Wagenborg Passagiersdiensten and Next Generation (NG) Shipyards have signed the construction contract for a new “Wadden Ferry” serving the fast ferry service. This multi-million investment in the connection between Dutch Wadden Island Ameland and Holwerd was already announced last summer and is an important step in improving Ameland’s accessibility.
The new ferry will accommodate 75 passengers. It meets the growing demand and pressure on accessibility of the Wadden Island. With the commissioning of this new ship, Wagenborg Passagiersdiensten is investing in a reliable, safe and future-proof connection between Ameland and Holwerd.
Wagenborg Passagiersdiensten Managing Director 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 ship will be built by NG Shipyards in cooperation with a number of subcontractors in the Northern Netherlands. In doing so, the construction will not only make an important contribution to transport to and from the islands, but this order also gives a direct boost to the economy and employment in the region.
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Shallow draught, waterjet, ready for fully electric
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 centimetres, 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 waterjet, which in combination with the efficient ship design ensures lower fuel consumption. The three engines meet the most stringent emission requirements and minimise harmful emissions. This not only makes the vessel very energy-efficient, but also contributes to a further reduction in CO2 emissions.
The Wadden Ferry emits over fifty per cent less CO2 per sailing than the current MS Fostaborg. In addition, the Wadden Ferry takes more passengers. This reduces emissions per passenger even further to less than thirty per cent compared to the current fast ferry service. Moreover, the ship is suitable for the use of biodiesel and can be relatively easily converted to fully electric propulsion in the future.
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Precision manoeuvrability
For optimum safety, the vessel 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 passenger comfort, more luggage space has been created both at the stern and under the seats. In addition, USB-C ports have been placed next to the seats, allowing passengers to charge their devices during the crossing. The ferry also has facilities for disabled passengers.
Completion at the end of 2025
The new Wadden Ferry will be delivered to Wagenborg Passagiersdiensten before the end of 2025. The new ship is expected to be put into service early 2026.
Picture: Side view of the new Wadden Ferry (image by NG Shipyards).
