Wind turbine safaris soar in popularity off the coast of Hvide Sande, Denmark

In West Jutland, a safari vehicle has been replaced by a boat, and the savanna by the sea, as wind turbine safaris gain popularity in Hvide Sande. Tourists are taken ten kilometers off the coast to the Vesterhav Syd offshore wind farm, which features 20 turbines standing 200 meters above the North Sea.

German tourists, in particular, are impressed by Denmark’s wind energy industry and are eager to view the turbines and learn more about them. Fritz Kott, co-owner of Kott Fritid, noted that the wind farm faced criticism during its construction, but it has now become a significant tourist attraction. Karin Booth, a summer house owner in Hvide Sande, expressed that the safari is a great way to optimize the situation. “Of course, they stand out a bit when viewed from the beach, but they are also fascinating to watch,” she said.

Thousands of visitors, particularly from Germany, have participated in the tours this year, trying to get closer to the massive offshore turbines. Initially, Kott operated harbor tours in Hvide Sande, but tourists began asking questions about the turbines farther out. This prompted him to launch the wind turbine safari last year due to significant interest from the public.

“There was considerable demand. People want to see what these turbines are all about,” Kott explained. He acknowledged that while the wind farm has faced opposition, those who go on the safari are typically enthusiasts. “The people we take out are interested in wind energy, and that’s the audience we cater to,” he added.