Although Prague is connected to ports on the North Sea and Baltic Sea, passenger-boat transport that would connect the city with other cities abroad is more a question of private boats. In unfavourable winter weather the condition of the river Elbe on both Czech and German sides does not allow bigger ships to reach Germany and go on to ports in Holland, Belgium, Switzerland and France. As soon as the waterway is navigable the whole ofEuropeis accessible. Nonetheless, Prague is a good port for small boats and big travelers from all over Europe.
In the city centre there are increasing numbers of boats on the river. The only regular services are operated by Pražská Paroplavební Společnost (Prague Steamboat Company), the oldest shipping company in Prague whatsoever (founded in 1865). These services connect Prague with Slapy reservoir, sail to Prague Zoo and, twice a year, sail to Mělník, where the Vltava joins the Elbe, which is a very attractive trip. Other boat services on the river provide sightseeing tours of the city or places to enjoy good food and music. It is also no problem to hire a boat.
Links to the biggest companies operating passenger–boat services on theVltava: