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Munich River Wave Reopens After Surfer's Death

Originally posted on SURFER | By Dashel Pierson | Last updated Jul 21, 2025 12:40 PM ET

The Eisbach River, a famed novelty wave in the middle of Germany’s Munich metropolis, has reopened to surfers following a tragic death in April. But, with the barriers removed and surfers allowed back on the wave, new regulations have been implemented.

According to a translated report from a local publication, The Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, surfing on the river will only be allowed between 5:30am and 10:00pm to prevent any rescue operations after dark. Additionally, only experienced surfers are allowed, and each surfer must use a leash with a self-releasing mechanism. Per the publication:

“This is intended to prevent surfers from getting underwater in an emergency because they cannot detach themselves from their boards—as was the case in the accident.”

Back in April, a 33-year-old woman drown while surfing the Eisbach. Reportedly, she had fallen, and her leash was tangled on a snag beneath the water. Rescue efforts were launched, but ultimately, after being transferred to the hospital, the woman passed away.

As reported in The Munich Eye:

“According to Moritz von Sivers, a representative of the Munich Surfing Association, the real danger lies beneath the wave, where several stones protrude from the riverbed. These stones, roughly the size of bricks, are meant to prevent erosion but can pose a risk to surfers. Von Sivers noted that it is indeed possible for a leash to snag on these stones, which can lead to dangerous situations.”

Following the tragedy, and before the reopening of the wave to surfers, an investigation was launched as to what happened, and how the river could be safer. Per The Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung:

“The water level was lowered and the streambed at the accident site was searched for obstacles that the woman might have become entangled in. According to Leiding, small metal objects were recovered, but experts were unable to establish a connection to the accident.”

This article first appeared on SURFER and was syndicated with permission.

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