Recent rainfall in Germany has led to higher water levels in the Rhine river, allowing vessels to carry more cargo. Despite this improvement, most vessels are still only sailing at around half capacity. The increase in water levels is a result of heavy rain in the region, with more forecasted in the coming days.
Swedish offshore wind developer Vattenfall has greenlit the construction of Germany’s largest offshore wind farm, Nordlicht 1 and 2. With a capacity of 980 MW, the first phase is set to start in 2026. Vattenfall aims to accelerate Germany’s energy transition and reduce carbon emissions through this project. Industry experts are optimistic about the sector’s growth.
Germany recently seized a dilapidated tanker suspected to be part of Russia’s clandestine fleet evading oil sanctions. The Panama-flagged vessel, Eventin, carrying 100,000 metric tons of oil worth 40 million euros, was intercepted en route from Russia to Egypt. The German finance ministry refrained from detailed comments due to tensions with Russia over Ukraine.
German prosecutors are investigating an accident on the Moselle that paralyzed river traffic, involving an inland cargo ship on autopilot. The ship crashed into lock gates, causing significant damage. The captain was not present during the incident. Despite repairs, the lock was reopened in just 55 days. Authorities are looking into the cause of the accident.
The Mosel river in west Germany has reopened to cargo shipping after repairs to a damaged lock were completed ahead of schedule. This crucial transit route for grains and rapeseed between Germany and France was closed for 55 days, impacting European rapeseed futures. The swift reopening is a relief for businesses and traders.
The Mosel river in western Germany is set to resume cargo shipping this week after repairs to a damaged lock progressed quickly. This river is vital for transporting grains and rapeseed between Germany and France. New lock gates have been installed, with test vessel transits scheduled for Thursday to Friday.
Damen Shipyards has delivered Germany’s first all-electric catamaran ferry, E-Kat, to AG Reederei Norden-Frisia. The 32-meter vessel will operate between Norddeich and Norderney, designed for quick passenger embarkation and disembarkation. With twin hulls and aluminum construction, the E-Kat runs on two 600kW electric motors, promising a CO2 neutral operation.
Germany’s first fully electric seagoing vessel, the E-Kat catamaran ferry, has successfully completed acceptance trials. Designed by Damen Group, it can carry up to 150 passengers and 11,250 kg of payload, operating at speeds of up to 16 knots. With a battery power system of 1,800 kW, it aims for efficient and environmentally friendly transportation.
The Federal Waterways and Shipping Administration successfully freed vessels trapped on the Saar in France and the Moselle in Germany ahead of schedule. 78 emergency lock operations were completed in 10 days, with 72 vessels cleared. The lock is expected to reopen by early February, impacting regional transportation in Western Germany, Luxembourg, and France.
Germany has refused a Russian LNG shipment at the Brunsbuttel terminal, sticking to its policy of not importing LNG from Russia. This decision, made in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, reflects Germany’s reliance on LNG from the US and other sources. Despite efforts to avoid Russian gas, indirect imports through other EU nations pose challenges.
The Association for Shipbuilding and Marine Engineering (VSM) in Germany is pushing for a review of legal obstacles hindering sustainable ship recycling. German companies struggle with complex approvals and certifications for recycling aged ships despite European and international regulations. VSM calls for a reduction in legal hurdles to promote a circular economy.
Germany’s rescue authorities successfully evacuated the crew and controlled a fire on a bunker vessel near Warnemunde. The German Maritime Search and Rescue Service used their vessel, Wilma Sikorski, to rescue the seven crew members. The Annika, a bunker vessel, caught fire in the Bay of Mecklenburg, causing concerns about potential environmental hazards.
German sea rescue teams swiftly responded to a collision in the North Sea involving a coastal cargo ship and a small sailboat. The solo sailor was shaken but uninjured. The cargo ship, Lotta, managed from Lithuania, collided with the sailboat in the Outer Elbe area. The damaged sailboat was towed to safety in Cuxhaven.
The Disney Treasure, Disney Cruise Line’s latest ship, completed its journey from a shipyard in Germany to its berth in the Netherlands. The 16-hour conveyance along the Ems River was guided by tugs due to the ship’s massive size. After sea trials, the ship will sail to Port Canaveral, Florida, offering a magical cruise experience for guests.
Germany has finalized a deal to support Meyer Werft GmbH, a struggling shipyard tasked with supplying ships for Disney Cruise Line. The government’s 40 percent stake acquisition, along with Lower Saxony’s contribution, will provide financial relief. This agreement includes federal financing and guarantee for a credit line, showcasing a commitment to the company’s future.
