Wismar: Electric Boat Tour past Whale Island with Poel Stop

Travelers looking for a peaceful yet scenic escape in Northern Germany will find this electric boat tour on the MS Adler nature a refreshing choice. The roughly 2.5-hour cruise combines a laid-back journey through the Bay of Wismar with a brief stopover on Poel Island, offering a nice balance of maritime beauty and relaxed exploration.

What makes this experience stand out is the modern electric boat, which provides a quiet, eco-friendly ride that emphasizes comfort and sustainability. The opportunity to see Whale Island from the water and spend time in the charming village of Kirchdorf on Poel has broad appeal—especially for those who prefer scenic, low-impact excursions over crowded, high-energy activities.

However, some travelers have noted that the limited time on Poel might be a downside if you’re hoping for a full day or more in the area. Also, the reviews suggest that service quality and communication can vary, so managing expectations around onboard amenities and crew friendliness might be wise.

This tour suits nature lovers, eco-conscious travelers, and those eager for a gentle maritime experience with plenty of opportunity for photos, quiet moments, and quick visits to the coast’s highlights.

Key Points

• Eco-friendly Electric Boat: The MS Adler nature operates quietly and sustainably, providing a peaceful cruising experience.
• Beautiful Coastal Views: Pass by prominent sights including Wismar’s port, timber terminal, Walfisch Island, and Poel.
• Short but Sweet Stop: 30-minute stop in Kirchdorf on Poel allows for quick exploration, photos, or a coffee break.
• Authentic Atmosphere: The vessel’s modern design emphasizes comfort and environmental responsibility.
• Varied Reviews: While most praise the scenery and value, some mention inconsistent service and brief stop durations.
• Ideal for Relaxed Sightseeing: This tour is best suited for travelers wanting a gentle, scenic cruise without complex logistics or long commitments.

An Introduction to the Experience

This electric boat tour in Wismar promises a gentle journey through one of Northern Germany’s most picturesque coastlines aboard the new MS Adler nature, which has been in service since April 2024. It’s designed to combine the charm of maritime scenery with the comfort of a modern, environmentally friendly vessel.

The highlight of this cruise is passing Whale Island (Walfischinsel), a small protected area that you’ll enjoy viewing from the water. The tour also includes a 30-minute stop at Poel Island, offering a taste of local village life and scenic views without the need for a full-day commitment.

What we love about this experience is the quiet operation of the electric boat, which means you can relax without the noise or fumes typical of traditional boats. Plus, the trip’s balance of nature, sightseeing, and brief exploration makes it accessible for all ages and activity levels.

One consideration, however, is the short stop at Poel—some might find 30 minutes barely enough to stretch their legs or snap a few photos. Plus, reviews indicate that service and onboard communication can sometimes be inconsistent, so it’s worth preparing for a laid-back, flexible atmosphere rather than polished perfection.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy calm, scenic rides combined with a quick taste of coastal villages, perfect for couples, small groups, or families wanting a relaxed outing with minimal fuss.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Departure from Wismar’s Old Port

You’ll find the boat, the MS Adler nature, waiting at the Old Port of Wismar. The departure is straightforward, with clear signage and usually a friendly crew ready to assist. The boat itself is notable for its modern electric design, promising a smooth and quiet ride.

Cruising the Bay of Wismar

Once underway, you’ll cruise past key landmarks like the overseas port, timber terminal, and Wismar pier, all providing a glimpse into the town’s maritime activity. The views of the coastline are surprisingly varied—think traditional fishing boats, modern cargo ships, and lush coastal vegetation.

The highlight is passing Whale Island, a protected area that’s visible from the water. The calm, unobstructed views of this small island make for great photo opportunities and provide a sense of the region’s natural beauty.

Passing Whale Island

While there’s no landing here, the boat’s position gives an excellent vantage point to appreciate the island’s wild nature and conservation significance. Reviewers mention that the sight of Whale Island is a “scenic highlight”, especially for those interested in natural habitats and coastal ecosystems.

The Poel Stopover

After about an hour of cruising, the boat reaches Kirchdorf on Poel—a charming village known for its fishermen’s cottages, local cafes, and scenic harbor. Here, travelers get a 30-minute window to walk around, take photos, or grab a quick coffee.

