The Wadden Sea

The Wadden Sea is in the South-eastern part of the North Sea. It stretches from Den Helder in the southwestern part along the barrier islands of the Dutch coast, the German Bight, and the Danish coast to Blåvandshuk in the north-eastern part.

The Wadden Sea is the largest unbroken system of intertidal sand and mud flats in the world, with natural processes undisturbed throughout most of the area. It encompasses a multitude of transitional zones between the land, sea, and freshwater environment, and is rich in species specially adapted to the demanding environmental conditions. It is considered one of the most key areas for migratory birds in the world and is connected to a network of other key sites for migratory birds. Its importance is not only in the context of the East Atlantic Flyway but also in the critical role it plays in the conservation of African-Eurasian migratory waterbirds.
In the Wadden Sea up to 6.1 million birds can be present at the same time, and an average of 10 to12 million birds pass through it each year.

UNESCO World Heritage Site

The Wadden Sea has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its outstanding geomorphological and ecological values.

The Code of Honor for Wad enthusiasts

The Code of Honor for Wad enthusiasts is a set of tips to protect and preserve the nature of the Wadden Sea World Heritage.

The starting point of the Code of Honor is the responsibility and insight of the Wad enthusiast.
Whether you surf (kite), sup, walk or sail on the Wadden Sea, in all cases you should be aware of the Code of Honor.

The core message of the Code of Honor is that as a (boater) holiday maker you are most welcome on the Wadden Sea to enjoy it, but that you respect the unique nature by keeping away from birds and seals.
Better take a pair of binoculars. There is room for everyone.

Look, enjoy and respect nature by keeping a distance.

Do not get too close to groups of birds and seals. The closer you are, the greater the disruption. Disturbance leads to stress, robbery of boy or food shortage.
Do not disembark until birds that forage on the water line have disappeared. That way, birds can still eat their food in peace and have them enough energy.
Do not enter enclosed nature reserves (indicated on sea maps and in the field with prohibition signs and / or yellow marking). Here is located fragile nature.
Do not throw waste overboard. Waste, such as plastic bottles, is harmful the environment and marred the appearance of Wadden Sea World Heritage.
Sail calmly and avoid loud sounds such as music and loud talking. Many animals flee from noise that carries far on water.
Do not use unnecessary bright lighting. At night many animals become restless with light.
Keep your dog on a leash and only let the animal out at low tide. Loose dogs are a big shock for birds and seals.
Kitesurf only in the designated kite surfing areas. The kitesurfing areas are indicated via: www.nederlandsekitesurfvereniging.nl