82-year-old races from Büsum to Heligoland and back in a rubber dinghy!
Horst Wittenberg, 82, travels from Büsum to Heligoland and back in his inflatable boat - an adventure full of safety and experience.

82-year-old races from Büsum to Heligoland and back in a rubber dinghy!
In the maritime heart of the North Sea, a remarkable trip is causing a stir: 82-year-old Horst Wittenberg from Nordenham recently set sail in his 3.30 meter long inflatable boat and covered an impressive route from Büsum to Heligoland and back. [NWZonline]. Fantastic weather began with only 1-2 wind speeds. He set off at 3 a.m. and reached his destination at 9:30 a.m.
The idea for this tour had been floating around in his head for a long time because his enthusiasm for Heligoland, an island that captivates with its impressive cliffs and vast wildlife, was unbroken. However, the departure from the port of Büsum was not just a simple excursion; Wittenberg took clear safety precautions: He invested around 1,500 euros in safety equipment, which includes a GPS emergency transmitter, a VHF radio and even emergency rockets, in order to be well prepared in an emergency.
A review and long-term plans
Wittenberg had previously attempted a daring adventure: two years ago he traveled from Nordenham to Świnoujście in another inflatable boat. Despite a fall before the Helgoland tour, which injured him, he didn't let that stop him from his plan. After a short break on the island, where he fully enjoyed the surroundings, he started his return journey at 10 a.m. It is a ray of hope that he navigated with the help of a compass and cloud levels and safely reached the port of Büsum at 6 p.m., where an acquaintance welcomed him.
Horst Wittenberg's passion for seafaring makes it clear: water is his element and he has already set his sights on a trip across the canals to Amsterdam in two years. It should be noted, however, that he expressly states that he does not want to encourage anyone to emulate him, because respect for the weather and safety is essential.
Helgoland: A maritime jewel
But what makes Helgoland so special? A look at the offers shows that the island is not only a destination for adventurers, but also for connoisseurs and those curious. The renowned Börteboat, the Sellebrunn, has been taking visitors to the impressive cliffs and sandstone formations for over a century. The daily trips from May to September, depending on the weather, not only offer a fresh sea breeze, but also varied stories about Helgoland's maritime history helgoland.de.
The crew around Captain Rolf Weinhold ensures that history comes to life and that there is conviviality on board. Visitors can also experience the island's wildlife and breathtaking views up close, which make Heligoland a special destination.
Horst Wittenberg and the juicy events around Heligoland are not only a milestone for a proud sailor, but also a very vivid testimony to the fascination that this island and the North Sea exerts on many people.