Trips on the water

The Rhine is not only a centre of attraction because of its impressive dimensions, it also captivates with beautiful city panoramas and magnificent landscapes on both sides of its course. Travellers can discover Düsseldorf, Cologne and Bonn as well as the surrounding area on various round trips, evening dinner tours or all-day excursions. Köln-Düsseldorfer Deutsche Rheinschiffahrt AG (KD), which has been travelling on Germany's most famous river for almost 200 years, offers round trips and boat tours as far as the Siebengebirge, for example.

Further down the Rhine, there are impressive records to marvel at: in Duisburg, the world's largest inland harbour has set new standards with 22 harbour basins and around 180 hectares of water. There are two departure points for the large tours that take place several times a week past barges and warehouses. Either way, there are modern container terminals and historic harbour areas to see from on board, including explanations from the captain.

Canoeing across the Lower Rhine at eye level with nature: the Niers between Viersen and Goch not only offers around 70 kilometres of relaxing river idyll, but also has around 15 canoe hire companies on its banks. They are also happy to offer additional services after mooring if required: the boat is collected, bikes are brought along and a barbecue is provided.

You can set sail in the Ruhr region under your own steam. One pedal stroke and the houseboat from the "Escargot" series is on its way. The name, French for snail, is no coincidence: those travelling on the Canal Cruiser move slowly and always have a house with them. It's a relaxed way to travel from Mülheim an der Ruhr to Essen, past the romantic old towns of Kettwig and Essen-Werden to Lake Baldeney. The boats of the Green Fleet Mülheim an der Ruhr are available in different sizes and can sleep up to five people.

Water skiing takes you across the lake at different levels of difficulty for different requirements: with six cable cars, there is plenty of choice at the facility in Langenfeld. It is one of the world's largest water ski centres and has also been the venue for international championships. On four large and two smaller courses, there are challenges for different levels and opportunities to enjoy the thrill of the rope on the lake. Those who prefer to take to the water on a surfboard can try their hand at this sport on a standing wave.

There are many special features to discover on and along the Weser in Minden: On the one hand, Germany's only grist mill is anchored there, which can be visited by land, but can also be viewed from the water on a canoe tour. Secondly, you can experience the largest double waterway intersection in the world on a canal tour of the Weser - lock passage included.

Paddle across the lake standing up and enjoy the surroundings in peace: This beautiful combination makes stand-up paddling so popular, and it is also possible regardless of wind or waves. The Bevertalsperre in the Bergisches Land region is one of the ideal places to try out stand-up paddling, whether in a group or alone and at your own pace.