The Borkumriff served as a floating lighthouse from 1911 until its decommissioning in 1988.
During its active service, the ship was stationed at the 'Borkumriff' sandbank to warn vessels of shallow waters.
The ship functioned as a vital signal station using a powerful lantern mast to guide North Sea shipping traffic.
It is one of the few remaining German lightships that has been fully preserved in its original configuration.
The vessel now functions as a mobile station for the Lower Saxon Wadden Sea National Park administration.
The ship’s hull is constructed of riveted steel, characteristic of early 20th-century maritime engineering.
The lantern at the top of the mast was once visible for many nautical miles, essential for navigation before modern GPS.
The ship serves as an official exhibition site detailing the biodiversity of the Wadden Sea.
The Feuerschiff Borkumriff is a historic lightship permanently moored in Borkum’s harbor, now serving as an information center for the Lower Saxon Wadden Sea National Park. Built in 1911, the vessel operated as a navigational aid in the North Sea for decades before being decommissioned and repurposed for environmental education. The interior features interactive exhibits focusing on the marine ecosystem, coastal protection, and the history of lightship service. Visitors can explore the ship’s original crew quarters, the engine room, and the bridge to understand the daily life of the sailors who maintained the beacon. The ship is stationed at the Neuen Hafen, providing a direct connection to the surrounding UNESCO World Heritage site of the Wadden Sea. It acts as an educational gateway for tourists interested in the unique tidal mudflat environment. The structure remains a prominent industrial maritime heritage site on the island of Borkum.
The view from the bow looking back toward the harbor basin.
Check the official website for scheduled guided tours, which provide deeper access to restricted ship areas.
Combine your visit with a walk along the harbor to see the active ferry traffic and fishing boats.
Wear sturdy shoes as the ship features steep ladders and narrow passageways typical of historical vessels.
Avoid visiting during heavy storm surges when the ship may close for safety reasons.
Closed on Mondays during the off-season; seasonal variations in opening months apply.
Maintain a quiet volume inside the ship and do not touch delicate navigational equipment unless marked as interactive.
