July 5, 2024
Executive Summary
Ferry Capacity and Operation:
- The new electric freight ferry Futura will enter service in late 2024, complementing Scandlines’ fleet with a capacity of 66 truck units.
- Futura will be fully electrically operated, initially charging in Rødby, with Puttgarden infrastructure ready by 2025.
2023 Performance:
- Scandlines transported 6.4 million passengers, 1.6 million cars, and over 704,000 freight units.
- Passenger numbers increased by 5%, but freight business saw a 7% decline due to the economic slowdown in Europe.
Leadership Changes:
- Michael Guldmann Petersen was appointed acting CEO in February 2024, continuing as COO until July, when Eric Gregoire will assume the CEO role.
Sustainability Initiatives:
- Scandlines is investing in electric propulsion, with Futura being emission-free and two other ferries, Schleswig-Holstein and Deutschland, set to convert to at least 80% electric operation by 2025.
Market Trends and Projections:
- The German market is growing, with an increase in German travelers to Denmark and Sweden.
- The Swedish market saw a decline in border shop visitors due to exchange rate impacts, despite similar spending levels in Swedish Kronas.
- Freight volumes are expected to be flat in the first half of 2024, with a slight increase in the second half.
Infrastructure and Technological Developments:
- Rødby charging installation is complete, with Puttgarden expected to be operational by September 2025.
- Futura will operate in a two-hour rotation sequence, enabled by dual-port charging.
- Potential future enhancements include increasing battery capacity and considering emission-free operations in Rostock port.
Challenges and Future Plans:
- The feasibility of converting additional ferries to electric power depends on securing funding from EU or Danish government sources.
- The ongoing Fehmarn tunnel project is not significantly disrupting ferry operations, although close monitoring and adjustments are required.
- Kronprins Frederik will continue as a backup ferry and support freight volumes during peak times.
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