Semi-rigid outings in Germany: The best sailing spots
Zodiac in Germany: Head to the 16 Länder for unforgettable nautical adventures!
Ah, Germany! This country with a thousand facets, where lakes shimmer, rivers meander, and the North Sea whispers promises of adventure.
If you are a lover of semi-rigid boat navigation, you are in the right place. Whether you are a water sports enthusiast, an avid fisherman, or simply in search of breathtaking landscapes, Germany has everything to seduce you.
So, put on your life jacket, prepare your Zodiac, and let's discover the best navigation spots in each German Land!
Foreword: What you need to know before sailing in Germany
Required Permits
Sailing in Germany requires an appropriate boat license depending on the area and type of vessel.
On inland waterways (rivers, canals, lakes), the SBF Binnen (equivalent to a river license) is mandatory for motorboats over 15 HP.
At sea (Baltic Sea and North Sea), the SBF See (equivalent to a coastal license) is required. French or international licenses (ICC) are generally accepted, but it may be useful to have a translation or the European license.
Weather and Navigation Conditions
Germany has limited access to the sea (North Sea and Baltic), but its river network is one of the densest in Europe, offering numerous possibilities for river cruising.
In the north, the Baltic Sea offers pleasant sailing in summer, with often calm conditions and well-protected ports (notably around Kiel or Rügen).
The North Sea, more exposed to winds and tides, is for more experienced sailors.
The inland waterways (Elbe, Spree, Rhine, Main, Moselle, etc.) allow for long cruises in a green setting, often along charming towns and villages.
The weather varies greatly depending on the season: summers are mild, winters cold. The wind can rise quickly in the North Sea, beware of sudden gales.
Port Infrastructure
Germany has excellent nautical infrastructure:
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In the Baltic, marinas are modern, well-equipped, and often integrated into charming fishing ports or small coastal towns.
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In river areas, numerous nautical stations and marinas line the rivers and canals, with water, electricity, showers, and sometimes dining or bike rentals.
Locks are frequent on inland waterways: well-organized, they sometimes require a bit of patience but pose no major technical difficulty.
Seasonality
The sailing season extends from May to September, with a peak in July-August. Outside this period, many ports close or reduce their services.
May, June, and September are ideal to avoid the crowds, with pleasant weather, especially on rivers.
At sea, sailing is more enjoyable in summer.
, when the temperatures are milder and the conditions more stable. The Baltic remains navigable until the end of September, but the nights can already be cool.
1. Baden-Württemberg: Between lakes and rivers, the paradise of Zodiacs
Lake Constance (Bodensee)
Lake Constance is a popular spot for water activities, particularly for Zodiac boating. This lake, which spans 536 km² and borders three countries (Germany, Austria, Switzerland), is ideal for boaters seeking tranquility and varied landscapes. The lake's water, with its exceptional clarity, allows for easy navigation while offering breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps to the south and the vineyards along the lake.
The ports of cities like Friedrichshafen, with their modern facilities, are perfect for mooring your boat. After setting sail, you can stop at Mainau Island, famous for its magnificent flower gardens, or visit Reichenau Island, renowned for its medieval churches and its UNESCO World Heritage status.
As for fishing, Lake Constance is rich in species like zander, perch, and pike, highly sought after by anglers. In particular, pike fishing is popular near the southern shore, where the deep waters harbor large specimens.
For those who love adrenaline, the lake is also perfect for activities like wakeboarding and water skiing. The areas around Friedrichshafen are known for the quality of their water sports equipment, and the calm morning waters offer ideal conditions for these activities.
The Neckar: A river full of charm
The Neckar is a river that runs through the Baden-Württemberg region for 367 km, winding through historic cities like Stuttgart and Heidelberg. It is an excellent choice for semi-rigid boating, with varied landscapes ranging from wooded hills to terraced vineyards.
An essential stop on this river is the city of Heidelberg, famous for its medieval castle overlooking the city and the river. This castle, one of the most iconic in Germany, is a place of history and beauty, offering a spectacular view of the old town's rooftops and the river below. Nearby, you can also explore Heidelberg's old quarter, with its cobbled streets and buildings dating from the Holy Roman Empire era.
