Delivery of Germany’s first all-electric catamaran  

Damen Fast Ferry 3209 Electric is set to be the first fully electric catamaran to operate in Germany. Charged with electricity generated by onshore solar panels, the ferry offers a carbon neutral service. 

The ferry is the first vessel that Reederei Norden-Frisia has built outside of Germany in the company’s more than 150-year history. Damen provided support to Reederei Norden-Frisia on the charging infrastructure and mooring facilities required for the solar-powered, electric catamaran.

The route that the ferry will serve – between Norddeich and the island of Norderney on the East Frisian coast – called for the development of a unique vessel, according to the companies involved.

To sail in the shallow waters of the Wadden Sea, the ferry required a draught no more than 1.2 metres. The Wadden Sea is a UNESCO World Heritage site with strict criteria for maritime operations. To ensure the protection of this environmentally valuable area, the vessel is restricted to sailing at relatively low speeds. Even with these restrictions in place, however, the Fast Ferry 3209 Electric reduces the current sailing time by half, transporting up to 150 passengers in just 30 minutes. The vessel is recharged during disembarkation of passengers over the course of 28 minutes. 

In addition to offering a fully electric crossing, the company has established an electric car and bicycle hire service for its clients. It is also installing wind turbines and solar panels in its car parking areas so that passengers can return from a visit to the Frisian Islands to vehicles fully charged with renewable energy.  

Amongst the guests attending the naming ceremony for the vessel, held at Reederei Norden-Frisia’s location in Norddeich, were department head for waterways and shipping in the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport Dr. Wibke Mellwig, Reederei Norden-Frisia board member Carl-Ulfert Stegmann, Reederei Norden-Frisia supervisory board chairman Karin Pragal, and Damen sales manager for Germany Joschka Böddeling. 

"We are working on the sustainable transformation of shipping and investing in an emissions-free future, and this vessel will help us in this journey,” said Mr Stegmann.

Mr Böddeling added, “Having been involved with this project from the outset, it is a pleasure to be here today to witness this special event. The naming of the Frisia E-I is a milestone moment in the operation of the first fully electric catamaran ferry in German waters. With this vessel, Reederei Norden-Frisia has sent a clear message, underscoring its commitment to a greener operation. This, and the many other steps that the company has taken in this direction, serve as commendable examples for us all. They are also a signal that, if we work together towards our goals, a sustainable maritime future is achievable.”