Boat trip on the Brussels canal

This Summer, we’ve had the opportunity to discover the boat trips offered by Rivertours and cruise over the Brussels canal, which was first dug in 1561. Although the Brussels canal area is still in full redevelopment, it is interesting to see the city from a completely different perspective. Drifting on a water surface and sunbathing on the deck is a nice and relaxing activity, especially when combined with a refreshing drink. (Did anyone say bubbles?) If you’re looking for fun Summer activities in Brussels, check out these canal cruises. But first, read on below!

Brussels by Water

Brussels by Water is part of Rivertours, an organization that focuses on promoting tourism along the Belgian waterways, banks and shores They sail their boats along nature reserves, idyllic places along the river shores, new construction projects.... As you can guess from the name, Brussels By Water offers boat rides… in Brussels. They have different formulas that appeal to different audiences and create unique experiences on the Brussels canal.

Apero Cruise

This canal cruise takes place in the evening and starts at 7PM. Upon boarding, each passenger receives a free glass of bubbles. Once everyone is comfortably installed on the outdoor deck or in the sheltered area inside, the boat sets off in the direction of Vilvoorde. While enjoying a drink and catching up with your friends, you’ll explore the fully-developing area between Brussels and Vilvoorde. On this boat trip, you’ll drift along iconic landmarks like Tour & Taxis, Upsite, Docks, the Van Praet bridge, the Brussels maritime port… Just before the iconic Europe bridge of Vilvoorde, the boat makes a U-turn and embarks on its return journey. That doesn’t mean you’ve seen everything. Around this time, the sun will start to set, which sheds a completely different light on the area you’ve just explored while adding a touch of romance. The tour includes one free drink, but you’re welcome to order more at the bar whenever you like. They also cater a selection a snacks and cold platters if you’re hungry.

Sunday Cruise & Brunch

The itinerary of the Sunday Cruise & Brunch is identical to the Apero Cruise. What’s different though, is that apart from receiving a glass of bubbles, you’ll be offered an all-you-can eat brunch on board. While cruising over the Brussels canal, you can help yourself from the brunch buffet consisting of fresh bread, croissants, pains au chocolat, muesli, yoghurt, fruit salad, scrambled eggs, bacon, sausages… Apart from the these classical breakfast options, they also cater pasta salads, vegetables salads, tomate-crevette, salmons rolls… You won’t leave the boat hungry. During the boat trip, a guide will also point out the different landmarks while explaining the history of the Brussels canal.

Other cruises

Although I haven’t tried the other cruises myself, Brussels By Water also organizes various boat tours in and around Brussels as well as a ‘water bus’ service between Brussels and Vilvoorde. When they’re returning the boat to Anderlecht, you can even board for free with your bike and return to the center cycling back along the Brussels Canal. Brussels By Water is constantly reinventing itself by launching new ideas. I’m already looking forwarted to their program of next Summer!

Practical information

• More information on the website of Brussels By Water or on their Facebook page.
• The price per person for an apero cruise is 13 euro and includes a free drink. The cruise departs at 19h30 for a 2-hour canal cruise. The price for the Sunday Cruise and Brunch is 29 euro per person and includes a glass of bubbles and an all-you-can-eat brunch buffet. The cruise departs at 10am for a 3-hour canal cruise.
• Make sure to book your boat trip beforehand as places are limited.

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