The claustrophobic masterpiece about the crew of a German U-boat in World War II was filmed in France and at Germany’s Bavaria Studios, where a full-size submarine was built on a gimbal to recreate the cramped, terrifying interior.
Where was Das Boot filmed?
Das Boot was filmed in La Rochelle, France and at the Bavaria Studios near Munich, Germany.
Every Das Boot location, explained
1
The U-boat base – La Rochelle
The submarine pens and harbour used La Rochelle, France.
2
The submarine – Bavaria Studios
A full-size U-boat interior was built at the Bavaria Studios near Munich.
3
The German countryside
Some scenes used locations across Germany.
4
A wartime U-boat
The story unfolds aboard a German submarine in the Atlantic.
Planning a visit
La Rochelle, France – with its real WWII submarine base – is a historic, accessible port.
Das Boot Fun Facts
1
Filmed in France and Germany The film used La Rochelle and the Bavaria Studios.
2
A submarine on a gimbal The full-size sub was mounted to rock like a real U-boat.
3
A Wolfgang Petersen film It launched the director to international fame.
4
A claustrophobic classic The film is famous for its cramped, tense atmosphere.
5
A war epic It is regarded as one of the greatest war films ever made.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was Das Boot filmed?
In La Rochelle, France and at the Bavaria Studios near Munich, Germany.
Was a real submarine used?
A full-size interior was built on a gimbal at the studios.
Can you visit the locations?
Yes – La Rochelle and its submarine base are accessible.
Who directed it?
Wolfgang Petersen.
When was it released?
1981.
