Boat trip in Colmar – Notice on the boat in the Little Venice

My thoughts on the boat ride in Colmar

Boarding at Pont Saint-Pierre – Departure with Sweet Narcisse

I chose to test the boat ride in Colmar with Sweet Narcisse, which I recommend. The walk takes place on the Lauch, the name of the river that crosses Colmar, starting from the Pont Saint-Pierre in Little Venice.

💡 Local tip: During peak season and when the weather is nice, spots fill up fast. I recommend booking directly with Sweet Narcisse—by phone or through their website—rather than trying your luck when you get there.

The Electric Flat-Bottomed Boat – A Market Gardening Tradition

Here I am, sitting in an electric flat-bottomed boat, just like a tourist passing through Colmar. You have to know how to be a tourist in your own region—it’s really nice! These uniquely shaped boats were originally used by market gardeners to transport their vegetables to the market.

💡 Local tip: The boatman keeps his comments to a minimum as he passes through the Maraîchers residential neighborhood, out of respect for the residents. Take this opportunity to enjoy the silence—it’s a pleasant moment, too.

The Boat Tour – Little Venice and the Maraîchers Neighborhood

The boat trip takes us through different parts of Colmar. The famous Little Venice, of course, but also the residential district of Les Maraîchers, where vegetables used to come from, before returning to the city center to Les Halles, which still houses a covered market where I also recommend you to go.

The boat glides slowly on the water, letting us admire the landscape: half-timbered houses and green nature are there. The atmosphere is peaceful, it is very pleasant. Throughout the boat ride, the boatman gives us explanations on the history of Colmar.

💡 Local tip: Once you get off the bus, head over to the nearby covered market —it’s the perfect opportunity to extend your stroll with a tasty break.

How long does the boat ride in Colmar last?

Don’t expect a long ride—there aren’t enough canals in Colmar for that. After 25 minutes, we’re back at the dock. It’s quick, but I really enjoyed the ride, which lets you see the city of Colmar from a different perspective.

What You Need to Know About the Boat Ride in Colmar

• The tour starts on Rue de la Herse, at the foot of the Pont Saint-Pierre, with Sweet Narcisse
• The walk takes about 25 minutes and takes you through Petite Venise and the Maraîchers neighborhood
• Book in advance during peak season—spots fill up fast
• It’s a tourist attraction, no doubt, but it’s definitely worth a visit to see Colmar from a different perspective

Want to keep exploring the city? Check out my guide to the 12 must-do things in Colmar.

How to Get to the Pier – On Foot, by Bus, or by Car

• 🚶 On foot: From the Koïfhus or the covered market, it’s just a few minutes’ walk along the Quai de la Poissonnerie to the Pont Saint-Pierre.
• 🚌 By bus: Colmar’s TRACE bus network serves the area, with a “Marché Couvert” stop just a few minutes’ walk from the pier.
• 🚗 By car: Parking in the Petite Venise neighborhood is limited. I recommend parking at the Rapp parking garage—one of the closest ones within walking distance—rather than trying to find a spot on the street.

FAQ – Your Questions About the Boat Ride in Colmar