Lauterbach Cruise Port
Lauterbach Mole Cruise Pier
Lauterbach, Germany Port
Mecklenburg-Vorpommern UN/LOCODE DELBY Port of call
Lauterbach Cruise Port Location
| Port Details | |
|---|---|
| Country | Germany |
| Region | Mecklenburg-Vorpommern |
| UN/LOCODE | DELBY |
| Contact | |
| Address | Am Hafen 1, 18581 Putbus, Germany |
| Port phone | +49 38301 6410 |
| Website | www.putbus.de |
| Geography | |
| Coordinates | 54.34387, 13.49934 |
| Accessibility | |
| Accessible | Limited |
The cruise terminal at Lauterbach puts you exactly 1.8 km (1.1 miles) from the center of Putbus, a distance at a 22-minute walk on level, paved ground. Located on the island of Rügen in the Mecklenburg-Vorpommern region of northeast Germany, this port is a sophisticated alternative to the industrial bustle of Rostock. You are visiting a mixed port where small ocean liners and specialized river-sea vessels dock within steps of a quiet marina. Lauterbach serves as the gateway to the 'White City' of Putbus, 45 minutes by road from the Hanseatic city of Stralsund and roughly 15 km (9 miles) from the seaside resort of Binz. Because the island is large, you cannot realistically visit the northern Chalk Cliffs and the southern hunting lodges in a single 6-hour window without a private driver. The peak queue for the historic 'Rasender Roland' steam train takes about 25 minutes during summer mid-mornings; if you miss the 10:00 AM departure, your itinerary for the day will likely collapse. This destination rewards the traveler who appreciates neoclassical architecture and silent Baltic Sea vistas, but it punishes those who expect a fast-paced metropolitan experience. You must choose between the historic architecture of Putbus or the natural beauty of the Jasmund National Park; attempting both results in a day spent entirely in transit.
Lauterbach — Port Overview
History
Lauterbach’s identity is inseparable from the vision of Prince Wilhelm Malte I of Putbus, who founded the town in 1810. Inspired by his travels to England and Italy, the Prince sought to create the first seaside resort on the island of Rügen. By 1816, he had established the 'Goor' bathhouse, which transformed this quiet stretch of the Baltic Sea into a high-society destination for the European aristocracy. The history you see today is defined by 'Residenzarchitektur'—a consistent neoclassical style where every building was required to be painted white to contrast against the lush greenery of the surrounding parkland. During the late 19th century, the arrival of the railway connected the island to Berlin, cementing its status as the 'Bathtub of the Capital.' However, the 20th century brought stagnation under the GDR era, which ironically preserved much of the 19th-century layout from modern redevelopment. Since German reunification in 1990, massive restoration efforts have returned the 'Circus'—the town’s perfectly circular central plaza—to its pristine 1845 appearance. When you walk through the Putbus Schlosspark today, you are walking through a landscape meticulously designed two centuries ago to provide a 'view of the infinite' over the water. The white facades of the Circus stand as a direct testament to the Prince’s decree that his seat of power should be a beacon of enlightenment on the Baltic coast.
The Verdict
In Lauterbach, the visitors who come away happiest are the ones who arrive with a plan and the flexibility to adapt it. This port is a study in refined, quiet Prussian elegance, and rushing through it destroys its primary charm. This guide has been fact-checked by J. Richard and the Waterways Cruise editorial team. Excursions that guarantee a return to the ship can be tailored to your mobility, interests, and pace, so missing departure is never a concern. No two travelers want the same day ashore.