One reviewer noted, “The half-hour stop on Poel was perfect for a quick walk, but I wish we had more time,” reflecting that for some, the brief stop feels rushed. The stop is ideal for snapping a few pictures, stretching your legs, or grabbing a snack, but not for extensive exploration.

Return to Wismar

After the stop, the boat heads back to the Old Port, offering a relaxed, scenic return journey. The entire experience lasts around 2.5 hours, a duration that balances sightseeing with comfort.

What You Can Expect Onboard

The MS Adler nature is a standout feature. As a modern electric vessel, it provides a quiet and clean environment, making the ride more peaceful than traditional boats. This is especially appreciated for those sensitive to noise or fumes.

Most travelers find the seating adequate, but some mention that getting a seat for the return journey could be tricky if the boat is crowded. The vessel’s large windows and open deck areas allow for unobstructed views, ideal for photography and sightseeing.

While onboard amenities might be limited (e.g., not much in the way of elaborate snacks or drinks), there is a good selection of beverages, and you’re encouraged to bring your own if desired. Some reviews highlight that service at the bar can be inconsistent, with waits during busy times.

Pricing and Value

At $35 per person, this tour offers a solid value considering the length, scenery, and eco-friendly approach. For those interested in a relaxed, scenic maritime experience with a quick cultural stop, it’s a price point that feels fair.

The inclusion of both a scenic cruise and a short stop means you’re getting a combination of natural beauty and local charm without extra expense or complicated logistics.

Some travelers, however, might question whether the 30-minute stop is enough, especially if they’re keen to explore Poel more deeply. But for a half-day trip, it’s a reasonable compromise that balances sightseeing with comfort.

Reviews in Context

The reviews echo the overall feeling of satisfaction mixed with some useful insights. One traveler noted, “The crew was very friendly,” which enhances the experience, while another mentioned, “The information was unclear,” suggesting that communication could improve.

Service on board appears to be a mixed bag—some found it friendly and efficient, others mentioned waiting for drinks or difficulty securing a seat on the return trip. Price and value are generally appreciated, especially given the quiet, environmentally conscious nature of the boat.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a laid-back maritime outing. It suits travelers who value environmental sustainability, want to enjoy scenic coastal views, and are comfortable with a short stopover rather than a full day in Poel.

It’s also a good choice for families with kids, couples, or small groups looking for a calm, picturesque excursion that doesn’t require extensive planning or physical exertion. If your goal is to see Wismar’s coast from the water without the crowds or noise of larger boats, you’ll find this tour quite satisfying.

Final Thoughts

The Wismar electric boat tour offers a unique blend of scenic cruising, eco-friendly operation, and a brief inland stop that adds a touch of local flavor. While the short time on Poel and occasional service hiccups are worth noting, the experience’s value and tranquility make it a worthwhile addition to any Northern Germany itinerary.

Travelers who enjoy quiet, scenic rides, wildlife views, and coastal villages will likely find this tour a memorable way to explore Wismar’s maritime environment. It’s especially suited for those seeking a low-impact, relaxing adventure with plenty of opportunities for photos and peaceful moments.

If you’re after a gentle introduction to the region’s natural beauty without fuss or fussiness, this cruise on the MS Adler nature should be on your list.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
It costs around $35 per person, which includes the 2.5-hour cruise and the 30-minute stop at Poel.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 2.5 hours—perfect for a relaxed morning or afternoon outing.

Where do I meet the boat?
You’ll find the MS Adler nature at the Old Port of Wismar, with clear signs and usually friendly staff to help you find it.

Is the boat accessible for all?
While specific accessibility details aren’t provided, the boat is modern and designed for comfort, making it suitable for most travelers with normal mobility.

What are the main sights I’ll see?
Expect views of Wismar’s port, timber terminal, Whale Island (no landing), and the charming village of Kirchdorf on Poel.

Can I bring drinks onboard?
Yes, you can bring your own beverages, though onboard service might sometimes be slow or limited according to some reviews.

Is the tour guided?
The tour includes a German live guide, providing some narration during the cruise, which adds context to the sights.

Would this tour suit families?
Absolutely—its gentle pace and scenic focus make it a good choice for families with children, provided they’re comfortable with boat rides.

In sum, if you’re after a calm, environmentally friendly cruise with stunning views and a brief taste of Poel, this tour delivers a lot of value for the price. Just keep expectations in check about the brief stop and service variability, and you’ll be set for a pleasant maritime adventure.