Wilhelmshaven: On the way to the state -recognized resort!

Wilhelmshaven: On the way to the state -recognized resort!

Wilhelmshaven, Deutschland - Wilhelmshaven plans to strive for state recognition as a resort. This initiative comes from several political groups, including the council group Win@WBV, the FDP and the free voters and is supported by Ulf Berner. The aim is to clarify the prerequisites for a recognition procedure in the state of Lower Saxony. In the city's Juni meeting, a draft resolution should be advised and decided.

The city of Wilhelmshaven has a lot to offer: the proximity to the coast, a diverse range of tourist and cultural institutions as well as numerous accommodation options are characterized by the region. Particularly noteworthy are the location on the UNESCO World Heritage Site Wadden Sea, the South Beach, the Stadtpark and the medical competence of the local rehabilitation center. These plus points are important for the application for recognition.

comparison with neighboring regions

In the district of Friesland there are already nine recognized resorts, including Jever, Schortenser districts, Hohenkirchen, Minsen-Förria and North Sea healing baths such as Hooksiel and Horumersiel-Schillig. This shows that Wilhelmshaven is busy in the competition for tourists and wants to assert himself. According to the Lower Saxony Ministry of Economic Affairs, recognition as a recreational location certifies a high level of quality, which could attract more visitors.

For the application, a survey sheet, expert opinion on the climate and air quality as well as a local inspection are required. He is submitted to the Office for Regional Development in Oldenburg. Olaf Fischer from the Win@WBV council group is convinced that all prerequisites for the predicate are met.

tourism statistics and future expectations

Wilhelmshaven is a place of contrasts between relaxing beaches and cultural activities. The city has a rich history and presents itself modern and changeable. Maritime attractions around the big harbor, such as the coastal museum, the Aquarium and the German Marinemuseum as well as the visitor center of the UNESCO World Heritage, attract tourists. In 2024, a total of 140,544 guests visited Wilhelmshaven, which led to 374,925 overnight stays.

The possible effects of state recognition are considerable. An expected image gain and better visibility in tourism portals could lead to an increase in the number of overnight stays. In addition, the discussion about opening hours on Sundays and public holidays is aimed at that kiosk operators can benefit from the new regulations. They are currently afraid of negative effects on their existence by the strict legal requirements that limit their opening times to a maximum of three hours

In this persistent development, the city of Wilhelmshaven could take the next step in its tourist upgrading and work intensively on their offer to welcome even more visitors.