Dutch shipping company Royal Wagenborg, via its Wagenborg Passagiersdiensten (WPD) subsidiary, christened a new fast ferry during a ceremony in Lauwersoog on Wednesday, January 7.
Hiddeborg will be put into service in early 2026 on the fast service connection between Ameland Island and the Dutch mainland. Construction of the vessel was undertaken at Next Generation Shipyards in Lauwersoog.
Wagenborg said the vessel has been specially designed for the unique conditions of the Wadden Sea, with a draught of approximately 80 centimetres, waterjet propulsion, and three energy-efficient engines that would ensure manoeuvrability, safety and usability even at low water levels.
The vessel will be able to transport 75 passengers and will initially run on biodiesel, though future modifications will enable the integration of all-electric propulsion.
Hiddeborg will undergo additional testing and commissioning before entering service with WPD on the Wadden Sea.
The vessel's name, which honours an Ameland native and seafarer, was selected from nearly 400 entries submitted.