For a different view of Gothenburg's canals, a self-drive electric boat puts you at the helm. No licence is needed for these small, quiet craft, which carry a group around the moat waterways at walking pace. A short briefing at the start explains the controls and the route, and then you are free to cruise past the old fortification walls, the leafy Garden Society edge and the bridges that the larger boats pass under only with a duck. The boats are quiet and emission-free, and many groups bring a picnic and a drink to enjoy on board. It suits friends, families with older children and couples who like to do things themselves. The experience runs in the warmer months and depends on the weather.
Safety and ease are well covered. Life jackets are provided, the speed is limited and staff explain the rules of the canal, such as which side to keep to and how to approach bridges. The boats have seating around a central table, a small canopy in some models and room for a cooler bag. The route is short but you can circle at will, and the pace invites conversation.
Plan your time of day. Mid-afternoon in summer can be busy with other boats, while mornings and early evenings are calmer and the light is lovely on the old stone. Bring layers, sunscreen and a hat, as the open water exposes you to sun and wind. Food and drinks can be brought on board in most cases, but check the rules about alcohol and glass.
Compare it with the Paddan
Paddan gives you a guide and commentary and a broader route, while the electric boat gives you freedom and a private feel. For a first-day orientation the Paddan is better; for a relaxed second outing with friends, the electric boat is fun. Group size limits apply, so book ahead, especially for weekends. Check cancellation terms for bad weather, and arrive a little early for the briefing. Younger children may need an adult at the helm, and age rules apply.
A few practical tips will improve the outing. Arrive fifteen minutes early so you can sign in, put on life jackets and receive the briefing without rushing, and so you can choose your seat. Keep to the right when passing other boats, slow down near bridges and follow staff instructions about the route and the time limit.
Make a plan for the group
One person steers while others navigate and take photographs, then swap halfway. A small cooler with drinks and snacks makes the trip feel like a floating picnic, though glass bottles are usually discouraged, so pack plastic or cans.
Wear non-slip shoes and bring a hat and sunscreen in summer, or a windproof jacket in spring and autumn. If you want a bigger group experience, ask about boats that carry more people, and note that child age limits apply. After the cruise, you can walk to a cafe by the canal to dry off and swap stories. If the weather looks uncertain, check the cancellation policy and consider a flexible booking, so you can switch to the guided Paddan if conditions change.
What to expect
The experience
A small self-drive electric boat for a group on the city canals, after a short safety briefing.
Best time
Mornings or early evenings in the warmer months.
How long
One to two hours.
Tips
Bring layers and a picnic, arrive early for the briefing and book ahead for weekends.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Groups who want to steer their own boat.
- Families
- Fun for families with older children.
- Couples
- A private, quiet cruise with a picnic.
- Pair with
- Paddan for the guided version, or a fika in Haga.
- Time needed
- One to two hours.
Good questions
Do I need a licence?+
No, a short briefing is given and the boats are simple to operate.
How many people fit?+
Boats carry small groups; check the product details for limits.
Can I bring food?+
Usually yes, but check the rules on alcohol and glass.
What if the weather is bad?+
Trips may be cancelled in poor weather; check the policy.
Is there a guide?+
No, it is self-drive after the briefing.
