At Germany’s Hitzler Werft, the keel has been laid for the first section of a new Elbe ferry.
The newbuild is intended to replace the 80-year-old ferry “Amt Neuhaus”, which operates between Bleckede and Neu Bleckede. The vessel is scheduled to enter service in early 2026.
The district of Lüneburg is investing approximately €6.8 million in the new ferry, which will carry the name “Amt Neuhaus – Bleckede”. It will be able to transport significantly more vehicles across the Elbe than its predecessor.
With a much longer and wider hull, the new ferry will accommodate 18 cars, as well as buses or trailer. Even with a payload of 40 tonnes, the draft will not exceed 60 cm, making navigation on the Elbe more flexible during low water levels. A notable feature of the vessel is its gas-electric propulsion system powered by biomethane, which will significantly reduce the emission of climate-damaging gases.
As construction progresses, the hull sections will be joined together. This will be followed by outfitting: the installation of pump-jets and gas cylinders, alignment and piping of the gas engine, as well as the integration of auxiliary systems and cable routes. In the second half of the year, the vessel will be launched. Finally, the wheelhouse will be mounted and commissioning will begin.
The current ferry “Amt Neuhaus”, which has been maintaining the Elbe crossing between Bleckede and Neu Bleckede for 30 years, no longer meets the requirements of modern ferry transport. Built in 1939, it can carry around nine cars but is not suitable for large lorries or buses. Its ageing engines also struggle to dock safely in strong winds, and high or low water levels often lead to service disruptions.
