Potsdam – 
an island

Leave nothing behind that wasn't already there: no trash, no cigarettes, no food scraps. Even things that appear to be "rotting" pollute the environment – ​​and animals mistake them for food.

• Cigarette butts pollute up to 40 liters of groundwater.
• Chemical toilets, used oil, etc. belong in the collection points at the ports – never in the water!
• Use the sanitary facilities on land – and switch off the engine when moored.

Tip: Pack trash bags – it's better for the environment and your bag. Even better: start with minimal packaging!

Aquatic plants, reed beds, and shorelines are nurseries, resting places, and habitats for many animal species. Anyone who enters them disturbs or destroys them.

• Avoid reed beds, rushes, shallow water zones and sand or gravel banks.
• Observe animals from a distance – this protects them and you often see more.

Tip: Good paddling takes practice – those who master their technique stay confidently on course and away from the shore.

Only disembark where it is expressly permitted: at public jetties, designated boarding and disembarking points or rest areas.

• Riverbanks are not adventure playgrounds, but sensitive habitats.
• Anchoring is permitted – as long as it does not disrupt shipping traffic.

Tip: You can find bivouac and rest areas, for example, on this website. Overview map.

Waves are fun – but they also cause a lot of damage. The vegetation along the shoreline suffers particularly from the impact of the waves.

• Drive slowly and steadily – especially in narrow areas or in heavy traffic.
• No racing, no scrubbing – instead, enjoy the silence.

Tip: Use calm, even paddling strokes and keep your distance from other boats – this saves energy and protects nature.

Paddling is about experiencing nature – not a festival stage. And many animals have sensitive ears.

• Avoid loud music, shouting, and group noise.
• Especially at dawn and dusk, it is important to remain calm.

Tip: If all you can hear is the splashing, you're doing everything right.

Keeping your distance protects people, animals and plants:

• Too close to the shore? Better row back.
• A good guideline is to maintain a distance of 30–50 m to densely vegetated shoreline areas and 100 m to bird gatherings.
• Special rules apply in nature reserves – paddling is often restricted or prohibited there.

Tip: Ask your boat rental company or online for current information on the protected area status.

Rules apply on the water – even for paddleboats, as they are considered recreational craft. Therefore: pay attention to the navigational signs!

• Some areas are closed off, others are particularly sensitive.
• The waterway regulations are not dry theory – they ensure safety.

Tip: Get a short briefing at the boat rental company.