Usedom in transition: VVG takes over bus transport – what does that mean for everyone?

Usedom in transition: VVG takes over bus transport – what does that mean for everyone?

Bus traffic on the popular Baltic Sea island of Usedom is facing a turning point. From 2026, the Vorpommern-Greifswald transport company (VVG) will take over the reins and thus reorganize transport for locals, tourists and students. However, there are still a few hurdles to overcome, such as NDR reported.

The district has demanded that the Usedomer Bäderbahn (UBB) depot be sold as a condition for taking over the approximately 50 employees and 24 buses. UBB managing director Dörte Basler contradicts this and points out that a sale of the depot is not up for debate as the company still needs part of the site. Basler says that she feels blackmailed by the district and hopes for clarification at a company meeting.

What does this mean for travelers?

The change in bus transport raises questions. The VVG has assured the district that passengers will be well looked after in the coming year, even if details about the organization of operations are still open. At the moment, bus ticket prices for four bus companies have increased by around 10 percent. However, in the morning and evening the buses only run to Świnoujście, which makes it difficult to connect to other destinations on the island. In addition, there is a lack of staff in train traffic, which does not make the situation any easier.

In the meantime, regional bus services via the Usedomer Bäderbahn remain active. This offers regular connections from Wolgast to Zinnowitz and serves numerous destinations on the island. Popular places such as Karlshagen, Trassenheide and the imperial baths of Ahlbeck, Heringsdorf and Bansin are easily accessible by bus. Karlshagen impresses with its modern yacht and fishing harbor, while Trassenheide attracts with attractions such as the largest butterfly farm in Europe.

Excursion tips and sights

The 12-kilometer-long beach promenade connects the Imperial Baths with Świnoujście and invites you to take long walks. Day trips to the islands of Ruden and Greifswalder Oie are also recommended. Nature lovers will find untouched landscapes and peaceful places in Rankwitz, while Kamminke has the Golm viewpoint and its impressive height of 60 meters. For all this information, it is worth taking a look at the UBB website, which also provides a current timetable.

In this time of change, it is to be hoped that everyone involved will find an amicable solution to continue to ensure mobility on Usedom. The anticipation of the coming changes remains palpable, not least for travelers who want to explore the beauty of the island.