The province of South Holland is choosing a new car ferry between Maassluis and Rozenburg. The electric ferry will sail in 2029.
This concerns a ferry with space for a maximum of 20 pedestrians, 50 cyclists, and 10 cars. Heavy vehicles, such as agricultural vehicles, can also be accommodated. “We are proud to present this proposal. This aligns as closely as possible with the wishes of the users of the ferry,” says provincial administrator Frederik Zevenbergen (mobility). “This way, the Maassluis-Rozenburg ferry service is heading towards a bright future.”
Since the opening of the Blankenburg tunnel (late 2024), it has been significantly quieter on the ferry. About 85% fewer cars are now using it. However, the tunnel is not accessible for, for example, pedestrians, cyclists, and agricultural vehicles. Therefore, it was previously agreed that the ferry connection would be maintained.
Research in close consultation
The province has explored various options for the future of the Maassluis-Rozenburg ferry service: a bike-pedestrian ferry and a car ferry in different formats. The study examined the number of users since spring 2024 and surveys were conducted among travelers. The research was carried out in close consultation with the involved parties, including the Rozenburg Village Council, the municipalities of Maassluis and Rotterdam, and interest organizations LTO-Noord and Cumela.
“A car ferry that continues to operate between Maassluis and Rozenburg is a fantastic outcome,” responds Rob Oosterlee enthusiastically, who has been involved with the Maassluis-Rozenburg ferry service for years on behalf of the Rozenburg Village Council. “I am really happy about this, and many others are too.”
Proven technology
In the plan, which the Provincial States will discuss soon, the province is investing in a new electrically powered ferry. Similar electric ferries already operate in many other places in Europe. The new boat will accommodate cars, pedestrians, cyclists, mopeds, scooters, mobility scooters, small electric vehicles, and agricultural vehicles.
According to the plan, the province will become the owner of the ferry. A budget of about €6 million is estimated for this. A shipping company that provides the transport will rent the ferry. The aim is for the new shipping company to start operating from July 10, 2027, initially with the existing Blankenburg car ferry. The new ferry can sail in 2029. Furthermore, the province will take over the docks from Rijkswaterstaat, renovate them, and install charging equipment. This will cost about €5 million.
The province of South Holland has been responsible for the ferry connection between Maassluis and Rozenburg since 1893. Currently, the Blankenburg car ferry operates here (until 7 PM) and the bike-pedestrian ferry Jorina (from 7:30 PM).
