Ferry island Hiddensee: 142 passengers in danger after basic run?

Ferry island Hiddensee: 142 passengers in danger after basic run?

An incident on the Baltic Sea is currently causing excitement, but fortunately it was survived lightly. On Wednesday afternoon, June 19, 2025, the ferry "Island Hiddensee" ran aground, while it was about 2.7 kilometers northwest of Schaprode on Rügen. At this uncomfortable moment, 146 people were on board, including 142 passengers - including four children - and four crew members.

The fright was great when the incident was registered around 4 p.m. A technical problem, specifically a damaged relay in the rowing system, led to the ferry in the Schaproder Bodden stuck. The Situation was worrying, but at no time there was a danger to the passengers who could remain calm on board while the sea rescuers took on the ferry.

rescue in a short time

The rescue operation was carried out by experienced forces of the German Society for the Rescue of Shipwrecker (DGZRS) . The sea rescue boat "Nausikaa" initially established the connection to the ferry, followed by the sea rescue cruiser "Nis Randers" , which offered support with its stronger tow. This coordinated effort led the ferry to be free water again after around an hour.

With an impressive tractor result and the support of the water protection police, which secured the site, the "Island Hiddensee" was finally able to continue towards Hafen von Schaprode. The arrival was delayed by about three hours, but all passengers and the crew were good.

A look at the background

The ferry itself measures a good 40 meters in length and 8 meters in width and has a repression of around 220 tons. Such incidents are not uncommon in the Baltic Sea, but the DGZRS has developed a respectable reputation since its foundation in 1865. It is responsible for the rescue rescue in the German waters and runs around 60 sea rescue cruisers and boats that are in use around the clock.

The success story of the DGZRS is impressive: more than 87,000 people have been saved from distress since the organization. And all without government support, but financed by donations and voluntary contributions from the citizens.

After the incident, the "Island of Hiddensee" was brought to the shipyard as a precaution, where all relays were replaced. After a successful test drive, the popular ship will soon be in use to continue to maintain the beautiful connection between Hiddensee and Rügen.

The location is under control and the passengers can breathe a sigh of relief. Thanks to the quick and professional help of the sea rescuers, this adventure was basically well.

The DGZRS website is available for further information on Seenotfallen and the emergency services: dgzrs.de.