Bathtub Race Bettenkamper Meer Moers

Bathtub Race – A Moers Classic Since 2008

The Bathtub Race at Bettenkamper Meer is one of the most unusual summer events on the Lower Rhine. Since 2008, colorfully costumed two-person teams have competed annually in modified bathtubs – over a swimming course of about 100 meters in the natural swimming pool in the north of Moers. 2026 marks the 17th edition, continuing the concept: humorous, family-friendly, with a clear wink.

Date and Location 2026

The 17th edition takes place on Saturday, August 22, 2026:

• Start: 2:00 PM with opening and team introductions
• First heats: from approx. 2:30 PM
• Runs until: 11:55 PM (official end)
• Location: Bettenkamper Meer, Krefelder Str. 190, 47447 Moers

What Makes a "Racing Bathtub"

The bathtubs are not standard models – they are modified and equipped by the teams themselves:

• Buoyancy aids on the sides (barrels, foam, plastic bottles)
• Paddles, scoops, or simple wooden planks for propulsion
• Themed costumes: Vikings, pirates, astronauts, Star Wars, fairy tale characters, local references
• Often elaborate paint jobs and structures

Judging and Prizes

Two categories are awarded:

• Best Time: fastest paddlers over the race course
• Best Costume / Most Original Bathtub: audience and jury award

The prizes are rather symbolic – trophies, merchandise, honor. The competitive aspect is secondary; the focus is on fun.

DLRG and Bettenkamper Meer

The organizers are the DLRG Ortsgruppe Moers (German Life Saving Association) together with the Freundeskreis Bettenkamper Meer (Friends of Bettenkamper Meer). The DLRG ensures water safety – an aspect taken seriously despite all the humor (lifeguards, support boats). The Friends association is responsible for maintaining the natural swimming pool as a recreational area.

The Bettenkamper Meer – Moers’ Natural Pool Hidden Gem

The Bettenkamper Meer is a lake in the north of Moers, formed by gravel extraction, which has been used as a natural swimming pool for decades. With sunbathing lawns, a sandy beach, boat rentals, a snack bar, and a very local clientele, it's a Lower Rhine classic – far from a typical swimming pool atmosphere. The bathtub race fits perfectly: a bit quirky, a bit DIY, very close to the people.

Program Around the Race

There is an accompanying program of events:

• Food stalls with fries, bratwurst, crêpes
• Drink stands with beer, cocktails, sodas
• Live music after the race
• Children's program in the afternoon
• Evening aftershow party until shortly before midnight