On the fishing side, the Neckar is teeming with fish like pike, zander, and eel, especially around the Neckargemünd area. , a picturesque village located between Heidelberg and the Odenwald forest. Fishermen find a rich territory here, thanks to the diversity of habitats along the river. For fly fishing enthusiasts, the clear waters of the Neckar offer great opportunities to catch trout and chub.
The river is also an ideal place for a nature getaway, with hiking trails along its banks, including the "Neckarsteig", a hiking trail offering breathtaking views of the Neckar Valley and its wooded hills.
2. Lower Saxony: Tranquil lakes and winding rivers
Lake Steinhuder Meer
Lake Steinhuder Meer, the largest lake in Lower Saxony, is a popular spot for water activities, including Zodiac boating. This 30 km² lake is located in a nature reserve, offering a wide variety of ecosystems and landscapes. It is surrounded by sandy beaches and forests, ideal for a walk after a Zodiac outing.
Visitors can also explore the lake's islands, such as Wilhelmstein Island, which houses a historic fortress dating back to the 18th century, accessible only by boat.
As for fishing, Steinhuder Meer is an excellent spot, renowned for its diversity of fish. It is mainly home to pike, perch, zander, and carp.
The Weser River
The Weser is a 440 km long river that flows through Lower Saxony, offering varied landscapes, from wooded areas to open meadows.
Historic towns like Hameln and Minden, with their half-timbered houses, are accessible by boat, offering a perfect combination of nature and culture. While navigating the Weser, one can admire splendid views of the hills and castles lining the river, such as Fürstenberg Castle.
Fishing on the Weser is a popular activity, especially for those who enjoy fishing for pike, zander, and perch.
3. Bavaria: Lakes and mountains, a preserved nature
Lake Chiemsee
Chiemsee, nicknamed "the sea of Bavaria", is a majestic lake located at the foot of the Alps. This vast 80 km² lake is an ideal place for Zodiac boating. It allows navigation between its islands, including Herreninsel, which houses the magnificent Herrenchiemsee Palace, a royal residence of Ludwig II of Bavaria. The palace, inspired by Versailles, is a must-see for history and architecture enthusiasts. While exploring the lake, one can also stop at Fraueninsel, a charming small island with historic monasteries. and picturesque streets where it is pleasant to stroll.
Fishing on the Chiemsee is very popular, especially for pike, zander, and perch, which are species present in large numbers in the deep waters of the lake. Anglers can also hope to catch trout, particularly in the colder waters of the northern shores.
For those who enjoy challenges, the Chiemsee also offers good conditions for ferrat fishing, a technique used to catch fish by pulling them directly with a hook.
Lake Starnberg
Lake Starnberg, only 30 minutes from Munich, is a popular destination for nature lovers and water sports enthusiasts. With its calm waters and spectacular alpine landscapes, it's a perfect place for Zodiac boating. The lake is surrounded by well-maintained villas and gardens, offering a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere. It is also an ideal place to observe local wildlife, including herons and cormorants. Zodiac excursions allow you to explore remote areas of the lake, away from the crowds, and admire breathtaking views of the Bavarian Alps.
In terms of fishing, Lake Starnberg is famous for its population of giant pike. Many anglers come here to try their luck with these large fish. The fishing areas are particularly prolific around the small islands and rocky areas of the lake. There are also perch, trout, and zander. In summer, night fishing is a popular activity, with ideal conditions for catching fish in the deep waters of the lake.
4. Berlin: A dynamic capital with beautiful lakes and rivers
Lake Tegeler See
The Tegeler See, located in the north of Berlin, is one of the most popular lakes for water activities in the capital. It is surrounded by a large nature reserve and offers boating opportunities in a peaceful setting.
Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding forests, as well as spaces conducive to relaxation and wildlife observation. The lake is an ideal refuge for those looking to escape the urban hustle and bustle of Berlin.
The Tegeler See is an ideal place for fishing, with fish such as pike, zander, and perch.
The Spree River
The Spree River, which flows through Berlin, is an ideal way to explore the city and its surroundings. Navigating the Spree allows you to discover iconic sites of Berlin, such as the Brandenburg Gate and Museum Island.
The river also meanders through numerous green areas and parks , offering a perfect blend of urban exploration and immersion in nature. It is a unique experience to discover Berlin from the water.
The Spree is also a popular fishing spot, with species like pike, zander, and perch.
5. Brandenburg: Wild lakes and forests, breathtaking nature
Lake Schwielowsee
Lake Schwielowsee, located near Potsdam, is a perfect place for a peaceful boat ride. This lake is surrounded by forests, islands, and small beaches, offering a tranquil atmosphere for water activities.
Visitors can sail to Werder Island, a charming small village known for its traditional houses and flower festivals. The lake is also an excellent starting point for exploring the Potsdam region, with its famous gardens and palaces, such as the Sanssouci Palace.
Lake Schwielowsee is also renowned for its fishing, particularly for its pike, zander, trout, and perch.
Lake Binnitzsee
Lake Binnitzsee, located in the Barnim region nature park, is a hidden gem of Brandenburg, surrounded by coniferous forests and meadows. This tranquil lake is perfect for those seeking an isolated and peaceful spot.
It is possible to venture onto the lake to enjoy exceptional views of the local wildlife, such as wild birds, including herons and wild geese, making this lake a true haven of peace.
As for fishing, Binnitzsee is known for its pike and perch, which hide in the underwater vegetation and deep waters.
6. Bremen: Between river and sea, a unique maritime charm
The port of Bremerhaven
Located a few kilometers from the city of Bremen, Bremerhaven is a fascinating destination for a boat ride. This historic port city offers a breathtaking view of the Weser estuary and the North Sea. Sailing in this region, one can discover the immense docks, shipyards, and even spot cruise ships or giant cargo ships.
The port of Bremerhaven also houses the famous German Maritime Museum (Deutsches Schifffahrtsmuseum), a must-visit after a water excursion.
As for fishing, Bremerhaven is a paradise for sea fishing enthusiasts. The estuary is teeming with fish like herring, cod, and sole. The changing tide conditions make fishing here dynamic and exciting.
The Weser River in Bremen
In the city of Bremen, the Weser River offers a peaceful setting for Zodiac boating. As you follow the banks, you can admire iconic sites such as the historic buildings of the old town, including the famous statue of the Bremen Town Musicians. The Schlachte promenade, lined with restaurants and cafes, is also visible from the water, adding a lively touch to this experience.
For fishermen, the Weser is particularly interesting. It is rich in fish such as pike, zander, and catfish. The calm waters around Bremen allow for pleasant and relaxed fishing.
7. Hamburg: Between sea and lakes, natural spaces to explore
Lake Alster
Lake Alster, in the heart of Hamburg, is a man-made lake highly prized for boat rides. Surrounded by parks and gardens, this lake offers a breathtaking view of the city and its historical monuments. Visitors can navigate peacefully while admiring the famous buildings of Hamburg, such as the town hall and medieval churches. The lake is also a popular spot for water activities and relaxation in nature.
Fishing on Lake Alster is a pleasant experience, with fish like perch, pike, and zander. Lake Alster is renowned for its diversity of fish, making it an excellent choice for those wishing to combine fishing and urban exploration.
The Elbe River
The Elbe River, which flows through Hamburg before emptying into the North Sea, is a beautiful river for Zodiac excursions. Visitors can navigate the Elbe and enjoy spectacular views of the city's bustling docks, port cranes, and old industrial buildings. It's a beautiful way to discover Hamburg from the water while exploring natural and wild areas near the city.
8. Hesse: Between forests and lakes, nature to explore
Lake Eder
Lake Eder, located in the mountainous region of the Kellerwald National Park, is a perfect spot for Zodiac boating enthusiasts. This 12 km² artificial lake is surrounded by forests and hills, offering an exceptional natural setting for water activities. It is particularly appreciated for its calm waters and picturesque landscapes. The Eder Dam, which holds back the lake's waters, is a masterpiece of engineering, and its immediate surroundings are ideal for Zodiac rides.
Fishing on Lake Eder is also popular, with a wide variety of fish. Anglers can enjoy fishing for pike, zander, and perch, as well as catfish, a species that has recently appeared in the lake.
The Diemelsee Lake
The Diemelsee Lake, located at the border between Hesse and North Rhine-Westphalia, is surrounded by hills and forests, offering a calm and natural setting. It is ideal for those seeking a peaceful getaway, while being close to cities like Kassel and Paderborn. The lake is suitable for canoeing, kayaking, and of course, Zodiac boating. The crystal-clear waters of the lake allow for serene boat rides, with the possibility of observing local wildlife and enjoying magnificent panoramas.
