Basel might be known for its impressive architecture, vibrant art scene, and rich cultural offerings, but it’s also a fantastic starting point for exploring Switzerland’s stunning lakes and mountains by boat. Whether you want to indulge in a private day trip to Mount Pilatus and Lake Lucerne or enjoy a scenic cruise from Basel, the region offers a variety of water-based adventures. One of our favorites is the Basel Private tour – Mt. Pilatus and Cruise on Lake of Lucerne — a private experience that combines hassle-free transportation, expert guidance, and the chance to see some of Switzerland’s most iconic landscapes without the crowds. This tour stands out for its flexibility and personal touch, making it ideal for travelers who want to customize their day.
Basel’s proximity to Lake Lucerne, Mount Pilatus, and the Rhine River means you can enjoy everything from private mountain excursions to small-group lake cruises and river adventures. Many tours include options for exploring historic towns like Lucerne or Schaffhausen, offering a mix of scenic views, cultural sights, and relaxing boat rides. Whether you’re after an all-day private tour or a more budget-friendly small group experience, there’s something for every traveler seeking water-based adventures in Switzerland.
Below, you’ll find a curated list of the best boat tours and cruises in Basel, each with its unique appeal. From private mountain trips to small-group lake excursions, these experiences are designed to help you enjoy Switzerland’s waterways and mountain vistas in style and comfort.
1. Basel Private tour – Mt. Pilatus and Cruise on Lake of Lucerne
This private tour is the pinnacle for those who want an all-in-one Swiss mountain and lake experience without the hassle of planning logistics. For around $772 per person, you get an entire day that covers Mount Pilatus, the Lake Lucerne cruise, and the convenience of having everything arranged — train tickets, private guide, and transportation included.
What sets this tour apart is its tailored approach. Your guide will pick you up from your hotel in Basel, whisking you off in a private van to Mount Pilatus. Here, you’ll ascend via the Pilatus Bahn and then enjoy the breathtaking “dragon ride” aerial cable car — an experience often compared to flying — with 360-degree views of the Alps. The itinerary includes a stop at Fraukmuntegg, where you can see the Swiss cantons that formed the Swiss Confederation in 1291.
Guests consistently comment on the knowledgeable guides and the personalized service. One reviewer said, “Felt we were in great hands the entire time,” highlighting the flexibility and ease of this private setup. The tour also includes a Lake Lucerne cruise, which allows for relaxing sightseeing on the water with spectacular mountain and village views. This trip is perfect for travelers who want a seamless, high-end Swiss adventure with plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and take photos.
Bottom Line: A premium, private experience perfect for travelers craving exclusivity, comfort, and the chance to see Switzerland’s top sights with expert guidance.
2. Mt. Pilatus with cruise on Lake of Lucerne Small Group from Basel
For about $446, this small group tour offers a balanced combination of guided exploration and scenic comfort. It’s ideal if you prefer traveling with a small group of like-minded travelers rather than a private guide. Departure from Basel is easy, with transportation arranged in a comfortable Mercedes Sprinter, which makes for a smooth ride to Lucerne.
Once in Lucerne, the real highlight begins: you’ll board the “dragon ride” aerial cable car, floating over the Swiss landscape with panoramic views. The ascent takes about an hour, and at the top, you can enjoy the views from the restaurant or choose to hike further up Mount Pilatus. With towering peaks at 6,995 feet, this is one of Switzerland’s most striking mountains. Several reviews note the clear, sunny weather making the scenery unforgettable, with one traveler saying, “We were so lucky to have a clear day, and the scenery was breathtaking.”
The tour also includes a cruise on Lake Lucerne from Arpachshad, giving you a laid-back way to soak up the alpine vistas. The group size ensures plenty of personalized attention, yet the price remains accessible.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a guided, small-group experience with great views and a relaxed pace, combining mountain adventure with lake cruising.
3. Lucerne small group walking tour and Lake Cruise from Basel
If you’re short on time but want a well-rounded taste of Lucerne, this 7 to 9-hour small group tour is a smart pick. It costs around $469 and includes a guided walk through the historic old town, plus a scenic Lake Lucerne boat cruise. Departing from Basel, your guide will meet you at the train station, simplifying logistics.
The walking tour highlights include the Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument, and the Mühlenplatz, each a snapshot of Lucerne’s charming atmosphere and history. After exploring on foot, you’ll enjoy a relaxing cruise, taking in views of the surrounding mountains and lakes. This tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides, with one reviewer saying, “Oscar truly made the tour remarkable by accommodating our needs.”
