Für jedes Alter • Bis zu 5 Stunden • freie Tour ohne Guide
A calm, family-friendly paddle from Mellingburger Schleuse to Klein Borstel that’s easy to reach from Hamburg by public transport. Ideal for kids 6+ and groups wanting a relaxed day on quiet canals.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
Up to 5 hours
Fitness Level
Basic paddling fitness; able to sit and paddle intermittently for several hours. Suitable for beginners and families with children 6+.
Wildlife
History
The Mellingburger Schleuse is part of Hamburg’s historic canal and sluice network that has regulated water levels and connected city waterways for generations.
Conservation
Follow leave-no-trace principles: avoid trampling reed beds, keep distance from nesting birds, and pack out all trash to protect this urban water habitat.
Für jedes Alter • Bis zu 5 Stunden • freie Tour ohne Guide
Book public transit to the meeting point
Take the S-Bahn or local bus to avoid parking headaches; the KanuHelden meeting point is set up for walk-up arrivals from public transit.
Wear layered, water-resistant clothing
Mornings can be cool on the water even in summer — layers and a light waterproof make the trip comfortable.
Secure electronics in a dry bag
Phone and keys should be stowed in waterproof protection; pockets in sit-on-top kayaks still leak if waves come over the rim.
Watch for nesting birds in spring
Give space to reed and bank nesting sites to avoid disturbing birds, especially near quiet side channels.
Personal flotation device (PFD)
Required for safety; staff will help fit life jackets at check-in.
Dry bag (5–10L)
Keeps phones, snacks, and spare layers dry during the paddle.
Rain jacket or waterproof shell
Light waterproofs are useful in spring and can turn a damp day comfortable rather than miserable.
spring
Sun hat and sunscreen
Open water reflects sunlight—protect your face and neck on sunny days.
summer