The Flensburg-based shipping company FRS (formerly Förde Reederei Seetouristik), based in northern Germany, has taken over local operator Rheinfähre Maul.
Rheinfähre Maul operates the Rhine ferry, an essential link across the Rhine between Ingelheim and Oestrich-Winkel since 1968.
"By taking over the Maul Rhine ferry, we are demonstrating our presence on the Middle Rhine and emphasising our goal of further developing ferry connections as important elements of regional infrastructure," said Tim Kunstmann, Managing Director of the FRS Europe Division.
"We would like to thank Michael Maul for his trust in entrusting us with his family's life's work. We look forward to continuing this tradition-rich connection together with the workforce and setting it up for the future."
The takeover marks the latest expansion of FRS's activities in the inland shipping sector.
"We look forward to working with local partners and stakeholders to provide new impetus for development on the Middle Rhine," added Kunstmann. The parties have agreed not to disclose the purchase price.