Antwerp: Private Aperitif Boatride

If you’re looking for a laid-back yet stylish way to enjoy Antwerp’s bustling harbor, this private aperitif boat ride offers a unique blend of sightseeing, good company, and fine drinks. It’s not just about floating on the water; it’s about experiencing the city from a different angle, with plenty of opportunities to unwind before heading into dinner or a night out.

What makes this tour stand out are the scenic views of the city’s skyline and the inclusive drinks—ranging from sparkling cava to crisp beer and refreshing cool drinks—that set the perfect prelude to an evening. The 1.5-hour journey is light on formality but heavy on charm, making it suitable for everything from romantic dates to lively bachelorette parties or even small business gatherings.

One point to consider is that there’s no onboard toilet, so plan accordingly—though the nearby public facilities at the MAS Museum are just a short walk away. This tour is especially well-suited for those who appreciate a relaxed, intimate experience with a focus on scenery and socializing rather than elaborate commentary or guided tours. If you enjoy stunning water views paired with a good drink, this is a fine choice.

Key Points

• Eco-friendly Electric Boat: Quiet, smooth, and environmentally conscious cruising.
• Includes Drinks: Cava, beer, wine, cool drinks, and water—perfect for a toast.
• Flexible and Friendly Guide: Can serve as a tour guide or quizmaster for groups like bachelorette parties.
• Stunning City Views: Pass by landmarks such as MAS Museum, Harbor House, Dry Docks, and Napoleon Dock.
• Short and Sweet: 1.5 hours is just enough time to relax without overcommitting.
• Ideal for Special Occasions: Perfect for pre-dinner drinks, romantic outings, or small celebrations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Setting the Scene: Starting Point and Overall Atmosphere

The tour begins at Sint-Aldegondiskaai 42, a conveniently located pontoon right on the harbor. The meeting point itself is straightforward—no fuss, no hassle—and from there, you board an electric boat designed for comfort and eco-friendliness. The boat is equipped with a Bluetooth music system, so bringing your favorite playlist adds a personal touch to the journey.

The atmosphere onboard is relaxed; the electric engine hums softly, allowing you to focus on the views and conversations. With a rain cover available, the tour continues rain or shine, making it adaptable to Belgian weather whims.

The Scenic Waterway: What You’ll See

As you glide through Antwerp’s harbor, you’ll enjoy a panoramic postcard of the city’s waterfront. The route offers a fine balance of scenic views and cultural landmarks. Expect to see the MAS Museum’s modern silhouette, the Harbor House’s grandeur, the historic Dry Docks, and the legendary Napoleon Dock—each spot offering a visual story of Antwerp’s maritime strength.

One review even describes the tour as a “beautiful cruise through Antwerp’s port,” emphasizing the peaceful, scenic nature of the ride. The vantage point from the water allows for a more relaxed appreciation of the harbor’s industrial beauty and historic charm, all while the city’s skyline provides a constantly changing backdrop.

Beverages and Social Vibes

Included in the ticket price are Cava, beer, wine, cool drinks, and water. This is a significant perk, especially given the tour’s price point of $74 per person. It’s clearly designed to be a pre-dinner or celebration experience, where sipping a chilled drink while soaking in the views enhances the mood.

The Bluetooth music system offers an opportunity to customize your vibe, whether a mellow jazz playlist or lively tunes. Some groups might even turn the boat into a floating party, especially with a friendly skipper who can serve as a quizmaster if you’re celebrating a special occasion like a bachelor party.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Stops and Itinerary

The tour is a straightforward loop, starting at Sint-Aldegondiskaai and passing through the harbor to Eilandje, a lively district known for its maritime history and modern development. At Eilandje, there’s a photo stop—an excellent chance to snap some memorable pics with the skyline and port as your backdrop.

