Berlin: Weihnachtliche Schifffahrt mit Glühwein

If you’re in Berlin during the holiday season and craving a different way to soak up the city’s festive spirit, a Christmas cruise on the Spree might be just what you need. This 2-hour voyage offers a cozy, atmospheric way to explore Berlin’s iconic sights illuminated by holiday lights — all from the comfort of a festively decorated boat.

From the cheerful scent of mulled wine to the glittering backdrop of the city, this experience aims to combine scenic views with seasonal warmth. While some might find the price a touch steep for a short cruise, many see it as a worthwhile indulgence for a memorable holiday outing. It’s perfect for families, friends, or even small groups looking to enjoy Berlin’s Christmas charm from a unique vantage point.

Three things we love about this experience: the cozy onboard atmosphere, the beautifully decorated ships, and the inclusion of seasonal treats like Glühwein and Christstollen. A potential hurdle could be the weather, as the cruise takes place in any conditions — so dressing warmly is a must. Overall, if you enjoy scenic water tours with a festive twist, this cruise offers a charming and relaxing way to celebrate the season.

Who is this experience best suited for?

This tour appeals to those interested in a festive, relaxed activity that combines sightseeing with holiday cheer. It’s ideal for families, groups of friends, couples, or even small corporate gatherings seeking a cozy, atmospheric experience. If you love wintery scenes and seasonal treats, you’ll find this cruise charming and memorable.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Duration: 2-hour scenic cruise along Berlin’s waterways
• Festive Atmosphere: Decorated ships and seasonal music create a Christmas mood
• Seasonal Highlights: Hot Glühwein, coffee, Christstollen, and holiday treats included
• Weather: Runs in all weather conditions, so dress warmly
• Activities: Enjoy views of Berlin’s illuminated cityscape from the water
• Group Friendly: Suitable for families, friends, and small groups

Experience Overview

This Weihnachtliche Schifffahrt (Christmas boat trip) is designed to provide a relaxed, festive experience on Berlin’s waters. For two hours, you’ll glide past the city’s most recognizable sights, all while basking in the warm glow of holiday decorations and enjoying seasonal goodies. The ships are beautifully decked out for Christmas, making this a visually appealing activity that’s especially magical after sunset when Berlin’s skyline sparkles under holiday lights.

Itinerary and Highlights

The cruise departs from the Hafen – Spree & Havelschiffahrt at Schiffbauerdamm 12, close to central Berlin. Once aboard, you’ll find the interior deck decorated with Christmas ornaments and fairy lights, creating an inviting, cozy setting. Seats are arranged to maximize views of the water and cityscape, so there’s plenty of reason to settle in with a cup of Glühwein.

As the boat sets sail, your view of Berlin from the water is simply delightful. You’ll pass by prominent landmarks illuminated for the season, offering a different perspective compared to land-based tours. The experience is not just about sightseeing — it’s about savoring the festive spirit, with the scent of mulled wine in the air, festive music playing softly in the background, and the warmth of seasonal treats.

What’s Included?

For around $41 per person, your ticket grants access to the entire 2-hour cruise, inclusive of hot Glühwein, coffee, and Christstollen (a traditional Christmas cake). These treats are served on board and add to the cozy, holiday atmosphere. The inclusion of warm beverages and baked goods makes the experience feel less like a simple sightseeing tour and more like a holiday gathering.

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What to Expect

This cruise is suitable in any weather, so don’t worry about rain or cold — just dress appropriately. Reviewers note that the experience is quite atmospheric, especially if you enjoy the sights and sounds of a Christmas market, but from a scenic water perspective. The ships themselves are decorated festively, enhancing the sense of occasion.

Guests often comment on how much they appreciated the warm, convivial environment onboard, making it a great alternative to bustling land-based markets or crowded city streets. On top of that, dogs are allowed, which is a lovely touch for pet owners wanting to include their furry friends in the festivities.

The Experience from a Review Perspective

Multiple reviewers have shared that the views are really stunning, with some mentioning that the illuminated bridges and historic buildings look especially picturesque at night. One reviewer appreciated the “cozy seating and the friendly crew,” and noted that the staff kept the drinks flowing throughout the cruise, adding to the relaxed, holiday vibe.

A common remark was about the atmosphere — the combination of festive decoration, seasonal music, and warm drinks creates a charming, almost fairy-tale-like setting. However, a few pointed out that the cruise can be quite cold if you don’t bundle up, so packing warm layers and a hat or scarf is advisable.

The Practicalities

Pricing and Value

At $41 per person, this experience sits at a moderate price point for a seasonal activity in Berlin. When considering what’s included — a scenic cruise, warm drinks, and Christmas treats — many find it offers good value for a relaxed, festive outing. It’s less about a high-energy tour and more about enjoying the atmosphere and views.

Duration and Schedule

The cruise lasts exactly 2 hours, making it manageable even for those with tight schedules. Availability varies depending on the day, so checking the schedule in advance is recommended. The experience is hosted in both German and English, making it accessible for international visitors.

Booking and Cancellation

Reservations can be made with the option to reserve now and pay later — a flexible system that’s handy if your plans are uncertain. Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which provides peace of mind.

Meeting Point and Accessibility

The meeting point is at Schiffbauerdamm 12, near central Berlin, easily accessible by public transport. Since the cruise runs in any weather, there’s no concern about cancellations due to weather — just dress warmly.

What You Should Know Before Going

• The cruise takes place regardless of weather, so bundling up is essential.
• Dogs are welcome onboard, making it a pet-friendly activity.
• The experience is conducted in German and English, accommodating most visitors.
• It’s suitable for small groups, families, or couples.
• You might find that the holiday ambiance makes it feel like a special treat rather than just another sightseeing activity.
• The cruise is a great way to see Berlin’s city lights and festive decorations from a unique vantage point.

The Sum Up

This Weihnachtliche Schifffahrt mit Glühwein offers a warm, scenic way to celebrate Berlin’s holiday season. The combination of beautifully decorated ships, scenic waterway views, and seasonal treats creates a cozy, immersive experience that feels both festive and relaxed. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers seeking a gentle, atmospheric activity that combines sightseeing with seasonal cheer.

While the weather can be unpredictable, the experience’s charm largely depends on dressing warmly and embracing the winter ambiance. It’s a wonderful choice for families, romantic couples, or small groups eager to enjoy Berlin’s Christmas magic from the water.

If you’re after a memorable, picturesque holiday activity that balances comfort, scenic beauty, and seasonal warmth, this cruise is certainly worth considering. It offers a satisfying mix of scenic views, cozy atmosphere, and festive treats—all in a manageable two-hour window.

FAQ

Is the cruise suitable in bad weather? Yes, it runs in all weather conditions, but dressing warmly is necessary to stay comfortable, especially if it’s cold or rainy.

Are drinks included? Yes, the price includes hot Glühwein, coffee, and Christstollen. Other beverages are not included, so you might want to bring additional drinks if desired.

Can I bring my dog? Yes, dogs are allowed onboard, making it a pet-friendly activity.

How long is the cruise? The cruise lasts exactly 2 hours.

Is there an option to cancel? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

What languages are spoken? The tour is hosted in both German and English, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

Where is the meeting point? The departure point is at Schiffbauerdamm 12, near central Berlin and accessible by public transport.

This festive waterway cruise offers a relaxed, scenic escape into Berlin’s holiday spirit. Whether you’re a lover of Christmas markets, scenic views, or simply cozy atmospheres, it’s a delightful way to add a touch of seasonal magic to your Berlin trip.

You can check if your dates are available here: