Groningen: Open Boat City Cruise

If you’re planning to explore Groningen, one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands, a city canal cruise is a fantastic way to see the sights from a unique perspective. The Open Boat City Cruise offered by Rondvaartbedrijf Kool promises an eco-friendly, relaxing journey through the city’s historic waterways, combining comfort with informative commentary. While it’s a short hour-long trip, it packs plenty of value, especially if you appreciate tranquil scenery and a chance to learn a bit about Groningen’s past.

Two things we particularly like about this cruise are its quiet, electrically powered boat—which means no noisy engines disrupting the peaceful canal ambiance—and the included drinks, adding a touch of leisure without extra fuss. A potential consideration for travelers: the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so if mobility is an issue, you might want to explore other options. Still, this cruise suits anyone who enjoys scenic views, wants a relaxed pace, and values sustainability.

This experience is best suited for those who want a calm, scenic introduction to Groningen, or for anyone looking for a low-cost yet pleasurable way to see the city’s highlights from the water. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or solo travelers eager for a comfortable, informative, and environmentally conscious tour.

Key Points

• Silent, eco-friendly cruising offers a peaceful way to enjoy Groningen’s canals.
• Inclusion of drinks makes the experience more relaxed and enjoyable.
• Audio guide in three languages provides useful historical insights.
• The boat’s modern, spacious design ensures comfort during the hour-long trip.
• The tour starts near the main station and Groninger Museum, making it easy to access.
• Less suitable for travelers with mobility restrictions due to non-wheelchair accessibility.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why Choose the Groningen Open Boat City Cruise?

We loved how this cruise combines sustainability with comfort. The Pronkjewail, being electrically powered, glides through the canals almost silently, allowing you to focus on the beautiful scenery and historic sights, like the Martini Tower and the old city canals. This isn’t just a boat ride; it’s a chance to see Groningen from a perspective that’s both relaxing and environmentally responsible.

The price point of $21 per person offers surprisingly good value. For less than the cost of a meal, you get an hour of scenic cruising, a drink, and insightful commentary—all with minimal environmental impact. It’s perfect for travelers who want to enjoy the city’s charm without the crowds or fuss of larger tour buses or crowded boats.

The audio guide is available in Dutch, English, and German, which broadens accessibility and allows you to pick up interesting tidbits about Groningen’s history and landmarks. The commentary helps deepen your appreciation of the city’s architecture and development, making the experience more meaningful.

The Itinerary and Experience

The cruise begins between the main station and the Groninger Museum, key locations that are easily reachable on foot or via public transport. From there, the boat gently glides along the historic canals, passing notable sights like the Martini Tower. We loved the way the boat’s design encourages a sense of openness, with plenty of space to sit back, relax, and enjoy the views.

Throughout the hour-long trip, you’ll enjoy a wide variety of drinks—from soda and water to beer and wine—added as part of the experience, which distinguishes it from more basic tours. This makes it a great choice for those wanting to combine sightseeing with a touch of leisure.

The Sights and Views

Groningen’s canals are lined with centuries-old buildings, each with its own story. The quietness of the electric boat amplifies the visual experience, letting you truly soak in the stunning architecture and lively cityscape. We’ve heard from reviews that many travelers find these views “very relaxing,” and that the scenery is beautifully serene—perfect for a peaceful break from busy sightseeing.

The audio guide provides contextual history, adding layers to what you’re seeing. For example, you might learn about the significance of the Martini Tower or the evolution of the city’s cultural scene. Reviewers have described the tour as “very informative,” which enhances its appeal even further.

Comfort and Sustainability

Since the Pronkjewail has been operating since 2020, it’s a modern vessel designed with both comfort and eco-consciousness in mind. The boat’s spacious layout means you won’t feel cramped, and the silent operation ensures a peaceful atmosphere. Plus, its low CO2 emissions align with current sustainability goals—something increasingly important to travelers today.

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Practical Considerations

The tour runs for about an hour, with specific starting times that vary by day—so it’s worth checking availability in advance. Pricing at $21 per person makes it an accessible option; however, the cost only includes one drink and the audio guide, so if you’re after additional beverages, those are extra. The tour does not include foreign drinks, but you’ll find a selection to suit most tastes.

Notably, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users and disallows smoking, large bags, and fires—common restrictions for safety and comfort. If rain is forecast with fewer than ten participants, there’s an option to switch to a covered boat, which helps keep the experience dry and still enjoyable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

Travelers who enjoy relaxed, scenic experiences will find this cruise a highlight. It’s excellent for first-time visitors wanting a gentle overview of Groningen’s key sights. History buffs will appreciate the insightful commentary, while those interested in sustainability will value the electric-powered boat. It’s also a smart choice for anyone seeking a cost-effective way to see the city from a different perspective.

Who Might Want More?

If you’re looking for a more extensive or themed experience—like an evening cruise or a private tour with an open bar—you might want to explore some of the other options listed in similar experiences. However, for a short, scenic, and environmentally friendly introduction to Groningen, this cruise hits the mark.

In The Sum Up

The Groningen Open Boat City Cruise offers a peaceful, scenic, and educational way to experience this historic city. The quiet electric boat ensures a serene atmosphere, perfect for soaking in the beautiful canals and architecture without the noise and fumes of traditional boats. For a modest price, you gain a comfortable, informative journey, complete with refreshing drinks and a multilingual audio guide.

This experience is especially suited for casual travelers, small groups, or couples looking for a relaxed introduction to Groningen’s waterways. If you value sustainability and comfort, it’s a smart, enjoyable choice. The only thing to consider is that it’s not wheelchair accessible, so check your mobility needs before booking.

All in all, this cruise provides a delightful glimpse into Groningen’s charming waterways, making it a worthwhile addition to any visit. It’s a simple, rewarding way to slow down and see the city from a perspective that’s both authentic and eco-friendly.

FAQs

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise lasts approximately 1 hour, making it an easy addition to your day without taking up too much time.

What is included in the ticket price?
Your ticket includes one drink (choices like soda, water, beer, or wine) and the audio commentary available in three languages.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins between the main station and the Groninger Museum, and it concludes back at the same meeting point.

Is the boat suitable for everyone?
The boat is not suitable for wheelchair users, and other restrictions include no smoking, large bags, or open flames.

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

Are drinks beyond the included one available?
Additional drinks are not included and are not available for purchase on board, so plan accordingly if you want more beverages.

Is this tour available in multiple languages?
Yes, the audio guide is provided in Dutch, English, and German, making it accessible for most travelers.

What happens in case of bad weather?
If the weather is rainy and there are fewer than ten participants, a covered boat may be used as an alternative, ensuring your experience isn’t spoiled by the weather.

This open boat cruise in Groningen offers a balanced mix of comfort, scenery, and sustainability. It’s an authentic way to enjoy the city’s waterways without breaking the bank—perfect for a quiet afternoon or a leisurely start to your exploration.

You can check availability for your dates here: