By Lucy Ruthnum
Whether you are living in Hamburg or just visiting for the weekend, it’s always nice to find new ways to experience the city. And in a city that centres around its busy port and waterways, how better than to take to the water and hire a boat for the afternoon? If you like the idea of seeing Hamburg from the water, but don’t fancy a tour, there are lots of opportunities to hire boats around the city and to pedal, sail or row your way across the canals and lakes.
With autumn fast approaching and the sunshine fast disappearing into our fond memories of summer, it’s important to make the most of the last few sunny weekends. Stuck for something to do on a Sunday afternoon? Pick up your friends and a picnic, and head straight for the Alster or Stadtpark to find a selection of places to rent canoes, kayaks, paddle boats, rowing boats and even sailing boats. Plus there are endless places to hire stand-up paddle boards if you fancy testing your balance.
Perfect for the whole family, for a group of friends, or even a romantic date with that special someone. The boats are suitable for all abilities and ages, and give you a whole new experience of this Hanseatic city. With so much of the city tucked away alongside the waterways, there is so much you can only truly appreciate from a boat. From the beautiful waterside villas to the impressive gardens lining the canals, there is much to see before the winter months draw closer.
Starting at the Alster, water-lovers can head for Bodo’s Bootssteg on the left bank for rowing boats, paddle boats and sailing boats. On the right bank, Stute offer rowing boats, paddle boats and canoes, while Seebeck hire out sailing boats, rowing boats and paddle boats. For those heading to Stadtpark, you will find boat hire at the Liebesinsel Karl-Heinz von Rohden, with canoes, paddle boats and rowing boats available.
