Imagine this on the Thames!
The Hamburg startup Floating Wave aims to set new standards in urban surfing by combining cutting-edge technology with sustainability, the 12-meter-wide Floating Wave offers a unique project that brings together economic benefits, urban accessibility, and scalability. This innovative floating wave is set to change life for inland surfers right around the world!
Unlike other artificial river waves and large surf parks, which are often located outside city centers, Floating Wave brings the surfing experience directly to people in the heart of harbor cities. The innovative floating pontoon solution is made possible by advanced wave technology and expertise in water construction.
Floating Wave utilizes state-of-the-art wave technology that consumes 50% less energy than conventional systems. By using filtered river water instead of drinking water, the ecological footprint is significantly reduced. This combination of efficiency and environmental friendliness makes Floating Wave a pioneer in the field of artificial river waves.
Thanks to its unique features, Floating Waves can be implemented quickly and efficiently worldwide in any suitable harbor city. This allows for a planning and construction period of just 16 to 24 months. This unique selling point supports the fast and healthy growth of Floating Wave.
The First Floating Wave will be in Hamburg, Germany. The project has broad support from politics and business, as well as cooperation with environmental authorities and experts, have made this possible. The Hamburg startup is excited to realize the first floating river wave in its home harbor, with an opening planned for 2026.
The owners are now inviting visionary co-founders and investors to join them in setting new milestones in the market for artificial river waves.
“With lower mooring fees and reduced energy consumption, Floating Wave offers a financially attractive and environmentally responsible investment opportunity. Together, we can bring the surfing experience to central urban locations worldwide and transform cityscapes and recreational activities”
Felix Segebrecht, Founder:
„We are excited about the support from the city and our seed investors for our smart low-tech innovation. Our next goal is to close the upcoming funding round to ensure a successful launch in the spring of 2026. We look forward to engaging with visionary banks and investors as we advance.“
José Fernandes, Snowboard World Champion, Surfer, and Entrepreneur:
“Floating Wave is a true game changer for the leisure industry. By innovatively combining proven technologies, it significantly reduces fixed costs for mooring and energy while enabling central urban locations. Thanks to sound financial planning and support from the federal INVEST funding program, this project is not only ecologically but also economically sustainable.”
Christoph Holstein, State Councillor for Sports, City of Hamburg:
“This project revitalizes unused harbor areas for sports, recreation, and tourism. It creates space for leisure and sports activities and adds a spectacular surfing attraction to the city’s offerings. It aligns exceptionally well with the core concept of ‘Active City’ and the use of the city for non-club-based sports. Therefore, the Sports Authority supports this attractive project.”
Michael Zirlewagen, President of the German Surfing Association (DWV):
“The Floating Wave in Hamburg combines sustainability, innovation, and passion to create a unique surf location in the heart of the city. This project makes surfing accessible to both beginners and professionals alike, and has the potential to set a precedent for similar initiatives across Germany. We are excited to fully support the Floating Wave and look forward to the opportunity to surf the rapids in Hamburg soon.”
If you are interested contact Felix Segebrecht at [email protected]