Mechelen grew up around the Dijle and the river still threads through the centre, partly canalised, partly open. A small open boat runs short tours from the quay at the Haverwerf — about 45 minutes, with English commentary, weather-dependent and operating from spring through autumn.
The route passes the old quay buildings of the Haverwerf, three handsome wooden-fronted houses from the 16th and 17th centuries (the "Duiveltjes" with carved devils, the "Paradijs", and "Sint-Jozef"). From the water you also get the best view of the leaning brick backs of the old houses along the Vismarkt, which most visitors never see from the street.