Aareböötle: Your boat rental service from Thun to Bern
Welcome to Aareböötle – your number one choice for boat rentals on the Aare River. Since 2007, we have been pioneers on the river and your specialist for professional rental equipment and everything related to your individual Aare experience.
You can find us right at Uttigen train station. This is the perfect starting point for your 20 km river adventure, which ends in Bern (Eichholz sunbathing lawn). We have everything you need: high-quality inflatable boats, SUPs, and kayaks. We offer high-quality inflatable boats, SUPs, kayaks, and exclusive Aare tubing for hire.
We offer you a comprehensive package that includes life jackets and detailed personal instruction so that you can steer safely and confidently on your own.
What is Aareböötle - and why is Thun-Bern so popular?
What is Aareböötle – and why is the route to Bern so popular?
Aareböötle is Switzerland's ultimate summer experience. The classic route runs from Thun to Bern, but the smart place to start is in Uttigen.
The Uttigen advantage: Why start in Uttigen instead of Thun (Schwäbis)?
Faster than Thun: Our office is located directly in Uttigen station —in the charming old waiting room. It's only a few steps from the train to the boat. This is much faster and more convenient than the long walk from Thun station to the Schwäbis boarding point (approx. 20 min.).
Safe start: With us, you start below the Uttiger Schwelle. That means no stress with big waves, just pure enjoyment from the very first minute.
Sustainable & environmentally friendly: Thanks to our location right in the station, we encourage you to travel by public transport (S-Bahn line S1). This protects the environment and saves you having to search for a parking space.
For those arriving by car, there are approximately 70 paid parking spaces available from BLS (CHF 5 per day).
From our location, you can enjoy around 20 km of pure relaxation on the Aare River to Bern Eichholz —without any obstacles, but with the best view of the Bernese Alps.
We are not just a rental company, but your companions for a perfect day on the river. This is what sets us apart:
Personal safety briefing: We don't just rush you through with a video. Our friendly, multilingual team takes the time to give you a personal and detailed briefing. We explain the route, the safety rules, and how to use the equipment correctly, tailored to your individual needs.
Top equipment: We focus on quality. Our inflatable boats, paddles, and life jackets are modern, safe, and well maintained.
Right at the train station & safe start: Our location in the old waiting room at Uttigen train station is unbeatable. You get off the train and you're right there with us. Since we start below the Uttigen Wave, you avoid the most dangerous part of the Aare and start right in the relaxed section.
Easy online booking: Plan your trip stress-free. Our system allows you to make instant online reservations and pay by credit card, so that everything is ready for you when you arrive.
Why Aareböötle?
Change of plans? No problem! With us, you remain flexible: you can rebook your reservation once free of charge or simply put it "on hold" if your plans change.
Safety and comfort whilst you "Aareböötle" - all equipment included
-
Life jackets for everyone - experience Aareböötle safely
Safety is our top priority: every boat is equipped with certified life jackets for all passengers - just like on an airplane. Optionally, you can add padded life jackets for extra comfort. We strongly recommend that you always wear a life jacket on the Aare - whether you are a professional or a beginner.
👉 We explain why we recommend this and what is required by law here in the blog.
-
Splash-proof 60L bag - everything stays dry
To keep your provisions, clothes and towel dry, each boat comes with a splash-proof 60-liter bag. Ideal for day trips on the Aare! You should also pack valuables and electronics - safety first, even on short adventures on the water.
We have compiled the most important items for you in a practical packing list.
-
Instruction & route map - no stress on the way
Before the start, you will receive a personal briefing including a route map. Not only will you know the most important safety rules, but you will also be given tips on the best places to swim and picnic along the route. Our experienced team is always there for you - for a safe, well-organised and stress-free Aareböötle tour.
How it works
Select your boat and date: Book your experience easily online in our booking system
Arrival at Uttigen station: Come directly to our office in the old waiting room at the station.
Check-in & briefing: Receive personal safety instructions and your river map from our team.
Safe start: You start below the Uttigen Wave, thus avoiding the most dangerous section.
Enjoy the Aare: float leisurely from Uttigen to Bern (approx. 2.5–3.5 hours).
Convenient return: Return the equipment by 6:00 p.m. on the lawn. Eichholz, Bern (near the Eichholz campground).
The route from Uttigen to Bern at a glance
The route: From Uttigen to Bern
Your Aare boat tour starts with us in the old waiting room right in Uttigen station. From here, you will embark on a journey of around 20 km through the most beautiful river landscape between Thun and Bern. As you are starting with us in Uttigen, your trip will begin safely below the Uttigen threshold – so you can relax and enjoy the water from the very first moment.
The pure travel time to Bern is approximately 2.5 to 3.5 hours, but the day is yours: you can stop anytime for a swim, a picnic, or a BBQ on the shore. Just remember that all rental equipment must be returned to our team at the end point on the Eichholz sunbathing lawn in Bern by 6:00 p.m. To help you find your way around and plan your stops, here are the exact coordinates for the startand end.
Prices & offers (from Uttigen train station)
| Equipment | Capacity | Price (from) | Included services |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inflatable raft S | 2–4 people | CHF 140.– | Lifejacket, dry bag & briefing |
| Inflatable raft L | 3–6 people | CHF 190.– | Lifejacket, dry bag & briefing |
| Septipus | up to 5 people | CHF 170.– | Lifejacket, dry bag & briefing |
| 2-person kayak | 2 persons | CHF 90.– | Lifejacket, dry bag & briefing |
| Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) | 1 person | CHF 70.– | Paddle, life jacket |
| Aare Tube | 1 person | CHF 60.– | Professional tube & life jacket |
| Life jacket | Single rental | CHF 15 | Rental per day (directly on site) |
**Note:** All prices include statutory VAT. The prices quoted are "starting prices" and may vary depending on the day of the week and occupancy. You can find the exact price for your desired date in our booking system.
Your day on the Aare awaits - book now
Have you received a voucher code from one of our partners, "Geschenkidee" or "Geschenkparadies"?
Then please use this form to send us your code:
We will check your code and get back to you within 24 hours with your booking confirmation.
To change the language of the booking system, simply click on the language selection at the top right of the booking system.
Searching Availability...
Any questions about Aareböötle between Thun and Bern?
Here you will find answers to the most important questions - quickly explained and at a glance:
Can I do Aareböötle with children?
Absolutely! Boating on the Aare with your family is a wonderful experience. The recommended minimum age is 8 years old, and participants must be able to swim. Further minimum age recommendations for other rental items (SUPs, kayaks, septipus, etc.) can be found under "Information" when you book. Safety is our top priority. For very young children, we reserve the right to refuse the trip for safety reasons. If you are unsure, please contact us before booking. If a child has to be refused on site, this will unfortunately be at the customer's expense.
What happens in case of bad weather?
If the weather does not play along, you can rebook or cancel up to 48 hours in advance (for a small fee if you cancel completely). Details can be found in our [GTC].
How long does the journey from Uttigen to Bern take?
Around 2.5 hours of pure float time - plus any breaks for swimming, barbecuing or relaxing. The equipment must be at the end point in Eichholz, Bern by 18:00 at the latest.
👉 You can find more answers about safety, dogs, equipment, etc. on our FAQ page.
Aareböötle is for everyone - but it's easier with us
Not everyone wants to haul a boat or organise everything themselves. We are here for those who like it practical, safe and stress-free.
""You enjoy the flow. We'll do the rest.""
