For a large universal port like Hamburg, the tidal range is of immense importance in order to be able to optimally control shipping traffic. After all, the most important German seaport not only accounts for a large proportion of exports and imports by water, but is also necessary for the secure basic supply of the population in Germany.

A tide calendar can be used to view the ebb and flow or tidal range several days in advance. The current water level of the Elbe in the harbor at the St. Pauli landing stages and in the Lower Elbe determines the conditions for the smooth and efficient functioning of shipping, and not just for the big boats. Pleasure craft such as sailors and motorboats also need to keep an eye on the tides and their currents at all times.</p

<p>How deep the Elbe is to allow even large container ships to enter and leave varies with the tide. The most recent adjustment of the navigation channel ensures that ships with a draught of up to 13.50 meters can sail on the tidal Elbe regardless of the tide. Very large ships can use the high tide if they need particularly large water depths. They then "ride" on the tidal wave to Hamburg.

<p>Two impressive videos from the company aquadot show what the changing tides in Hamburg look like from a bird's eye view.