We moved here in the middle of the summer and were looking for spots to explore Strasbourg on the quiet and “hidden” side. The one below is one of them.
France is a popular international destination, and Strasbourg is one of the most visited cities in the county. As a local, I can confirm now that it is a truly interesting place to visit.
Riding an electric boat in Strasbourg with Marin D’Eau Douce or “Freshwater Sailor”
Marin D’Eau Douce boat rental is located in the most charming part of Strasbourg – Petite France or “Little France”. While we saw several times those little white and red boats, we didn’t know it was easy to rent and operate them.
You can choose the duration (from 2 to 6 hours) and the route (“city route” or the “wild side of the city”), pictured below:
We paid 70 euros for 2 hours, and chose the “wild route”. The price depends on the hours in the water, the route we could change at the very last minute.
How did we choose the route? We wanted to see the wild part of the city and spot a beaver (we did!). I also love birds and we saw a lot: herons, swan families, several kinds of ducks, of course :). As well as bridges, etc.
Also, I wasn’t sure about passing the locks on the “city route”. But watching the other day how Marin D’Eau Douce boats were doing that, we will surely try it next time too. (It doesn’t seem like rocket science)
Exploring Strasbourg by license-free boat: what we learned and good to knows
- Getting lost on the water was hard and operating was easy
- Jumping out of the boat and swimming and alcohol consumption are forbidden
- If you are heat intolerant, like me (more than 25C feels like too hot for me) try to sail in the morning
- Water guns, snacks, water, sunscreen, and hats were very useful during hot sunny weather
- Toilets: we used one at the Square Louise-Weiss and at the covered bridge, Barrage Vauban. Both places are very worth visiting even if you don’t need a restroom! 🙂
- We tried similar, license-free boats in Amsterdam and loved them too
Make sure to check out the schedule, fees, and conditions before your visit
Merci beaucoup! – Thank you very much 🙂
– Your Grazy Goat
