Gondola 'Missunde III' to start operating in April - Solar-powered ferry Missunde III debuts after delays and upgrades

A new solar-powered ferry, Missunde III, is set to replace the ageing Missunde II on the Schlei Strait route. The upgrade will temporarily halt news services between Brodersby and Kosel from March 4 at 9:00 AM. Commuters and travellers will need to plan alternative crossings for the next two weeks while final preparations take place.

The original launch of Missunde III was scheduled for January 2024 but faced delays. Technical problems with the docking systems pushed back its debut. Now, after final adjustments at the German Naval Yards shipyard in Kiel, the ferry is nearly ready.

The new vessel cost €1.3 million to refit and offers major improvements over its 20-year-old predecessor. Missunde III runs quietly, produces no emissions, and has a much larger capacity. For the first time, it will also transport tour buses and agricultural vehicles across the strait.

Before entering service, the docking facilities must be modified to fit the ferry's size. Test runs will follow the two-week news upgrade period. If all goes as planned, Missunde III will start regular operations on April 1.

The temporary pause in ferry services begins on March 4, with Missunde III taking over from April. The new vessel will expand transport options across the Schlei Strait while cutting noise and emissions. Local authorities have not yet released updated passenger or vehicle figures for the route.