Biggesee: boat tour with hearty snack buffet offers a peaceful yet flavorful way to explore North Rhine-Westphalia’s largest Sauerland dam. For about three hours, you’ll glide across Europe’s largest electric passenger ship on one of NRW’s most scenic reservoirs, with a generous buffet of local specialties. It’s a trip that combines natural beauty with hearty regional flavors, all within a sustainable, eco-friendly vessel.
We love how this tour balances scenic mountain views and lake panoramas with a convivial, relaxed atmosphere onboard. The all-electric fleet means you’ll enjoy your cruise without the noise and fumes of traditional engines, making the experience more peaceful and environmentally friendly. The hearty snack buffet, featuring local breads, cheeses, sausages, and fresh vegetables, turns a simple boat ride into a delicious, cultural journey. It’s a wonderful way to sample Sauerland’s culinary traditions without leaving the boat.
A potential consideration is the limited scope for those seeking a more active or extensive sightseeing experience. This is a fairly short, leisurely trip—about three hours—so it’s best suited for travelers looking to relax, enjoy scenery, and indulge in local flavors. If you’re after a quick, authentic taste of Sauerland’s lake region with minimal fuss, this tour hits the mark perfectly.
This experience suits those who appreciate tranquil waters and scenic vistas, as well as travelers eager to enjoy regional cuisine in a relaxed setting. It’s also ideal if you prefer a sustainable, quiet vessel and a well-balanced mix of sightseeing and culinary treats. Families, couples, or solo travelers who want a taste of Sauerland’s natural charm combined with hearty local snacks will find this tour just right.
Key Points
- Scenic Beauty: Enjoy views of the mountains and Biggesee, one of NRW’s largest reservoirs.
- Eco-Friendly Travel: All ships are electric, ensuring a quiet, emissions-free cruise.
- Local Cuisine: Savor hearty Sauerland specialties, cheeses, sausages, and fresh breads.
- Relaxed Pace: The 3-hour trip offers a comfortable, unhurried experience.
- Authentic Atmosphere: Inside salons and sun deck provide different ways to enjoy the scenery.
- Value for Money: Inclusive drinks and buffet make it a satisfying, all-in-one experience.
A Detailed Look at the Experience
The Location and Timing
This tour begins at the Talbrücke Sondern, a notable bridge over the Biggesee, and includes a convenient boarding time around 14:15, with the trip ending back at the same spot around 17:15. The timing is well-suited for an afternoon escape, allowing you to combine it with other activities or sightseeing in the region. The cruise runs on specific dates, so checking availability ahead of time is essential.
Boarding and Onboard Atmosphere
Once onboard, you’ll find a welcoming ambiance. The ship features both maritime indoors salons—perfect for those who prefer shelter—and a sun deck for open-air views and fresh air. The atmosphere is relaxed, with an emphasis on enjoying the scenery and good company. The inclusion of a sparkling wine and orange juice reception adds a touch of celebration without being overly formal.
The Scenic Voyage
The highlight of the trip is the passage over the Sondern Viaduct—a striking engineering feat and one of the region’s sights. As you glide across the Biggesee, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the mountains that surround the lake. The large reservoir, being one of the biggest in North Rhine-Westphalia, offers a diverse landscape—hills, forests, and water blending into a peaceful tableau.
The Buffet and Culinary Experience
The real star is the Hearty Snack Buffet. Expect lovingly prepared cheese and sausage specialties, paired with local breads, pickles, dips, and crunchy vegetables. The buffet is designed to turn your boat ride into a culinary “Brotzeit”—a traditional German snack ritual—right on the water. Included drinks like filter coffee, tea, cocoa, mineral water, house wine, beer, and lemonade ensure you stay refreshed while feasting. The reviews highlight how satisfying and well-thought-out the food is. One traveler described the experience as “very pleasant,” praising the good food and attentive staff.
Exploring the Ship
The ship’s interior offers cozy, maritime-themed salons, ideal for relaxing while enjoying the views. The sun deck provides an open-air experience for those wanting to feel the breeze and take photos. The mix of enclosed and outdoor spaces caters to all weather conditions, ensuring comfort and flexibility.
Pricing and Value
For the price—covering a 3-hour cruise, buffet, drinks, and a sparkling reception—the value feels good, especially considering the inclusion of local food and eco-friendly transport. The fact that you can reserve and pay later makes planning easier, and the cancellation policy (up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund) adds peace of mind.
Accessibility and Practicalities
Wheelchair users are accommodated, and the trip is straightforward to join, with clear meeting points. Note that no takeaway food or drinks are allowed—you’ll want to enjoy everything onboard. Intoxication isn’t permitted, ensuring a safe and respectful environment for everyone.
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Why This Tour Works Well
If you’re looking for a peaceful way to enjoy Sauerland’s natural beauty, this cruise hits all the right notes. It’s perfect for those wanting a relaxed, scenic experience combined with local regional flavors. The eco-friendly electric ships add an extra dimension, aligning with sustainable travel trends. The inclusion of hearty, local snacks makes it more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s an authentic taste of Sauerland hospitality.
The limited duration makes it accessible for a wide range of travelers, including families, older visitors, or those with limited time. The opportunity to sample regional specialties without a formal dinner or multiple stops means you get a snapshot of the area without much fuss.
Who Will Love This Experience?
This cruise suits travelers who enjoy gentle water-based excursions and scenic views, especially if they appreciate regional food. It’s a wonderful option for a relaxing afternoon, a romantic outing, or a family-friendly activity. It’s also great for eco-conscious visitors who prefer electric-powered vessels. If you’re looking for a no-stress way to explore Sauerland’s lake scenery while enjoying local delicacies, this tour offers excellent value.
FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered
Is the tour suitable for children?
While the data doesn’t specify age restrictions, the relaxed nature and family-friendly buffet suggest it could be suitable for children, especially those who enjoy scenic boat rides and hearty snacks.
Can I book this tour for a specific date?
Yes, but availability depends on the schedule. It’s best to check ahead and reserve in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Are drinks included?
Yes, the tour includes filter coffee, tea, cocoa, mineral water, house wine, beer, and lemonade. Longer drinks like cocktails or spirits are not included.
Can I bring my own food or drinks?
No, bringing your own food or drinks is not permitted after the cruise begins. All consumption must take place onboard.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.
What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for the weather; layers are advisable since you can enjoy indoor salons or outdoor decks.
How long does the cruise last?
The ride lasts approximately three hours, including boarding and disembarking.
Is there a dress code?
There’s no formal dress code—casual, comfortable clothing suitable for the weather is fine.
Final Thoughts
This Biggesee boat tour offers a calm, scenic, and flavorful look at North Rhine-Westphalia’s largest dam. It’s a perfect choice if you want a relaxed day on the water, combined with regional culinary delights served in a modern, eco-friendly vessel. The balance of picturesque views, hearty local snacks, and sustainable transport makes it stand out among lake excursions.
Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or family, this experience provides a gentle taste of Sauerland’s natural and culinary treasures. Its straightforward nature, combined with the genuine hospitality and good food, makes it a memorable and satisfying outing.
If you’re after a laid-back, scenic, and tasty lake adventure, this boat tour delivers great value and authentic regional flavor in a peaceful setting. It’s ideal for those seeking a low-key escape into nature with a culinary twist—no fuss, just good times on the Biggesee.
You can check availability for your dates here: