A Christmas Wonderland for Children
Every holiday season, Hamburg’s Märchenschiffe (lit.: ‘fairytale ships’) bring a special enchantment to the Binnenalster, delighting children and families with festive fun, storytelling, and holiday treats. After a brief hiatus, these beloved ships return to the Jungfernstieg from 28 November to 23 December 2024, promising memorable moments for visitors young and old.
Decked out in sparkling holiday decorations, each fairytale ship offers a unique programme filled with magic, storytelling, and hands-on activities. From captivating tales and face painting to reading nooks and surprise activities, children have plenty to explore. The baking ships are a particular favourite, where children ages four and up can create their own Christmas biscuits to take home. Over the years, more than half a million children from Hamburg, northern Germany, and around the world have enjoyed this enchanting holiday experience.
Baking Ships: Saselbek and Sielbek
The scent of freshly baked Christmas biscuits fills the air on the baking ships Saselbek and Sielbek. Here, children can shape, bake, and decorate their own treats. After their baking session, each young baker receives a special apron and cap from local bakery Junge Die Bäckerei as a keepsake.
Theatre Ship: Bredenbek
The Theatre Ship Bredenbek offers an enchanting variety of interactive stories that spark children’s imaginations and immerse them in the magic of the season. Each day brings a new adventure, from mythical journeys to lands filled with fairies, whimsical creatures, and friendly mice, to playful tales of an elf working tirelessly to prepare for Christmas. Young visitors can also enjoy heartwarming Advent stories that celebrate the joy and wonder of the holidays. These daily themes create a festive and welcoming atmosphere, inviting children to become part of the tales themselves.
The Dream Ship: Amersbek
On the Dream Ship Amersbek, children enter an imaginative world of make-believe, free of charge. Skilled artists transform kids into characters from their dreams—queens, lions, or fairies—using safe, vibrant colours. A well-stocked play corner adds to the adventure, encouraging kids to explore their creativity in a cosy, magical setting.
Café Ship: Susebek
While children are busy on the baking ships, parents can relax at Café Ship Susebek. This cosy café offers seasonal treats, coffee, and cakes, all accompanied by a view of the festive Jungfernstieg scenery and the Alstertanne Christmas tree. It’s a delightful spot to take in the holiday spirit while enjoying a peaceful break.
Additional Information
Opening Hours
28 November to 23 December 2024
Daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Advance Ticket Sales for Baking Ships:
Tickets will be available for purchase on 16 November 2024 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Europa Passage shopping centre. Remaining tickets can be obtained from 28 November at the Märchenschiffe office at the Alster pier. Tickets cost €3.
Free Admission for Theatre and Dream Ships:
The Theatre Ship and Dream Ship are free for all visitors. School and kindergarten groups are encouraged to reserve spaces in advance by calling +49 (0)40 238 800 55 on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., starting 4 November.
For more details, visit the Hamburger Märchenschiffe website.