Leipzig: 2-hour Auwald Motorboat Tour

If you’re seeking a relaxed yet enriching way to experience Leipzig’s natural side, this 2-hour Auwald Motorboat Tour offers just that. Not only does it showcase the city’s waterways, but it also gives you a glimpse into one of Europe’s largest preserved alluvial forests — a rare natural treasure nestled right in the city’s heart.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the peaceful electric motor boat glides quietly through the landscape, allowing you to truly soak in the scenery without the noise and fumes of traditional engines. Second, the stories and insights shared by the captain turn a simple boat ride into an engaging lesson about Leipzig’s flora and fauna. However, a potential consideration is the weather — since the tour runs rain or shine, you might want to prepare accordingly.

This tour is perfect for nature lovers, curious travelers, or anyone who appreciates a gentle, scenic excursion within a vibrant city setting. Whether you’re traveling alone, with friends, or family, it offers a chance to enjoy Leipzig from a different perspective—on the water, surrounded by nature.

Key Points

• Unique setting: Experience the largest inner-city alluvial forest in Europe, right within Leipzig’s city limits.
• Quiet exploration: The electric motor provides a peaceful ride, perfect for wildlife viewing and relaxation.
• Educational aspect: Your captain shares fascinating facts about the local flora and fauna, making it more than just a boat trip.
• Flexible scheduling: The tour lasts 2 hours, with availability depending on the day, so planning ahead is recommended.
• Affordable value: At $25 per person, it offers a budget-friendly way to connect with nature.
• Weather considerations: The tour runs rain or shine; bring weather-appropriate clothing and rain gear if needed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Leipzig Auwald Motorboat Tour

When considering a boat tour in Leipzig, it’s tempting to focus solely on the city’s urban attractions. But this trip invites you to slow down and appreciate a natural habitat that’s surprisingly close to the city center. The route takes you from Leipzig’s bustling city harbor along the Elster flood bed—an area that’s both historically significant and ecologically vital—to the historic Scheibenholz racecourse, a popular site for horse racing enthusiasts. From there, the boat gently navigates the Connewitz lock and follows the course of the Pleiße River through dense alluvial forest, a rich environment teeming with life.

The Route and Its Highlights

The tour’s first notable stop is at the Scheibenholz racecourse, which adds an element of local history and sport. As you cruise past, you get a sense of Leipzig’s blend of tradition and modernity. The journey then continues through the Connewitz lock, a technical marvel that manages water levels as the boat transitions between different sections of the river.

Once into the dense alluvial forest, you’ll notice the lush greenery on either side of the boat. This part of the river system is considered the largest inner-city alluvial forest in Europe, making it a rare and valuable environment. It’s a haven for many bird species, including the kingfisher, and a sanctuary for fish and mammals that thrive in this watery wilderness.

What You Can Expect During the Tour

Expect a calm, 2-hour trip that’s perfect for winding down or gaining a new appreciation for Leipzig’s natural landscape. The electric motor means very little noise, allowing you to focus on the scenery and listen to your captain’s engaging commentary. We loved the way the captain shared interesting facts about the flora and fauna, turning what could be a simple boat ride into a lively, educational experience.

The tour begins at the Schreberstraße 20 jetty, which is easy to access. Once aboard, you’ll glide past the city’s urban edge into a quieter, greener world. The boat’s route along the Pleiße River offers plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting—if luck is on your side, you might see colorful kingfishers or other bird species. At the mouth of the Floßgraben, the tour reaches its turning point, from where you’ll start your return journey.

Authentic Wildlife Encounters and Stories

One of the tour’s real strengths is the insightful commentary. The captain’s stories about the flora and fauna help turn the landscape into a living classroom. Several reviews mention how much travelers appreciated these details, with one noting how the landscapes are “very beautiful” despite weather challenges.

Speaking of weather, the tour takes place rain or shine, which can be a plus or a drawback depending on your preferences. As one traveler noted, “it rained heavily with hail,” leading to a very wet experience. Therefore, bringing rain gear or weather-appropriate clothing is smart.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Cost and Its Value

At just $25 per person, this boat trip is an excellent value considering the experience offered. It’s a chance to see a natural habitat that many visitors might not explore on foot, especially within the city. The tour includes boarding and disembarking at the jetty, and there’s no extra charge for the journey itself.

While drinks are not included, the relaxed pace and immersive environment make the modest price well worth it. If you’re interested in a quiet, scenic escape that enriches your understanding of Leipzig’s ecological landscape, this tour provides a compelling introduction.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: 2 hours, with specific start times depending on availability—check ahead to plan your day.
• Location: Starts directly at the Schreberstraße 20 jetty, with easy access for most travelers.
• Weather: As the tour runs rain or shine, pack appropriate clothing, including rain gear or a sun hat, depending on the forecast.
• Language: The tour is conducted in German, so some basic understanding or a translation app might help if you’re not fluent.
• Booking: It’s advisable to reserve in advance, especially during busy travel seasons, but flexible cancellation up to 24 hours makes planning less stressful.
• Additional Costs: Optional purchases include drinks on board or rain ponchos, but these are not included.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy nature, wildlife, and quiet scenery. It’s particularly appealing for families, nature enthusiasts, or anyone looking to escape the urban hustle for a couple of hours. If you’re curious about the ecological side of Leipzig and want a peaceful, educational journey, this boat trip strikes a good balance between accessibility and authenticity.

It’s also a good choice if you have limited time but want to see a unique side of Leipzig—a green oasis amidst the city’s urban fabric. However, those expecting a high-adrenaline or luxury experience might find it too laid-back, and travelers sensitive to weather conditions should consider the possibility of rain.

Final Thoughts

This 2-hour Auwald Motorboat Tour offers a calm, scenic, and educational way to experience Leipzig’s natural environment. It’s a chance to see the city from a different angle—literally—by cruising through the largest inner-city alluvial forest in Europe. The affordability, combined with the tranquil setting and insightful commentary, makes it a worthwhile addition to any Leipzig itinerary.

If you’re interested in discovering the city’s ecological side or simply want a relaxing break on the water, this tour is a solid pick. Just remember to dress for the weather, book in advance, and bring your curiosity and sense of adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, with specific start times depending on availability. Be sure to check ahead to plan your day.

Where does the tour start?
It begins directly at the Schreberstraße 20 jetty, which is easily accessible for most travelers.

Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, the tour takes place rain or shine. It’s wise to bring rain gear or weather-appropriate clothing since rain can happen, as some reviews note.

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers the 2-hour boat ride, boarding, and disembarking at the jetty. Food and drinks are not included, but can be purchased separately onboard.

What kind of boat is used?
An electric motorboat that provides a quiet, eco-friendly ride through Leipzig’s waterways.

Are there any language barriers?
The tour is conducted in German. Non-German speakers might need a translation app or some basic understanding.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking allows you to reserve now and pay later, offering flexible planning.

Is this experience family-friendly?
Absolutely. It’s suitable for families, nature lovers, and anyone wanting a peaceful, scenic experience. Just keep weather considerations in mind.

This boat tour offers a rare glimpse into Leipzig’s natural beauty and ecological richness. If you enjoy gentle outings and learning about local flora and fauna, it makes for a refreshingly authentic experience—one that’s both relaxing and enriching.

You can check availability for your dates here: