New jetty opened in Dranske: sailors are looking forward to returning home!

New jetty opened in Dranske: sailors are looking forward to returning home!

In Dranske, a charming town on the Wittow peninsula, a new jetty has replaced the old wooden jetty that was destroyed by storms and floods and was already important for so many recreational athletes. This impressive jetty, which stretches over 200 meters, offers space for 85 pleasure boats and is equipped with connections for water, electricity and a stable WiFi connection. The members of the Wittower Segelverein e.V. in particular can now use their own jetty again after a two and a half year wait, which is of great importance not only for the sailors but also for the entire community. According to NDR, the construction costs of half a million euros were largely financed by the association itself, donations from regional companies and advance payments from members, supported by 95,000 euros from the state and community.

But what makes the new jetty so special? Not only is it simply a construction of metal mesh on posts, but it was also specifically designed to withstand the challenges of strong waves. While the old wooden jetty could not withstand the mighty forces of nature, the new jetty does a better job with its well thought-out design.

Water sports in Dranske

Dranske is not only a loading point for boats, but also a true mecca for water sports enthusiasts. The waters around the Bug are a paradise for windsurfers, kitesurfers, sailors and stand-up paddlers. The region is known for its windy conditions and is often referred to as “wind country.” The spot in Wieker Bodden in particular is considered one of the best freestyle spots on the island of Rügen. The Municipality of Dranske highlights how the jet effect here accelerates the wind speed and thus creates optimal conditions for beginners and experts alike.

This varied area features a 150 x 400 meter flat water area and changeable waves - ideal for testing your skills or just having fun! The sailing season starts every year around May 1st with a Rügen round sailing trip, which is organized by the Wittow sailing club. For those interested, all important information can be found on the website www.wittow-segeln.de.

Popularity of water sports

Water is a magnet for many people. According to Statista, water sports are very popular in Germany. Swimming is one of the most popular sports, and sailing, whose association had over 193,000 members in 2022, is also a popular pastime. Despite the declining number of public pools and the increase in non-swimmers, seeing and experiencing the water remains an essential part of many leisure activities.

Even stand up paddling has become established in urban waters, while surfing in Germany only has a small following due to the limited opportunities compared to countries like France. Nevertheless, the variety of water sports and the joy of life that comes with them draw people outside.

Overall, the new jetty in Dranske not only strengthens the connection to the water, but also the community and the idea of ​​water sports in the region. The jetty represents the central element of the club's life and encourages water sports enthusiasts of all ages to enjoy the beauty of the water and become active.