Revenue from higher taxes directed towards Sylt, Amrum, and Föhr.
In the world of German island tourism, tourist taxes have become a significant source of revenue for local municipalities. Here's a look at how much these taxes are bringing in and where the funds are being utilised.
Last year, the revenues from tourist taxes on Föhr Island amounted to over 1.6 million euros. Meanwhile, the neighbouring islands of Amundar and Sylt have also seen an increase in tourist tax revenues. During the main season, vacationers and second-home owners on these islands pay 3.50 euros per day, an increase of 0.90 euros compared to previous years. Outside the main season, the fees on Föhr and Amundar Islands have risen to 1.80 euros daily.
Sylt, one of the most expensive holiday destinations in Germany, is set to become even more costly for tourists. The Sylt municipality will increase the tourist tax during the main season next year to 4.10 euros per day. This increase is necessary, according to Florian Korte, spokesperson for the Sylt municipality, due to rising costs. The funds generated are calculated by the Sylt municipality and passed on to the Sylt Island Tourism Service (ISTS), which uses them to secure offers such as public toilets, tourist information centers, and beach events.
The municipalities on Föhr and Amundar Islands have followed Sylt's lead in increasing tourist taxes. Gritje Stöver from ISTS emphasises that the funds are transferred from the municipality to the ISTS within the framework of the service contract. The revenues from these taxes on Föhr and Amundar Islands are used to maintain and operate tourist offers.
It's worth noting that Spiekeroog and Wangerooge have higher tourist taxes than Sylt, with fees of 5.50 euros and 4.90 euros per day, respectively. Despite the increasing burden on guests, the revenue from tourist taxes is significant for tourism on Föhr and Amundar Islands.
When it comes to the total revenue from tourist taxes, Sylt led the ranking in 2023 with over 15 million euros. Wenningstedt-Braderup followed with around 2.7 million euros, while Kampen took the last place on Sylt with approximately 750,000 euros from the tourist tax.
However, it's important to note that the funds from tourist taxes may not be used for new constructions. Instead, they are used to fund important services such as beach cleaning, lifeguards, and events on Sylt.
In conclusion, tourist taxes have become a crucial source of revenue for German islands, helping to fund essential services and maintain tourist offers. While the taxes may be a burden for some, they are a necessary part of the tourism industry on these islands.
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