The short canal boat tours that depart from several landing stages around the city centre are one of Bruges's most popular activities, and for good reason — the view of the historic buildings from water level is quite different from the street view, and the low bridges, stone quays, and overhanging willows make for an atmospheric half-hour. Tours run continuously throughout the day and take about 30 minutes; no booking required, just join the queue.
For something more leisurely, the historic Lamme Goedzak passenger boat makes the five-kilometre journey from Bruges to the village of Damme along the canal through flat polder farmland. Damme is a small and quiet market town with a handsome central square and a windmill; you can have lunch and return by bicycle along the canal bank. The boat runs from Easter to October; check the Bruges tourism website for the current schedule.