Scandlines has officially put its new freight ferry, The Baltic Whale, into service on the Rødby-Puttgarden route connecting Denmark and Germany.
The deployment marks a major milestone in the carrier’s long term goal to operate completely free of direct emissions by 2040. Powered by one of the world’s largest onboard battery systems, The Baltic Whale ranks among the largest ferries globally capable of operating entirely on shore based electricity.
Beyond eliminating direct emissions during normal operations, the vessel generates significantly less noise above and below the water, minimizing disruption to marine life like the Baltic Sea porpoise (the ship’s namesake).
The ferry completes the 18.5 km crossing in roughly 45 minutes. To support this rapid transit, Scandlines invested heavily in new power cables and transformer stations at both ports.
An intelligent charging tower automatically connects to the ferry in under 15 seconds adjusting for water levels and movement allowing the massive 10 MWh battery to charge in just 12 minutes per port.
While designed for fully electric crossings, the vessel retains hybrid capabilities and is equipped with diesel generators for backup when required.
The Baltic Whale significantly opens up the Denmark-Germany corridor. Built specifically as a freight ferry, it accommodates 66 freight units across two decks and features a structured setup optimized for handling dangerous goods, including industrial products, batteries, and cosmetics.
By shifting more heavy cargo to The Baltic Whale, Scandlines is freeing up space on its other ferries for passenger vehicles during peak seasons, ultimately increasing total freight capacity on the Rødby-Puttgarden route by 27%.
Vessel Specifications: The Baltic Whale
- Length: 147.4 meters
- Width: 25.4 meters
- Design Draft: 5.30 meters
- Load Capacity: 66 freight units (1,200 track meters)
- Maximum Passengers: 140
- Service Speed: 16 / 10 knots
- Crossing Time: 45 minutes
- Battery System: 10 MWh
- Charging at Port: 12 to 18 minutes
- Project Investment: EUR 84 million ($98 million)