€Multi-millions earmarked for fast island ferry

Next Generation Shipyards (NG Shipyards), near Groningen, will build the vessel for ferry operator Wagenborg Passagiersdiensten.

It will take passengers between the small island municipality of Ameland, which is home to just over 3,800 people, and Holwert, on the mainland. Because of the ‘unique sailing conditions’ of the Wadden Sea, the vessel has a draught of just 80cm.

Ameland is one of the three West Frisian, or Wadden, islands.

NG Shipyards will equip the vessel with what it says is a new type of high-efficiency waterjet, three low-emissions engines and suitability for biodiesel. 

”It can relatively easily be converted for full electric propulsion in the future,” said 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,” said Hollander.

Delivery of the new Wadden Ferry is scheduled in December this year, to go into service in 2026.