seeking a luxury, private experience with personalized options.
10. Copenhagen: Private Boat Tour with Captain (Lite)
The Private Boat Tour with Captain (Lite) is a relaxed way to enjoy Copenhagen Harbor in style. For $152, up to 8 people can cruise in comfort for about an hour, with your captain handling navigation and commentary.
Guests love the peaceful ride and the chance to see iconic sights such as the Royal Yacht and Opera House from the water. The experience is simple but elegant, perfect for small groups celebrating special occasions or just enjoying a quiet day on the water.
Bottom Line: Suitable for those wanting a luxurious, no-fuss private cruise with a professional captain.
11. Copenhagen Hop-on Hop-off Bus with Boat Option
The Copenhagen Hop-on Hop-off Bus with Boat is a budget-friendly and flexible way to see the city. For about $36, you can enjoy a 1.5-hour combined bus and boat tour, hopping off at key sights like Nyhavn, the Little Mermaid, and Christianshavn. The audio commentary keeps you informed as you move between sites.
This tour suits travelers who want to maximize their sightseeing with minimal effort. You can pick and choose where to spend more time, and the boat component offers a scenic view of Copenhagen’s waterways.
Bottom Line: A good value for first-timers or travelers who prefer a self-paced tour.
12. Deluxe Copenhagen Shore Excursion from Cruise Ship Port
This Deluxe Shore Excursion provides a streamlined experience for cruise passengers. It includes timely pickup and drop-off, a scenic drive past top sights like Amalienborg Palace, and some free time to explore. It’s about 4 hours and costs $80 per person.
Reviews mention how efficient and well-organized it is, with a knowledgeable guide giving insights along the way. It’s perfect for travelers on a tight schedule who want to see the highlights without stress.
Bottom Line: Best for cruise visitors wanting a comfortable, guided overview of Copenhagen’s main attractions.
13. Copenhagen Canal Boat Cruise and City, Nyhavn Walking Tour
The Copenhagen Canal Boat Cruise and City Tour combines a guided walking tour of Old Town and Nyhavn with a 1-hour boat cruise. This approach allows for a comprehensive experience, with stops at Rådhuspladsen, the City Hall, and the colorful Nyhavn district.
This tour’s advantage is the combination of walking and cruising, giving you both close-up views and scenic waterways. Reviewers mention that the guide Caroline makes the experience engaging while the boat ride offers a unique perspective of Copenhagen’s architecture and lively harbor.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting a multi-sensory experience, blending walking and boat exploration.
14. Arrival Transfer: Copenhagen Cruise Port to Copenhagen city
For those arriving by cruise, the Arrival Transfer makes your first step effortless. For $138, a professional driver will meet you at the port with a private Mercedes, ensuring quick and comfortable transfer to your hotel.
This service is particularly helpful when managing luggage or arriving in a new city. Reviewers praise the professionalism and punctuality, making it ideal for a stress-free start or end to your trip.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who value convenience and comfort immediately upon arrival.
15. Shore Excursion: 1-Hour Copenhagen Segway Cruise
Rounding out the list, the Copenhagen: Shore Excursion 1-Hour Segway Cruise offers a quick, fun way to see key sights like the Little Mermaid and the Royal Palace. The guided tour includes headset audio for clear storytelling during the 1-hour adventure—perfect for those with limited time but wanting a dynamic overview.
Guests appreciate the easy learning curve and the ability to cover more ground than walking. It’s especially good for active travelers or families with children over 7.
Bottom Line: Excellent for a fast-paced, engaging introduction to Copenhagen’s waterfront and historic sights.
How to Choose Your Perfect Boat Tour in Copenhagen
Choosing between these options depends on your budget, time, and interests. If you want an eco-friendly, intimate experience, the Electric Canal Tour is hard to beat. For flexibility, consider the Hop-On Hop-Off boat and bus, which lets you see everything at your own pace.
For a special occasion or luxury experience, the private cruises (in Scandinavian mahogany) or the private guided boat give personalized options. Budget travelers or those with limited time might prefer quick, energetic tours like the Segway cruise or self-guided rentals.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time and ensure a smooth, enjoyable water adventure through Copenhagen.
To sum it up, Copenhagen offers a variety of boat experiences to suit every traveler’s style. Whether you prefer a quiet, guided cruise, a hop-on-hop-off combo, or a private luxury outing, the city’s waterways are a superb way to see the sights. For a memorable trip, consider your priorities, budget, and schedule—then set sail on one of these top-rated tours.