After approximately 1.5 hours, the boat returns to the starting pontoon. The route is designed for scenic viewing rather than extensive sightseeing, so don’t expect a detailed guided tour, but the flexible skipper can share insights or anecdotes if asked.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour’s duration of 1.5 hours makes it an excellent choice for those wanting a quick yet memorable experience. It’s also flexible in timing—check availability for different start times to fit your schedule.

Since there’s no onboard toilet, you’ll want to visit the nearby public facilities at the MAS Museum before departure. The boat does come with rain covers, so bad weather won’t ruin your experience, but it’s wise to dress comfortably and bring layers if needed.

The meeting point is easy to find, and the activity is designed exclusively for private groups, ensuring a personalized experience. The skipper/tour guide can adapt to your needs, making this experience enjoyable whether you’re in a small, intimate group or celebrating a special event.

The Value of This Tour

At $74 per person, this boat ride offers good value, especially considering the inclusive drinks and private setting. Compared to larger, more commercial harbor tours, this experience feels more intimate and personalized, which is often more meaningful for small groups or couples.

The fact that you can enjoy scenic views, quality drinks, and a relaxed atmosphere makes it a worthwhile investment for a memorable pre-dinner experience or a celebratory outing. It’s not a tour packed with commentary, but rather a chance to enjoy the ambiance, the views, and the company.

Authenticity and Feedback

Based on reviews, guests appreciate the friendly and attentive guide and the beautiful harbor scenery. One reviewer called it a “beautiful tour of Antwerp’s harbor,” praising the guide’s attentiveness. Another mentioned that while the drinks were plentiful, there was a desire for more commentary on what was passing by, highlighting that some might prefer a more guided experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic cruise with plenty of opportunity to socialize and enjoy good drinks. It’s perfect for romantic couples, small groups of friends, bachelorette parties, or business groups looking for a stylish way to start an evening. If you’re a fan of harbor views and casual, intimate experiences, this will hit the spot.

However, if you prefer guided commentary or on-board amenities like a toilet, you might find this tour more limited. Still, for its focus on scenic beauty and socializing, it’s a charming option.

FAQs

Is there a bathroom on board?
No, there isn’t a toilet on the boat. It’s best to use the public facilities at the MAS Museum before your trip.

What should I bring?
Bring your preferred music on your phone for the Bluetooth system, and dress in layers or waterproof clothing if the weather looks uncertain.

Can I customize the drinks?
All drinks—Cava, beer, wine, and cool drinks—are included in the ticket price. You won’t need to bring extra drinks unless you wish to.

Is this tour suitable for kids?
While not explicitly stated, the relaxed nature and scenic views make it potentially suitable for families, but check with the provider for specific policies.

What about the weather?
There’s a rain cover on the boat, so your experience can still be enjoyable in light rain. However, very bad weather might affect the trip’s comfort.

How long in advance should I book?
Availability varies; check the schedule and book early to secure your preferred time slot, especially during peak seasons.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans are uncertain.

Is this experience private?
Yes, it’s designed for private groups, making it a personalized option for your celebration or outing.

Final Thoughts

This private aperitif boat ride in Antwerp offers a charming way to see the harbor with minimal fuss and maximum enjoyment. The scenic views, combined with complimentary drinks and the quiet eco-friendly electric engine, create a perfect setting for a relaxed, social experience. It’s especially suited for those looking to start their evening with a touch of style and a lot of local flavor.

While it’s not a guided tour in the traditional sense, the friendly skipper and stunning water views deliver an authentic, memorable experience that feels both exclusive and effortless. The inclusion of drinks and the private setting make it a good value, especially for smaller groups celebrating a special occasion.

Whether you’re after a romantic cruise, a fun gathering with friends, or a lively bachelor party, this boat ride promises an enjoyable, scenic breather in the heart of Antwerp’s busy port. It’s a simple yet delightful way to connect with the city’s maritime soul, all while enjoying a glass or two in good company.

This experience stands out as a relaxed, scenic, and customizable waterway escape—well worth considering if you want to soak up Antwerp’s harbor vibe in style.

You can check availability for your dates here: