Best Boat Tours in Ghent, Belgium: Which One Is Best for Your Trip?
Wondering if a boat tour in Ghent is worth it? Here’s how to choose the best Ghent boat trip for your visit, from classic medieval cruises to the hop-on hop-off water-tramways and even a Brussels day trip option—from someone who’s been to Ghent twice.
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If there’s one thing that makes Ghent feel like Ghent, it’s its canals.
Rather than sitting politely on the edge of the city, Ghent’s charming canals run right through it.
Past Graslei and Korenlei, beneath low bridges, beside old guild houses and towards medieval views that are bound to make you ooh-and-ahh, perhaps simultaneously.
I’ve been to Ghent twice now, and even when I wasn’t on a boat, the boat tours became a huge part of how I experienced the city, including sitting with a matcha at Ludo Kafe and a good book while Ghent boat tours drifted past outside. Highly recommend.
So if you’re asking whether a boat tour in Ghent is worth it, I’d say yes, especially on a first trip.
You’ll get to discover Ghent from the angle the city was built around, and it’s one of the easiest ways to give your feet a break in the city without stopping the sightseeing altogether.
The only catch is choosing one. A lot of Ghent boat trips sound similar when you’re booking, but they’re not all useful for the same kind of day.
One is the best all-round boat tour. One is better if you’re short on time. One is closer to transport. One only makes sense if you’re travelling from Brussels.
So without further ado, here’s all you need to know about which Ghent boat tour I’d book, when I’d book it and how I’d fit it into your Ghent trip.
Shall we?
About the Author
Hi, I’m Candace — a London-based travel writer and content creator who traded the East Coast of the US for the charm of the UK back in 2016. London’s been my home ever since.
On this blog, you’ll find hundreds of thoughtfully crafted London, UK, Europe and Worldwide travel guides alongside lots of insider London tips, honest hotel and restaurant reviews and advice for content creators.
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🗞️📺 As featured on the BBC, USA Today & Recipe.TV.
Quick Overview: The Best Ghent Boat Tours
50-minute medieval centre guided boat trip
| Boat tour | Best for | Length | What to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50-minute medieval centre guided boat trip | Best all-round boat tour in Ghent | 50 minutes | My top pick for a first visit; a classic canal route through the medieval city centre |
| 40-minute medieval centre guided boat tour | A shorter classic canal tour | 40 minutes | Good if timing matters more than getting the longest central route (e.g. you’re in Ghent for one day) |
| Hop-on hop-off water-tramway | Seeing Ghent by boat and on foot | Valid for the day | Better for moving between stops in Ghent than for one neat sightseeing loop |
| Bruges and Ghent day trip from Brussels with cruise | Brussels-based travellers | 10 hours | Includes a trip to Bruges, chocolate tasting and a scenic Ghent canal cruise |
| Minerva Boat Company | Private or sail-yourself boat hire | Varies | Best for groups, second visits or a slower independent day on the water in Ghent |
Book Your Ghent Trip
Where I recommend staying: For your trip, I’d stay at the stylish and central NH Collection Gent (Ghent), right next to the historic centre. You can also compare more hotels in Ghent here.
Getting to Ghent: Compare train times and prices for Brussels to Ghent, Bruges to Ghent and Antwerp to Ghent, plus Eurostar and onward train connections from London, Paris and Amsterdam.
The tour I’d book for a first trip: I’d choose this 50-minute guided boat trip. It’s scenic, packed with history and short enough that you’ll still have most of the day to explore on foot.
Visiting from Brussels and want to see Bruges too? I’d choose this full-day Bruges and Ghent tour, which includes a guided walk and free time in both cities, plus the option of a canal cruise in Ghent. It’s a packed day, but a useful one when your Belgium itinerary is tight and you’d rather leave the transport, timings and city introductions to someone else.
For food lovers: I’d book this 2.5-hour Ghent food tour. It pairs five local tastings at independent food stops with a walk through the city, so you’ll get plenty of Ghent history along the way too.
Stay connected: Set up your Europe eSIM before your trip. It takes less than five minutes, and you’ll have mobile data ready to use when you arrive.
For extra peace of mind: Take a look at SafetyWing’s travel medical insurance before your trip (it’s the one I personally use and recommend).
1. 50-Minute Medieval Centre Guided Boat Trip: Best Overall Boat Tour in Ghent
50-minute medieval centre guided boat trip
Best for: first-time visitors, classic Ghent views, live commentary and an easy boat trip through the medieval city centre.
If you only book one boat tour in Ghent, I’d make it this 50-minute medieval centre guided boat trip.
It’s the most straightforward choice: long enough to feel worthwhile, short enough to fit into a busy one-day Ghent itinerary, and focused on the part of the city most visitors are already there to see (we’re the visitors…).
The route usually takes you past Graslei and Korenlei, St Nicholas’ Church, the Ghent Belfry, St Bavo’s Cathedral, the old guild houses and Gravensteen Castle.
In other words: the very central, very medieval, very “oh, okay, I get why people love Ghent” version of the city.