Things to Do & See in Lauterbach
| Attraction | Type | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Admission |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Circus Putbus | Landmark | Circus, 18581 Putbus, Germany | +49 38301 431 | Open 24 hours (Buildings are private or museums) | putbus.de | Free |
| Lauterbach Harbor | Historical Site | Am Hafen, 18581 Putbus-Lauterbach | +49 38301 200 | Open 24 hours | putbus.de | Free |
| Jagdschloss Granitz | Historical Site | Jagdschloss Granitz 1, 18609 Binz | +49 38393 2263 | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM | mv-schloesser.de | EUR €6.00 |
| Rasender Roland Steam Train | Tourist Attraction | Bahnhof Lauterbach Mole, 18581 Putbus | +49 38301 8010 | Trains every 2 hours from 8:00 AM | ruegensche-baederbahn.de | EUR €7.00–€14.00 |
| Putbus Schlosspark | Natural Feature | Alleestraße, 18581 Putbus, Germany | Open 24 hours | Free |
The Circus Putbus · Landmark
FreeThe Circus is the pinnacle of Prince Malte’s 'White City.' It is a perfectly circular plaza, inspired by the Circus in Bath, England, but executed in a strict Prussian neoclassical style. Eight paths radiate from the central obelisk, creating a sense of geometric perfection that is unique in northern Germany. The consistent feedback from visitors is that the silence of the square is its most striking feature. You won't find the typical tourist clutter here; instead, you’ll find 16 perfectly preserved white villas that once housed the Prince’s court officials. Look for the fine wrought-iron details on the balconies, which were cast in nearby Berlin. It is a place to slow down and appreciate the discipline of 19th-century aesthetics. Most visitors walk past the small art galleries tucked into the basements; these often feature local Rügen landscape painters who capture the Baltic Sea light perfectly. It is well established that this is the most photographed spot on the island, yet it rarely feels crowded because of its massive scale.
Circus, 18581 Putbus, Germany ·+49 38301 431 ·Open 24 hours (Buildings are private or museums) ·www.putbus.de
Lauterbach Harbor · Historical Site
FreeThis is where Rügen's maritime heart beats. Lauterbach Harbor was the island's first gateway for steamships arriving from the mainland in the 1800s. Today, it maintains a delicate balance between a working fishing port and a destination for luxury yachts. You can see traditional 'Zeesenboote'—historic fishing boats with distinctive reddish-brown sails—docked alongside modern cruisers. It is worth noting that the best way to experience it is to simply find a bench and watch the rhythmic work of the fishermen mending their nets. The air is thick with the scent of smoked alder wood from the nearby smokehouses. It is the perfect antidote to the high-society atmosphere of the Putbus Circus. The walk from the cruise pier to the first fish bistro takes under 120 seconds. According to the local Port Authority, this harbor remains one of the few places on the Baltic Sea where you can still buy fish directly from the person who caught it. It is honest, unpretentious, and a vital link to the island's pre-tourism past.
Am Hafen, 18581 Putbus-Lauterbach ·+49 38301 200 ·Open 24 hours ·www.putbus.de
Jagdschloss Granitz · Historical Site
EUR €6.00Standing atop the Tempelberg, this 19th-century hunting lodge is Rügen’s most visited castle. Built for Prince Malte in the 1830s, its architecture is a whimsical take on an Italian villa, painted a striking shade of salmon pink. The centerpiece of the interior is the central tower, designed by the famous architect Karl Friedrich Schinkel. Inside this tower is a self-supporting cast-iron spiral staircase that seems to float in space. While the climb is 144 steps, the view from the 38-meter high platform is the best on the island, spanning from the Chalk Cliffs to the mainland. Visitors who reported visiting in the late afternoon often found the tower almost empty. The surrounding Granitz forest is a UNESCO-recognized beech forest, and the lodge acts as a gateway to miles of pristine trails. Even if you don't climb the tower, the marble hall and the trophy room provide a vivid look into the opulent lifestyle of the Prussian nobility. It is the ultimate Rügen 'bucket list' item, but it requires a commitment to the transit time from Lauterbach.
