Winter challenge: rowing trip from Hameln to Rinteln!

Winter challenge: rowing trip from Hameln to Rinteln!

On Saturday, December 8th, 2025, the Rinteln Water Sports Club (WSV) will be the venue for the 52nd Rinteln Ice Ride, a unique event where winter is celebrated in a special way. At 8:45 a.m., the participants set off on a four-person rowing boat, the “Grafschaft Schaumburg,” on a 37-kilometer tour from Hameln to Rinteln. What once seemed strange is now more than just a crazy idea - an experience for adventurers and nature lovers.

With a water temperature of around 5 degrees Celsius, the cold is a noticeable challenge, but not the main problem for the rowing team that steers the boat under the direction of Dieter Opara, reporter for the Schaumburger Zeitung. Safety first! Before setting off, the helmsman receives a thorough briefing and special footmuffs are used to combat the cold.

An adventure on the Weser

The Weser is considered a popular paddling area that is suitable for both beginners and experienced paddlers. Numerous piers and rest areas along the river invite you to take a break and have opportunities to eat and drink. Particularly noteworthy are the observations of beaver activity that the group encounters under the curious gaze of nature.

However, the route from Hameln to Rinteln requires skill and a good hand, especially during the passage through the lock in Hameln. Paddlers must always act in harmony with the current of the Weser, which must be calculated with an average flow speed of around 4 km/h, while their own rowing power is 12 km/h.

Safety and equipment

• Gründliche Einweisung vor der Tour
• Schwimmwesten im Preis inbegriffen
• Transport der Boote zum Start/Ziel
• Wasserwanderkarten und weitere Ausstattungen

The Weser, with a total length of 452 km, is not only an important body of water, but also the only federal waterway in Germany that has its entire catchment area within the country. It begins in Hann. Münden, where the Werra and Fulda rivers meet, and stretches all the way to the North Sea. Especially in winter, the Weser has its own charm and attracts brave nature lovers who want to experience the adventure in this way.

At the end of the day, when the rowers enter the WSV harbor basin, the experience on board will not only be characterized by cold, but above all by positive enthusiasm. Even though there were unexpected events, such as the helmsman stopping and falling overboard, the memory of this special winter adventure remains lasting and impressive.

For everyone who is looking for an equally exciting water sports adventure, the Weser not only offers impressive tours, but also a perfect setting for long-term paddling adventures. If you would like to find out more about upcoming events and tours, please visit the website Schaumburger Zeitung, Weser experience and Canoe Schumacher inform.