Biggesee: Boat Tour with All-inclusive cake buffet

Biggesee: Boat Tour with All-inclusive Cake Buffet — A Practical and Delightful Lake Cruise in Germany

Imagine cruising across Biggesee, the largest dam in the Sauerland region of North Rhine-Westphalia, on Europe’s biggest electric passenger ship, EMS “Westfalen.” For about three hours, you’ll glide over calm waters with stunning mountain vistas on one side and lush lakeside scenery on the other. The experience isn’t just about the views — it also features a generous cake buffet and drinks included in the price of $45 per person.

What really makes this outing stand out are two specific things: first, the peaceful, eco-friendly electric boat that offers a quiet, smooth ride—ideal for taking in the scenery without engine noise—and second, the all-you-can-eat cake buffet, which turns an ordinary boat trip into a sweet feast. These touches make it a charming outing, especially for those with a sweet tooth or looking for a relaxing, scenic day.

A couple of considerations: the tour lasts 3 hours, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a longer, seated experience, and it’s not designed for party groups or pets. If you’re after a laid-back, scenic cruise with delicious treats and beautiful views, this will suit you well.

This experience fits best for travelers who appreciate nature, tranquility, and good food. It’s perfect for families, couples, or small groups seeking a relaxed way to enjoy Sauerland’s lakes and mountains, with the bonus of a sweet buffet to keep spirits high.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Scenic Lake Views: You’ll enjoy the calm waters of Biggesee from the water, with mountain scenery and lakeside sights.
• Electric Ship: The EMS “Westfalen” is Europe’s largest electric passenger ship, offering a quiet, eco-friendly ride.
• All-You-Can-Eat Cake Buffet: Indulge in a delicious, varied selection of cakes, with drinks included.
• Relaxed Pace: The 3-hour cruise offers plenty of time to unwind and take pictures without feeling rushed.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for small groups, families, and those wanting a peaceful outing.
• Limited for Party Groups: Not ideal for loud celebrations or groups seeking a lively party atmosphere.

An In-Depth Look at the Biggesee Boat Tour Experience

Setting the Scene: Biggesee and the Electric Ship EMS ‘Westfalen’

Starting at Talbrücke Sondern, you’ll find an easy-to-access meeting point with parking available — an important detail for those self-driving. The start time varies, so checking the schedule in advance ensures you’re on time to board this impressively large electric vessel. We loved the way the boat’s smooth, quiet operation enhances the experience—no engine noise to drown out conversation or the sounds of nature.

This ship isn’t just a mode of transportation; it’s a highlight of the trip. Described as Europe’s largest electric passenger ship, EMS “Westfalen” offers a modern, eco-conscious way to enjoy Sauerland’s lake. Its maritime salons inside provide comfort in case of weather changes, and the spacious sun deck outside invites you to breathe in the fresh air and take endless pictures.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The cruise begins with a warm welcome, including sparkling wine or orange juice—an excellent touch that sets a celebratory tone. As the boat departs from the Valley Bridge at Sondern, the waters open up, revealing beautiful panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

The cruise lasts approximately three hours, during which you’ll enjoy a comprehensive sightseeing experience. One of the most attractive features is the Biggeblick viewing platform—a spot where you can step outside and admire the vistas from a different perspective. Expect to see the dam, which is not just engineering marvel but adds a historical dimension to the scenery.

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The Cake Buffet: A Sweet Highlight

The highlight for many, based on reviews, is the all-inclusive cake buffet. As you relax on the deck or inside the ship’s salons, you’ll find a tempting spread of various cakes and pastries. According to reviewer Lyubov, “The buffet was lecker, but I would have liked fresh cheese and butter for the bread,” which shows the variety is appreciated but also leaves room for small improvements.

The buffet isn’t just about sweet treats; drinks are included too—filter coffee, tea, cocoa, mineral water, and even wine, beer, and lemonade. The all-you-can-eat concept means you can indulge without any worries about extra costs, making it excellent value when you consider the price of similar experiences elsewhere.

The Atmosphere and Service

From multiple reviews, it’s clear that the staff is friendly and helpful. GetYourGuide traveler mentions, “The boat was clean, and the selection of cakes and drinks was large,” emphasizing the quality of service. The atmosphere is relaxed, with many passengers enjoying the calm waters, the views, and their sweet treats.

While it’s not a party cruise, the vibe is convivial and laid-back. No loud music or dancing, but plenty of opportunities for conversation and photo-taking.

Who is This Tour Perfect For?

This tour offers a gentle, scenic outing that suits those who want peace, beautiful views, and good food. It’s great for families with kids, couples looking for a relaxed day, or small groups of friends. It’s also suitable for travelers who prioritize eco-friendly travel, as the large electric ship minimizes environmental impact.

It’s not designed for party-goers or those seeking lively entertainment, nor for pets or large groups wanting a loud celebration. If you’re after a peaceful, scenic cruise with a sweet touch, this is a good fit.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Trip

• Timing is key: Check the schedule to match your preferred start time.
• Arrive early: Parking is available at the meeting point, but arriving a little ahead ensures smooth boarding.
• Dress for the weather: The boat has indoor salons, but the sun deck is exposed—bring sunglasses, hat, or jacket depending on the forecast.
• Bring a camera: The views are postcard-worthy, especially from the Biggeblick platform.
• Plan your return: The cruise ends back at the same point around 5:15 p.m., so plan your transport accordingly.

Cost and Value Analysis

For $45 per person, you get a three-hour scenic cruise with unlimited cake and drinks. Compared to similar lake excursions, where food and drinks often cost extra, this all-inclusive package offers great value. The eco-friendly aspect of the electric ship adds an extra layer of appeal for environmentally conscious travelers.

Final thoughts on value:

You’re paying for a combination of relaxation, scenery, and indulgence. The service and amenities seem well thought out, with reviewers praising the helpful staff and tasty buffet. As one person remarked, “The selection of cakes was large, and the tour was very relaxed,” which captures the essence of a leisurely day on Biggesee.

FAQ

How long is the boat trip?
The cruise lasts approximately three hours, providing enough time to enjoy the scenery and the buffet without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the 3-hour boat trip, reception with sparkling wine or orange juice, the all-inclusive cake buffet, and drinks such as coffee, tea, cocoa, mineral water, wine, beer, and lemonade.

Are drinks and food available after the trip?
No, food and drinks are only consumed during the boat trip; packing or taking food off the boat is not permitted.

Is the ship accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the boat is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for guests with mobility needs.

Can I bring pets?
No, pets are not allowed onboard.

Is there a dress code?
No formal dress code, but bring layers and sun protection depending on the weather.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there any groups that shouldn’t book this tour?
It’s not suitable for party groups or loud celebrations. The atmosphere is peaceful and family-friendly.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is available in English, German, and Dutch.

What’s the best time of year to do this?
While the tour runs in good weather, it’s especially enjoyable in spring and summer when the scenery is at its most vibrant.

Final Thoughts

A Biggesee boat trip aboard Europe’s largest electric passenger ship offers a relaxing blend of scenic beauty and sweet indulgence. It’s a wonderful way to unwind while soaking up Sauerland’s mountain scenery and lake vistas. The all-inclusive cake buffet and drinks elevate the experience from a simple cruise to a memorable treat.

For travelers seeking tranquility, beautiful views, and a touch of sweetness, this tour hits the mark. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy eco-conscious travel and good food in peaceful surroundings. Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or small family, you’ll find this outing a delightful escape from everyday life.

If you love tranquil lakes, scenic vistas, and tasty cakes, this boat trip is well worth considering—a charming, relaxing day on Biggesee that leaves you with plenty of photos and happy memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: