Spandau Set to Launch Innovative Water Taxi Service on Havel River
Berlin, April 11, 2026 – The Berlin district of Spandau is preparing to introduce a new water taxi service, a move designed to enhance public transportation and ease traffic on local roads. The new ferry, operated by BVG, will connect the rapidly growing Waterkant residential area with Wröhmännerpark, offering a direct and efficient route across the Havel River.
The announcement comes as a welcome development for Spandau residents, who have long faced challenges with public transport connectivity, including delays in the planned extension of the U7 subway line to Staaken. This water-based solution promises to provide a much-needed alternative.
Pilot Operations Expected to Begin Soon
According to Arne Herz, State Secretary for Transport, the BVG is expected to initiate the tender process for a pilot operation in the second quarter of this year. This confirmation was provided in a report to the House of Representatives, as reported by Tagesspiegel.
The proposed route for the new water taxi will link the new Waterkant housing estate with Wröhmännerpark. Transport authorities anticipate that the service will cater to approximately 1,000 passengers daily. A key advantage highlighted by officials is that the water taxis are expected to offer better frequency than existing bus services, owing to less traffic congestion on the water.
While further details regarding the service remain under wraps, the BVG has indicated that more information will be released in due course.
Improved Connectivity and Reduced Traffic Burden
The introduction of the water taxi will significantly improve connectivity between the Waterkant quarter and Wröhmännerpark, two areas currently linked by inconvenient pedestrian or bus routes. This new waterway connection is expected to alleviate the heavy traffic burden on roads in Hakenfelde and the Old Town, especially during peak hours.
Beyond easing commuter travel, the ferry service will also strengthen the integration of the new urban quarter, make excursions along the Havel more attractive, and provide an additional, environmentally friendly mobility option in areas where bridges are scarce and detours are often unavoidable.
BVG’s Existing Ferry Network in Berlin
The BVG currently operates six ferry lines (F10-F12, F21, F23, F24) across Berlin, which are integrated into the VBB tariff system and accessible with standard tickets (mostly within zone AB). These lines connect various locations across the Wannsee, Dahme, and Spree rivers, utilizing a diverse fleet ranging from large motor vessels to traditional rowing ferries.
The new Spandau water taxi will join this existing network, further expanding Berlin’s unique water-based public transport offerings and providing residents with more diverse and sustainable travel options.
The initiative underscores Berlin’s commitment to developing innovative transport solutions that address urban growth and environmental concerns.
Source: https://www.berliner-kurier.de/berlin/schippern-ueber-die-havel-spandau-erhaelt-bald-ein-neues-wassertaxi-li.10029570
