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Multi-purpose vesselNewbuild "Scharhörn" - high-tech for more safety at sea

Christian Tiedt

 · 24.04.2026

Multi-purpose vessel: Newbuild "Scharhörn" - high-tech for more safety at seaPhoto: Wasserstraßen- und Schifffahrtsverwaltung des Bundes
The new multi-vessel "Scharhörn" is the first of three identical ships.
With the "Scharhörn", the Federal Waterways and Shipping Administration has put one of Europe's most modern emergency vessels into service.

The access of the "Scharhörn" increases the capabilities of the Federal Waterways and Shipping Administration (WSV) in maritime emergency response. The multi-purpose vessel is designed for operations in difficult conditions and is intended to significantly enhance emergency preparedness on the North Sea and Baltic Sea.

"Scharhörn" first of three ships

The "Scharhörn" marks the start of a series of three identical ships. With this generation, the federal government is gradually modernising its rescue fleet - with a focus on faster response, longer deployment times and better options for action in complex situations.

The ship also sets new standards in terms of propulsion technology: With a length of around 105 metres and around 13 megawatts of power, it is noticeably larger than its predecessors. The LNG drive is designed for low-emission operation and is already prepared for synthetic methane; in addition, the engines are certified for gas protection operation - a safety plus for operations in potentially explosive atmospheres. The speed is 16 knots.

Technology: What the new "Scharhörn" can do

The "Scharhörn" is equipped for emergency situations at sea: On board are powerful fire-fighting equipment, systems for containing and absorbing oil and chemicals as well as safe systems for loading and bunkering hazardous substances. There is also an on-board laboratory for rapid analyses and powerful emergency towing equipment to stabilise and tow distressed vessels.

The helicopter landing deck is new; there is also a citadel-style operations section for contaminated environments, protected by pressurisation. A medical treatment room completes the concept - all geared towards complex rescue, environmental and security tasks. The "Scharhörn" was built by Abeking & Rasmussen in Lemwerder.

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Christian Tiedt

Christian Tiedt

Editor Travel

Christian Tiedt was born in Hamburg in 1975, but grew up in the northern suburbs of the city - except for numerous visits to the harbor, North Sea and Baltic Sea, but without direct access to water sports for a long time. His first adventures then took place on dry land: With the classics from Chichester, Slocum and Co. After completing his vocational training, his studies finally gave him the opportunity (in terms of time) to get active on the water - and to obtain the relevant licenses. First with cruising and then, when he joined BOOTE in 2004, with motorboats of all kinds. In the meantime, Christian has been able to get to know almost all of Europe (and some more distant destinations) on his own keel and prefers to share his adventures and experiences as head of the travel department for YACHT and BOOTE in cruise reports.

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