Some places are best seen from the water. These top boat travel destinations range from Berlin's own lakes to island-hopping in the Mediterranean, and each comes with an honest note on who it suits. Use them as inspiration for your next boating vacation.
How to choose a boating destination
The "best" place depends on three things: your boat (its range, draft and comfort), your experience and the season. A destination that is perfect for an experienced sailing crew can be stressful for a family on their first charter. If you are just starting out, read our step-by-step guide to choosing your first destinations with a new boat, and brush up on boat safety basics before you go.
Berlin and Brandenburg waterways
Home turf for Making Friends Tour. Berlin is criss-crossed by the Spree and the Havel, with canals running through the city centre and large lakes such as the Wannsee, Müggelsee and Tegeler See on its edges. A single day can take you past city landmarks in the morning and to a quiet swimming spot by the afternoon.
- Best for: day trips, first-time boaters, groups of friends.
- Good to know: waterways are shared with passenger ships and commercial traffic, and there are locks to navigate — check rules and opening times before you set off.
Mecklenburg Lake District
North of Berlin, the Mecklenburgische Seenplatte is a network of hundreds of lakes linked by rivers and canals, centred on the Müritz, the largest lake entirely within Germany. Houseboat holidays are popular here, and some areas allow certain charter boats to be driven without a full licence after instruction from the charter company.
- Best for: relaxed houseboat holidays, families, nature lovers.
- Good to know: book early for summer; speeds are low, so plan short daily distances.
Germany's Baltic coast
For a step up to open water, the Baltic coast offers harbour towns, sandy beaches and islands such as Rügen. Sheltered lagoon-like waters (the Bodden) are a gentler introduction than the open sea. Conditions can change quickly, so this is a destination for skippers with some experience or for skippered trips.
- Best for: sailors building coastal experience, harbour-hopping.
- Good to know: check marine forecasts carefully and plan routes with sheltered alternatives.
Croatia's Adriatic coast
With more than a thousand islands, the Croatian coast is one of Europe's classic sailing grounds. Short distances between islands, plenty of marinas and anchorages, and lively harbour towns make it ideal for island-hopping with friends.
- Best for: sailing holidays, flotillas, groups who like a social evening in port.
- Good to know: charters usually require a recognised licence and radio certificate — or you can hire a skipper. Popular bays fill up in high summer.
The Greek islands
The Ionian islands on Greece's west coast are known for comparatively gentle summer conditions, while the Cyclades in the Aegean are famous for strong seasonal winds that suit experienced crews. Either way, you get clear water, small harbours and long dinners by the quay.
- Best for: Ionian — relaxed cruising; Aegean — experienced sailors who want a challenge.
- Good to know: research the summer wind patterns for each island group before choosing.
Quick comparison
| Destination | Waters | Suits |
|---|---|---|
| Berlin & Brandenburg | Rivers, canals, lakes | Beginners, day trips |
| Mecklenburg Lake District | Connected lakes | Houseboats, families |
| Baltic coast | Lagoons, coastal sea | Developing skippers |
| Croatia | Island coast | Sailing groups, flotillas |
| Greek islands | Island seas | Relaxed to experienced crews |
Wherever you go, a little planning makes the trip: get your boat ready, check what's on at local regattas and boat shows, and ask us about package deals and restaurants by the marina.