Das Schiff – Hamburg's theatre ship

Anyone who has ever visited Hamburg's floating theatre is likely to rave about its unique atmosphere. With all of its proud 35 years, the one and only theatre in Europe capable of taking to the high seas is still young, while at the same time it is as rich in tradition as any other Hamburg theatre.

It lies right at the heart, between the city centre, the historic Deichstrasse and the Speicherstadt and adjoining Hafen-City. And just as Das Schiff is close to the centre of Hamburg, when you are on the ship you are equally close to the stage. In fact you are practically on top of the actors – no seats are further than seven metres from the stage. This is a venue where audiences enjoy great theatre in a circumscribed space.  

With its own acting ensemble, Das Schiff presents a very varied programme. Its special brand of entertainment is satirical, musical and wicked. But visiting stars also enthral audiences on occasion – these have included Uwe Friedrichsen, Gustav-Peter Wöhler, Gert Fröbe, Heinz Reincke, Sir Peter Ustinov, Senta Berger, Michael Heltau, Helmut Qualtinger, Monika Bleibtreu and many more. Das Schiff frequently goes on tour – to the Kieler Woche festival, to Bremerhaven, Helgoland and other ports around Hamburg.

Das Schiff was founded by Christa and Eberhard Möbius, who not only directed it successfully for 25 years but made it into a Hamburg trademark. Today it is managed by Anke and Gerd Schlesselmann, together with Michael Frowin as Artistic Director.