Krefeld Wavegarden

The city of Krefeld, Germany, is planning a Wavegarden Cove wave pool installation that will be the centerpiece of a 9 hectare (22 acre) development. With plans to open by the summer of 2023, it could be the first surf park in Germany.

The wave pool will occupy approximately 2 hectares. Like other Cove installations, the wave pool will have four surfing areas: two “Point” areas for intermediate/advanced surfers and two “Bays” for beginner surfers.

In the Point area on one side of the pier, surfers will ride lefts. In the Point area on the other side of the pier, surfers will ride right.

Wave Size and Shape

The size and shape of the waves will be variable to accomodate surfers of all levels.

The largest waves on the Points will measure around 1.95 meters on the face of the wave and the longest rides will last around 15 seconds. Those waves will vary in shape offering opportunities for barrels, turns, and air sections.

The beginner waves in the Bay will measure up to 1m on the face of the wave. The rolling whitewater waves in the beginner area will be perfect for learning to surf.

The anticipated cost of a 1-hour surf session in the wave pool is around €45 ($50 USD) per person.

The wave pool will host up 90 people at a time spread out across all four areas of the pool.

Outside the Wave Pool

Elakari, the German developers behind the project, intend to create a surf park that integrates with its natural environment. Elakari Executive Vice President Andreas Niedergesäss said “The surf and nature park in Krefeld should be the next wave that can be reached by surfers in northwestern continental Europe.”

The surf park will offer recreational and other amenities as well. “In addition to the surf park, we offer offers for wellness, local recreation, sports, events and gastronomy.” said Niedergesäss.

Project Details

The city of Krefeld and Elakari, the developer behind the project, signed a letter of intention. The Krefeld Wavegarden Cove wave pool plans to open summer of 2023, assuming everything goes according to plan. It will costa an estimated €25m Euros ($28m USD).

The team expects the wave pool to attract 200,000 visitors per year.

The city plans to continue ownership of the land and lease site to Elakari for a long term.

The next step is a vote on January 30th where politicians will decide whether to proceed with a development plan. Then, in the coming year, the city will work together with local citizens and businesses to asses impact and confirm community support. 

Sources: Kerfeld City, rp-online.de, WDR