Overview

• Two carpenters at Tischlerei Vollholzschmiede in Straupitz replaced scarce single-plank sides with cross-glued veneer plates to craft a form-stable Spreewaldkahn.
• The 6.5-meter prototype sank on launch but achieved water tightness as the laminated wood swelled, replicating traditional sealing.
• Enthusiasts have placed initial orders for the wooden kahn, signalling demand alongside dominant aluminium vessels.
• The Spreewaldverein endorsed the innovation as a sustainable solution to preserve the intangible heritage of the Spreewaldkahn.
• Builders will partner with BTU Cottbus to develop new hull coatings in response to legal bans on traditional wood-tar sealants.