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IHK Schleswig-Holstein
Waters sports on the Kiel Canal and Elbe-Lübeck Canal
In addition to the North Sea and Baltic Sea, the Kiel Canal (NOK) and the Elbe-Lübeck Canal (ELK) are two interesting areas for water sports enthusiasts in Schleswig-Holstein. The connecting routes for maritime shipping (NOK) and inland waterway transport (ELK) offer short connections between the North Sea and Baltic Sea and interesting insights into the country.
The Kiel Canal, at around 100 kilometres the busiest artificial waterway in the world, connects Brunsbüttel on the Elbe with Kiel-Holtenau on the Baltic Sea. It is indispensable for commercial shipping, but recreational boats can also use it, making it particularly attractive for long-distance trips from the North Sea to the Baltic Sea. Around 12,000 recreational boats use the NOK every year, demonstrating its appeal and usefulness.
Marinas and jetties along the route, for example in Rendsburg or Borgstedt, provide infrastructure for tourists. The journey through the NOK is a special experience: the proximity to freighters, the scenic route and the passage through the locks make it a fascinating passage.
The Elbe-Lübeck Canal has connected Lauenburg on the Elbe with Lübeck on the Baltic Sea since the end of the 19th century. The canal crosses the Duchy of Lauenburg for around 64 kilometres, passing lakes, forests and tranquil places such as Mölln and Berkenthin. Unlike the NOK, it is primarily a waterway used for tourism and regional transport. In contrast to seagoing vessels, inland waterway vessels can accompany the journey on the ELK.
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The seven locks along the route are automated and easily accessible for recreational boats. The canal offers ideal conditions for moderate cruises, even for families or beginners. In addition, the surrounding area is a tourist highlight with cycle paths, campsites and cultural attractions.
Despite the existing potential, the importance of the two canals for sailing tourism has remained limited to date. This is due to several factors:
• Lack of information: Many recreational skippers are unaware of the possibilities of the passage or are unsure about regulations and lock procedures.
• Lack of tourist marketing: The canals are rarely actively promoted in tourist materials or presented as part of maritime itineraries.
• Lock times and waiting times: Long waiting times or unclear operating hours can make planning difficult.
Nevertheless, there are numerous opportunities to improve the experience of these waterways:
• Better infrastructure: More service points for recreational boats, moorings and digital information systems.
• Networked offers: linking canal trips with regional tourism, e.g. cycling and hiking trails, museums or gastronomy
• Information offers: improved marketing increases awareness that the two waterways are more than just a short route between the North Sea and the Baltic Sea
The Kiel Canal and the Elbe-Lübeck Canal are more than just transit routes. They offer an attractive addition to sailing tourism on the North Sea and Baltic Sea. If we succeed in increasing comfort for recreational boaters and promoting the attractions of the canals in a targeted manner, these waterways could experience a new heyday in maritime tourism in Schleswig-Holstein.
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