Germany

The länders (regions) of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern and Brandenburg are where you'll find all of the license-free rental centres*. Mecklenburg and Brandburg are the two least populated and least industrialised regions of Germany, and you will find plenty of lakes, rivers and canals to enjoy in these parts. You can even sail right into Berlin should you so wish!
In addition to the traditional one-way or return trips, there are a further two loop routes you might prefer to take instead.

Germany is very well served by both rail and air and boasts an excellent motorway network.

* Strict German regulations require you to take a more advanced theory and practical training course than some of the other Latin countries, but don't let that offend you; on the contrary, it is indicative of the quality of the equipment they hire out and of the service you will receive right throughout your cruise. Certain routes can only be taken with a boat permit.

Not to be missed

Sailing in Germany is a great opportunity to explore the country's unspoilt nature, pure, crystal-clear waters, nature reserves, castles and old villages, among the other assets it has to offer.

• The town of Fürstenberg, together with six of the surrounding towns and villages, have ranked in the top ten most eco-friendly in Germany. The water in its lakes is so clear that underwater visibility can reach up to 12 metres, with an average water temperature of 20°C between June and September.
• There are many medieval villages of paved streets and half-timbered houses to explore, including the famous village of Brandenburg, which spans three islands.
• The aristocratic population of centuries past built a number of magnificent residences and castles here...
• ...but if you fancy a change from the omnipresent nature, why not sail into Berlin to explore what the city has to offer?

A few stops along the way

There are few countries where you will ever get the opportunity to explore the capital by boat, so make the most of this to visit Berlin. You'll need to set aside at least one day to visit the Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag building and its new glass dome, the city's ancient neighbourhoods and its futuristic buildings and the famous Museum Island, among other things.

Renowned for its many palaces, including the Sanssouci Palace, which has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1990, Potsdam was once the residence of the Prussian royal household. Culture vultures must be sure to take a stroll around the Dutch neighbourhood, whilst cinema-lovers might prefer to visit Germany's first cinema museum in the orangery at the Sanssouci Palace, or head (preferably on a misty evening) to the Glienicke Bridge, also known as the 'Bridge of Spies' as a result of the exchanges that took place here during the Cold War.

If you're travelling through Schwerin, a city built in the middle of lakes and forests, be sure to visit its famous and magnificent castle.

Over the course of your cruise you will come across various magnificent residences, along with the Baroque castles of Rheinsberg, Fürstenberg and Neustrelitz.

Brandenburg is a medieval village that spans three islands and is definitely worth a visit.

Photos: Leboat