Moltke, Steamboat wreck near Spiekeroog, Germany
The Moltke is a steamboat wreck off the eastern shore of Spiekeroog that becomes partially visible during low tide. The remains of the approximately 37.5-meter vessel rest in shallow water and can be approached when tides recede.
Built in 1914, the vessel served as a patrol boat for the German Navy until a winter storm in 1916 left it stranded. After running aground, its remains settled on the seabed and became a permanent feature of the Spiekeroog coastline.
The wreck connects fishing traditions with military service on the North Sea during the early 1900s. Locals view the remains as a tangible link to the maritime past that shaped their coastal region.
The best time to observe the wreck is during low tide, especially when eastern winds prevail. Time your visit by consulting tide tables and wear sturdy footwear, as the mudflats can be uneven and slippery.
The vessel started its life as a fishing steamer with a crew of 12 sailors before being converted for military service. This transformation from merchant ship to patrol boat remains visible in the wreck's structure today.
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