Frequently Asked Questions about Our Sailing Trips

What happens if it rains or there is no wind?

We depart even if it rains or there is no wind. We cannot sail during thunderstorms. In calm conditions, we use the engine to explore the lake.

How can I pay for the sailing trip?

You can pay online when booking. If you select “Pay on arrival” during the online booking, you can pay on the yacht by cash or card.

Can I cancel or reschedule?

Yes, you can cancel or reschedule up to 24 hours before departure. Cancellation incurs a fee of 10% of the trip price. Rescheduling requires a deposit of 10%.

When do your sailing trips run?

We sail on Lake Scharmützelsee all year round. The easiest way to find available dates is in our sailing calendar. You can also see which trips still have places available.

Do I need to book in advance?

Yes, we recommend booking in advance. This secures your place on board and helps us plan the trip. Last-minute bookings are possible if places are still available.

Can I book at short notice?

Of course. As long as the online booking shows available places, you can join us at short notice.

Can I book a trip tailored to my wishes?

Individual dates are available for private sailing trips, groups, companies, birthdays and special occasions. You can enquire about private sailing trips online or contact us by email (kontakt@mitsegeln-saarow.de), telephone (0151-26086491) or WhatsApp.

How long do the sailing trips last?

Shared sailing trips last between 90 minutes and 3 hours. For private trips, you can choose the duration.

Can I extend a private trip on the day?

Individual arrangements may be possible if the day’s schedule and subsequent bookings allow. It is best to discuss this with us before your trip.

What happens if too few people book a shared sailing trip?

Our shared sailing trips run with a minimum of four people. If fewer participants book, we will contact you the day before the trip.

Can I book a sailing trip on my own?

Yes, you can book individual places on our shared sailing trips.

Can I bring children?

Children are very welcome on our sailing trips. Life jackets in various sizes are available on board, and little ones are welcome to take an active part.

Is there a minimum age?

No, there is no minimum age.

Can I bring a dog on board?

Yes, dogs are welcome on private trips. Unfortunately, they cannot join shared sailing trips.

Do I need sailing experience?

No previous experience is needed, as a skipper accompanies the trip.

Can beginners join?

Absolutely. Our sailing trips are a great way to gain your first experience.

Can I pay during the online booking?

Yes, you can pay during the online booking by Klarna, PayPal, Amazon Pay, direct debit or credit card. You can also redeem a gift voucher.

Do I have to pay in advance?

No, you can also select “Pay on arrival” when booking online.

How can I pay on arrival?

You can pay on board the yacht by cash or card. Apple Pay and Google Pay are also accepted.

Payment by Bank Transfer

If you would like to transfer the participation fee in advance, please use the following details:

• Account holder: Bavaria Yachtcharter Scharmützelsee Axel Henschke GbR
• IBAN: DE91 1705 5050 3135 0759 06
• BIC: WELADED1LOS
• Payment reference: Your name and trip date

Please send us a brief email once you have transferred the fee.

How late can I cancel my booking?

You can cancel your booking up to 24 hours before departure. The cancellation fee is 10% of the trip price.

Can I move my booking to a different date?

Yes. In this case, a deposit of 10% is due.

What happens if it rains?

A little rain is generally no problem for a sailing trip. With suitable clothing, sailing can still be fun in changeable weather. The overall weather conditions matter, rather than rain alone.

We recommend wearing suitable clothing. You can also go into the yacht’s saloon during a rain shower.

Do you sail in bad weather?

Yes, we depart even in the rain. In the past, unfavourable conditions have often led to wonderful experiences. Ultimately, however, the skipper in charge decides based on the actual conditions on the lake and the forecast. Safety always comes first.

What happens during a thunderstorm?

We do not take unnecessary risks in dangerous thunderstorm conditions. A trip may therefore be rescheduled, shortened or cancelled.

What happens in strong winds?

Our skipper assesses whether a safe and enjoyable trip is possible. If the wind is too strong or other conditions are unfavourable, a trip may be cancelled or rescheduled.

What happens if there is no wind?

Calm conditions are part of sailing too. When there is little wind, we enjoy the tranquillity of Lake Scharmützelsee. Depending on the situation, we can also use the engine. Naturally, we cannot guarantee a particular sailing experience or route.

Is a trip cancelled if there is no wind?