The combination of walking and boat cruising offers a versatile experience, especially for travelers who want an overview without the full-day commitment of mountain excursions. It’s also a great way to see the city’s key sights and enjoy a peaceful boat ride.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers wanting a comprehensive, hassle-free introduction to Lucerne with a mix of history, architecture, and lakeside views.
4. Sail to Basel and then explore either Bern, Luzern, Zurich or the Swiss Alps
This luxury private tour is tailored for travelers arriving by a Rhine River cruise, offering a full-day exploration of Switzerland’s diverse landscapes. Starting at $1,109, it includes pickup at your Basel cruise port and options to visit Zurich, Luzern, Bern, or even the Swiss Alps.
What makes this experience stand out is its flexibility. The private guide will customize your day, whether you want a quick city tour of Zurich, a day in the alpine mountains, or a blend of both. You’ll enjoy scenic drives, local food stops, and personalized sightseeing. The highlight is visiting destinations like Luzern, with its iconic Chapel Bridge and Lion Monument, or the Swiss Alps’ dramatic peaks.
This tour is best suited for travelers who want a private, tailored experience without the constraints of group schedules. The high price reflects the exclusivity, comfort, and flexibility. It’s a great option for those with limited time but a desire to see the best of Switzerland in a seamless day.
Bottom Line: For travelers who value customization and privacy, this private tour offers a luxurious way to explore Switzerland’s top destinations from Basel.
5. Lucerne small group walking tour and Lake Cruise from Zürich
This shorter 6-hour tour offers a quick but charming slice of Lucerne, departing from Zürich. At $412 per person, it’s ideal for those based in Zürich or with limited time. The tour includes a train ride, a guided walk through Lucerne’s historic streets, and a 1-hour boat cruise on Lake Lucerne.
Starting at Zürich Tourist Information, you’ll travel by train to Lucerne, where your guide will take you to key sights like the Chapel Bridge and Lion Monument. The boat cruise provides a peaceful escape and excellent photo opportunities of the mountains and lakes. It’s noted for its straightforward logistics and friendly guides, with one reviewer mentioning, “It was easy to find our guide and the train ride was comfortable.”
While this tour doesn’t include mountain ascents, it offers a good balance of city exploration and water views—perfect if you’re short on time but still want to experience Swiss lakeside charm.
Bottom Line: An efficient, well-organized way to enjoy Lucerne’s highlights from Zürich with a scenic boat ride.
6. Rhein Waterfalls, Schaffhausen & Rhine Cruise | From Basel
This full-day tour, at approximately 10 hours, combines river cruising, visiting the Rhein Waterfalls, and touring the historic town of Schaffhausen. For about $— (price not specified), it’s perfect for those eager to see multiple highlights with minimal planning.
Starting with a train ride from Basel, you’ll visit the Europe’s largest waterfall, marveling at the rushing water and taking a boat closer to the cascades. Then, explore the medieval charm of Stein am Rhein, with its well-preserved architecture and scenic streets. The tour concludes with a visit to Schaffhausen, where you can stroll its old town or admire the Munot fortress.
The combo of waterfalls and historic towns makes this tour a fantastic choice for those who love nature and history in one package. Reviews emphasize the ease of travel and scenic views, with one noting, “The Rhine Falls are spectacular, and the boat ride gave a very close-up view of the falls.”
Bottom Line: A full-day water and town sightseeing experience, suited for travelers wanting a mix of natural spectacle and cultural sights.
How to Choose the Best Boat Tour & Cruise in Basel
When selecting your ideal water adventure, consider your budget, interests, and available time. If privacy and customization matter most, the Basel Private tour – Mt. Pilatus and Cruise on Lake of Lucerne is hard to beat. For a more social experience, the small group tours such as the Mt. Pilatus with cruise on Lake of Lucerne or the Lucerne walking tour from Basel provide excellent value.
Budget-conscious travelers may prefer the shorter tours from Zürich or the comprehensive Rhein Waterfalls and Schaffhausen trip, especially if they want a diverse day packed with natural beauty and history.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred dates and ensure availability.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re after a luxurious private day trip, a small group adventure with stunning views, or a quick cultural visit from Zürich, Basel offers plenty of water-based experiences to enrich your Swiss journey. The private tours like the Basel Private tour – Mt. Pilatus and Cruise on Lake of Lucerne cater to those seeking a personalized touch, while the more economical options still deliver plenty of scenic beauty and cultural sights.
For travelers who want to combine water adventures with city exploration, these tours provide a perfect mix of comfort, convenience, and authentic Swiss scenery. Booking early can help you secure these memorable experiences, so plan ahead and enjoy the water wonders of Switzerland.