Fishing at Diemelsee Lake is also popular, especially for its populations of trout and pike. Anglers particularly appreciate the tranquility of the lake, which allows for a relaxing fishing experience, away from the crowds. Using a Zodiac, it is possible to access the best fishing spots, where one can catch pike, zander, or even carp. The lake is also renowned for its abundance of white fish, such as roach and bream.
9. Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania: Picturesque Lakes and Rivers by the Sea
Lake Müritz
Lake Müritz, located in the Müritz National Park, is the largest lake entirely located in Germany. It is a favorite spot for boat excursions, thanks to its crystal-clear waters and lush landscapes. The forests and marshlands around the lake create a calm and preserved atmosphere, ideal for those seeking a bit of tranquility.
Lake Müritz is an excellent fishing site, especially for pike, zander, and perch.
Additionally, the lake is part of an interconnected network of lakes, offering numerous navigation possibilities.
The Peene River
The Peene River, which runs through the Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania region, is an excellent choice for exploration by inflatable boat. This watercourse meanders through vast meadows and marshy forests, offering exceptional biodiversity. Historic villages such as Anklam and Demmin line the river, adding extra charm to the experience. Navigating the Peene allows for the discovery of wild and untouched landscapes, with spectacular views of the lush banks.
In terms of fishing, the Peene River is rich in fish like pike, zander, and perch.
10. North Rhine-Westphalia: Rivers and Lakes in Germany's Most Populous Region
The Rhine in Cologne
The Rhine, crossing Cologne, is a majestic river offering an exceptional experience in a Zodiac. While navigating, one can admire famous sites such as the Cologne Cathedral and the iconic bridges spanning the river. The lively banks of Cologne, with their restaurants and bars, create a unique atmosphere for river cruise enthusiasts.
On the fishing side, the Rhine is a paradise for anglers, with species such as pike, zander, and barbel. The Rhine also offers the opportunity to catch large specimens, thus attracting challenge seekers.
The Biggesee Lake
The Biggesee, located in the Sauerland, is an artificial lake surrounded by wooded hills and quaint little villages. This lake is a perfect spot for a Zodiac excursion, with its calm waters and numerous coves to explore. Visitors can also enjoy the beaches and hiking trails around the lake.
Fishing at Biggesee is renowned for its trout, pike, and perch. The natural beauty and tranquility of this lake make it a highly appreciated spot for fishing and boating enthusiasts.
11. Rhineland-Palatinate: Wines, rivers, and lakes, a region to discover
The Laacher See Lake
The Laacher See Lake, a volcanic crater lake located in the heart of the Eifel National Park, is a perfect place for Zodiac outings. This deep and mysterious lake is surrounded by forests and volcanic hills, offering a peaceful and magical atmosphere. Visitors can head to the lake's edge to enjoy its spectacular views or explore the surroundings, including the ruins of Maria Laach Abbey, a historical site not to be missed.
Fishing on Laacher See is a true pleasure, especially for anglers of pike and perch. The lake is also renowned for its populations of trout and roach.
The Rhine near Boppard
The Boppard region, located on the banks of the Rhine, is one of the most beautiful in the country, ideal for semi-rigid boat navigation. The spectacular wooded hills and the medieval castles lining the river create a breathtaking setting. The Stolzenfels Castle, for example, is a must-see site, offering a magnificent view of the Rhine Valley. As you go up the river, visitors can also explore other medieval castles and charming wine villages like Bacharach.
Fishing on the Rhine promises encounters with species like pike, zander, perch, and even giant catfish. The Rhine is also an excellent place to catch white fish such as roach and bream, which abound in its waters.
12. Saar: Picturesque Lakes and Rivers
Lake Bostalsee
Bostalsee, located in the Hunsrück mountains, is a popular artificial lake for nature lovers. With its developed beaches and wooded areas, it offers a beautiful combination of relaxation and water activities as well as magnificent views of the surrounding forest and the Saarland countryside. The landscape is varied, between calm waters and small hills, creating a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere.
Fishing at Bostalsee is excellent, with a wide variety of fish such as pike, perch, zander, and roach. The tranquility of the lake allows for a pleasant and immersive fishing experience, away from the hustle and bustle.
