Cruise across seven of Berlin’s most beautiful lakes on a private boat tour that combines peaceful nature with rich, hidden history. This six-hour journey unveils Berlin’s green side alongside iconic Cold War landmarks.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
6 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required beyond boarding and moving on boat.
Wildlife
History
The Glienicke Bridge earned its nickname “Spy Bridge” as a Cold War exchange point for captured agents between East and West Germany.
Conservation
Efforts in this lake region focus on preserving water quality and protecting native species amid urban expansion, maintaining a vital green corridor for Berlin.
A Friend in Berlin
Cruise across seven of Berlin’s most beautiful lakes on a private boat tour that combines peaceful nature with rich, hidden history. This six-hour journey unveils Berlin’s green side alongside iconic Cold War landmarks.
A Friend in Berlin is a local tour provider based in Berlin offering private, customizable tours and multi-day trips across Germany. The company specializes in shore excursions with transfers from cruise ships, private walking tours of Berlin, and driving tours ranging from three hours to full-day itineraries. Guides lead focused experiences such as a World War II walking tour beginning at Potsdamer Platz, themed drives that explore Jewish history or architecture, and a seven-lake private boat tour that visits the Wannsee Villa and the so-called "Spy Bridge."
Day trips and longer itineraries include a six-hour transfer to Potsdam to visit Sanssouci Park and Glienicke Bridge, a full-day excursion to Meissen and Dresden with time in Meissen's Old Town and the Dresden Frauenkirche, and an 11-day Germany trip that starts in Berlin and includes Potsdam, Neuschwanstein Castle, and Munich's Hofbräuhaus. Many experiences are private and can be customized for interests, language, and pace. Selected driving tours offer guides in English, German, or Spanish.
A Friend in Berlin highlights private transfers, expert local guides, and flexible itineraries that allow travelers to prioritize memory-making experiences. The provider works with cruise passengers, independent travelers, and groups seeking curated access to Berlin's landmarks—Brandenburg Gate, Reichstag, Checkpoint Charlie, Holocaust Memorial—and to surrounding destinations in Brandenburg and beyond. Booking is arranged per tour with clear meeting points, private vehicle options for driving and shore transfer programs for cruise passengers, and flexible start times to fit arrival schedules and group needs. Reservations are confirmed in advance and documented.
Tours Offered
11
Variety of private and day trips
Private Tours
Available
Custom groups and solo travelers
Boat Tours
7-lake tour
Private lake cruise with swim option
Language Options
EN / DE / ES
Guides in English, German, Spanish on selected tours
Reserve guided shore excursions, walking tours, driving tours and multi-day trips — customizable for groups, families, and cruise passengers.
Bring swimwear and towel
Weather permitting, you can take a refreshing swim in the lakes—be ready with your swimsuit and towel.
Dress in layers
Boat temperatures can vary; wear layers to stay comfortable throughout the six-hour tour.
Book private groups up to 8
The boat fits up to 8 people; larger groups should contact the company directly for options.
Bring camera with a zoom lens
You’ll want a zoom to capture detailed shots of distant landmarks like Glienicke Bridge and Wannsee Villa.
Swimsuit
For taking a dip in the lakes when weather permits.
summer
Layered clothing
To stay comfortable during varying boat temperatures and outdoor conditions.
Sunscreen
Protect exposed skin during sunny stretches on the water.
spring|summer|fall
Camera with zoom lens
Capture detailed shots of distant historical landmarks and natural beauty.