Stormy weather on New Year’s Day is disrupting ferry services in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Germany. Several connections across the Baltic Sea have been canceled, leaving travelers stranded on the island of Hiddensee. The town of Zinnowitz has also canceled its traditional New Year’s Eve fireworks display due to the weather conditions.
Ferry Disruptions Across the Baltic Sea
The storm has led to the temporary suspension of ferry services along the Mecklenburg-Vorpommern coast. Scandlines, a major ferry operator, halted its services between Rostock and Gedser, Denmark. Service is expected to resume on January 2nd at 6:00 AM in Rostock and 6:45 AM in Gedser. Passengers are advised to use the Puttgarden-Rødby route as an alternative.
Rügen Ferry Services Canceled
The White Fleet on the island of Rügen has also suspended its ferry services due to current wind conditions and water level forecasts. The Wittower Ferry is affected, and all ferry traffic to and from the island of Hiddensee, including the water taxi, has been completely stopped. The first ferry from Kloster on Hiddensee to Schaprode on Rügen is tentatively scheduled for 6:50 AM on Friday.
Holidaymakers Stranded on Hiddensee
Despite the disruptions, vacationers unable to depart Hiddensee have largely remained calm. According to Hiddensee’s mayor, Thomas Gens, those on island vacations should anticipate potential travel challenges, especially during the winter months.
Zinnowitz Cancels Fireworks Display
The traditional fireworks display in Zinnowitz on Usedom has been canceled for safety reasons, according to a spokesperson for the local tourism administration. While some visitors expressed disappointment, they largely understood the decision. The 26th Tower Lighting in Warnemünde is still scheduled to proceed as planned with thousands of visitors expected.
Storm Warning Issued
Authorities have issued storm warnings for the German Baltic coast, anticipating wind gusts of up to force ten east of Fehmarn to east of Rügen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas are affected by the ferry cancellations?
Ferry services between Rostock and Gedser, as well as those to and from the islands of Rügen and Hiddensee, have been affected.
When is service expected to resume between Rostock and Gedser?
Service between Gedser and Rostock is expected to resume on January 2nd at 6:00 AM in Rostock and 6:45 AM in Gedser.
What alternative route is available for passengers traveling between Germany and Denmark?
Passengers are advised to use the Puttgarden-Rødby route as an alternative to the Rostock-Gedser ferry.
As the storm continues, travelers in the region should stay informed about the latest weather updates and transportation advisories.
