U-Boat U17 provides access for curious onlookers - Teens Grant Access to their Submarine
Germany's Decommissioned U-17 Submarine Opens to the Public at Technik Museum Sinsheim
Beginning this Saturday, visitors to the Technik Museum Sinsheim in Baden-Württemberg will have the opportunity to explore the U-17, a decommissioned marine submarine that made a noteworthy journey from Kiel to its current location. For the past several months, the substantial vessel, measuring 48 meters in length and weighing 350 tons, has been meticulously prepared for public viewing.
Touring the U-17
The U-17 offers a unique peek into submarine life, with various areas available for exploration. Notable features include the torpedo room, where eight 15-meter long torpedo tubes once housed the submarine's weapons, and one of these tubes affording a glimpse of the museum's surroundings. The tight quarters are reminiscent of the beds for the 23 crew members, the galley complete with refrigerator, tables, and benches, computer screens, keyboards, and the operations center with periscope. Through the periscope, visitors can observe the surroundings, including a Russian aircraft identified as Tupolev, situated on the roof of the neighboring hall. The tour culminates in the engine room, leading back outside.
Authentic Sensory Experience
The sounds and smells of the U-17 have been faithfully reproduced to enhance the visitor experience. The subtle vibration causes by shaking plates, the turning of the ship's propeller, singing whales, bubbling water, the beeping of the sonar, and the distinctive smell of sweat and machine oil immerse tourists in the atmosphere.
Accessibility and Age Considerations
Access to the submarine is via a hatch and a steep ladder leading into the torpedo room, and exit is facilitated by a descent from the engine room. Due to the steep ladder and narrow interior, the exhibit is not fully accessible to individuals with disabilities. The submarine is suitable for visitors of all ages, although children may find the experience particularly engaging, especially those around the age of four, as determined by the museum spokesperson.
Opening-Day Guides and Expected Attendance
Former submarine crew members will be on hand to lead guided tours for the U-17's opening. Museum director Andreas Hemmer anticipates a high number of visitors on Saturday, emphasizing that limiting tours to accommodate smaller groups will ensure a more enjoyable and educational experience for all. A maximum of 30 people can be present in the submarine at one time.
The U-17: Germany's Most Modern Museum Submarine
The U-17, belonging to the Class 206A, served as a significant component of the West German U-boat fleet until 2008. It is the only one of its kind on display in museums across Germany. According to museum president Michael Setzer, this vessel represents a pioneering stage in the digitization of submarine detection and weapons systems, boasting eight torpedoes with the capability of targeting over 30 kilometers away.
Travel and Admission Information
Upon arrival at the Technik Museum Sinsheim, visitors can enter the U-17 exhibit as part of their admission fee. The museum's opening hours are 9 am to 6 pm during the week and 9 am to 7 pm on weekends, public holidays, and during school breaks. Admission fees for adults are 23 euros, while children aged 5 to 14 pay 18 euros. Admission for children under 4 years old is free.
To reach the museum by car, take the A6 motorway between Mannheim and Heilbronn, then exit at Sinsheim-Süd. Secure parking spaces are readily available. Alternatively, visitors can arrive via train, with the "Sinsheim-Museum/Arena" train station located a short walk from the museum.
For those interested in technology, submarines, or family-friendly adventures, the U-17 and the Technik Museum Sinsheim offer an engaging, informative, and entertaining experience. The museum's offerings extend beyond the U-17 to include classic cars, airplanes, an IMAX 3D cinema, and a large playground, ensuring visitors will find numerous points of interest.
Some tourists may decide to embark on an extended journey to experience the U-17, taking advantage of a two-day museum pass to explore not only the museum in Sinsheim but also its sister museum in Speyer, a 45-kilometer drive away. Additionally, Sinsheim offers attractions like Thermen & Badewelt Sinsheim, the Fördertechnik-Museum, and the Klimaarena, providing a wealth of educational and recreational options for visitors.
Visitors to the Technik Museum Sinsheim can immerse themselves in the lifestyle of the past by exploring the U-17, a decommissioned submarine that showcases advancements in research and development, particularly in the fields of marine technology and submarine detection systems. Sports enthusiasts might find interest in the unique opportunity of examining the technology used in naval vessels, a reflection of the ongoing evolution of sports equipment and technology.
