Audio Guide of Laboe Naval Memorial

The Laboe Naval Memorial is open to the public every day of the year, including holidays. From March to October it is open from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM, and from November to February from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM. To get there, you can take the ferry from Kiel to Laboe or use the bus. There is also ample parking if you come by car. For more details about opening hours and directions, I recommend visiting the official Laboe Naval Memorial website.

Yes, admission to the Laboe Naval Memorial has a fee. The combined ticket for the memorial and the U-995 submarine is €12 for adults, while for children (ages 6–16) it costs €6. There are also discounts for groups and families. You can check updated rates and possible discounts in the pricing section of the official website.

To fully enjoy the Laboe Naval Memorial and explore the U-995 submarine, I recommend setting aside at least 2 to 3 hours. The memorial itself offers impressive views and exhibitions, and the submarine requires time to explore at a relaxed pace and take in its atmosphere. If you also want to enjoy the surrounding area, your visit may last a bit longer.

The Laboe Naval Memorial is of great historical importance. It was erected in memory of the sailors of the Imperial German Navy who fell in World War I and was later expanded to honor all German sailors who died in both world wars. Its main purpose is to serve as a place of remembrance, reconciliation, and a warning against war, as well as a center of information about German naval history. The full history can be found here.

Spring and summer, from May to September, are usually the best times to visit Laboe because of the good weather, which allows you to fully enjoy the views and the beach walk. If you want to avoid the crowds, I suggest going early in the morning or late in the afternoon on weekdays. That way, you can explore more peacefully and take better photographs.

The Laboe Naval Memorial strives to be accessible. Much of the memorial and its facilities, such as the observation tower, can be accessed by elevators and ramps. However, due to its structure, the U-995 submarine has steep stairs and narrow spaces, making it less suitable for wheelchairs or people with very limited mobility. I suggest contacting them directly for specific details: you can call +49 (0)4343 / 42790.

Laboe is a charming coastal town with plenty to offer. You can take a walk along the beach and enjoy the sand and the Baltic Sea. There is also a small and picturesque marina and a lighthouse. If you feel like exploring more, the city of Kiel is a short ferry ride away and offers museums, shopping, and dining. The Laboe Tourist Office can give you more ideas: its website is ostseebad-laboe.de.

Of course! I recommend wearing comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to climb the tower or tour the submarine. Don’t forget your camera—the panoramic views from the top are spectacular. If you visit in summer, apply sunscreen and bring water. If you’re interested in history in greater depth, consider buying an audio guide when you arrive—they really enrich the experience. And of course, take your time to reflect on the meaning of the memorial.