FAQ - Everything you need to know about Aareböötle Thun-Bern

  • Why do you start in Uttigen? Uttigen is the safest and most strategically advantageous starting point for the Aare river trip to Bern. Since we start below the Uttigen rapids (wave), our guests avoid the most challenging section of the river. Additionally, our location at the Uttigen train station was the birthplace of professional river tubing in Europe in 2007.

    Uttigen is only 5 minutes from Thun and offers many advantages:

    • Directly at the station on the Bern-Thun line

    • 70 inexpensive SBB parking spaces directly on site (CHF 5/day)

    • Access below the wave (ideal for families)

    • Less crowds than Thun = less waiting time

    • Rental station located directly at the train station

    • Store & check-in directly at the station

  • The tour starts at our base right at Uttigen train station and ends safely after about 20 km at Camping Eichholz in Bern. This route is considered the classic Aareböötle tour and has been professionally managed by us for 18 years.

    Start: Uttigen train station (right next to the shop)
    Destination: Camping Eichholz, Bern
    Both locations are easily accessible by train.

    How long does the trip take?
    Approximately 2.5–3.5 hours of actual time on the water (depending on water levels)—longer if you include breaks.

    How do I get back to Uttigen?
    The best way is by train from Bern (S1 line, 20 minutes)

  • The easiest way to get here is by train. Our base is located right in Uttigen station. You get off the train, walk a few steps, and you're right at our base. Not only is this stress-free, but it also saves you the hassle of looking for a parking space.

  • Is Aareböötle suitable for children? Yes, but with some restrictions. The minimum age is 8 years old, and children must know how to swim. Depending on the type of boat , we also provide specific minimum age recommendations, which you can find in the booking information. Safety first! If in doubt: Please contact us before booking to avoid any inconvenience. Ultimately, our team will decide whether we can rent you equipment for safety reasons. In this case, the costs will be borne by the customer.

  • Is the tour safe? Yes, if you can swim and follow our instructions. You will receive from us:

    • Life jackets

    • Splash-proof transport bag

    • Instruction on site

    • Route map

    What about alcohol? It’s allowed in moderation. But: Safety first. People who are heavily intoxicated are not allowed to drive.

  • What if the weather doesn't cooperate? You can reschedule for free up to 48 hours in advance or cancel for a fee. In the event of severe thunderstorms, storms, or flooding, we will cancel the reservation on our end. We will contact you; if you do not receive a message, the rental will proceed as planned.

    Can I change my booking? You can reschedule your appointment once free of charge up to 48 hours in advance. After that, the booked appointment is binding and the full amount is due—even if you don’t show up.

    You can find our complete GTC here.

  • Can I bring my pet on board? Unfortunately, no. Animals are not allowed on board (exception: trained service dogs, upon request). There are too many risks for both people and animals.

  • This is usually not a problem, as our boats are made of lightweight PVC. It’s only about 150 meters from our base at the Uttigen train station to the river. To save you from having to carry heavy loads, we provide free transport trolleys to help you get to the water. This way, you can easily make your way to the launch site below the Uttigerschwelle.

  • Absolutely not. That’s one of our biggest advantages: While you often have to wait up to two hours on hot days in Thun-Schwäbis because hundreds of people are crowding into a tiny launch area, with us you’ll enjoy pure relaxation. Thanks to our many years of experience (since 2007) and our larger access point, we’ve perfected the process. With us, there’s no long wait on the shore. You’ll receive your equipment and a quick briefing, and you can head straight out onto the Aare without the typical “entry congestion”—stress-free.

  • Yes, we are the exclusive provider of original Aaretubing on the Uttigen–Bern route. As the inventors of this experience in the region, we offer specialised equipment and dedicated safety training that you won't find at conventional boat rental companies.

  • We are the original pioneers of boating on the Aare in this region. We have been operating aareschlauchboot GmbH, based in Uttigen, since 2007 and have the most experience in renting inflatable boats on the Aare.

    As experts in professional river trips (formerly known as aareböötle.com and, much earlier, as aaretubing.ch ), we stand for the highest safety and quality standards in boating from Uttigen.

    Since 2024, we have also been operating on the Upper Rhine under rheinschlauchboot.ch .

  • Write to us directly via our contact form or give us a call!

    Phone: 076 686 87 45 or info@aareschlauchboot.ch