Grundlagenstudie Wanderrudern Deutschland

Publication: Book/ReportDissertations

Abstract

Far more rowers in Germany participate in recreational rowing than competitive rowing. Likewise, many take part in rowing trips across German rivers and lakes. However research on recreational rowing hasn’t been widely considered so far. The purpose of this study was to determine spatial and infrastructural preferences of recreational rowers as well as sociodemographic, economic and motivational aspects of recreational rowing in Germany. For this purpose, a two step study design was developed. First, a qualitative survey and visitor employed photography were conducted. Based on the results, a quantitative online survey was carried out and geographic information was used to capture waterway usage.
Daily expenditure on several day rowing trips is 68,52 Euro. Overall, rowing induced primary effects amount to 5,6 million Euro. From an economic perspective the touristic relevance of recreational rowing is therefore lower compared to other water based recreation activities. Rowing trips are highly seasonal, undertaken mainly from April to October and lasting two to three days for most of the trips. Only few trips are longer. The average group size is 15 rowers, thus social aspects are very important.
Recreational rowers prefer especially natural streaming water with versatile bank vegetation as well as spacious expenses of water and mountain scenery. Preference increases through calm waters with less traffic and smooth water. Also contrast between urban areas and natural landscape is important since trip rowers spend the night often at rowing clubs and like to take up cultural and culinary offerings.
As to infrastructure, landing stages meeting the needs of rowing boats as well as safe water gates and weirs with convenient portages are crucial for waterway amenity. Moreover, arrival areas which have parking, bathrooms, food and disposal available should be built. Convenience can be further increased by a sign based guiding system at relevant places.
The German stream network is extremely versatile. Qualitative improvements should be in favor of quantitative expansion. Therefore it is necessary to take trip rowing and the associated findings of this study into consideration.
Original languageGerman
Place of PublicationKöln
PublisherInstitut für Natursport und Ökologie
Number of pages152
Publication statusPublished - 2018

Publication series

NameSchriftenreihe Natursport und Ökologie
PublisherInstitut für Natursport und Ökologie
Volume34
ISSN (Print)1612-2437

Citation