New Hybrid Ferry Drives Scandlines Volumes Up

Scandlines/Patrick Kirkby German-Danish ferry operator Scandlines has seen an increase in the number of transported vehicles during the high season in 2016 following the delivery of its new hybrid ferry the M/V Berlin in May. Following delivery, the new vessel, which combines traditional diesel power with battery power, was put into service on the Rostock-Gedser route. Featuring a space for 460 cars or lorries and capable of accommodating 1,300 passengers, M/V Berlin broke its record numerous times in July and August, according to Scandlines. In June alone, the ferry transported 39,451 cars, while it carried its highest number of cars on one crossing at the end of August when it transported 351 cars. Now with the high season coming to an end Scandlines can look back at a great season with good volumes in all areas, Scandlines said. Later this year, M/V Berlins sister ship, the M/V Copenhagen, will be put into service on the Rostock-Gedser route. The two new hybrid ferries will then be able to transport up to 2,600 passengers, 920 cars, 192 lorries between Rostock and Gedser, doubling Scandlines’ current capacity on the route.