Hafen Baltrum (Baltrum Yachthafen),

Hafen Baltrum is a cozy, characterful harbor ideal for tide-aware sailors seeking a relaxed, well-served stop with superb hospitality and easy access to island life. Operated by the Baltrumer Boots‑Club e.V. (BBC) since 1968, the marina is on the east side of the island's harbor basin, while the ferry and rescue zone lies on the west side Coordinates: 53° 43′ 35″ N, 7° 22′ 00″ E Accommodation: ~50–70 sport and sailing boats, with about 15 guest berths Also is home to the ferry terminal on the west side, and the marina on the east side. There are approximately 70 moorings available along finger piers, almost all of which are occupied by members of the Baltrum Boat Club (BBC). Guest boaters can moor at several finger piers and alongside two main piers. The harbor dries out during the spring season, and then the smell is somewhat unpleasant, even for locals. There are very few electrical hookups. There are only two water hookups at the landward end of the pier. If you want to refuel, you either have to make several trips with a canister or move far forward. The piers are illuminated at night. Mooring fees are paid to the very friendly harbormaster, who has his office in the small clubhouse (opposite the bridge to the piers). The pier attendant is always on duty in the evenings from 5:45 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. (Tel. 0174 377 0198). The clubhouse also houses the restrooms (showers cost 50 cents for 4 minutes) and trash bins. There are two showers and two toilets each for men and women. This can lead to considerable waiting times during peak times. When the wind is from the southwest it gets rough in the harbor. The pier is manned by ferries and island supply companies. The DGzRS rescue boat is moored on a bridge next to the ramp. Diesel or gasoline cannot be refueled. Shopping and supplies are available in the village (a 5-minute walk). Bread rolls are available at the bakery in the village. The National Park Center is located at the entrance to the village. Baltrum is the smallest of the East Frisian Islands. It has a unique charm that only becomes apparent at second glance. The island is car-free. The walk from the harbor to the village is only a 5-10 minute walk. The island is approximately 5 km long and 2 km wide. Those looking for a lively nightlife will look in vain on Baltrum. There are a few bars and restaurants, but everything is rather small, in keeping with the island's size. There are no street names, only house numbers. You can hike across the island to the seal colonies in the east. The narrow beach is close to the village. Only the western half of the island is populated. To the east are vast, uninhabited areas, while on the northeast side there are wide beaches extending into the Accumer Ee. Large salt marshes lie in the south. Getting there: There's no approach from the sea. The Wichter Ee is not navigable for non-locals and is also unmarked. Locals know the way through the sand dunes. But you should definitely not follow their example! If you don't believe this, you should check out the sand dunes at low tide—preferably during spring tide. Baltrum can be reached either from the west through the Norderney mudflats , from the south through the Neßmersiel mudflats or from the east through the Baltrum mudflats . In the Norderney mudflat fairway, follow the buoys. On both sides of the mudflats below the last quarter of Norderney, it quickly becomes shallow on both sides. So it's important to stay on course! Shortly before Baltrum, the fairway runs narrowly along the eastern end of Norderney. You should definitely not nip here and continue on to the D 19 / B 2! The shallows between the Neßmersieler Balje and the Baltrumer Balje are quite challenging. Anyone who gets stuck here will find themselves stuck on very hard sand and will be lucky if they can get free again under their own steam. If the water recedes, there's no chance at all. If the water rises, the tide pushes you mercilessly further and further up onto the shallows. The same applies, of course, if you're coming from Neßmersiel. Coming from the east, you don't have these problems. Firstly, the Baltrum mudflat fairway is uniformly shallow almost everywhere (1.55 meters of water at normal high water). Secondly, the buoys of the Baltrum mudflat fairway merge into buoys in the Baltrumer Balje, which lead directly past the entrance to the harbor. The east side of the ferry port is shallow, so you have to pay attention to the buoys, especially when approaching the marina (the narrow shallow water extends quite far into the harbor) Tidal Conditions & Navigation The harbor dries significantly at low tide; only ~0.4 m depth remains at the western piers, while most others dry out . Accessible only at tide-high to mid-range; timing with tide tables is essential. Approaches via marked channels: from the west (Norderney route) or east (Baltrum route). Note shallow areas and strong currents near pricken—navigation lines must be strictly followed Guest Mooring & Facilities Floating piers with finger berths; guest vessels can tie up along fingers or alongside main piers . Berth fees: €15–25 per day (based on vessel size), plus €3/day for electricity; water and showers are included . Amenities: sanitary building with 2 showers & toilets per gender; coin-operated showers (~50 ct/4 min); limited shore power and water outlets . (check prices on the website for any updates) Harbormaster on site daily (~18:00 h) and contactable by phone . Waste disposal, a grill area near the clubhouse, and access to free Wi‑Fi hotspots in the village . The harbormaster is known for being exceptionally friendly—often praised more than neighbouring islands Review highlights include: “Small cute harbor… harbor master really highly recommends… Norderney and Juist can learn a lesson…” Some report limited water hose availability and relatively short coin-operated showers . Local Area & Attractions Just a 5–10 minute walk to the village (restaurants, bakery, grocery, pharmacy) . Nearby highlights: Nationalpark-Haus (tidal education), Heimatmuseum, a rose garden, and the dune viewpoint (Aussichtsdüne) Rescue boat DGzRS station located in the ferry harbour Tips for Visitors Time your arrival/departure with tides—harbor dries out. Bring your own power plugs, hoses, and water containers. Arrive mid-to-high tide via Pricken-marked channels (west or east route). Chat with the harbourmaster—locals highly appreciate the friendly service! Explore on foot or bike: dunes, museums, tidal pools, and island nature.