Collaborative Efforts to Foster Water-Based Tourism Across Northern Nations - Collaborative water tourism initiative launched by nations in the North-East region
In a joint effort to enhance water tourism, the federal states of Berlin, Brandenburg, and Mecklenburg-Vorpommern have joined forces to promote the region under the brand "Germany's Lake District" (Deutschlands Seenland). This collaboration aims to make planning water sports and vacations easier for enthusiasts, while ensuring compliance with regulations and showcasing the diverse water offerings[1].
The collaboration encompasses several key elements:
- Intensified joint promotion: The states are working together to attract more visitors to the region by highlighting its unique water sports offerings.
- Enhanced accessibility and information: Visitors will find it easier to plan their activities and vacations, with improved information on water sports and leisure options.
- Strengthened regional infrastructure: The collaboration aims to improve the quality of life and economic benefits in the regions by investing in infrastructure, hospitality, and leisure services.
- Cross-state cooperation: By working together, the states aim to better utilise the tourism potential, creating a seamless water tourism experience for both locals and tourists[1].
The region covered by the collaboration spans over 5,000 lakes and 60,000 kilometers of flowing water, making it Germany’s largest contiguous water sports area[1].
According to a recent study, water tourism in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern generates an annual turnover of around one billion euros and employs more than 19,000 people[2]. However, only 12 percent of vacationers currently take advantage of the diverse water tourism offers[2]. Officials hope that the collaboration will help increase these numbers.
The collaboration is seen as a win-win initiative, as it not only boosts tourism but also develops related infrastructure and services, generating added value in the region. The joint branding and coordinated efforts aim to highlight and leverage the unique and vast water resources connecting the Spree River to the Baltic Sea[1].
Wolfgang Blank, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern's Minister of Economics, stated that the collaboration benefits everyone. Brandenburg's Minister of Economics, Daniel Keller, agrees, stating that water tourism contributes to value creation and quality of life in the regions[1].
In the past, issues such as defective locks and temporarily missing lock personnel have damaged the industry's image and sparked criticism. The collaboration aims to address these issues and ensure a smooth water tourism experience for all[1].
Franziska Giffey, Mayor and Senator for Economics of Berlin, stated that their goal is to inspire people with the unique water offerings of the region[1]. She believes that with the collaboration, they can attract more visitors and boost the water tourism industry in Germany's Lake District.
[1] Source: www.deutschlands-seenland.de [2] Source: Institute for Tourism Research (diwf) study by Karsten Heinsohn.
- In the spirit of Community policy, the three federal states are collaborating to enhance their water tourism offerings, aiming to make lifestyle choices such as water sports vacations more accessible and appealing, while ensuring a smooth and enjoyable travel experience for tourists.
- As part of the collaboration, vocational training programs are being developed and promoted to equip locals with the necessary skills to maintain and improve the vast water recreation infrastructure of Germany's Lake District, thus bolstering its tourism potential and enhancing the quality of life in the regions.
