Director of Wagenborg Passagiersdiensten, Jieskje Hollander: “We feel responsible for providing an optimal long-term solution for the lifeline between the island and the shore. That is why we are continuing to develop our services, and this new vessel is a good example.”

The new ferry will have room for 75 passengers. It meets the growing demand and pressure on the accessibility of the Wadden Island. With the commissioning of this new vessel, Wagenborg Passagiersdiensten is investing in a reliable, safe and future-proof connection between Ameland and Holwerd.  

The ship will be built by NG Shipyards in collaboration with a number of subcontractors in the Northern Netherlands.

The design of the Wadden Ferry is fully tailored to the unique sailing conditions on the Wadden Sea and the specific requirements of Wagenborg Passagiersdiensten. Thanks to a draught of only 80 cm, the sailing and passing options become more reliable and better, especially at lower tides.

The ship is equipped with a new type of high-efficiency water jet, which in combination with the efficient ship design ensures lower fuel consumption. The three engines meet the strictest emission requirements and minimise the emission of harmful substances. This not only makes the vessel very energy-efficient but also contributes to a further reduction in CO2 emissions. The Wadden Ferry emits more than 50% less CO2 per sailing than the current FOSTABOR. In addition, the Wadden Ferry can transport more passengers. This reduces emissions per passenger even further, to less than 30% compared to the current fast ferry service. In addition, the ship is suitable for the use of biodiesel and can relatively easily be converted for full electric propulsion in the future.

For optimum safety, the ship is equipped with state-of-the-art navigation. In addition, the fast ferry service has an advanced Mouse Boat positioning system, allowing the ship to be manoeuvred in any direction and at any speed. This system is especially valuable for safe mooring, when precision and manoeuvrability are key.
For the comfort of the passengers, more luggage space has been created, both at the stern and under the seats. In addition, there are USB-C ports next to the seats, so that passengers can charge their devices during the crossing. The ship also has facilities for disabled passengers.

The new Wadden Ferry will be delivered to Wagenborg Passagiersdiensten before the end of 2025. The new ferry is expected to be put into service early 2026.

© Shippax