Elbe-Weser shipping route: New transitional regulation for fees

The Elbe-Weser shipping route is the only navigable inland connection from the Lower Weser to the Lower Elbe. It leads from Bremerhaven through the scenic Elbe-Weser triangle to the Hadelner canal lock on the Elbe. This saves boat crews the further and, in bad weather, rough journey along the North Sea coast.

Between the Lower Weser and Lower Elbe, the Elbe-Weser shipping route offers pleasure boaters a protected alternative to the route along the tidal North Sea coast. Use of the 53.5 kilometre long waterway is subject to a fee.

Elbe-Weser shipping route is subject to charges

Following the expiry of a flat-rate contract for utilisation between the Lower Saxony Water Management, Coastal Defence and Nature Conservation Agency (NLWKN) and the German Motor Yacht Association (DMYV) at the end of 2024, a transitional arrangement has now been agreed in good time. The authorities and the association are also working on a more far-reaching solution.

For the time being, nothing will change for members of clubs that are also members of the DMYV and for members of the Sport Boat Association in the DMYV (SBV): The flags, which will remain valid until the end of 2025 and which club members can obtain from the DMYV via their clubs, will continue to indicate free passage authorisation through the Elbe-Weser shipping route and are intended to ensure fast passage through the two locks.

Daily and annual vignettes for non-members

If you are not a member of the DMYV, you can now only purchase daily or annual vignettes (for five or 20 euros respectively) from the NLWKN. This is possible in Otterndorf at the Hadelner canal lock operated by the NLWKN - but only in cash.

Annual vignettes purchased at previous sales points remain valid. Crews travelling from the Weser to the Elbe therefore pay when leaving the Elbe-Weser waterway, and in the opposite direction when entering the Elbe-Weser waterway.

"We are delighted that we have worked together to find the simplest possible arrangement that benefits all parties. DMYV members don't have to worry about buying a vignette and our employees will find it easier to check, which will make the entire lock process smoother," says Jörn Drosten, Head of Operations and Maintenance at the NLWKN.