However, the key difference between the old and new hoist is not just the technology, but above all the usable length of the trough: At 113 metres, it can now accommodate motor vessels up to 110 metres in length and therefore meets the requirements of the second highest European waterway class V.
At the same time, the clearance height was also increased to 5.25 metres, so that container ships can now also pass through. Its predecessor from 1934 was only 83.50 metres long and had a clearance height of 4.40 metres - a significant handicap in view of the current freight traffic on the water.
From top to bottom in three minutes - and vice versa
It takes three minutes just to travel between the upper and lower water, and a lock takes around 16 minutes in total. The trough, which weighs a full 9800 tonnes, is held in place by 112 pulleys and steel cables with a thickness of 60 millimetres. Eight motors with 218 hp each are sufficient for the drive - the rest of the work is done by the system's 220 counterweights.
Explore the Niederfinow boat lift for yourself
Both lifts are open to tourists. Some of them can be explored by yourself and further explored on guided tours and, together with the exhibition in the information centre, form an exciting ensemble of technological history. The passage on your own keel is also an extraordinary experience. However, which of the two hoists you pass through is currently still left to chance (or the traffic situation).
The site does not yet have guest moorings for pleasure craft. However, there are already plans for a public jetty in the underwater area in the lower outer harbour.
We will soon be publishing a detailed report on the new Niederfinow boat lift.