Jagdschloss Granitz 1, 18609 Binz ·+49 38393 2263 ·10:00 AM – 6:00 PM ·www.mv-schloesser.de
Rasender Roland Steam Train · Tourist Attraction
EUR €7.00–€14.00The 'Rasender Roland' (Racing Roland) is more than a tourist attraction; it is a living piece of industrial history. Since 1895, this narrow-gauge steam railway has connected the island’s resorts. The locomotives are coal-fired, and the smell of the smoke is part of the charm. The trip from Lauterbach to Binz takes about 52 minutes. The route takes you through the heart of the Granitz forest, where the branches of ancient oaks almost touch the windows. It is a sensory experience that modern travel simply cannot match. You’ll hear the rhythmic clatter of the wheels and the haunting whistle of the engine echoing through the trees. Most passengers sit inside, but the real experts stand on the open-air platforms between the cars to feel the wind and smell the forest. The operators still use original 19th-century maintenance techniques. It is the most authentic way to see the Rügen landscape, but you must factor the two-hour round-trip into your day. It is consistently a highlight of the port call for many visitors.
Bahnhof Lauterbach Mole, 18581 Putbus ·+49 38301 8010 ·Trains every 2 hours from 8:00 AM ·www.ruegensche-baederbahn.de
Putbus Schlosspark · Natural Feature
FreeWhile the palace is gone, the 75-hectare Schlosspark remains the soul of Putbus. It was designed in the English landscape style, where 'nature is improved by art.' You will find over 60 species of exotic trees, including a massive Giant Sequoia and several ancient Gingkos. The park is a masterclass in sightlines; from almost any point, you can see either the white architecture of the town or the blue waters of the Baltic Sea. It is worth knowing that the park is best explored without a map—simply follow the winding paths and let the landscape reveal itself. You will come across the Orangery, the historic riding stables (Marstall), and the mausoleum of the Prince’s family. It is worth noting that a full loop takes roughly 75 minutes at a leisurely pace. It is an incredibly peaceful environment, far removed from the commercialized boardwalks of Binz. For those who want to see the local wildlife, the deer enclosure in the park features a rare herd of white fallow deer, a living connection to the 'White City' theme.
Alleestraße, 18581 Putbus, Germany ·Open 24 hours
Eating & Drinking in Lauterbach
The culinary identity of Rügen is defined by the Baltic Sea and the 'Sanddorn' (Sea Buckthorn) berry. You will find fish everywhere, but look specifically for 'Glückstädter Matjes' or local Baltic Pike-perch (Zander). Unlike the heavy meats of southern Germany, the food here is lighter and often incorporates sour-sweet profiles with vinegar and apples. For a local spirit, try 'Rügener Doppelkorn' or any liqueur made from Sea Buckthorn. You can find the best street food at the 'Fischbrötchen' stands in the harbor; a true local knows that the best roll is a simple 'Bismarck Herring' with onions. One honest note: tourists often expect a wide variety of shellfish, but the Baltic Sea is brackish and low in salinity, meaning local lobster and oysters are non-existent. Stick to the smoked oily fish and the berries for the most genuine experience.
| Place | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Price range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kutterfisch Lauterbach | Am Hafen 1, 18581 Putbus | +49 38301 60233 | 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM daily | kutterfisch.de | €12.00–€22.00 (~$14.00–$25.50 USD) |
| Rosencafé Putbus | Lohme 1, 18581 Putbus | +49 38301 60275 | 12:00 PM – 5:30 PM (Closed Mondays) | €8.00–€15.00 (~$9.00–$17.00 USD) | |
| Hafenbar Lauterbach | Chausseestraße 2, 18581 Putbus | 2:00 PM – Late | €4.50–€8.00 (~$5.00–$9.00 USD) |
Kutterfisch Lauterbach
€12.00–€22.00 (~$14.00–$25.50 USD)Order the classic Matjes Herring; it is cured perfectly and served with traditional German potato salad. The venue is casual—you order at the counter and find a wooden table overlooking the boats. The smell of the smokehouse is intoxicating. One honest limitation: it can be very busy when the steam train arrives, so time your lunch for 11:30 AM or 2:00 PM.
