Szczecin: Wine tasting cruise

Szczecin’s wine tasting cruise offers a refreshing way to see this port city from a different angle. Instead of just wandering the streets or cruising along the harbor, you get to enjoy a leisurely boat trip along the Odra River, complemented by a tasting of local West Pomeranian wines. This experience is hosted by Odra Queen & Joanna, and it lasts around two hours, making it a perfect short escape whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends.

What immediately stands out about this cruise is the combination of beautiful scenery and regional wine insights. I particularly love how the guide, Marta Sidorkiewicz from the West Pomeranian Winery Association, shares interesting tidbits about the wines from the area — it’s like a mini wine education on the water. Another highlight is the spectacular sunset over Lake Dbie, which makes the entire trip feel like a special occasion.

The only thing to keep in mind is that snacks and additional drinks aren’t included in the ticket price, so if you prefer more than just wine, you’ll need to buy from the on-board bar. But honestly, the price already offers a lot of value — a scenic cruise plus a curated wine tasting — especially if you love discovering regional flavors in a relaxed setting.

Key points / Takeaways

• Stunning Sunset Views: Witness a memorable sunset over Lake Dbie, enhancing the tranquil atmosphere of the cruise.
• Local Wines: Sip on several wines from West Pomeranian vineyards, making it a genuine regional tasting experience.
• Informative Guide: Marta from the West Pomeranian Winery Association offers engaging insights into the region’s wine culture.
• Beautiful Scenery: Enjoy panoramic views of Szczecin’s harbor and the Odra River, perfect for photography and quiet reflection.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind.
• Affordable Luxury: The ticket includes the boat trip and wine tasting, making it a value-packed way to spend an evening.

Exploring Szczecin from the Water: A Detailed Review

The Setting and Itinerary

The journey begins near the Amore Mio restaurant, a convenient starting point that’s easy to find in Szczecin’s lively harbor area. Once aboard the Odra Queen or a similar vessel, you’re greeted with a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for unwinding. The boat meanders along the Odra River, offering a different perspective of Szczecin’s shipyards, cranes, and historic port structures.

As you drift downstream, the guide, Marta, shares stories about the region’s winemaking traditions. This isn’t just about drinking; it’s about understanding how local vineyards thrive in this climate and soil. The cruise then heads toward Lake Dbie, where the sunset becomes the main event. The horizon turns into a canvas of oranges and pinks, and the calm waters mirror the sky beautifully.

The Wine Tasting Experience

Included in your ticket is a tasting of several local wines from West Pomeranian vineyards. While the specific varieties are not listed, the experience provides a chance to taste wines that you might not find outside Poland, making it a genuine regional treat. The guide explains each wine’s background, adding context that enriches the tasting.

Some reviews highlight how much they appreciated the “interesting information about wines from our region,” which makes the experience educational as well as sensory. Sipping wine while feeling the light breeze and watching the sunset creates a peaceful, almost meditative mood.

What’s Not Included

While the wine tasting is part of the experience, snacks and other drinks aren’t included in the ticket price. There’s a bar on the boat where you can purchase additional beverages, which might be worth considering if you’re particularly thirsty or want to nibble on something more substantial. This setup offers flexibility, but it’s worth noting if you’re planning a more elaborate evening.

Meeting Point and Logistics

The cruise starts near the Amore Mio restaurant, which is a central and accessible location. The activity ends back at the same spot, making logistics straightforward. The duration of approximately two hours is ideal for those with limited time but still wanting to enjoy a relaxed, scenic experience.

Booking flexibility is a plus — you can reserve now and pay later, or cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. That’s a practical feature for travelers uncertain about their plans.

Who Will Love This

This cruise is perfect for wine enthusiasts eager to taste regional wines in a unique setting. It also appeals to scenic lovers, especially those who enjoy watching sunsets. If you’re traveling with a partner or friends, it’s a charming way to unwind after a day of sightseeing with an intimate, relaxed atmosphere. It’s also wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for more travelers.

Value and Practical Tips

Considering the price includes a scenic boat trip plus several local wines, it’s a good value for a short, memorable experience. If you’re curious about Polish wines or simply want a peaceful way to enjoy Szczecin from the water, this cruise checks many boxes.

A helpful tip: arrive a little early to find a good spot on the boat, as it can fill up, especially during sunset times. Bring your camera — the views are picturesque. And if you’d like more variety, plan to buy snacks or additional drinks from the bar during the cruise.

Who Should Consider This Experience

This wine tasting cruise suits travelers who appreciate scenic views, enjoy relaxed, social experiences, and are curious about regional wines. It’s a nice choice if you want a break from city walking tours or prefer a more intimate, less crowded activity. If you’re traveling with someone special or a small group of friends, it offers a cozy setting to connect over good wine and great scenery.

It’s less ideal for those seeking a structured wine tour or a lengthy tasting, but for a two-hour escape on the water, it delivers solid value and a memorable sunset.

Final Thoughts

The Szczecin wine tasting cruise offers a relaxing, authentic way to explore the city’s waters while discovering local wines. The combination of stunning sunsets, informative guidance, and beautiful river views makes it a standout experience for anyone looking to combine scenic beauty with regional flavor.

It’s especially well-suited for travelers who enjoy gentle outings, intimate atmospheres, and learning about local specialties in a casual environment. The flexible booking options and reasonably priced ticket make it accessible and low-stress — perfect for a spontaneous evening or a planned treat.

If you enjoy peaceful boat rides, scenic sunsets, and regional wines, this cruise deserves a spot on your Szczecin itinerary.

FAQ

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise lasts approximately two hours, providing a relaxing window to enjoy the scenery and wine tasting.

Where does the cruise start and end?
It begins near the Amore Mio restaurant and returns to the same location, making logistics simple and convenient.

Are snacks included?
No, snacks and additional drinks are not included. There is a bar on board where you can purchase extra refreshments.

Is the cruise accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

Is the experience suitable for groups?
Absolutely — it’s ideal for small groups, couples, or solo travelers seeking a peaceful, scenic activity.

Do I need to speak Polish?
The tour guide conducts the cruise in Polish, so some familiarity with the language might help, but the experience is primarily visual and sensory.

What is the best time to go?
The sunset views are the highlight, so sunset cruises are most popular. Check availability for specific times during your travel dates.

This Szczecin wine tasting cruise offers a pleasing blend of scenic beauty, regional wines, and relaxed atmosphere. Whether you’re a wine lover or just seeking a peaceful way to enjoy Szczecin’s waterways, it’s a memorable choice.