It comes with a live guide and is offered in Dutch, English and French, with frequent departures in the main season (April 1 to October 31).
The route is beautiful and the guides are particularly funny and knowledgeable on this one—just bear in mind it can be harder to hear from the back—so get there early for a front seat!
My verdict: book this one if you want the best Ghent boat tour for a first visit.
2. 40-Minute Medieval Centre Guided Boat Tour: Best Short Ghent Canal Tour
40-minute medieval centre guided boat tour
Best for: a shorter canal tour and a quick introduction to the city, perfect if you’re just spending one day in Ghent.
This 40-minute medieval centre guided boat tour is the slightly shorter version of the classic Ghent boat trip.
You’ll still get the core city-centre water views, including the old harbour, the three towers, historic façades and Gravensteen Castle (plus it starts near Korenlei and Graslei, so easy to include in the middle of your sightseeing day).
It’s very good value (see latest prices) with friendly multilingual guides, and plenty of history along the way.
My verdict: book this one if timing matters a bit more than getting the longest classic route for your Ghent trip.
3. Hop-On Hop-Off Water-Tramway: Best for Seeing Ghent by Boat and on Foot
Hop-on hop-off water-tramway, Ghent
Best for: travellers who want to combine a boat ride with walking around Ghent and stopping throughout the city.
The hop-on hop-off water-tramway is great if you want to see Ghent by the water as part of your entire trip.
Instead of doing one guided loop through the medieval centre, you’ll get a day ticket and can use the boat between several stops, including Gravensteen Castle, Korenlei and Graslei, the museum area, the cathedral area, the shopping stretch around Veldstraat and stops beyond the most photographed centre.
It also comes with an audio-guide and walking routes to follow for your trip, so it’s a much better option if you want to discover Ghent slowly across the day rather than simply sit down for one guided boat tour.
Just be sure to keep the timetable in mind for your trip (below!):
My verdict: book this one if you’re more keen to see Ghent by the water independently and as part of getting place-to-place.
4. Bruges and Ghent Day Trip from Brussels with Cruise: Best If You’re Based in Brussels
Bruges and Ghent day trip from Brussels with a cruise and chocolate tasting
Best for: If you’re staying in Brussels and want Bruges, Ghent, chocolate and a canal cruise in one day, with everything handled for you.
If you’re not staying overnight in Ghent, this Bruges and Ghent day trip from Brussels with a cruise and chocolate tasting is the easiest choice I’d recommend for your trip.
It’s a full 10-hour day, with coach transport from Brussels, time in Bruges, a chocolate tasting, a guided city tour in Ghent and a scenic Ghent canal cruise included.
So less of “just” a boat tour, but a full Belgian day trip with the boat trip built in.
Would I choose this if I were already sleeping in Ghent? No. I’d book the 50-minute medieval centre guided boat trip and spend the rest of the day at my own pace.
But if you’re in Brussels and want to see both cities without planning train timings, walking routes and separate activities yourself, this is the more practical option.
My verdict: book this only if Brussels is your base and you want to see Bruges and Ghent on the same day.
Read More: Brussels to Ghent by Train: My Experience, Ticket Tips & Day Trip Guide
Read More: Bruges and Ghent Itinerary: How to Visit Both in One Belgium Trip
What About a Private Boat Tour in Ghent?
For a private boat tour in Ghent, I’d have a look at Minerva Boat Company.
This is the best one if you want to hire a boat yourself in Ghent, or are keen on a private, longer and slower day with friends on the canal.
It’s not the same mood as joining a classic guided city-centre boat tour with commentary, but it is much more independent, and better if you already know you want the boat itself to be the activity.
For a first trip, I’d still start with a guided tour so you get the city info, history and context as you go. But for a second visit, a group trip or a relaxed sunny afternoon? A private or sail-yourself boat in Ghent could be lovely.
P.S. – You don’t need a boat licence to hire one! Make sure you book in advance.
Where Do Ghent Boat Tours Leave From?
Most classic boat tours in Ghent leave from the historic centre, around Graslei and Korenlei or near Gravensteen Castle.
This means you’ll already be close to the main sights. You can walk from St Michael’s Bridge to the water, take the tour, then carry on towards St Bavo’s Cathedral, the Ghent Belfry or the cafés and food stops around Kraanlei.
P.S. – For a full route around the city before or after your boat trip, read my one-day Ghent itinerary or two-day Ghent itinerary.
My Top Tips Before Booking a Ghent Boat Tour
50-minute medieval centre guided boat trip
- Sit near the guide if commentary matters to you. As the audio on Ghent boat tours can be harder to hear from the back.
- Bring a layer. Even on a nice day, sitting still on the water can feel cooler than walking around the city.
- Don’t panic if it rains. Most Ghent boat trips still run rain or shine, unless it’s absolutely pouring.
- Book earlier on a busy weekend. Ghent is compact, and the most convenient time slots can go quickly in good weather.
- Pair it with a café or lunch stop. I’d do a boat trip, then wander towards one of my favourite cafés in Ghent or pick somewhere around Graslei and Korenlei.
