Name: Die Helgoländer
Genre: Documentary
Released: 2026-10-06

Overview

Heligoland is a place of longing and a tourist magnet. Every year, several hundred thousand visitors arrive on Germany's only deep-sea island on ferries or “Börte boats” - in the hope of slowing down. But the first impression is easily deceptive, because behind the scenes of the supposedly sleepy idyll there is a lot of activity. On just one square kilometer, Helgoland is home to its own cosmos of institutions and trades that are otherwise only known from larger cities. Here people tackle things and work hard. For one season, the series follows key figures, characters and enablers who keep life on the island going.

Seasons

Season 1

8 Episodes

2026

E01

Back to the Beginning

10/6/2026·43m

The tourism season on Heligoland begins in just a few days, and everything needs to be gleaming by then. Once the first guests arrive, Eileen will have her hands full again - often working six or even seven days a week throughout the summer.

E02

Bulls and Oxen

10/13/2026·44m

Tjark is new to Heligoland. While riding in one of the island’s few cars, the police officer is briefed by his superior, Peter, on the local customs. Meanwhile, Jaqueline and Marc are opening a bagel bistro on the island.

E03

The Pee-Booster

10/20/2026·44m

The "Rock 'n' Roll Butterfahrt" (Rock 'n' Roll Butter Trip) is about to begin: Germany’s smallest yet "biggest" punk festival, held on the sandbar (Düne) off Heligoland. To prepare, the organizers are setting up around 50 tons of equipment on the beach of this remote island.

E04

Six Feet Under

10/27/2026·44m

As preparations for the punk rock festival go into full swing, the first bands arrive on the island. Agge finds himself overwhelmed while trying to sort through a mountain of luggage. Meanwhile, several dead seals have been discovered on the beach.

E05

The First Dip

11/3/2026·43m

The start of the season for the lifeguards: Nils and Katschi keep a watchful eye on the "Rock 'n' Roll Butter-trippers" as they brave the 8°C (46°F) waters of the North Sea for the traditional first swim of the season on Heligoland.

E06