A houseboat is big
True, our largest Kormoran is 15 meters long and 4.35 meters wide, yet easy to steer and thanks to bow thruster, excellent to maneuver. A lock is about 40 meters long and 5 meters wide. There you have parked with your car already in smaller parking spaces or? So don't be afraid and enjoy the size of the boat!
Are there many other boats on the water?
Compared to road traffic, there is nothing going on on the water. Almost everyone is moving at the same pace as you. And it's not uncommon to find yourself alone on a secluded channel with a few gray herons and beavers.
Do you have to know how to navigate?
No. You will be provided with informative maps on board. So it is virtually impossible that you get lost on the Mecklenburg and Märkische waters or in Berlin and Brandenburg. If you can find your way around in normal traffic, you will also be able to do so on board. There it is rather easier, because on the water everything goes much slower.
And if I don't react quickly enough?
Take it easy, on the houseboat everything goes much slower than you are used to. You're traveling at ten kilometers per hour, so there's always time to think again. And if you need a little longer? Just pull over.
I don't know the rules on the water!
Fortunately, boating was invented before bureaucracy: Traffic rules are usually governed by logic and reason, so common sense will help you figure them out as if by itself. Besides, a look at the sticker on the driving stand will help you. There, all traffic signs are shown and their meaning is explained briefly and concisely.
A houseboat is also small
True, compared to a house, a houseboat is smaller. But you will be surprised how much space you have on board. Standing height almost everywhere, lots of easily accessible lockers, large beds, a foredeck, a quarterdeck, room to retreat even when fully occupied.
Can I prepare for the houseboat vacation?
Of course! For beginners, we recommend the charter primer from Quick Maritim. The small book was created in cooperation with our instructors and introduces you to the boating world in a good mood for 7,80€.