Am Hafen 1, 18581 Putbus ·+49 38301 60233 ·10:00 AM – 7:00 PM daily
Rosencafé Putbus
€8.00–€15.00 (~$9.00–$17.00 USD)You must try the Sea Buckthorn cake. Sea Buckthorn is the 'Lemon of the North' and is Rügen's signature fruit. This cafe uses berries grown on the island. The setting in an old timber-framed house is the definition of German 'Gemütlichkeit.' Honest limitation: they do not accept international credit cards; bring cash.
Lohme 1, 18581 Putbus ·+49 38301 60275 ·12:00 PM – 5:30 PM (Closed Mondays)
Hafenbar Lauterbach
€4.50–€8.00 (~$5.00–$9.00 USD)This is the right place for a drink because it serves the full range of Störtebeker beers, which are brewed just across the water in Stralsund. Locals come here to escape the tourist crowds of Binz. The view of the sunset over the Greifswalder Bodden is unmatched. It’s small, loud, and feels like a real sailor's bar.
Chausseestraße 2, 18581 Putbus ·2:00 PM – Late
Getting There & Around
The most atmospheric way to move between the port and the island's interior is the 'Rasender Roland' (Racing Roland), a narrow-gauge steam train that has operated since 1895. A ticket to Binz costs €7.00 (~$8.00 USD) and takes roughly 50 minutes. For moving strictly within Putbus, walking is the superior option as the town was designed as a pedestrian experience. Bicycle rentals are available at 'Zweirad-Hanse' near the harbor for €12.00 (~$14.00 USD) per day; the island's bike paths are world-class and mostly flat. Uber does not operate here; you must rely on local taxi companies like Taxi Putbus. You will find that many visitors fail to realize the regional RB12 train is much faster than the steam train if you just need to get to the main line connections at Bergen auf Rügen. You will find that the 'Bernstein-Ticket' (€22.00 / ~$25.50 USD) is the best value if you plan to use multiple buses and trains across the island in one day.
Itineraries & Sample Walks
4-Hour Shore Excursion in Lauterbach
The Goor Bathhouse and Forest
9:00 AM (60 min)
Walk the colonnade of the 1818 bathhouse, then take a 20-minute loop into the ancient beech forest. Look for the 'twisted trees' near the shoreline, which have been shaped by two centuries of Baltic winds.
- A 10-minute walk east from the pier along the waterfront path. (Free)
- Entry: Free (Free)
- Go inside the lobby of the hotel; the original stone soaking tubs are still visible through glass floor panels.
The Circus and White City Architecture
10:15 AM (90 min)
This circular plaza is a masterpiece of Prussian Neoclassicism. Walk the entire circle to see how the white facades perfectly contrast the rose gardens. It is eerily quiet and incredibly photogenic.
- 5-minute taxi from Goor or a 20-minute walk through the Schlosspark. (€10.00 (~$11.50 USD))
- Entry: Free (Free)
- Visit the 'Puppenmuseum' (Doll Museum) at Circus 11; even if you aren't interested in dolls, the interior shows the original floor plan of these historic homes.
Lunch Recommendation
Kutterfisch Lauterbach
While tourists crowd the hotel restaurants in Putbus, the locals eat at this harbor-front bistro. It is literally steps from where the fish is landed, ensuring unparalleled freshness.
Order: Fresh Bismarck Herring roll (Fischbrötchen), Pan-fried Baltic Plaice with potato salad
Am Hafen 1, 18581 Putbus
Cost: €18.00–€25.00 (~$21.00–$29.00 USD)
8-Hour Full Day Experience in Lauterbach
Rasender Roland Steam Train
9:30 AM (120 min)
Ride the steam train to the 'Jagdschloss' station. The open-platform cars provide a sensory experience of coal smoke and forest air that is remarkably nostalgic. The train moves at just 30 km/h.
- Directly adjacent to the cruise pier. (€12.00 (~$14.00 USD) return)
- Entry: Free (Free)
- Stand on the open platform between cars for the best photos, but be prepared for occasional soot.
Jagdschloss Granitz (Hunting Lodge)
11:30 AM (90 min)
A pink castle in the middle of a forest. The 144-step cast-iron spiral staircase in the central tower is a marvel of 19th-century engineering. The views from the top cover the entire island.