Not automatically. A peaceful day on the lake can also be beautiful. Whether and how the trip runs depends on the specific conditions. We usually motor out onto the lake and still hoist the sails.

Who decides whether a trip can run in the forecast weather?

The skipper in charge makes the decision. They know the boat and the conditions on Lake Scharmützelsee and decide in the interests of safety and an enjoyable experience for all guests.

When will I hear if my trip cannot run because of the weather?

As the weather can change at short notice, we sometimes make the final decision close to departure. If we have to cancel a trip, we will contact you personally.

What happens to my booking if AHOI cancels the trip because of the weather?

If we cannot run a trip for safety or weather reasons, we will inform you personally and then cancel the booking. If you have already paid, you will receive a refund.

Where is the meeting point?

The exact meeting point depends on your booked trip and departure location. You will receive the details with your booking and on our “Meeting Point” page.

When should I arrive at the meeting point?

Please allow enough time for your journey and parking, and arrive a few minutes before the stated departure time.

What happens if I am late?

Our trips follow a fixed schedule and other guests are waiting to depart too. Please contact us as soon as you realise you will be late.

Is parking available?

There are various parking options around our departure points. They can be busy, especially on fine summer days, so please allow some extra time.

Can I get seasick while sailing?

No, this is not possible on inland waters. There are hardly any waves that could cause seasickness.

Is sailing dangerous?

Sailing is a water sport and is therefore never entirely without risk. Our trips are run by experienced skippers who continually monitor the weather, wind, boat and crew. Our sailing yacht is seaworthy and very stable.

Are life jackets available on board?

Yes. The necessary safety equipment is on board.

Do I have to wear a life jacket throughout the trip?

Non-swimmers are given a life jacket. Other participants can generally choose whether to wear one. Ultimately, the skipper decides according to the conditions on board.

What happens if the wind gets stronger during the trip?

Our skippers adjust the sail area and boat handling to the conditions. Safety and an enjoyable sailing trip take priority over maximum speed or sporty sailing.

Can the skipper end a trip early?

Yes. If the weather or other conditions change so that a safe or appropriate trip can no longer be assured, the skipper may shorten or end the trip.

What should I wear for sailing?

Dress for the weather. It can be considerably cooler on the water than on land, so bringing an extra jacket is often a good idea.

Do I need special sailing clothing?

No. You do not need special sailing clothing for a normal shared sailing trip.

What shoes should I wear?

Comfortable, flat, non-slip shoes are best. High heels are unsuitable on board.

What should I bring?

Depending on the weather, we recommend sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and an extra jacket. In summer, remember your swimwear too.

Can I bring a bag on board?

Small bags are usually no problem. Space on board is limited, so please avoid large items of luggage where possible.

Can we swim during the trip?

In warm summer weather, we are happy to stop for a swim if the weather, time and circumstances allow. We lower the sails, put the swimming ladder into the water and invite you into Lake Scharmützelsee.

Is there a swimming ladder?

Yes, on trips suitable for swimming stops, you can use a swimming ladder to get back on board.

Is a swimming stop guaranteed?

No. A swimming stop depends on factors including the weather, water temperature, time and the situation on the lake. The skipper makes the decision.

Do I have to wear a life jacket to swim?

The skipper decides on the necessary safety measures according to the situation and your swimming ability.

Are drinks available on board?

We have the following chilled drinks available on board:

Can I bring my own drinks?

Yes, you are welcome to bring your own drinks.

Can I bring food?

You are welcome to bring food on private sailing trips. Finger food is best. On shared sailing trips, please limit this to snacks.

Is catering available on board?

For certain private trips and events, additional catering options can be booked through Hotel Esplanade Resort & SPA or “Heimathafen bei Uwe”.

Are glasses, cups and crockery available on board?

Yes, our sailing yachts are fully equipped with glasses, crockery and cutlery.

Can I give a sailing trip as a gift?

Yes. A sailing trip on Lake Scharmützelsee makes a wonderful gift for a birthday, Christmas or wedding, or simply a shared escape.

Are gift vouchers available?

Yes, you can buy vouchers online for our sailing experiences.

Do I need to choose a date when buying a voucher?

No, the recipient can choose a suitable available date later.

Can I buy a voucher for two or more people?

Yes. You can give a sailing trip as a shared experience.

