Along the exposed coastline at Schönberg Strand, sand is in constant motion. Waves, currents and wind continuously transport sediment along the shore, gradually causing harbour entrances to silt up and altering the beach profile. Regular maintenance dredging and beach nourishment are therefore essential to ensure safe navigability and maintain a resilient coastline.
Høj Nordic Marine Contractor carried out an annual maintenance dredging and beach nourishment project for DDW at Wentdorf Harbour and Schönberg Strand in Schleswig-Holstein. During the project, approximately 4,900 m³ of sand was dredged from the harbour entrance before being transported via pipeline to Schönberg Strand, where the material was beneficially reused for beach nourishment.
The right fleet for the job
The project was completed using the three vessels Camilla Høj, Martha Høj and Veluwe Høj, each contributing their specialized capabilities. The excavator pontoons Camilla Høj and Martha Høj are designed for precision dredging in nearshore environments and harbour basins, where efficient sediment removal requires exceptional maneuverability and high operational capacity. Their stable working platforms enable accurate excavation under changing sea conditions, ensuring that the required navigational depth is maintained.
The dredged sand was subsequently handled in cooperation with Veluwe Høj, whose sediment transport and pumping capabilities enabled the material to be conveyed directly to the beach through a pipeline. By reusing the dredged material locally, the project delivered an efficient circular solution in which harbour maintenance also contributed to strengthening the coastline.
Coordinating operations on an exposed coastline
The works were carried out along an exposed coastline, where weather and wave conditions played a decisive role in planning and execution. At the same time, the project schedule was critical, as all operations had to be completed before May first, ensuring that both the harbour and the beach were ready ahead of the busy summer season. This required a high degree of flexibility, close coordination and efficient cooperation between the vessels and all project stakeholders.
The result is a safe and accessible approach channel to Wentdorf Harbour, along with a replenished beach that is better equipped to withstand the natural forces acting on the coastline. The project demonstrates how maintenance dredging and beach nourishment can be successfully integrated into a single operation, maximizing the value of dredged material while supporting both maritime infrastructure and long-term coastal protection.
