Ems: Trial operation - new Friesenbrücke bridge near Weener with fewer openings in May

The new Friesenbrücke Weener bridge has been in trial operation since the end of last year. The opening times are coordinated with train services. In a current notice to mariners (BfS) the responsible Waterways and Shipping Authority Ems-North Sea has now published updated times for May.

Several time slots per day

There are several time slots per day during which the centre section of the lift swing bridge is opened for shipping on the Ems during the day. These time slots, which generally last around 25 minutes, start 16 minutes before the hour. Outside of these times, the bridge is closed, and additional opening during the day can only take place after prior notification, and then also according to the corresponding pattern. It is also open continuously from 4 pm to 8 am.

Attention from 5 to 8 May 2026

However, as there are a number of exceptions due to the ongoing trial operation, with fewer openings or even closures - particularly from 5 to 8 May 2026 and then again from 21 to 23 May 2026 - it is essential that you take the following into account when planning a passage the current BfS should be consulted. If the clearance height is sufficient, the bridge can also be passed when closed.

New construction after ship collision

The new Friesenbrücke bridge was completed in 2025 after a ship collision in 2026 destroyed the previous structure so badly that it had to be dismantled. The passage width was significantly increased to allow ships from the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg to pass through. With its movable central section measuring 145 metres in length and weighing 1,800 tonnes, the Friesenbrücke is the largest movable bridge structure of its kind in Europe.

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