How long is a voucher valid?

Our vouchers are valid for three years from the end of the year of purchase.

Example: Purchased on 14 February 2026 → valid until 31 December 2029

How do I redeem my voucher?

You can redeem your voucher in the third step of the online booking, “Personal details”. If anything does not work, please contact us.

Can we celebrate a birthday on board?

Yes. A private sailing trip is a wonderful way to celebrate a special birthday.

Can we celebrate a stag or hen party with you?

Private groups are generally welcome. It is important to us to preserve the character of a sailing trip and safety on board. Please discuss your plans with us beforehand.

Is a sailing trip suitable for a wedding anniversary or proposal?

Absolutely. A private trip or sunset sailing creates a particularly special atmosphere. If you are planning a surprise, please let us know in advance.

Can we listen to music on board?

Individual arrangements are possible on private trips. We also want to respect the special atmosphere on the water and other people around the lake.

Can we decorate the boat?

Small decorations may be possible by prior arrangement. Please discuss your wishes with us in advance.

What is sunset sailing?

On a sunset sailing trip, we experience the evening together on Lake Scharmützelsee. We hoist the sails, enjoy the special atmosphere on the water and watch the sun slowly disappear below the horizon.

Is a sunset guaranteed?

The sun will set, but a clear view is not guaranteed. Clouds and weather are part of nature, which is why every evening on Lake Scharmützelsee is different.

Is sunset sailing only for couples?

No. Couples particularly love sunset sailing, but friends, families and solo travellers are equally welcome.

From what age can children join?

This depends on the experience, the boat and the conditions. If you would like to sail with a very young child, please contact us before booking.

Can children help with sailing?

We would love them to. If their age, the weather and the situation allow, children can help hoist the sails or try steering under supervision.

Do you offer sailing lessons for children?

Yes, we also offer experiences where children can discover and try sailing themselves. Find out about our children’s sailing course.

Do I need a sailing licence for lessons?

No. We work with both complete beginners and sailors who already have some experience.

Are individual sailing lessons available?

Yes. Individual sailing lessons let us focus on your experience and wishes.

Can I learn to sail with my partner or family?

Depending on the experience, sailing lessons together are available in small groups of up to four people.

Do you offer skipper training?

Yes. Even if you already know how to sail, we can work on specific manoeuvres and skills. You can find information about skipper training on our website.

Can I take photos and videos?

Of course you can take souvenir photos and private videos of your sailing trip. Please respect other guests who may not want to be photographed.

Can I bring my camera?

Yes. Please remember that you are on a boat, where water, spray and movement are part of the experience. You are responsible for your equipment.

Can I bring my dog?

Yes, dogs are welcome on private trips. Unfortunately, they cannot join shared sailing trips.

Is there a toilet on board?

Yes, both sailing yachts have a toilet on board.

Is smoking allowed on board?

Smoking is allowed if it does not disturb anyone on board. Please ask first and be considerate of other guests.

Will sailing make me feel sick?

Conditions on an inland lake such as Lake Scharmützelsee are much calmer than at sea, so the risk is very low. However, everyone reacts differently to a boat’s movement. If you are sensitive, eat lightly beforehand and try to look at the horizon during the trip.

What if I feel frightened or uncomfortable on board?

Please speak to our skipper at any time. Our aim is a lovely, sociable sailing outing where our guests feel at ease, rather than the most challenging sporting trip.

Can I contact AHOI if my question is not answered here?

Of course. Simply write to us or call. For private trips, special occasions or individual wishes, the best way to find out what is possible is to discuss it together.

Where can I find photos I am allowed to use?

In the Google Drive folder you will find photos you may use free of charge. Please credit “mitsegeln-saarow.de” as the source or copyright holder.

Can journalists join a sailing trip free of charge?

Are you researching Lake Scharmützelsee or would you like to get to know our sailing experiences? Use the booking code “presse” to book a complimentary place on one of our sailing trips and experience sailing on Lake Scharmützelsee for yourself.

Your participation carries no obligation to publish or report on the trip. To protect our guests’ privacy and relaxation, interviews, photography and video recording are not possible during the shared sailing trip.

What if I am planning photography or video recording?

If you plan to take photos or record video, please contact us, preferably by telephone on 0151-26086491. Together we can arrange an individual date that suits your shoot.