Schleswig-Holstein reviews €3.9m solar ferry Missunde III after recurring breakdowns

Parliamentary review in Kiel

The economic committee of the Schleswig-Holstein Landtag in Kiel convenes on 19 August 2026 to discuss ongoing disruptions on the Schlei ferry connection between Brodersby and Missunde. The state transport ministry is scheduled to present a status report on the solar-powered Missunde III, addressing inquiry motions submitted by opposition parties SPD and SSW regarding operational schedules and administrative consequences. The waterway crossing represents a key link for regional traffic, used by pedestrians, commuters, and seasonal visitors. According to transport ministry figures, the connection handles approximately 120,000 vehicles and 50,000 bicycles every year.

Project background and initial delays

State officials approved the construction of the solar-powered electric ferry in 2020 to meet updated maritime safety standards and introduce climate-friendly operations on the Schlei. The €3.9 million new vessel was originally scheduled to begin regular operations in January 2024. However, technical shortcomings during test voyages delayed the launch, as the vessel proved unable to dock safely during strong winds. The state had to rebuild the docking piers and retrofit the ferry. To maintain service during the delay, the State Agency for Coastal Defence, National Park and Marine Conservation (LKN.SH) reactivated the older diesel vessel Missunde II, which the state had previously sold and later repurchased at a higher cost.

Launch and subsequent mechanical failures

Missunde III finally commenced regular service in late April 2026, replacing Missunde II. In its initial operational phase, the ferry carried pedestrians, cyclists, and light vehicles weighing up to 7.5 tonnes, intended as an interim trial to collect operating data under continuous use before clearing vehicles weighing up to 25 tonnes. Less than four weeks into service, the ferry broke down due to a damaged drive belt that required complete replacement. SPD state lawmaker Birte Pauls criticized the situation, stating the ship had become a "symbol of flawed planning." After maintenance, the ferry resumed crossings in mid-June 2026, while Schleswig-Holstein Minister-President Daniel Günther apologized to regional mayors for the persistent technical problems.

Government intervention and future options

In early July 2026, operations stalled again due to low water levels, followed shortly by a hydraulic defect, resulting in intermittent service throughout July. While Transport Minister Claus Ruhe Madsen had initially ruled out a return to Missunde II before the Landtag economic committee, pointing out that the older ship also suffered frequent breakdowns and required repairs, the continued failures prompted executive intervention. In early August 2026, Madsen ordered the immediate start of a technical review originally slated for the end of the summer season. The transport ministry is assessing three potential courses: finding a permanent technical modification for Missunde III, reactivating Missunde II once again, or commissioning the construction of an entirely new ferry. Madsen outlined the state's requirement for the crossing.

We do not need a ferry that can do everything on paper, but one that runs reliably every day.

The Landtag economic committee in Kiel meets on 19 August 2026 to review the ministry's findings and consider future operational steps for the connection.