Laboe Naval Memorial: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

If you’re headed to Kiel and want a memorable, flexible way to learn about its maritime history without the rush of a guided tour, the Laboe Naval Memorial self-guided audio experience might be just right. For only $9.99 per person, you get about an hour to learn the story behind the memorial, the U-995 submarine, and the surrounding town at your own pace, using the VoiceMap app. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer independence and personalized timing over group tours.

What we love about this experience is the personal touch brought by Kirk Wilson, the producer and storyteller, whose anecdotes make history come alive. We also appreciate the cost-effectiveness—you can do it whenever it suits you, whether on a rainy day or in the quiet of the early morning. However, it’s important to note that entry to the memorial itself isn’t included—you’ll need to purchase tickets separately if you want to explore inside or the submarine U-995.

This tour suits visitors who enjoy a self-paced experience, value historical storytelling, and want insight into the region’s WWII naval significance without the constraints of a guided group. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy audio-guided walks with the flexibility to linger or move quickly. If you’re a history buff or simply curious about maritime stories, this tour offers both education and a beautiful setting to reflect on history.

Key Points

• Flexible timing: Do the tour whenever it suits you, with unlimited access before and after booking.
• Rich storytelling: Kirk Wilson’s narration includes personal anecdotes and engaging historical details.
• Cost-effective: At $9.99, it offers good value for a personalized, self-guided experience.
• Includes iconic sites: Explore the U-995 submarine and get panoramic views from the memorial tower.
• Offline access: No need to worry about internet—download the tour for offline use.
• Not an entry ticket: Entry to the memorial or submarine requires separate tickets.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

What the Tour Covers and How It Works

This self-guided audio tour centers around the Laboe Naval Memorial, a striking tower overlooking the Kiel Fjord. It doesn’t include entry to the memorial itself, so you’ll want to plan for that separately if you’re interested. The tour takes you on a walk around the memorial, offering insights into its significance, especially its connection to the Battle of Jutland, a brutal naval clash that resulted in 10,000 sailors lost in just 24 hours.

The highlight is the U-995 submarine, a preserved WWII vessel that you can view from the outside as you listen. Kirk Wilson’s narration offers fascinating tidbits about its history and the broader naval story of the area. We loved the way the stories intertwine personal anecdotes with factual history, making it engaging even for those with limited naval knowledge.

The Itinerary Breakdown

• Start at the Naval Memorial: Here, you’ll get a virtual introduction to the memorial’s role in commemorating sailors lost in the World Wars. The app guides you step-by-step, with GPS directions ensuring you don’t get lost. The panoramic views from the tower are breathtaking, and you’ll hear about the memorial’s design and significance—it’s a powerful sight that invites reflection.

• Walk to the U-995 Submarine: The next stop is the outside view of the U-995, a Type VII submarine that served during WWII. Kirk shares details about its service, how it was recovered, and why it’s now a museum ship. You’ll appreciate the opportunity to explore at your own pace, lingering as long as you like.

• Stroll through Laboe: The surrounding town adds a charming touch, with local stories and insights about the area’s maritime culture. Although brief, this segment enriches your understanding of the region’s naval importance beyond just the memorial and submarine.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

We loved the personal storytelling style of Kirk Wilson. His anecdotes add warmth and context, making the history more relatable. As one reviewer mentions, “Kirk really made the experience come to life with personal anecdotes and interesting stories.” This approach helps transform what could be a dry history lesson into an engaging experience.

The unlimited, flexible access is another major plus. Whether you want to do the tour over a morning or spread it out across an afternoon, it adapts to your schedule. Plus, being able to do it offline means you won’t need to worry about spotty Wi-Fi, especially if you’re exploring the scenic coast.

Practical Considerations and Tips

Since this is a self-guided experience, you’ll need your own smartphone and headphones. The tour’s price doesn’t include entry to the memorial or submarine, so budget for those if you want inside access. The starting point is conveniently located at the Naval Memorial on Strandstraße, with public transportation nearby, making it easy to access without a car.

Timing-wise, the tour is quite flexible—most travelers reported completing it in about an hour, but you could take longer if you want to explore more deeply. The memorial is open from noon to late evening, so plan accordingly if you want to combine the tour with a visit inside.

Authenticity and Value

This tour’s standout feature is its authentic narrative and the chance to learn about WWII naval history from a storyteller who clearly cares about making it vivid. The $9.99 price offers excellent value, especially given the off-hours flexibility and the fact that you can replay the tour or revisit parts of it later.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a history enthusiast eager to understand the maritime legacy of the Kiel area, this tour is a smart choice. It’s also ideal if you prefer independent exploration rather than guided groups and want the ability to set your own pace. Suitable for most travelers, including those with limited mobility, as it involves mostly walking outside with minimal physical effort.

Those traveling with ** kids or teenagers** interested in WWII history might find the stories engaging, especially with the dramatic submarine story. It’s perfect for a short, meaningful visit that complements other sightseeing.

Final Thoughts

The Laboe Naval Memorial self-guided audio tour offers a thoughtful, affordable way to connect with maritime history in Kiel. It’s especially valuable for travelers who enjoy personal stories, panoramic views, and the flexibility to explore at their own pace. The combination of Kirk Wilson’s engaging narration and the impressive sights makes it a memorable experience, whether you’re a history buff or simply curious about the area’s past.

While it doesn’t replace a full visit to the memorial or submarine museum, it provides meaningful context and a personal touch that elevates your understanding of this coastal gem. If you appreciate authentic stories and scenic settings, this tour is well worth the modest investment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a guided tour?
No, it’s a self-guided audio tour that you listen to with your own smartphone and headphones.

Does the tour include entry to the memorial or submarine?
No, the tour does not include entry fees. You’ll need separate tickets if you want to go inside the memorial or explore the U-995 submarine.

How long does the tour take?
Most people complete it in about one hour to an hour 15 minutes, but you can take longer if you wish.

Can I do the tour at any time?
Yes, the tour offers unlimited access and can be done whenever it suits you, thanks to its flexible online setup.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the stories are engaging enough for most ages, especially those interested in WWII and naval history.

Do I need an internet connection?
No, once downloaded, the tour works offline, making it perfect for exploring without Wi-Fi.

What are the starting and ending points?
The tour begins at Naval Memorial, Strandstraße 92, Laboe and ends back at that same location.

Are there any accessibility considerations?
The tour is mostly outdoor walking, so mobility depends on individual circumstances. The app’s GPS guidance helps keep navigation straightforward.

Can I revisit parts of the tour later?
Yes, with lifetime access, you can listen again anytime, even after your trip.

Is there a cancellation policy?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked, so plan your visit accordingly.

If you’re after a meaningful, flexible, and budget-friendly way to explore Kiel’s naval history and enjoy stunning views, this self-guided tour offers a genuine and engaging experience.