Hörnum harbour, once conceived as a purely functional federal building and now in a desolate state, is facing a fundamental transformation. After decades of discussions, a solution is finally emerging: The federal government plans to transfer the harbour on Sylt to the municipality of Hörnum free of charge. At the same time, the state of Schleswig-Holstein has confirmed in writing that it will contribute up to 20 million euros to the urgently needed refurbishment. Together with the federal government's promise to cover 50 per cent of the costs, this could cover up to 80 to 90 per cent of the estimated investment of 45 to 50 million euros.
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North Sea: Through North Friesland - Sylt, Amrum and Föhr
From emergency harbour to problem child
Originally designed as a federal emergency harbour and intended for military and supply purposes, the facility in the very south of Sylt has long since lost its original function. Under the care of the Waterways and Shipping Administration, the federal government was no longer allowed to invest any funds in the harbour's maintenance, meaning that its substance has steadily deteriorated. The consequences are obvious today: cracks in the piers, crumbling sheet piling and dilapidated quay facilities characterise the picture. Parts of the area have already had to be closed for safety reasons. The federal government repeatedly offered the harbour to the state, district and municipality for purchase and continued operation, but while the state and district refused to take it over, only the municipality of Hörnum expressed interest at an early stage.
Breakthrough after years of standstill
The decisive breakthrough came after Hörnum's mayor had been working flat out to find a solution since taking office in May 2023. The written confirmation now available from the state of Schleswig-Holstein regarding a contribution of up to 20 million euros marks a milestone. Based on the current cost estimate, the small municipality of Hörnum would be left with a contribution of around five to ten million euros - a sum that appears economically viable according to current estimates. This could also convince the district of North Friesland to agree to the municipality taking over the harbour. The municipal council has already confirmed its intention with a unanimous decision in principle at its meeting on 20 November.
Tourism magnet on Sylt
The vision for the harbour goes far beyond mere restoration. Hörnum has developed from a former military base into a popular family and nature tourism destination. In future, the harbour should no longer just be a functional port of call for ships, but the maritime heart of the community. New recreational areas, catering facilities and public meeting spaces are to be created where today's dilapidated quays still spoil the picture. The engineering firm Inros Lackner has already been commissioned with the general planning. This is of existential importance for Hörnum as a tourist destination, as the harbour not only serves as an arrival point for excursion boats, but also as a central meeting point for holidaymakers seeking the maritime flair of the southern tip.
Next steps on Sylt
There are still a few hurdles to overcome before the dream of a modernised port can become a reality. The economic feasibility study must be analysed in depth and backed up with concrete figures and forecasts - an essential basis for the transfer from the district to the municipality. At the same time, the contracts with the federal and state governments are being prepared and detailed funding applications are being drawn up. The technical planning is already underway: the general planning for the refurbishment and modernisation has been awarded to the engineering firm Inros Lackner, and the work to develop the subsoil has begun.
With the promised funding and the planned transfer of ownership, the redevelopment, which has been stalled for years, is now within realistic reach for the first time. For Sylt's southernmost municipality, this is probably the most significant development step in decades. The dilapidated port of Hörnum could not only be secured in the long term, but also developed into a modern maritime centre.
Precinct info: The one from the Sylt Yacht Club In contrast to parts of the non-leased area, the managed area with floating docks is in good condition. The water depth is 1.9 to 2.5 metres and there are 80 berths available. Electricity and water are available at the jetties, as well as modern sanitary facilities, free Wi-Fi, a washing machine and dryer and diesel at the boat refuelling station. The clubhouse and showers are modern. The harbour office can be contacted on 04651/ 88 02 74, VHF channel 11, hafenbuero@sylter-yachtclub.de.
Great harbours, wide beaches and dreamy places. A cruise report from the area:
