Berlin by Boat

Even with Berlin’s wonderful transportation options, the city can be a monster to traverse. Walking is inevitable no matter your mode of transport, a fact that becomes abundantly clear every time my parents are in town. They bravely put on their walking shoes, but a jaunt between major attractions can rack up quite the miles (or kilometers if you're being European about it).

Luckily, there is an easier way to check out Berlin's top sites and save your parent's feet/sanity. We joined one of the popular boat tours with a departure point around Berliner Dom to get a fresh perspective on Berlin's most impressive tourist sites.

Express Berlin Cruise

The express cruise around Museuminsel and Mitte proved the perfect cure for my parent's tired feet. Inexpensive, easy to hop on and at just an hour ride time - this is the best way to get a brief overview of must-sees in Berlin. Or - in our case - see some of our favorites once again.

The city looks so different from the water. The bustle feels far removed and it is quiet on the boat, even with the squawking of the audio system. Though the information provided is presented in a theatrical manner, I quickly lost interest in the audio tour as I juggled my camera and just watched the city pass by. Kids sat on the edge, swinging their legs above the water; couples danced and dined at the outside bars; and small groups of black-clad teenagers congregated beneath the bridges. It was a passing glance at all the people who call Berlin home

This is one of the last things we did with my parents before they once again returned to the States. They have been good enough to visit our adopted city three times, and though initially hesitant, I think they've grown to love it. It makes parting a little easier, knowing they approve of where we are in life figuratively and literally. But just a little.

Prices, other boating options in Berlin and tips:
gogermany.about.com - Cruise Berlin

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