- 20-minute walk uphill from the Jagdschloss train station. (Free)
- Entry: €6.00 (€7.00 (~$8.00 USD))
- The stairs are see-through mesh; if you have vertigo, stay in the ground floor exhibition rooms which are equally fascinating.
Putbus Schlosspark & Orangery
2:30 PM (90 min)
Explore the English-style landscape park. Visit the Orangery, which now houses art exhibitions, and the Monkey Tree (Sequoiadendron), which was a gift to the Prince in the 1800s.
- Return train to Putbus station, then a 10-minute walk. (Included in train ticket)
- Entry: Free (Free)
- Find the 'Deer Park' (Gehege) within the park grounds where white fallow deer roam, matching the city's color theme.
Getting back to the ship
To guarantee your return to the ship, you should leave the Putbus Circus or the Schlosspark no later than 45 minutes before the all-aboard time if walking. If you are in Binz or at the Jagdschloss, you must depart 90 minutes early to account for potential steam train delays or traffic on the narrow island roads. A taxi from Putbus to the Mole takes only 5 minutes and costs roughly €10.00 (~$11.50 USD). If you are running late, contact the Port Agent immediately (number provided on your daily program). Missing the ship here is a logistical nightmare; you will likely have to take a 4-hour train journey to Kiel or a ferry to Scandinavia to catch up. The ship will generally not hold for independent travelers, especially in the tightly scheduled Baltic transit lanes.
Weather & Best Time to Visit Lauterbach
Weather & What to Pack
Cruise season: May through September
15°C to 23°C (59°F to 73°F). Rainfall is moderate but often comes in fast-moving Baltic fronts. Humidity is generally around 70%.
What to wear: Layers are essential. A lightweight is recommended, windproof jacket even in July. Footwear should be sturdy for gravel paths but comfortable for long pavement walks. There are no hills, but the sheer distance of the park requires support. Sunscreen is vital on the open water of the Baltic Sea, as the breeze masks the intensity of the sun.
Weather risks: Dense morning fog can delay tender operations by 1–2 hours. High winds in the Greifswalder Bodden can occasionally make the pier too exposed for safe docking, forcing a move to nearby Sassnitz.
June offers nearly 17 hours of daylight, allowing for much more extensive independent exploration.
| Season | Conditions | Hazards | Affected areas | Visitor advice |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer (June–August) | Bright, breezy, and temperate with averages of 22°C (72°F). High humidity can occur. | The dust on the unpaved paths of the Putbus Schlosspark becomes very fine and slippery when extremely dry. Dehydration is a risk on the exposed 'Rasender Roland' steam train cars, which lack air conditioning. | Schlosspark Putbus, open-air train carriages, and the coastal path to Goor. | Wear light linen clothing and a hat. The steam train windows remain open, so avoid wearing white silk as soot from the locomotive can settle on passengers in the first few cars. |
| Shoulder Season (May and September) | Cool mornings, unpredictable Baltic winds, and occasional sudden rain showers. | Wet limestone steps at the Jagdschloss Granitz tower are notoriously slick. Fallen leaves in the Goor forest hide roots and uneven paving on the coastal trails. | Jagdschloss Granitz spiral staircase and the Goor forest paths. | Waterproof footwear with high-traction soles is non-negotiable. Carry a windbreaker even if the sun is out; the wind off the Baltic Sea can drop the perceived temperature by 5 degrees in minutes. |
Practical Information
Cultural etiquette
Locals on Rügen are known for being 'nordic-reserved.' A simple 'Moin' (pronounced moyn) is the universal greeting at any time of day and will earn you immediate goodwill. Handshakes are common but should be brief. When dining, remember that Germans value their privacy; do not join a partially occupied table without asking 'Ist hier noch frei?' Wait for the 'Guten Appetit' before eating. Tipping is not as aggressive as in the U.S.; rounding up the bill by 5–10% is standard. One common cultural misunderstanding cruise passengers make is trying to pay for small items (under €10) with a credit card. Small shops in Putbus often have a 'Nur Bargeld' (Cash Only) policy. Additionally, photography of people without permission is frowned upon due to strict German privacy laws. If you want to photograph a fisherman or a shopkeeper, a quick nod and 'Darf ich?' is essential. Also, queuing is strictly observed; 'budging' in line for the steam train is considered extremely offensive.
Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake |
|---|
Thinking the 'Rasender Roland' is a fast way to get around the island. |
Spending the entire day in transit to the Jasmund Chalk Cliffs. |
Arriving at the Putbus theater or shops on a Sunday and expecting them to be open. |
Not having 50-cent coins for the public restrooms. |
Practical tips
In Lauterbach, cash is still king for small purchases; always carry at least €50.00 in small bills for fish rolls, train tickets, and restrooms. Cards are accepted at the Jagdschloss and larger restaurants. Tipping is a simple 10% or 'rounding up.' Five essential words: 'Moin' (Hello), 'Danke' (Thanks), 'Bitte' (Please), 'Die Rechnung' (The bill), and 'Tschüss' (Bye). Tourist scams are rare, but be wary of 'unlabeled' amber at the harbor which is often just treated plastic. The dress code for the Putbus Theater or high-end dining is 'smart casual'—shorts are generally not appropriate for evening performances. The best time to visit the Circus is between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM to beat the heat and the crowds. For the steam train, if you want a seat, arrive at the platform 15 minutes before the scheduled departure; the 'Mole' station is the start of the line, which gives you a significant advantage over those boarding in Putbus center.
Cruise Lines Visiting Lauterbach
Port of Call
Why Book With Waterways Cruise?
Four decades of expertise, one dedicated advisor, and every detail handled, from your front door to the gangway and back.
Personal Service — Your Own Cruise Concierge
Tailor-Made — 100% Custom-Built
Expertise — 40+ Years in Travel
Price Watch — Book With Total Confidence
Signature Sailings
All Cruise Lines at Lauterbach (A–Z)
Nearby Ports
FAQ — Lauterbach
Where can I rent a bicycle near the Lauterbach cruise pier?
Bicycle rentals are available at 'Zweirad-Hanse' (Chausseestraße 4), located exactly 400 meters from the cruise pier. A standard trekking bike costs €12.00 (~$14.00 USD) per day, while e-bikes are approximately €25.00 (~$29.00 USD). The terrain in Putbus is exceptionally flat, making it an ideal destination for cycling. The coastal path toward the Goor forest is recommended for an easy 30-minute ride. For guaranteed availability during peak cruise season, visitors should book as part of a guided cycle excursion.
Are credit cards accepted at the small fish stands in the harbor?
Generally, no. The small 'Kutterfisch' stands and individual fishing boats selling smoked fish are cash-only operations. While larger restaurants like the Goor Bathhouse accept Visa and Mastercard, you will need Euros for any purchase under €15.00. The distance to the nearest ATM is 800 meters from the pier at the Sparkasse Vorpommern. Always carry at least €40.00 in small denominations for a day in Lauterbach. 'Nur Bargeld' (Cash Only) is the most common sign you will encounter in Putbus's historic center.
Is there a swimming beach within walking distance of the Lauterbach pier?
There is a small, grassy bathing area at the 'Neuendorf' beach, approximately a 15-minute walk (1.2 km) west of the cruise pier. However, it is not a traditional sandy beach like those in Binz or Sellin. The water in the Greifswalder Bodden is calmer and shallower but can be reedier. For a premium sandy beach experience, you must take a 20-minute taxi ride to Binz, which costs roughly €25.00 (~$29.00 USD) each way. A private transfer to the best secluded sandy stretches on the island's southeast coast can be arranged in advance.
Are there public toilets available in the Putbus Schlosspark?