The Saar River
The Saar, a river that flows through the region of the same name, is ideal for a Zodiac excursion, especially around Saarlouis. With its wooded banks and hills, the Saar offers impressive and varied landscapes. The Saar Valley, home to picturesque villages like Mettlach and Saarbrücken, is a true natural gem. As you go up the river, you can also see medieval castles and historic churches that add to the charm of the region.
As for fishing, the Saar is teeming with fish such as pike, zander, and perch. The gentle currents and shallow areas allow for catching fish of different sizes, offering a dynamic and enjoyable fishing experience.
13. Saxony: Rivers and Lakes, a Region Full of Discoveries
The Elbe River
The Elbe River is one of the most important in Germany, and it flows through the Saxony region, passing through cities like Dresden and Meissen. Zodiac navigation is ideal on this river, which offers varied landscapes ranging from narrow valleys to vast plains.
As you go up the Elbe, you can admire the silhouette of Königstein Castle, which stands majestically atop a hill, as well as the historic city of Dresden with its magnificent baroque buildings. Another must-see place is the city of Meissen, renowned for its porcelain and its medieval castle.
Fishing on the Elbe is varied, with popular spots for catching fish such as pike, perch, and zander. The section of the Elbe around Dresden is renowned for the richness of its aquatic fauna. It is also possible to fish for trout and chub. , particularly in autumn, when the water is colder and the fish move up towards the tributaries.
Lake Senftenberg
Lake Senftenberg is an artificial lake located in the Saxony region, perfect for water activities, especially Zodiac boating. The lake is a popular destination for nature lovers, with its sandy beaches and protected areas where you can observe many bird species, such as egrets and ducks. The lake is surrounded by forests and hills, offering a beautiful view for those who take their Zodiac for a peaceful ride or for fishing enthusiasts.
Regarding fishing, Senftenberg is an excellent spot to catch fish like pike, catfish, and perch. The lake's waters are rich in food, attracting many predatory fish. Anglers can use their Zodiac to explore the deeper areas, where large pikes can be found. The conditions are also ideal for trolling, where fish are attracted to baits on the water's surface.
15. Schleswig-Holstein: The Gateway to the North and Baltic Seas
Kiel Bay
Kiel Bay is one of the most iconic places in Schleswig-Holstein. Located on the Baltic Sea, this area is perfect for semi-rigid boat rides, with its relatively calm waters and spectacular views of the white sandy beaches and steep cliffs. Sailing enthusiasts can also admire the sailboats participating in the famous Kieler Woche, the largest nautical event in the world.
On the fishing side, Kiel Bay is an ideal place to catch marine fish such as mackerel, cod, and haddock. The deep-sea fishing experience, with a clear view of the horizon, is unforgettable.
The Wadden Sea
Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Wadden Sea, located in the western part of Schleswig-Holstein, is a true natural gem.
This region, with its sandbanks and impressive tides, is ideal for exploration by Zodiac. Visitors can observe exceptional wildlife, including colonies of seals and migratory birds.
Fishing in the Wadden Sea is a unique experience. Enthusiasts can catch flatfish like sole and flounder.
16. Thuringia: Alpine Lakes and Winding Rivers in the Heart of Germany
Lake Hohenfelden
Lake Hohenfelden, located near Weimar, is an artificial lake that attracts many visitors in search of relaxation and nautical adventure. This 90-hectare lake is ideal for Zodiac boating thanks to its calm waters and picturesque landscapes. The lake is surrounded by forests and hills, and visitors can enjoy hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the surroundings. It is a perfect place for a day of tranquility in nature, away from the hustle and bustle of big cities.
Fishing at Lake Hohenfelden is popular, especially for its pike, perch, zander, and trout. The natural setting and the tranquility of the waters make it a favored spot for fishing enthusiasts seeking serenity.
The Unstrut River
The Unstrut River, which flows through Thuringia, is an excellent place for a semi-rigid adventure. The river meanders through wooded valleys, offering magnificent views of the surrounding countryside. Towns like Mühlhausen, with its medieval architecture, add to the charm of the region. While navigating the Unstrut, visitors can explore charming villages, as well as historical sites like churches and castles, all while enjoying the natural landscapes.
Fishing on the Unstrut is renowned for its diversity, notably pike, perch, and trout. The moderate currents allow for catching both small and large fish.
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