Sailing in Austria
As a land-locked country, Austria might not be the most obvious choice for a sailing holiday. While it does not have a direct access to the ocean, it has some nice alternatives to offer:
Austria has more than 25.000 lakes larger than 250 m2. 62 are considered “big lakes” with a size of more than 50ac, 43 of them being considered “natural” and 19 “artificial”. Altogether, there are about 400 bathing lakes in Austria, and on most of them you can go sailing! Read on for some suggestions.
Stubenberg Lake is one of the largest and warmest lakes in Styria in the south of Austria. It owes its great sailing conditions to its light thermic winds. Either book a course at the local sailing school, or rent a boat for a trip on your own, if you already have your certificate.
Altitude: 380 m / 1.246,72 ft
Surface area: 0,16 km2 / 0,06 sqm
Avg water depth: 3 m / 9,8 ft
Max water depth: 8 m / 26,25 ft
The Ottenstein Reservoir is the largest of three lakes, which form the fjord-like Kamp reservoirs in the Waldviertel region in the north of Lower Austria. Originally created by flooding, this area of the Kamptal valley was used for energy generation, but is today a huge recreation area for locals and visitors alike.
Sailing is allowed at the lake, but only possible if you bring your own boat.
Facts & Figures
Surface area: 4,5 km2 / 1,7 sqm
Max water depth: 69 m / 226,38 ft
The steppe lake Neusiedler See in Burgenland, Austria's easternmost province, is a household name among sailors. The waves are short and steep due to the constant wind and shallow water – ideal conditions for water sports. You’ll find plenty of sailing schools around the lake offering courses for beginners and advanced sailors alike. If you already have a sailing permit you can just rent a boat for a few hours and off you go. Be careful with the weather though, as it can change very quickly!
Altitude: 115 m / 377 ft
Surface area: 320 km2 / 123,553 sqm
Avg water depth: 1 m / 3.3 ft
Max water depth: 2 m / 6.6 ft
Lake Constance is the third largest inland lake in Europe. It’s a sailing paradise for beginners and pros alike, surrounded by beautiful landscapes. Light breezes cater to those who just start their sailing experience, while strong winds and good waves are perfect for those looking for a challenge. For the lucky ones already holding a sailing certificate, there are numerous rental stations.
Altitude: 395 m / 1.295 ft
Surface area: 536 km2 / 207 sqm
Max water depth: 251 m / 823 ft
Yes, you read that right: You can sail in Vienna!
Sailing is allowed on the Upper Old Danube, the Lower Old Danube, and the New Danube.
Vienna has 7 sailing clubs and 3 sailing schools, offering courses for beginners and pros, as well as equipment rental. Combine your Vienna city break with a day on the river, or book a 3-day sailing course for beginners
"House Rules" on Austria's Lakes
- Always check the weather forecast: thunderstorms and strong winds can occur fast in the mountain areas and can be dangerous.
- Make sure to have the proper equipment.
- Stay within the designated areas for your respective type of water sports.
- Familiarise yourself with navigation rules.
- Respect the hierarchy of lake users: wind-powered, human-powered, motor-powered.
- Keep your distance and respect the safety of everyone who shares the lake with you.
- Traffic signals on the water: buoys, cans, markers.
- Get information on water levels and currents before you get on the water.
- Please be kind to the environment and always take the rubbish with you or throw in the provided bins.
- Keep your distance and respect the safety of everyone who shares the lake with you.