Paddan Canal Boat Tour

Overview

The Paddan boats are flat-bottomed sightseeing vessels that glide through Gothenburg's 17th-century canal system and out into the harbour. The 50-minute tour passes under 20 bridges — some so low that passengers duck — offering a unique water-level perspective of the city's architecture and maritime heritage.

Highlights

• 20 Bridges: The boats fit under bridges with just centimetres to spare — a surprisingly thrilling moment on an otherwise relaxed tour.
• Harbour Section: Beyond the canals, the boats enter the Göta älv harbour with views of the Opera House, shipyards, and the Älvsborg Bridge.
• Audio Guide: Multilingual narration covers the history of each canal, bridge, and waterfront building.

History

The Paddan tours started in 1939, making them one of Gothenburg's oldest tourist attractions. The flat-bottomed boats (paddan means "toad" in Swedish, a reference to their squat shape) were originally designed to navigate the city's low pleasure bridges. The tour has been running continuously except during World War II.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Boats depart from Kungsportsplatsen near the canal bridge. In summer, departures run every 25 minutes.
• Tip 2: Sit in the front rows for the best bridge-ducking experience. Bring a light jacket — the harbour section can be breezy.
• Duration: 50 minutes.