Danish Ferry Companies Join the “Speak Nicely” Campaign

Ferry“Moron!” “Fool!” “Get a grip!” “Just do your bloody job!”
These are the kinds of heated exchanges that occasionally erupt on Danish ferries when frustrated passengers and crew clash verbally. The goal is to reduce such confrontations. A coalition of Danish ferry companies and unions has rolled out a campaign called “Speak Nicely – We’re All in the Same Boat” to foster kinder interactions.

“We’re backing this campaign because we want our passengers to enjoy their journey, and we want our staff to head home happy. A bit of courtesy goes a long way for both,” says Henrik Schlotfeldt, director at ÆrøXpressen.

The “Speak Nicely” campaign will be visible on ferries, online, and in terminals.

“Good service begins with mutual respect. When passengers and crew treat each other with kindness, everyone has a better experience,” notes Henrik Renneberg, traffic director at Samsø Rederi.

The campaign’s launch is strategically timed just before summer, when ferries are packed, and tempers can flare in busy or stressful moments.

“We hope this campaign ensures a pleasant trip for both passengers and staff. A positive experience on the Læsø ferry matters to us all,” says Kurt Bennetsen, municipal director at Læsø.

The “Speak Nicely” initiative includes Metal Maritime, 3F Privat, Service, Hotel and Restaurant, 3F Transport, 3F Seamen, HK Privat, Maritime Leaders, Læsøfærgen, Samsø Rederi, Ærøfægerne, Ærøxpressen, Sea Health & Welfare, and Molslinjen.

Jun 19 2025