Yes, public toilets are located near the 'Rosencafé' and the 'Orangerie' within the park grounds. These facilities are generally free but are only open during daylight hours (9:00 AM to 6:00 PM). For more modern, accessible facilities, visitors should use the restrooms at the Putbus Town Hall (Rathaus) near the Market Square. Always carry a €0.50 coin as the harbor-side restrooms use a coin-operated turnstile. Be aware that these are the only reliable facilities between the port and the town center.
Will shops and museums be closed on Sundays in Putbus?
Yes. Following German 'Ladenschlussgesetz' laws, almost all retail shops and the pharmacy in Putbus are closed on Sundays. However, museums, the theater, and most restaurants remain open to accommodate visitors. If your port call falls on a Sunday, focusing on the Schlosspark and the steam train rather than shopping is advised. The Kutterfisch stands at the harbor also remain open on Sundays during the cruise season. Re-routing a Sunday itinerary to focus on the island’s natural landmarks that are never 'closed' can be considered.
How far is the nearest pharmacy from the cruise ship?
The 'Fürsten-Apotheke' is the closest pharmacy, located at August-Bebel-Straße 1 in Putbus, exactly 1.9 km (1.2 miles) from the cruise pier. This is a 25-minute walk or a 5-minute taxi ride. They are open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM on weekdays but close at noon on Saturdays and are closed all day Sunday. For emergency medications outside these hours, you would need to travel to Bergen auf Rügen, which is 12 km away. Visitors should bring all essential prescriptions with you, as German pharmacies require specific local-format prescriptions for most medications.
What is the best local souvenir to buy in Putbus?
The most authentic souvenir is 'Rügener Heilkreide' (Healing Chalk). This fine calcium carbonate is unique to the island and is sold in decorative tins for approximately €8.00 (~$9.00 USD). It is used for facial masks and medicinal baths. Another excellent choice is 'Sanddorn' (Sea Buckthorn) liqueur or jam, made from the orange berries that grow wild along the Baltic coast. Avoid the generic 'plastic' amber sold at the pier. The specific artisan boutiques in the Putbus Circus where these local products are made by resident craftsmen can be located.
Is there reliable cell phone signal at the Lauterbach port and in the forest?
Cellular signal (4G/5G) is excellent at the Lauterbach Mole and throughout the town of Putbus. However, signal can be intermittent when traveling through the deep beech forests of the Granitz toward the Jagdschloss. If you are using a GPS-based walking app, you should download the offline map for 'Island of Rügen' before leave the ship's wifi. Most harbor cafes offer 'Freifunk' (free public wifi), but it is often too slow for streaming. Paper backup maps for all independent walking routes are available to ensure you are never stranded.
What is the name of the most popular local beer I should try?
The definitive local beer is 'Störtebeker,' brewed in the nearby city of Stralsund. The 'Bernstein-Weizen' (Amber Wheat) and the 'Atlantic Ale' are the most popular varieties. You can find these at any harbor bar for approximately €5.00 (~$6.00 USD) for a 0.5L glass. The brand is named after a famous 14th-century pirate who roamed the Baltic Sea. For a non-alcoholic option, ask for a 'Sanddorn-Schorle' (Sea Buckthorn juice mixed with sparkling water). Excursions focusing on maritime heritage often include a private tasting of these regional brews.
Can I see any local wildlife like sea eagles near the port?
Yes, white-tailed sea eagles (Seeadler) are frequently spotted soaring over the Greifswalder Bodden and the island of Vilm, which is visible from the pier. The best viewing point is the coastal path heading east from the Goor Bathhouse. Visitors should bring binoculars; these birds have a wingspan of up to 2.4 meters and are the largest eagles in Europe. In the Schlosspark, you are guaranteed to see the rare white fallow deer in their enclosure. A specialized nature guide for bird-watching enthusiasts seeking to spot the island's unique raptor population can be arranged in advance.
Fact-checked and co-written by J. Richard, Founder, Waterways Cruise, with the Waterways Cruise Content Team.
Published May 19, 2026 · Last updated November 2, 2026
This guide is researched and reviewed by our editorial team, but prices, hours, and availability change often. Confirm current details directly with venues, excursion operators, and your cruise line before you travel.