Following the Kiel Canal for 50km or so meant A) it was flat B) there was plenty of time to admire the scale of this engineering feat. Built in 1894 and widened in 1900s then 1966. 11m deep. The cargo vessels are huge.
The other pondering was the question about Schleswig-Holstien. Even Wiki says this is a complicated question. Suffice to say it looks like it lingers on. The last time the canal was closed was some 10 years ago when locks failed due to a dispute between Schleswig-Holstien and the federal authorities over who pays the maintenance bill.
The little ferries continue to scuttle. Some fine bridges add to the scale. Kiel is vibrant with a tall ship festival and lots of stalls selling (un)healthy German snacks which smell great.
Here is our route
Travelling reflections 