Biggesee: Boat Tour with All-inclusive cake buffet

Choosing a boat trip on Biggesee in North Rhine-Westphalia offers a delightful mix of nature, comfort, and sweet treats. This 3-hour cruise aboard Europe’s largest electric passenger ship, EMS ‘Westfalen,’ combines scenic lake views with a generous cake buffet and drinks—an experience that promises relaxation and a touch of indulgence. From stunning mountain panoramas to inside and outside seating options, this tour is a charming way to enjoy Sauerland’s largest dam.

What makes this experience stand out is the all-inclusive cake buffet, paired with sparkling wine, coffee, and a relaxed ambiance. We also love the eco-friendly aspect of traveling on Europe’s biggest electric ship, which minimizes noise and emissions—perfect for environmentally conscious travelers. However, some might find the focus on sweets and drinks a bit limiting if they’re seeking a more active or varied excursion.

This tour is ideal for those seeking a leisurely day on the water, enjoying scenic vistas with a sweet twist. It’s also well-suited for groups who appreciate good service, cozy atmospheres, and a chance to unwind with family or friends. If you love cake, tranquil lake views, and a relaxed pace, this cruise could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Scenic Lake Views: See Biggesee from the water, with impressive dam architecture and mountain surroundings.
• All-Inclusive Buffet: Enjoy a variety of cakes, drinks, and sparkling wine included in the price.
• Eco-Friendly Travel: The ship EMS ‘Westfalen’ operates as Europe’s largest electric passenger vessel, offering quiet, emission-free cruising.
• Flexible Schedule & Accessibility: Check available starting times, with a 3-hour duration, and wheelchair access.
• Authentic Atmosphere: Inside maritime salons and a sun deck cater to different weather conditions and preferences.
• Authentic Local Experience: Combine sightseeing with a sweet culinary treat whether you’re in Sauerland for a day or an afternoon escape.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Departure Point and Arrival

The journey begins at the Talbrücke Sondern, which is well-signposted and accessible by car, with parking available nearby. The meeting time is typically around 2:15 p.m., with the cruise ending back at the same spot around 5:15 p.m. This straightforward start and finish make logistics simple—no need to fuss about complicated transfers.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The cruise primarily revolves around a 3-hour sightseeing journey on Biggesee, starting at the valley bridge at Sondern. The boat navigates across the dam, allowing you to observe the impressive engineering marvel and the surrounding natural beauty. The focus is on relaxing and enjoying the scenery rather than a lengthy tour, making it suitable for those who prefer a laid-back experience.

The Ship: EMS ‘Westfalen’

This electric passenger vessel is the star of the show. Not only does it provide a smooth and quiet ride, but it also adds a modern, eco-conscious touch to the trip. Several reviewers highlight the cleanliness and comfort of the onboard spaces, which include maritime salons for inside seating and a sun deck for enjoying the outdoors.

The Cake Buffet and Drinks

The highlight for many is undoubtedly the all-inclusive cake buffet. Guests rave about the variety and quality of the cakes, with one reviewer noting that the selection was “large” and that the staff was “very helpful and friendly.” The buffet is complemented by drinks such as filter coffee, tea, cocoa, mineral water, wine, beer, and lemonade—offering a good range for most tastes.

Some guests suggested that adding fresh cheese or butter to the bread would make it even better, but overall, the consensus is that the sweets and beverages are plentiful and delicious. The sparkling wine reception adds a celebratory touch at the start, making this feel like a special outing.

The Views & Experience

From the boat, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the lake’s shimmering surface, the surrounding mountains, and the dam itself. The Biggeblick viewing platform offers a particularly scenic vantage point, allowing you to soak in the beauty at your own pace. Several reviews mention how relaxing and beautiful the scenery is, especially if the weather cooperates.

The Atmosphere & Service

Guests consistently note the friendly and attentive onboard staff, who help create a welcoming environment. The safety and cleanliness of the boat are also appreciated. The boat’s interior inside the maritime salons feels cozy and well-maintained, while the outside sun deck provides a more immersive connection with nature.

Considerations & Tips

While the experience is largely positive, some might find the focus primarily on sweets and drinks a bit limiting if they’re looking for a more diversified activity. Also, alcohol and food cannot be taken off the boat, so plan accordingly if you’re wanting to bring additional snacks for later.

Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak times, and the flexible reservation policy—allowing cancellation up to 24 hours before—adds peace of mind.

Why This Tour Works

The value here is quite good considering the inclusion of a 3-hour boat ride, multiple drinks, a substantial cake buffet, and the eco-friendly electric ship. For $45 per person, it offers a relaxing, scenic experience with plenty of opportunities for photos, conversation, and indulgence.

The tour’s slow pace and natural beauty make it a perfect fit for those escaping the hustle of city life or looking for a family-friendly outing. If you’re a traveler who enjoys culinary treats, gentle sightseeing, and tranquil waters, this cruise hits all the right notes.

Who Should Consider This?

This tour is ideal for groups of friends, couples, or families seeking a laid-back, scenic activity. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate sustainable travel and want to enjoy Sauerland’s landscape without strenuous activity. If you love cakes and good drinks combined with water-based sightseeing, you’ll likely find this experience refreshing and satisfying.

Final Thoughts

This boat tour on Biggesee offers a charming blend of stunning scenery, eco-friendly transportation, and delightful treats. With a friendly crew, a flexible schedule, and a cozy atmosphere, it’s a fantastic way to spend an afternoon soaking up Sauerland’s natural beauty while indulging your sweet tooth.

While it might not be the best choice for those seeking active adventures or extensive sightseeing, it’s perfect for travelers wanting a leisurely, scenic, and delicious outing. The value for money is solid, considering the inclusive drinks and cakes, and the experience feels both indulgent and authentic.

If you’re after a relaxed day on water with views, good company, and tasty cakes, this cruise could be a highlight of your Sauerland trip.

FAQ

Is the cruise suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for guests with mobility needs.

How long is the boat trip?
The cruise lasts approximately 3 hours, starting around 2:15 p.m. and returning by 5:15 p.m., depending on the available schedule.

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers a 3-hour boat ride on Biggesee, a reception with sparkling wine and orange juice, an all-inclusive cake buffet, plus drinks like coffee, tea, cocoa, mineral water, wine, beer, and lemonade.

Are food and drinks allowed to be brought off the boat?
No, food and drinks are only consumed during the trip and cannot be packed or taken off the vessel.

Can I cancel this booking if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure for a full refund, allowing flexible planning.

What if I want to join at a different time?
Availability varies, so check the schedule online to see what starting times are offered and book accordingly.

To sum it up, the Biggesee boat tour with its all-inclusive cake buffet offers a relaxed, scenic, and tasty escape into Sauerland’s natural beauty. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy peaceful water views, good company, and sweet treats in a environmentally friendly setting. Whether you’re celebrating, traveling with family, or simply craving a gentle cruise, this experience provides a memorable and worthwhile outing at a reasonable price.