Sailing in Marstal, Denmark

The fishing village Marstal on the island of Ærø is oozing with maritime charm. Marstal has it all, including a large, exciting playground, cosy barbeque huts and one of Denmark’s best maritime museums. Come and watch the renovation of the National Museum’s three-masted schooner Bonavista, or take a walk in the town’s narrow streets with their old protected houses – charming and atmospheric. Here you can go on and explore – not only around town, but also in the nooks and crannies of the harbour, which has preserved its charm of a true harbour flair and fisherman’s workplace.

Things to see and do

The harbour offers enough space for all, and many plan their trips around a stay in Marstal. There is plenty to see here, lots of restaurants, pubs, ice vendors, shopping opportunities, and last but not least, Marstal Maritime Museum. Along the harbour you will find a charming environment with yawls, fishing nets, yachts and coasters. The long pier with its fine old chalk oven offers protection from the eastern winds, built for this purpose by the town’s seamen from 1821 until 1841, and extended a few times later. Visit also the beautiful church from 1738 with its many ship models or enjoy a day at the beach at Eriks Hale with the picturesque beach huts and the fresh sea. The harbour is among Denmark’s most visited and is well-equipped with shower and toilet facilities, a guest kitchen, beach-volleyball fields, a soccer ground, minigolf and a large, exciting playground for children.