Excursions
What Kiel and its surroundings have to offer.
Haithabu
What would archaeology be without geophysics, and Northern Germany without the Vikings? On this excursion we travel back in time and visit the Haithabu Viking Museum, one of the most important archaeological museums in Germany. Numerous archaeological finds from the Early Middle Ages are presented here, along with a reconstructed Viking settlement reflecting various aspects of Viking life. During a guided tour we will gain insights into this fascinating world, and afterwards there is the opportunity to visit the Viking tavern, where for a few pennies we can taste the drink of the gods: mead.
GEOMAR
GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel is one of the world's leading institutions in marine research. GEOMAR studies the global ocean from the seabed to the atmosphere, covering a unique spectrum of physical, chemical, biological and geological ocean processes. On our excursion and guided tour of GEOMAR, we will gain an insight into marine research, see measuring instruments and even get a close look at a research vessel. We also want to give you the opportunity to exchange ideas with scientists from the "Dynamics of the Ocean Floor" department.
Laboe is fällich!
True to the motto of the "Kieler Kneipenterroristen" from the cult 1991 Spiegel documentary, we head to one of Kiel's main tourist spots: Laboe. We won't be picking fights with Kiel street gangs though — instead, we'll explore the town, hopefully enjoy great beach weather, and for those interested, visit the Naval Memorial and/or Submarine U-995. We won't travel by land but rather like true water lovers across the fjord. The ferry takes us past the Kiel Canal, various shipyards, sailing harbours and beaches — with some luck, harbour porpoises may appear. If you like, you can grab a fish sandwich on site, and for the return journey you can choose between bus or ferry.
Research Vessel Trip
Have you always wanted to join a research cruise? At GAP you have the chance to set sail on GEOMAR's research cutter Littorina. You'll get a closer look at the geological features of the Kiel Fjord and the Baltic Sea. Think you're seaworthy or want to find out? Then pack weatherproof clothing and learn exciting things about the Kiel Fjord and everyday life on a research vessel.
Registration deadline for this excursion is 23 April 2026 (three weeks before the event). Those who receive a spot will be contacted again — we will then need some additional information.
Five-Lake Cruise & Hike
Holstein Switzerland is a natural landscape between Kiel and Lübeck, where forests and lakes alternate between gentle hills (practically mountains for us Kiel locals), making it the perfect spot for a relaxed hike. We take the train to Plön and board an excursion boat to leisurely enjoy the nature around the lake. After leaving the boat and having a snack, we hike past small ponds through the forest to the next jetty, take the boat back for the rest of the route, and return to Kiel by train.
Stohl Sea Cliffs
On the excursion to Stohl we visit sea cliffs north of Kiel. Prof. Dr. Meier will tell us about the rocks that bear witness to ice ages and the marine environment of Northern Germany. With a bit of luck, we may find rarities such as marine fossils or amber. The influence of weathering is also clearly visible here and always worth a visit.
Paddling
Kiel from a completely different perspective. The Schwentine river offers a calm water surface with no current — perfect for gliding relaxed through the green landscape. We'll paddle up the river at our own speed and enjoy the peaceful nature. Keep your eyes open: with some luck, you might spot turtles or other animals on the banks or in the water. It doesn't matter wether you're a pro or paddlig for the first time, it's fitting for everybody.