Achensee Shipping

Since 1887, Achensee Shipping has been an integral part of the Tyrolean tourism experience, offering a tranquil alternative to driving around the lake. The fleet consists of several vessels, including the flagship MS Achensee, which features expansive sun decks and panoramic windows. The journey connects the northern and southern shores, stopping at picturesque locations like Scholastika, Gaisalm (accessible only by foot or boat), and Seespitz, where passengers can seamlessly transfer to the historic Achensee Steam Cog Railway.

Beyond standard passenger transport, the shipping company frequently hosts special events, ranging from romantic sunset dinner cruises to festive holiday sailings. The gentle glide across the emerald-green waters, framed by the dramatic limestone peaks of the Karwendel Nature Park, provides a sensory experience that embodies the essence of slow travel. Whether you are using the boat to access remote hiking trails or simply enjoying a leisurely afternoon on the water, Achensee Shipping delivers an unforgettable alpine adventure.

Reasons to Visit

• Experience unparalleled, unobstructed views of the Karwendel and Rofan mountain ranges from the water.
• Enjoy a relaxing, slow-paced travel experience suitable for all ages and mobility levels.
• Access the remote Gaisalm, a unique alpine pasture that can only be reached by boat or a rugged hiking trail.
• Combine your boat trip with a ride on the historic Achensee Steam Cog Railway at the Seespitz station.
• Indulge in onboard dining with coffee, cake, and traditional Austrian snacks while taking in the scenery.

Things to Avoid

• Avoid traveling during the peak midday hours in July and August if you prefer a quieter experience; opt for early morning or late afternoon departures instead.
• Don't forget to check the return schedule if you disembark at a remote stop like Gaisalm, as missing the last boat means a long hike back.
• Avoid relying solely on credit cards at smaller lakeside kiosks; always carry some cash.
• Don't underestimate the alpine sun; the reflection off the lake can cause sunburn quickly, even on cooler days.

Local Transportation Tips

Getting to the Achensee Shipping departure points is straightforward. The main hubs in Pertisau and Maurach are well-connected by regional buses from Jenbach, which is a major train station on the route between Innsbruck and Salzburg. For a truly nostalgic arrival, take the Achensee Steam Cog Railway from Jenbach directly to the Seespitz boat landing. Ample parking is also available at the main piers for those traveling by car.

Travel Etiquette

• Allow disembarking passengers to exit the ship fully before you attempt to board.
• Keep noise levels reasonable on the outer decks to allow everyone to enjoy the serene natural environment.
• If traveling with a dog, ensure it is leashed and muzzled as per local transport regulations.
• Respect the seating arrangements; do not block aisles or panoramic windows with large backpacks or luggage.
• Greet the crew with a friendly 'Grüß Gott' (the traditional Tyrolean greeting) when boarding.

Recommended Age Group

Achensee Shipping is a universally appealing attraction, offering a safe, comfortable, and scenic experience for visitors of all ages.

• Babies (0-2 years): Recommended. The gentle motion of the boat is soothing, and the modern ships are stroller-friendly with ample indoor seating.
• Kids (3-12 years): Recommended. Children will love the novelty of being on a large ship and watching the scenery glide by. The hop-on-hop-off nature allows for breaks to play on the shores.
• Teens (13-19 years): Recommended. The stunning alpine backdrop provides perfect opportunities for photography and social media, while the onboard Wi-Fi on newer vessels keeps them connected.
• Adults (20-64 years): Recommended. Ideal for couples seeking a romantic outing or active adults using the ferry to connect various hiking and biking trails around the lake.
• Seniors (65+ years): Recommended. The high level of accessibility, comfortable seating, and onboard catering make this an effortless way to enjoy the dramatic mountain landscapes without physical strain.

Accessibility Level: Medium

• The main piers at Pertisau, Maurach, and Achenkirch feature step-free access via ramps.
• The modern vessels in the fleet, such as the MS Achensee, are fully wheelchair accessible on the main decks.
• Accessible restrooms are available on the larger, modern ships.
• Crew members are trained to assist passengers with mobility challenges during boarding and disembarking.
• Audio announcements are made clearly in both German and English.

Did You Know?

Did you know that Lake Achensee is up to 133 meters deep and its water quality is so pristine that it is nearly of drinking water standard? The lake was carved out by glaciers during the last Ice Age, which is why it resembles a Scandinavian fjord nestled high in the Austrian Alps.

Cool Statistics

• Established: 1887, making it one of the oldest continuous shipping operations in the region.
• Lake Size: Lake Achensee covers an area of 6.8 square kilometers.
• Max Depth: 133 meters (436 feet).
• Elevation: The lake sits at 929 meters (3,048 feet) above sea level.
• Fleet Size: The company operates a diverse fleet, including the modern MS Achensee which can carry up to 500 passengers.