Kiel in Gernay
Worthwhile Journeys
You are going to be spending some time in the ports you embark and disembark from. These aren’t just logistical points; they’re opportunities for further enrichment. Take an extra day to discover what’s beyond the harbour. It’s not merely about filling time; it’s about making the entire journey worthwhile.
Keeping in Touch
The exact location of your ship may not be known until closer to your joining time; you will be informed by email once the exact position has been confirmed. Make sure you take a note of the ship’s mobile/cell phone number with you in case you are delayed or there are any other problems on the day.
What to Do in Kiel
History
Kiel, a city with a maritime heritage, offers several historical landmarks, most notably the Kiel Canal, the world’s busiest man-made waterway. History buffs can explore the Naval Memorial in nearby Laboe, which honours sailors lost in both world wars. The Kiel Maritime Museum is another highlight, offering an in-depth look at the region’s seafaring history.
Culture
Kiel hosts the world-famous Kiel Week (Kieler Woche), one of the largest sailing events in the world. This week-long celebration brings together sailing enthusiasts and tourists, offering concerts, markets, and cultural exhibitions. Outside of the festival season, the city’s opera house and art museums, such as Kunsthalle Kiel, showcase local culture and artistry.
Sites of Interest to a Sailor
Kiel’s coastline provides magnificent views over the Baltic Sea. Sailors will appreciate the impressive sight of ships passing through the Kiel Canal. The city’s headlands and bays offer stunning vantage points, perfect for those on blue water sailing holidays. The nearby lighthouse at Bülk offers a classic view over the Baltic.
Entertainment
Kiel offers a variety of entertainment options, including live music venues, theatres, and cinemas. For those seeking nightlife, Kiel’s old town offers a selection of bars and clubs, while concerts and performances are regularly held at the Sparkassen-Arena.
Eating Out
The culinary scene in Kiel ranges from traditional Northern German cuisine to international flavours. For a local experience, visit Alte Mühle for hearty German dishes or try Fischbar for fresh seafood. More casual options include the bustling cafés along the waterfront.
Nature
Kiel is surrounded by natural beauty. The beaches along the Kiel Fjord are perfect for walks and picnics, while the nearby Holstein Switzerland Nature Park offers hiking trails and scenic views. For birdwatchers, the region’s coastal wetlands are home to a variety of species.
Unique Features
What makes Kiel stand out is its deep connection to the sea. As a historic port city, its maritime heritage shapes the local atmosphere, offering visitors a unique blend of coastal charm and city life.
Accommodation
For those looking to unwind in comfort, Hotel Kieler Yacht Club offers a luxurious stay with waterfront views. Alternatively, Atlantic Hotel Kiel provides a modern and central location for exploring the city.
Official Tourist Website
Visit Kiel
Weather Kiel
Kiel experiences a temperate maritime climate. Summers are mild, with temperatures ranging between 18°C and 25°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sailing. Autumn and spring bring cooler temperatures, typically between 10°C and 15°C, with occasional rain. Winters can be cold, with temperatures dropping to around 0°C, though snow is rare.
Sea and Beyond: A Responsible Mariner’s Guide
Since you’re already investing in a unique sailing adventure, why not extend that spirit to your travel choices? Opt for more sustainable methods of transport where possible like trains, coaches or sharing a car. If you fly, and we realise this may well be the case, you could research some ways to offset the carbon created by the flight.
Special Interests
If you have a special interest that you would like to find out about for this port or to tell us about, we would love to hear from you.
How to Get There
Recommendation for flights to remote or cold climate destinations: we recommend purchasing flexible flights that offer full refunds. See advice on Flexible flights here.
From the UK, direct flights are available to Hamburg, which is approximately 90 minutes by train or car from Kiel. Ferry services from Harwich or Dover to northern Europe also offer a scenic alternative for those seeking a leisurely journey.
From Europe, Kiel is easily accessible by train via Hamburg or Copenhagen. It is also well-connected by road, with coaches and buses operating from various European cities.
For North American visitors, flights to Hamburg via major hubs such as London or Frankfurt are the most convenient option. From there, a direct train service or car rental will bring you to Kiel.
From Australia, the best option is to fly to a major European city such as Frankfurt or London, then connect to Hamburg. From Hamburg, you can travel to Kiel by train or car.
