THE BALTIC WHALE is the largest ferry in the world capable of sailing entirely on electricity charged from shore. Despite its size, the ferry can be recharged for the crossing in just a few minutes.

The ferry departed on its first trip from Denmark to Germany on the 10 March at 08:05. THE BALTIC WHALE has been built as a freight ferry with space for 66 freight units distributed across two decks and the capability to handle IMO Cargo (dangerous goods). This means that more freight can be moved onto THE BALTIC WHALE, freeing up capacity for cars and passengers on Scandlines’ four double-ended RoPax ferries on the route - especially during the high season.

With the introduction of the new ferry, Scandlines is increasing its capacity for transporting freight units on the Rødby–Puttgarden route by 27%. At the same time, freight customers will benefit from better onboard facilities. THE BALTIC WHALE has a lanemetre capacity of 1,200, while the passenger capacity is 140.

THE BALTIC WHALE can complete the 10.2 nautical mile crossing in approximately 45 minutes. As Scandlines has invested in new high-capacity power cables and transformer stations in the ports, charging time is only 12 minutes in each harbour. An intelligent charging tower ensures that the ferry is automatically connected in under 15 seconds, regardless of water level or movement. The battery capacity is 10.1 MWh.

The ferry can also operate in hybrid mode and is equipped with diesel generators that can be used if necessary. Scandlines took delivery of THE BALTIC WHALE from Cemre Shipyard in Turkey in September 2025.

According to the contract, which was concluded in 2021, the delivery took place with a one-year delay. The total investment, including shoreside charging facilities, amounts to EUR 84 million.

Since 2017, Scandlines has used the former Great Belt ferry KRONPRINS FREDERIK, built in 1981, as a freight ferry between Rødby and Puttgarden. The ferry made its final scheduled crossing on 9 March and will now be phased out.

© Shippax