Wednesday, January 30, 2008

German Wadden Islands



Last year we did join the Saltz Wasser Union. They organized a one-week camp together with the Dutch instructors.
The first week we did spend time inland, the weather was terrible with storms and gales. Our plan to start at the Eemshaven and go East to Spiekeroog did not work. Instead we drove to the Grosses Mer. We spend a few days over here. A nice cottage was offered to us for cooking, while the waters made excellent daytrips.

nueharlingersiel
We all gathered in Nueharlingersiel and soon we were on the way to Spiekeroog. This tiny Island has a superb camping spot. Close to the beach. We were the only group that was not mixed with the Germans. But after the "office hours" at sea, we could practice our German tongue. Big Fun!
everybody happy

German approach
During the week we visited other Islands like; Wangerooge, Langeoog and Baltrum. We have been focusing on trip planning and leadership. And at the same time enjoy the cold, rainy weather. Some groups had to go ashore, while others did have a good time in big waves.
Lianna (my sister)was going home with the diploma Zeevaardigheid(BCU4*). So congratulations.


4 Star of the day
While all the people went home after the Camp, we still had another week of exploring the German waters.
We went as far as Norderney and had a good time. We went home with a nice feeling. Three weeks paddling in Germany.
Spass in Spiekeroog! One day I will return!

2 comments:

Hans Heupink said...

Hi Jörgen!
Nice to read your post about the SAU-NKB-week last year. Participants and organisers were very enthusiast about the happening. Due to a private calender-problem (and because "Himmelfahrt/Ascension day" is very early this year) there will be no NKB-Spiekeroog Course in 2008, but I do hope it returns next year. The German "Wadden" are a great place to paddle - and I really enjoy the cooperation with our German SAU-friends. Your pics remind me of a great time on Spiekeroog!
Greetings,
Hans

COBBER said...

Hello Hans,

Being on the water is always nice, no mather where you are. But Spiekeroog has something special:
And all the people melt easily together, the campingground, the store...and offcourse the paddling.

Spiekeroog: 5star award!