Where to Stay Near Ghent Boat Tours
If you want the easiest boat-tour location, I’d stay in the historic centre.
My top pick is NH Collection Gent, because it keeps you close to the main sights, cafés, restaurants and canal-side boarding areas without making the trip feel like a logistical nightmare.
It also works well if you’re planning to combine a boat trip with Gravensteen Castle, St Michael’s Bridge and the central walking route around Sint-Baafsplein.
P.S. – For more options, read my where to stay in Ghent guide.
Final Thoughts on Taking a Boat Tour in Ghent
For a first visit, I’d book the 50-minute Ghent boat tour. It’s easy, affordable, central and gives you the medieval city from its most flattering angle.
If you’re short on time, the 40-minute version still does the job. If you want to use the water as transport across the day, choose the hop-on hop-off water-tramway. And if you’re based in Brussels, the Bruges and Ghent day trip with a cruise makes the most sense.
Either way, try to see Ghent from the water at least once, and don’t forget to snap a photo or two!
Have the best trip to Ghent.
Happy travels,
Candace x
FAQ: Boat Tours in Ghent
Is a Ghent Boat Tour Worth It?
Yes, a Ghent boat tour is worth it on a first trip. The city was built around the water, and a boat trip gives you views of the medieval harbour, guild houses, churches and Gravensteen Castle without adding another long walk to your day.
What Is the Best Ghent Boat Tour?
For most first-time visitors, the best Ghent boat tour is the 50-minute medieval centre guided boat trip. It covers the classic central sights, has live commentary and is easy to fit into a one-day or weekend itinerary.
When Is the Main Boat Season in Ghent?
The main boat season in Ghent usually runs from April 1 to October 31. During this period, the classic Ghent boat tours run a lot more frequently. From November 1 to March 31, tours may still run, but usually with shorter hours and fewer departures.
How Much Is a Boat Tour in Ghent?
Most classic Ghent boat tours start from around €11 per person on the booking pages, while the hop-on hop-off water-tramway starts from around €18. Prices can also change by date, season and availability, so be sure to check the latest before your trip.
Can You Do a Ghent Boat Tour in English?
Yes. Most Ghent boat tours offer English commentary or audio guides, including the classic guided boat trips through the medieval centre. But always check the language listed for your chosen time slot before booking.
Where Is the Ghent Boat Tour Location?
Most Ghent boat tour locations are in the historic centre, especially around Graslei and Korenlei or near Gravensteen Castle. Just bear in mind different companies use different jetties.
Is There a Private Boat Tour in Ghent?
Yes. If you want a private boat tour in Ghent or a sail-yourself option, look at Minerva Boat Company. For a first visit, I’d usually choose a guided tour first, then save a private or self-drive boat for a slower second trip or group visit.
Can You Do a Ghent Boat Tour at Night?
Yes, but night boat tours in Ghent are more date-dependent than the standard daytime canal tours. If you specifically want an evening boat tour, check Gent Watertoerist, as they offer evening tours as well as daytime boat trips. Just bear in mind they’re more limited and seasonal!
Should You Do a Boat Tour in Bruges or Ghent?
Both are lovely, but as someone who’s visited Bruges and Ghent, they feel different. A boat tour in Bruges (this is the one I took) is more postcard-pretty and compact, while a boat tour in Ghent gives you medieval harbour views, churches, guild houses and a huge castle right in the city centre.
Can You Take a Boat Tour in Ghent from Brussels?
Yes, but it usually makes more sense as part of a full day trip. This Bruges and Ghent day trip from Brussels includes a Ghent canal cruise, transport, Bruges, chocolate tasting and free time, so it works better if Brussels is your base.
Plan the rest of your Ghent trip
Still planning? Here’s more of my Ghent guides to help you decide where to stay, what to book and how to make the most of your trip.
Before you book
- Is Ghent Worth Visiting? My Honest Review After Visiting
- Bruges or Ghent? My Honest Comparison After Visiting Both
Ghent itineraries
- One Day in Ghent: My Perfect Ghent Day Trip Itinerary
- My Ghent Weekend Itinerary: How I’d Spend 2 Days in the City
- Brussels to Ghent by Train: My Experience, Ticket Tips & Day Trip Guide
- Bruges and Ghent Itinerary: How to Visit Both in One Belgium Trip
Where to stay and what to book
- The Best Places to Stay in Ghent, Belgium: My Favourite Areas & Hotels for a First Trip
- Gravensteen Castle Ghent: Tickets, Tips & What to Expect
- Best Boat Tours in Ghent, Belgium: My Honest Guide to Choosing the Best One for Your Trip
What to do and where to eat
- The Best Things to Do in Ghent, Belgium: My Favourite Sights, Food Stops & Local Gems
- Unusual Things to Do in Ghent, Belgium: My Favourite Finds
- Free Things to Do in Ghent, Belgium: My Favourite Sights & Local Finds
- 5 of the Best Restaurants in Ghent, Belgium: My Favourite Places to Eat
- Ghent Cafés: My Favourite 7 from My Trip
- 5 Best Chocolate Shops in Ghent, Belgium: My Favourite Finds
