Basel Rhine: Brunch cruise on our boat Rhykönig

If you’re looking to combine a leisurely meal with jaw-dropping views of Basel, a brunch cruise on the Rhykönig might just be your perfect getaway. This experience promises a relaxed morning on the water, with a hearty, homemade brunch and a chance to see Basel from a unique perspective.

What we love about it is the beautiful scenery, the delicious food, and the peaceful vibe that only a boat on the Rhine can provide. Plus, it’s a flexible experience — you can book a private group, and the duration is just 1.5 hours, making it easy to fit into a busy travel schedule.

The only thing to consider is that specialty drinks like prosecco aren’t included, so if you’re celebrating or want bubbly, you’ll need to bring your own. This cruise works well for families, friends, or couples seeking a laid-back, authentic slice of Basel life on the river.

Good To Know

• Hearty homemade brunch featuring bacon, eggs, pancakes, and fresh bread.
• Stunning panoramic views of Basel from the Rhine.
• Relaxing 1.5-hour cruise with an emphasis on comfort and leisure.
• Flexible booking options with full cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Private group experience, perfect for special occasions.
• Includes unlimited drinks like coffee, tea, orange juice, and water.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An Authentic Food and Sightseeing Experience on Basel’s Rhine

When considering a brunch cruise, what sets this experience apart is the combination of culinary delight and sightseeing. The Rhykönig offers a robust brunch menu crafted from ingredients from their own Jetzer bakery, ensuring fresh, oven-baked breads and pastries. This attention to detail means you’re not just getting a meal, but a thoughtfully prepared spread that emphasizes quality and local flavor.

Onboard, the atmosphere is cozy and intimate, with room for private groups, making it ideal for celebrating special moments or simply enjoying a relaxed morning with friends. The warm, hearty brunch includes classic breakfast staples like crispy bacon, eggs cooked to your preference, and golden pancakes that are a real highlight, especially when topped with the jams and fresh fruit provided.

What really makes the experience memorable are the views of Basel from the Rhine. As the boat gently cruises the river, you’ll see the city’s skyline, historic bridges, and landmarks from a perspective that many visitors miss. It’s like having a front-row seat to Basel’s working port and historic center, all while savoring your meal.

The duration of 1.5 hours is just right—long enough to relax and take in the scenery without feeling rushed. Reviewers often mention that the cruise is comfortable and quiet, perfect for unwinding. The live guides in German and English add a personal touch, providing context for the sights seen along the way.

What to Expect During the Cruise

Starting at the border triangle, where Switzerland, Germany, and France meet, the cruise begins with a sense of crossing borders—literally and figuratively. You’ll be greeted on board by friendly staff who set the tone for a casual yet elegant experience.

The brunch service is laid out buffet-style, with the homemade bread and pastries from Jetzer bakery acting as the perfect base for your meal. The menu is designed to appeal broadly, featuring cold cuts, salmon platters, and a variety of cheeses, along with muesli, fresh fruit, and jams. The inclusion of hot items like crispy bacon and freshly cooked eggs ensures there’s something for all.

Throughout the cruise, you can expect ample drinks—coffee, tea, orange juice, and water—refilled as often as you like. Since Prosecco and other alcoholic drinks aren’t included, you might bring your own if celebrating or wanting a bubbly toast on the water.

For those interested in sightseeing, the boat’s route offers views of Basel’s historic bridges, the Mittlere Brücke and Spalentor, along with the layout of the city’s old town, all seen from a different angle. The experience is relaxed, with no rushing—just an opportunity to enjoy both good food and great scenery.

The Value of This Experience

From reviews and the provided information, it’s clear that the value lies in the combination of quality food, stunning scenery, and flexible booking options. The full buffet with unlimited drinks included makes it a great value for a 1.5-hour experience, especially considering the scenic backdrop.

Since the cruise is private, it’s ideal for groups wanting a personalized activity—perhaps a family brunch, a small celebration, or a relaxed gathering with friends. The full cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind for travelers with unpredictable schedules.

While the experience doesn’t include alcoholic beverages like prosecco, this allows guests to customize their drink experience. Bringing along a bottle of champagne or wine could elevate the occasion, especially if celebrating a special milestone.

Practical Details

The cruise lasts approximately 1.5 hours, with check availability for specific starting times. It departs from the border triangle, a location easy to reach from central Basel. The experience is offered in German and English, catering to international travelers.

Booking is flexible—reserve now, pay later, which helps if your plans aren’t set in stone. The group size is private, ensuring a more intimate experience compared to larger, group tours.

The experience is suitable for families, couples, and friends looking for a relaxing, scenic meal on the Rhine. It’s perfect for those who prefer a leisurely pace and enjoy good food with a view.

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Who Will Enjoy This Cruise?

This brunch cruise is ideal for travelers wanting an authentic, laid-back experience on the Rhine. It’s perfect for food lovers eager to taste fresh, homemade dishes in a scenic setting.

Those interested in sightseeing from the water, with views of Basel’s iconic landmarks, will find this a satisfying way to see the city without the hustle of walking tours.

It’s especially suited for small groups or families seeking a private outing, celebrating a special occasion, or simply looking for a peaceful way to start the day.

Final Thoughts

The Basel Rhine Brunch Cruise on the Rhykönig offers a unique blend of good food, stunning views, and relaxed ambiance. With homemade delicacies and a scenic route, it provides great value for a memorable 1.5-hour experience. It’s well-suited for those wanting to combine sightseeing with a leisurely meal in a private setting.

While it doesn’t include alcoholic drinks, bringing your own bubbly can enhance the celebration. This cruise is an excellent choice for those seeking a quiet, authentic way to enjoy Basel from the water, especially if you love good food paired with spectacular scenery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the brunch cruise?
The cruise includes a round-trip buffet-style brunch with homemade bread, crispy bacon, eggs, pancakes, cold cuts, salmon, cheese platters, muesli, fruit, jam, and a selection of drinks like tea, coffee, orange juice, and water, all available as much as you like.

Are drinks like prosecco included?
No, prosecco and other alcoholic drinks are not included, but you are welcome to bring your own if desired.

How long does the cruise last?
The experience lasts approximately 1.5 hours, with specific start times available upon checking availability.

Is the cruise private or group-based?
It is a private group experience, perfect for small gatherings or special celebrations.

What languages are available for the tour?
Guides speak both German and English.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility.

Where does the cruise depart from?
It departs at the border triangle, a location easy to access from Basel.

Is this suitable for families?
Absolutely, the relaxed atmosphere and private setting make it suitable for families, friends, or couples.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Besides your desire for a good time, you might consider bringing your own bubbly or special drinks, as they are not included in the package.

To sum it up, if you’re after a peaceful, scenic way to enjoy Basel’s river life with some hearty food, this brunch cruise on the Rhykönig offers a charming and satisfying experience. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone wanting to combine exquisite views with a relaxed meal in a private, cozy setting.

You can check if your dates are available here: