Usedom: Sailing tour on an exclusive tall ship Wednesday

This 3.5-hour sailing trip on a vintage tall ship offers a refreshing way to see the natural beauty of the Achterwasser in Usedom. Operating from the picturesque Neppermin harbor, this experience blends maritime tradition with peaceful scenery, making it an ideal escape from everyday life. The ship itself, over 100 years old, is a captivating piece of history, and the relaxed pace makes it suitable even for those without sailing experience.

What we really love about this tour is how it combines authentic maritime charm with the chance to unwind on calm waters. The opportunity to enjoy a welcome drink and book additional refreshments onboard adds a touch of luxury. One thing to consider is that weather can influence the experience—so packing weather-appropriate clothing is wise. This tour suits travelers seeking a laid-back, scenic adventure with a dash of maritime history and expert local guides.

If you’re after a peaceful water-based activity that feels both authentic and special, this sailing tour on Usedom checks all the boxes. It’s especially good for those curious about maritime traditions, lovers of nature, or anyone wanting a unique perspective on the island’s stunning coastlines.

Key Points

Authentic maritime experience aboard a 100-year-old, Dutch-built tall ship.
Relaxing three-and-a-half-hour journey with stunning water views.
Informative guides with maritime stories and local insights.
Includes a welcome drink and on-board bar for further refreshments.
Ideal for all skill levels—no sailing experience needed.
Perfect for nature lovers seeking tranquility on calm waters.

An In-Depth Look at the Sailing Adventure in Usedom

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The Setting: Neppermin Harbor and the Achterwasser

The adventure begins in the charming harbor of Neppermin, situated on the island of Usedom. This spot is accessible with designated parking, making it a convenient starting point. The harbor’s picturesque scenery immediately sets a peaceful tone, with views of traditional vessels and the lush shoreline. Your departure time is typically around 11:00 a.m., and the return around 2:30 p.m., giving you a comfortable window to soak in the sights.

The Achterwasser, with its tranquil waters and natural beauty, is the perfect backdrop for this sailing experience. As you glide over the water, you’ll notice the gentle wind and the calmness of the backwater, which creates a relaxed atmosphere perfect for unwinding. The route also includes passages near Usedom’s coast, giving you a fresh perspective on the island’s landscape, from dense forests to quiet beaches.

The Vessel: Over a Century of Maritime History

The star of the tour is the Weisse Düne, a Dutch-built freight ship over 45 meters long that has been expertly restored to sail once again. This vessel can carry up to 53 guests, and its history adds a special charm. We loved how the captain, Detlef, and his wife Jane, bring stories about the ship’s past to life, adding a layer of storytelling that deepens the experience.

This is not a modern cruise liner—it’s a true historical vessel. The vintage vessel’s wooden decks, traditional rigging, and authentic maritime details make it feel like stepping back in time. The crew’s knowledge and enthusiasm shine through, making every passenger feel welcomed and informed.

The Itinerary: A Slow, Scenic Waterway

The journey is designed to be peaceful and scenic, with no strict stops or rush. However, the experience is rich with highlights:

Start at Neppermin’s Seesteg, where you’re greeted by the captain with a welcome drink and a brief overview of the trip.
Sailing through the Achterwasser offers views of natural landscapes, quiet waters, and possibly some birdlife. The calm environment invites guests to relax, take photographs, or simply enjoy the serenity.
Onboard storytelling by the guides, including interesting tidbits about the local maritime history and the vessel’s past, make the journey educational and engaging.
Refreshments like drinks and additional food can be ordered from the onboard bar, adding a leisurely touch. Reviewers praised the crew for their friendliness and attentiveness, with one noting, “The crew is very friendly and always there to help.”

The trip concludes back at Neppermin harbor, wrapping up a well-rounded, peaceful waterway experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s price of $96 per person includes a warm welcome from the captain, a complimentary drink on arrival, and access to the sailing experience itself. The onboard bar allows for additional purchases of drinks and snacks, which many guests appreciated—some reviewers mentioned the “delicious house-made” treats and well-chosen drinks.

Food and additional drinks are not included, so if you’re craving a full meal, it’s worth bringing snacks or planning to purchase on board. Note that hotel pickup and drop-off are not part of the package, so plan your transportation accordingly.

Practical Tips for Your Sail

Weather preparedness is key. Since the tour runs rain or shine, packing a waterproof or windbreaker is advisable, especially given some reviews mentioning cooler breezes on the water.
Comfortable attire that suits the weather will make your experience more enjoyable. Layers are recommended, as wind can make it feel cooler.
No sailing experience necessary—the focus is on relaxation and scenery, not navigation.
Smoking indoors, bikes, plastic bottles, and littering are prohibited, keeping the environment clean and cozy.

Authentic Reviews and What They Reveal

Guests consistently rate this experience near perfect, with a 4.9/5 from 20 reviews. Comments highlight the knowledgeable guides and the ship’s stunning views as major plus points. One reviewer, Ivonne, called it “a very memorable trip with friendly crew, delicious drinks, and good value,” emphasizing the balance of relaxation and authenticity.

Another praised the comfortable seating on deck and the informative commentary provided by the captain, which enhanced their appreciation of the local waters. Norbert, who called it “short but memorable,” appreciated the crew’s friendliness and the captain’s willingness to answer questions—a testament to the personable nature of this tour.

Why You Should Consider This Tour

This sailing experience is truly about soaking in the natural beauty and maritime history of Usedom without any rush or pretension. It’s ideal for travelers who want a gentle, scenic adventure, whether they’re solo, couples, or groups. The relaxed pace, combined with the authentic vintage vessel, makes it a memorable way to connect with the island’s maritime tradition.

It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate stories behind the ships, love being on the water, or simply want to enjoy some peaceful hours away from busy tourist spots. If you’re after a family-friendly activity, the calm waters and straightforward itinerary are suitable for children too.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Experience

If you’re seeking a calm, scenic, and authentic sailing trip on Usedom, this tour offers excellent value. The combination of historical charm, beautiful water views, and friendly guides makes it stand out among water-based activities on the island. It’s best suited for those wanting a relaxed, informative, and nature-focused outing that doesn’t require any special skills or prior sailing experience.

This tour also appeals to history buffs or anyone interested in maritime traditions, thanks to the vintage vessel and engaging storytelling. The inclusive nature, with drinks and onboard comfort, makes it a cozy yet scenic escape—perfect for those looking to unwind in a charming coastal setting.

In essence, this trip provides a genuine, heartfelt connection to the waters of Usedom, making it a memorable highlight of any visit to the region.

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