It is our goal to reduce CO2 emissions that are a direct or indirect result of our operations through specific measures over the course of the next years. A more efficient, “greener” operation of our vessels is thus the focus of our actions.
Our subsidiary Weiße Flotte is a pioneer in the field of alternative propulsion technologies. In 2014, Weiße Flotte introduced solar-powered electric ferries unique in Europe in Berlin and today runs four catamarans as one-man operations with magnetic mooring systems for Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe (BVG) on the river Spree and on lakes around the capital. For the operation of the line F12 Grünau – Wendenschloss for instance, this means that about 40 % of the energy needed annually (as they operate all year round) is generated directly through solar radiation. During summer, the ferries‘ batteries still have 75 % of capacity remaining after 15 hours of shuttle service. Thus, we economize about 22,2 t of CO2 per vessel each year.
From 2015 to 2020, two more solar-powered electric ferries have complemented the portfolio in the Autostadt Wolfsburg. Currently, the Weiße Flotte also operates a seasonal shuttle service with the solar-powered ship "Sünje" between Sellin and Baabe. The solar panels on the roof of the modern ferry feed two electric motors with energy, so that our guests can enjoy the trips noiseless and at the same time emission-free.
An innovative lighthouse project for Germany in the field of green mobility has been developed by our subsidiary FRS Elbfähre. The concept proposes a new construction of the ferries, which will be completely powered by zero-emission electric propulsion. In a second step, the ferry piers are to be refitted or relocated so that more departures are possible. Finally, the construction of sustainable photovoltaic systems is planned so that the electricity used to power the electric ships is green.
This three-stage solution approach offers a valid alternative to the intended A20 crossing by tunnel. The use of the Elbfähre would then be cheaper and more environmentally friendly and can even reduce the waiting time of passengers to 14 minutes per trip. However, the Elbfähre needs reliable commitments from politicians for this project to guarantee planning security.
We attach importance to offer local and regional specialities aboard our ships as well as in our terminals. Our subsidiary Clipper Vacations sports a particularly rich offer of local products on their vessels as in the Clipper Café. Among other things, the product range includes well-known products like Ellenos Real Greek Yogurt, Beecher's Handmade Cheese, pastries from Macrina Bakery, Cougar Mountain Cookies and coffee from the local roastery Caffe Vita. For years, Clipper Vacations has already achieved to reduce the „food miles“ – the necessary transportation of the food – to a minimum by consciously buying local products.
How we target single-use plastics
It's part of our DNA!