Wassersportverein Varel e.V.

Vareler Hafen is idyllically located south of the Jadebusen and is protected by a sluice gate, so the harbour only dries out during flushing or ice conditions. The marina has over 100 berths spread across six pontoons and is run by Wassersportverein Varel e.V.

Approach runs via the Jadefahrwasser to Wilhelmshaven, then south along the buoyed Vareler Fahrwasser to buoy VAR20, after which you follow the withies (not the chartplotter) to the Vareler Schleuse lock. Watch for shallow patches of about 2 m depth at half tide, and avoid the shallow area inside the inner harbour, which is marked with port-hand withies. A floating pontoon in the outer harbour has space for 3 boats, letting you get ashore dry-footed even outside lock opening hours. Guest berths are booked online, and larger boats (over 12 m long, 5 m beam, 1.5 m draught) are berthed at the far end of the harbour basin along the quay wall. The fee includes use of the lock as well as sanitary facilities and showers at the bistro by the lock.

On the headland by the pontoon stands the attractive clubhouse with toilets and hot showers, plus the "Wattläufer" bistro serving home-style cooking and home-baked cake. The pontoons have running water and electricity, there is a boat crane and yards for repairs, and a playground and barbecue area for members and guests. Parking is available at the harbour. Note that no wifi is offered, though mobile coverage is good.