Viewpoint · City Centre
Fjord Ferry (SFK)
The fjord ferries operated by SFK (Schlepp- und Fährgesellschaft Kiel) are an integral part of the public transport network, connecting the western and eastern shores of the fjord. Routes such as the fjord run from the Schwentine estuary via Reventlou, Bellevue and Mönkeberg to Laboe offer, for the normal fare, a small boat trip with views of shipyards, the navy, sailboats and beaches. Locals and visitors alike love the ferries as an inexpensive "mini cruise". They are the most relaxed way to experience Kiel from the water.
Public Transport on the Water
The fjord ferries operated by SFK (Schlepp- und Fährgesellschaft Kiel) are an integral part of the public transport network, connecting the western and eastern shores of the fjord. Unlike in many cities, here you travel to work, university or the beach not only over land but also across water. The fjord route runs from the Schwentine estuary via stations such as Reventlou, Bellevue and Mönkeberg to Laboe. The ferry thus opens up districts and excursion destinations that would otherwise only be reachable by a long detour over land.
An Inexpensive Mini Cruise
Locals and visitors alike love the ferries as an inexpensive "mini cruise": for the normal fare you experience a small boat trip with views of shipyards, naval vessels, sailboats and beaches. From the open deck, Kiel shows itself from its most beautiful, maritime side. Especially on sunny days, a trip across the fjord is an affordable and relaxed pleasure. Many passengers deliberately use the route as a sightseeing tour and enjoy the journey as an experience in itself, not just a means to an end.
Tips for the Trip
SFK jetties are located, among other places, at the Bahnhofsbrücke and the Reventloubrücke in the city centre, from where the routes towards the east shore and Laboe depart. Anyone using the ferry as an excursion can ideally combine it with a visit to the Naval Memorial and the U 995 submarine in Laboe. For a spot on the open deck it pays to board early, as the ferries are well used in fine weather. The current timetable and any seasonal restrictions should be checked before the trip, as the service varies by season.
In the district
City Centre
Old Town, the Holstenstraße shopping street, the town hall and the Old Market — Kiel's historic heart on the Hörn.
View district hub →More attractions in the district

City Centre
Kiel Town Hall Tower
The 67-metre tower of Kiel's town hall from 1911, whose shape recalls the campanile in Venice. A viewing platform offers panoramic views over the city and fjord.
from 3 EUR

City Centre
St Nikolai Church
Kiel's oldest church, dating from the 13th century, on the Alter Markt, fronted by Ernst Barlach's sculpture "The Spirit Fighter".
Free entry

City Centre
Holstenstraße
One of Germany's oldest pedestrian zones and Kiel's central shopping street, with shops, department stores and the Asmus-Bremer-Platz.
Free entry

City Centre
Kiel Castle
The former residence of the Dukes of Schleswig-Holstein-Gottorf on the fjord shore, today a culture and events venue.
Free entry