Boat trip on the Biggesee: lake romance in the Sauerland mountains!

Planning a trip to North Rhine-Westphalia? A boat ride on the Biggesee offers a peaceful escape into the scenic Sauerland mountains, blending sustainable travel with picturesque views. This review covers everything you need to know about this three-hour cruise, giving you a clear picture of what to expect, the highlights, and whether it’s worth adding to your itinerary.
We particularly love that this experience features all-electric ships—meaning it’s quiet, eco-friendly, and close to nature. The ability to hop on and off at different landing stages makes it flexible, and the self-service restaurant promises a variety of snacks and drinks. While it’s generally a relaxing journey, the main consideration might be the absence of included food and drink, so budget accordingly. If you’re someone who appreciates scenic views, peaceful boat rides, and eco-conscious travel, this tour should definitely be on your radar.
You can check if your dates are available here:Good To Know:
- Eco-friendly sailing with fully electric ships offer quiet, sustainable cruising
- Flexible hop-on-hop-off stops allow for personalized exploration of the lake
- The cruise provides stunning views of Sauerland’s landscape from the water
- The experience is child-friendly and suitable for all ages
- Gastronomic options are available on board, but not included in the ticket price
- Duration of about three hours makes it a relaxing but manageable outing
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Exploring the Biggesee: An Overview

The Biggesee boat trip is all about experiencing the lake in a relaxed, environmentally friendly way. It’s designed to give visitors a new perspective on Sauerland’s stunning scenery—think green hills, forests, and charming villages—by viewing it all from the water. The tour runs on fully electric ships, making the journey peaceful amid the natural surroundings.
The cruise is described as suitable for families and individuals alike, with a child-friendly atmosphere and enough flexibility to hop on or off at different stops. Starting from the Sondern Ort landing stage, the route includes two additional stops—Talbrücke Olpe and Biggedamm Attendorn—where passengers can choose to disembark, explore the area, and rejoin the boat later. This flexibility makes it perfect for those wanting a more personalized experience or to explore specific lakeside spots.
The tour lasts approximately three hours, with check-in times varying, so it’s best to review availability when planning your day. The departure point is conveniently located next to the DB lake station, with signposted parking, simplifying logistics.
What Makes This Experience Special?

The Electrically Powered Ships
One of the standout features of this cruise is the all-electric fleet. Not only does this reduce noise pollution, creating a peaceful atmosphere for passengers, but it also aligns with sustainable tourism goals. Guests who care about eco-conscious travel will appreciate that the ships are quiet and emissions-free, allowing for undisturbed wildlife watching and a more authentic connection to nature.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyThe Scenic Route and Views
The main reason to take this cruise? The stunning vistas. The Sauerland mountains provide a lush, green backdrop, which you’ll see from different angles as the boat glides across the lake. Reviewers mention the peaceful, relaxing ambiance—like Merve, who called it “angenehm, ruhig und entspannt,” meaning pleasant, calm, and relaxed.
The Flexibility of Hop-On, Hop-Off
Three landing stages along the route give you the chance to customize your day. Whether you want to spend more time exploring the picturesque villages or simply enjoy the ride, you can disembark at any stop after checking with the on-board crew. This flexibility is a big plus for travelers who prefer a less rigid schedule.
Gastronomy on Board
While food and drinks are not included, there’s a self-service restaurant on board offering a varied gastronomic selection—from slices of fresh cake to hearty hot meals. This means you can indulge in a quick snack or a proper meal while soaking in the views but should budget extra for your culinary needs.
Detailed Breakdown of the Tour

Starting Point at Sondern Ort
Your journey begins at the Sondern Ort landing stage, conveniently located next to the DB lake station. Signposted parking makes it easy to find your way. From here, the boat departs into the serene waters of the Biggesee. The crew, known for their friendly and accommodating manner, ensure a smooth start.
The Route and Stops
The route features three main landing stages:
- Sondern Ort (Start and end point)
- Talbrücke Olpe
- Biggedamm Attendorn
You have the option to disembark and explore at each of these locations. Reviewers note that it’s possible to interrupt the trip at these stops after consulting with the crew, then rejoin the same boat later. This makes the tour ideal for those wanting to explore lakeside villages, forests, or historical sites at their own pace.
The On-Board Experience
On deck, the atmosphere is described as child-friendly and relaxed. You can expect the crew to be helpful, providing insights about the landscape and making sure everyone feels comfortable. The self-service restaurant adds a social element, perfect for sharing a slice of cake or hot meal with fellow travelers.
The View from the Lake
Expect panoramic views of Sauerland’s rolling hills, forests, and small villages. The quietness of the electric ships enhances the experience, allowing you to focus fully on the scenery and possibly spot local wildlife. The overall vibe is tranquil—ideal for unwinding.
Duration and Flexibility
With a 3-hour duration, the cruise balances enough sightseeing time without feeling rushed. The flexibility to hop on and off at different stops means you can tailor the trip to your interests, whether it’s a quick sightseeing jaunt or a leisurely exploration.
Authentic Traveler Insights
One reviewer, Merve, summed it up perfectly: “Angenehm, ruhig und entspannt,” meaning the trip was pleasant, quiet, and relaxing. Such sentiments highlight how the experience is more about unwinding than excitement, making it perfect for those seeking peace and nature.
Others appreciated the stunning views and the child-friendly environment, confirming that it’s a good choice for families. The eco-friendly aspect of the electric ships also resonated, especially with environmentally-conscious travelers.
Price and Value
While ticket prices aren’t listed explicitly, the focus on sustainable, all-electric travel and the flexibility offered seem to provide good value for those wanting a unique, eco-friendly way to experience Sauerland’s lakeside scenery. The additional cost of food is optional, giving you control over your spending. For a scenic, relaxing cruise with the option to customize your experience, many will find it worth the investment.
Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers who appreciate peaceful nature scenes. It suits those who like the idea of flexibility—hopping on and off—and value eco-friendly travel. If you’re a fan of panoramic lake views or enjoy quiet, contemplative atmospheres, this experience ticks those boxes. However, if you’re seeking a lively party boat or a packed sightseeing schedule, this might not be the best fit.
The Sum Up
The boat trip on the Biggesee offers a thoughtfully designed way to experience Sauerland’s natural beauty sustainably. The fully electric fleet ensures a peaceful ride, while the flexibility of stops lets you tailor your day. Expect breathtaking vistas, a relaxing atmosphere, and a family-friendly environment that makes this cruise suitable for almost everyone.
For travelers seeking a serene escape, this cruise provides a balance of comfort, scenery, and eco-consciousness that feels both authentic and enjoyable. It’s perfect for those wanting a gentle, scenic outing that allows plenty of time to breathe in the mountain air and admire the lake’s tranquil waters.
While it may not include food, the availability of snacks and the scenic journey itself deliver great overall value. Whether you’re new to Sauerland or a seasoned visitor, this cruise adds a memorable touch to any lakeside adventure.
FAQ
How long does the boat trip last?
The cruise lasts approximately 3 hours, but check availability for specific starting times.
Where does the tour start?
It begins at the Sondern Ort landing stage, next to the DB lake station, with signposted parking nearby.
Can I hop off at any stop?
Yes, you can disembark at any of the three landing stages—Sondern Ort, Talbrücke Olpe, or Biggedamm Attendorn—after consulting with the crew.
Is the boat suitable for children?
Yes, the atmosphere is child-friendly, making it suitable for families.
Are the ships electric?
Absolutely, the fleet runs on all-electric power, making the journey quiet and eco-friendly.
Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included but are available for purchase on board at a self-service restaurant.
Is it accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone can enjoy the scenic ride.
Do I need to cancel in advance?
Yes, cancellations can be made up to 24 hours before the trip for a full refund, providing flexibility if plans change.
If you’re looking for a peaceful, eco-conscious way to enjoy Sauerland’s lakeside scenery with flexible options for exploration, this boat trip on the Biggesee is a charming choice. The combination of stunning views, sustainability, and relaxed atmosphere makes it a memorable part of any Sauerland itinerary.
You can check if your dates are available here: