Discover Leipzig from a completely new perspective – as you meander through the intricate system of natural rivers and man-made canals. Explore the idyllic floodplain forest or marvel at the impressive industrial architecture, especially in the districts of Plagwitz, Lindenau and Schleußig, on a boat trip on the White Elster and the Karl Heine Canal.
Gateway to the New Lakeland
Leipzig city harbour is just a short walk from the city centre and offers a wide range of boats for you to explore the city’s waterways. You are sure to find the perfect mode of transport, whether you are looking for a kayak, canoe or bicycle. There are also guided canoe, stand-up paddleboard and dragon boat tours.
Fascinating stories
On the White Elster and the Karl Heine Canal, experienced boatmen from the Klingerweg boat hire service will tell you fascinating stories. Get to know the different facets of the city on a guided motorboat trip, on a canoe tour, a trip in a 10-person canoe or in a dragon boat.
Explore Leipzig’s river landscape
You can expect equally exciting background information on Leipzig’s sights and famous personalities during a guided motorboat tour by the family-run company Bootsverleih Herold. As well as the 70-minute motorboat tour, you can also explore Leipzig’s waterways on your own in a rowing boat, kayak or canoe.
The grande dame
The grande dame of Leipzig’s waterways, the MS Weltfrieden, has been sailing in the Leipzig region since 1945. Take a relaxed 80-minute tour of the industrial architecture of western Leipzig.
When the sun finally set on the era of lignite mining, the local landscape took on a whole new look. With a total area of 7,000 hectares spread over 20 lakes, Leipzig’s New Lakeland is now a major feature of the Leipzig region. Boating is a great way to explore the varied lake scenery. It is connected by rivers and canals to the centre of Leipzig.
Passenger boat service in Leipzig’s New Lakeland
The passenger boat service in Leipzig’s New Lakeland region offers regular, round and special trips on Lake Markkleeberg and Lake Störmthal to the south. Unique attractions include the Mining Technology Park and VINETA, a floating island venue.
MS Santa Barbara
If you don’t want to paddle, sail or steer yourself, you can also cast off on board the MS Santa Barbara. During tours on Lake Zwenkau, the captain gives an unbeatable insight into the development of the lake and the history of the former open-cast mine. Up to 90 people can enjoy the unique open-air experience of the one-hour cruise on the foredeck, sun deck and aft deck. The main deck (max. 60 people) can be used all year round, regardless of the weather.
MS Cospuden
The MS Cospuden is also a great way to explore Leipzig’s New Lakeland. Feel the fresh lake air on a 70-minute cruise on Lake Cospuden. The maximum capacity on board is 75 people, 40 of whom can be sheltered from the elements below deck.