Stralsund's harbour is the natural starting point for any visit. The waterfront walk along the Hafenstrasse gives the classic view of the old town from the water — the Gothic churches and merchant gables rising above the quay exactly as they did for Hanseatic traders 600 years ago. The harbour is still working: ferries to Rügen and Hiddensee depart from here, and fishing boats tie up alongside tourist vessels.
Excursion boats offer short trips on the Strelasund with views back to the town and out toward the causeway bridges connecting the mainland to Rügen. In summer the harbour promenade is lively, with outdoor restaurants and the Ozeaneum as the anchor. The Gorch Fock I, a historic German naval training sailing ship, is berthed here as a museum ship.