Badeschiff

Is it a ship? Is it a pool? It’s Badeschiff, Berlin’s unique floating oasis. Right here on the Spree, this converted barge offers a swimming experience unlike any other. Badeschiff, meaning “bath ship,” is exactly that: a repurposed vessel transformed into a vibrant swimming pool. Its history is relatively recent. Built in 2004, Badeschiff was designed to give people the joy of swimming in the Spree without the actual river’s risks. The pool itself is 8 meters by 32 meters, with a depth of 2.08 meters. Children under 16 need adult supervision, so keep that in mind if you’re planning a family visit. Badeschiff is more than just a pool. It’s part of the larger Arena Berlin complex, a hub of activity with table tennis, football, and gym facilities. It quickly became a popular spot, especially on hot summer days. One visitor in 2012 described arriving at 10 a.m. to an empty Badeschiff. By 3 p.m., it was a completely different scene, packed with Berliners seeking relief from the heat. The same visitor lamented missing out on a swim due to a strict swimwear-only policy. Her secondhand tank top didn’t make the cut, much to her dismay, while others enjoyed the cool water in less conventional attire. Badeschiff is open daily from 8 a.m. to midnight. The entrance fee is €5. There’s a bar and lockers available, but no food or drinks are allowed in the pool itself. Weekends often feature DJs spinning tunes, creating a lively party atmosphere. Beyond swimming, Badeschiff offers views of some of Berlin’s most iconic landmarks, including the TV Tower, Molecule Man, and the Oberbaum Bridge. It’s a truly special place to experience the city from a different perspective.