Otterndorf Harbour

Otterndorf Harbour
With its 190 slips (about 30 of which are for guests), the Otterndorf Harbour offers protection even in bad weather and is often used as an entry to the Hadeln Canal (maximum bridge pass-through height 2.75 m), which goes to Bremerhaven and therefore through to Weser. The entrance to the harbour is at the mouth of the Medem river. Depending on the boat’s draught, it is important to keep an eye on the water level when navigating this area. The harbour doesn’t dry up completely and is accessible even to larger ships at high tide. At low tide, boats sink into the soft mud or may remain partially afloat in front of the sluice gate. When water is released from the canal, a strong current runs through the harbour perpendicular to the slips. In case this happens, it is advisable to dock lengthwise in the guest basin. Fresh water can be obtained right at the harbour; showers and toilets are available in the sailor’s meetinghouse behind the dyke. A derrick, slip facility, crane (up to 9 t), and waste disposal facilities are available. The harbour is run by the Otterndorf Sailing Club. The Otterndorf North Sea Swimming Park with its historic half-timbered city centre is about 3 km away and features extensive shopping and leisure time offerings. www.seglerverein-otterndorf.de

Excursion destinations
In the pleasant historic city centre of Nordseebad Ottendorf, with its museums, exhibitions, and cafes, time almost seems to stand still. Guided hikes through the mudflats can be booked at the tourist information centre. Relaxation beckons in the Sole Spa with its sauna facilities, and Halligalli offers an indoor ‘Game and Fun Barn’ playground for children. The dyke nature trail, swimming and water sports at the ‘Achtern Diek’ holiday park, ship rides on the Medem, and a stroll to the historic Otterndorf Lock Gate are other attractive options. Otterndorf’s event calender is always full, especially during the high season. www.otterndorf.de