The tradition of disembarking after Heligoland is due to the fact that the ferries to the island have too great a draught. It is therefore not possible to disembark at the port. To solve this problem, there are on Heligoland the so-called Börteboote. These are oak boats about 8 meters long that meet the ferries as soon as they are anchored off the island.
Alongside the ferry, the white-green-red boats now moor directly at the exit hatch, which is just above the water's edge. Two of the boats' at least four experienced sailors position themselves right at the hatch and lift one passenger after the other over with a quick grip on the arms. There they are met by the other sailors. Luggage and passengers are distributed in the boat in such a way as to ensure uniformity and to prevent the boat from becoming overweight.
The disembarkation to Helgoland takes place in any weather, which has caused some passengers some fear. However, you can rely on the many years of experience of the sailors. After only about five minutes, the boat departs and safely takes the passengers the rest of the way to Helgoland. Heligoland island.
