The Havel—a waterway with a rich history

Berlin has always been supplied by water. As early as the 17th century, the rivers were used as waterways and connected with canals. This created a transport network of supra-regional importance for the transport of goods and raw materials.

During the Berlin Airlift in 1948/1949, the Havel was not only a waterway, but also Berlin's longest runway. To relieve the pressure on the airports, Allied seaplanes landed here. They were preferably loaded with salt because of their corrosion resistance.

To this day, federal waterways such as the Havel are an essential part of the transport system. In addition to transporting goods, they are mainly used for sports and leisure boating.