Ferry Hamburg - Heligoland

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Ferry Hamburg - Heligoland Timetable

July 1 through September 30, 2026

HAMBURG to HELGOLAND	ship	Mon	DI	Wed	THU	FR	SA	SUN
from Hamburg St. Pauli Landungsbrücke, bridge 3/4	“Halunder Jet”	09:00	09:00	08:30	08:30	08:30	09:00	08:30
at Heligoland, approx. Inland Harbor / South Harbor	“Halunder Jet”	12:30	12:30	12:45	12:45	12:45	12:45	12:45

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October 1 through November 1, 2026

HAMBURG to HELGOLAND	ship	Mon	DI	Wed	THU	FR	SA	SUN
from Hamburg St. Pauli Landungsbrücke, bridge 3/4	“Halunder Jet”	09:00	09:00	08:30	09:00	08:30	09:00	08:30
at Heligoland, approx. Inland Harbor / South Harbor	“Halunder Jet”	12:30	12:30	12:45	12:45	12:45	12:45	12:45

Book ferry Hamburg ↔ Heligoland

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Ferry Heligoland - Hamburg Timetable

July 1 through September 30, 2026

HELGOLAND to HAMBURG	ship	Mon	DI	Wed	DO*	FR*	SA*	SUN
from Heligoland Binnenhafen / Südhafen	“Halunder Jet”	17:00	17:00	16:30	16:30	16:30	16:30	16:30
to Hamburg, approx. St. Pauli Landungsbrücke, bridge 3/4	“Halunder Jet”	20:40	20:40	20:45	20:45	20:45	20:15	20:45

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October 1 through November 1, 2026

HELGOLAND to HAMBURG	ship	Mon	DI	Wed	DO*	FR*	SA*	SUN
from Heligoland Binnenhafen / Südhafen	“Halunder Jet”	17:00	17:00	16:30	16:30	16:30	16:30	16:30
to Hamburg, approx. St. Pauli Landungsbrücke, bridge 3/4	“Halunder Jet”	20:40	20:40	20:45	20:15	20:45	20:15	20:45

Book ferry Hamburg ↔ Heligoland

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Betreiber der Fähre Hamburg ⇄ Heligoland

FRS Helgoline

FRS Helgoline takes you to Heligoland quickly and comfortably with the high-speed catamaran “Halunder Jet”. Departures are from Hamburg, Brunsbüttel and Cuxhaven. Spacious panoramic windows, outdoor decks and gastronomic service await you on board. With over 40 years of experience, FRS Helgoline ensures a pleasant crossing.

Port information for the ferry connection between Hamburg and Heligoland

Hamburg

The Elbe metropolis is known for its Michel, its fish market and its Reeperbahn. Hamburg offers a wide range of leisure and shopping opportunities, and the nightlife in the Hanseatic ...

Here you will find information about the port, the ferry terminals, travel arrangements, and all Ferries to Hamburg.

Port address

Ferry port Hamburg
Street:	At the St. Pauli jetties 3-4
Postcode & city:	20359 Hamburg
Country:	Germany
GPS:	53.545208, 9.969117

Travel information

Arrival by car

How to reach the Hamburg ferry port by car:

• From the north (e.g. Kiel): Follow the A7 south to Hamburg. Take the exit (Schnelsen) and follow the B447 to the city center and then follow the signs to Landungsbrücken.
• From the south (e.g. Hanover): Take the A7 in the direction of Hamburg. Leave the highway after the Elbtunnel at exit 29 (HH-Othmarschen) and follow the signs to Landungsbrücken.
• From the east (e.g. Berlin): Take the A24 westbound to Hamburg. Take exit 2 (HH-Jenfeld) and follow the signs to Landungsbrücken.
• From the west (e.g. Bremen): Take the A1 eastbound until you reach Hamburg. Take exit 43 (Buchholzer-Dreieck) and follow the B261 towards Hamburg until you reach the A7. Follow this road until exit 29 (HH-Othmarschen) and then follow the signs to Landungsbrücken.

Arrival by bus & train

The Landungsbrücken is a major transportation hub in Hamburg and is well connected to the public transit network. You can take the S-Bahn (lines S1 and S3), the U-Bahn (U3), or various bus lines to get to the St. Pauli Landungsbrücken.

Arrival by plane

Hamburg Airport (HAM) is the nearest airport. From the airport you can take the S-Bahn S1 directly to the Landungsbrücken.

Brunsbüttel

A shopping spree in Brunsbüttel starts in Koogstraße. It begins at the locks, from where there is a magnificent view of the passing ships and ocean liners. The canal and ...

Here you will find information about the port, the ferry terminals, travel arrangements, and all Ferries to Brunsbüttel.

Port address

Ferry port Brunsbüttel
Street:	Ferry road
Postcode & city:	25541 Brunsbüttel
Country:	Germany
GPS:	53.897461, 9.148034

Travel information

Arrival by car

If you want to travel by car, you can reach the Brunsbüttel ferry port from various directions:

• From the north (e.g. from Kiel): Ferry south on the A7 to exit 5 (Brunsbüttel Nord) and ferry towards Brunsbüttel on the B5. Follow the signs to the ferry port.
• From the south (e.g. from Hamburg): Take the A23 northbound and change to the B5 towards Brunsbüttel at exit 16 (Itzehoe Mitte). Follow the signs to the ferry port.
• From the west (e.g. from Heide): Take the B5 towards Brunsbüttel and follow the signs to the ferry port.
• From the east (e.g. from Rendsburg): Take the B202 and B77 in the direction of Brunsbüttel and follow the signs to the ferry port.

Arrival by bus & train

The Brunsbüttel ferry terminal is well connected to the regional bus and train network. To get to the pier, take bus line X60.

Arrival by plane

The nearest airport is Hamburg Airport. From there, you can take the train or a rental car to get to the Brunsbüttel ferry port. The journey takes about 1.5 hours.

Cuxhaven

Life in Cuxhaven has always been shaped by water and the Wadden Sea. This is also reflected in the sights of the city. The “Kugelbake” once served as an important ...

Here you will find information about the port, the ferry terminals, travel arrangements, and all Ferries to Cuxhaven.

Port address

Ferry port Cuxhaven
Street:	At the old harbor
Postcode & city:	27472 Cuxhaven
Country:	Germany
GPS:	53.871391, 8.709043

Travel information

Arrival by car

How to reach the Cuxhaven ferry port by car:

• From the east (e.g. Hamburg): Follow the B73 northwest to Cuxhaven. Follow the signs to the ferry port.
• From the south (e.g. Bremerhaven): Take the A27 in the direction of Cuxhaven. In Cuxhaven, change to the B73 and follow the signs to the ferry port.
• From the west(East Frisian Islands): From the direction of the East Frisian Islands, take one of the many country roads heading east to Bremerhaven. Then drive north via the A27 and the B73 to the Ferries port in Cuxhaven.

Arrival by bus & train

The Cuxhaven ferry port is well connected to the bus and rail network. Cuxhaven main station offers connections to various cities in Germany. From the train station you can take buses to the ferry port.

Arrival by plane

The nearest airport is Hamburg Airport (HAM). From there, you can take a train to Cuxhaven or hire a car to get to the ferry port.

Heligoland

Germany’s only high sea island fascinates with a 61 meter high cliff. A walk around the island stretches over three kilometers, 182 steps lead up to the “Oberland” – alternatively ...

Here you will find information about the port, the ferry terminals, travel arrangements, and all Ferries to Heligoland.

Port address

Ferry port Heligoland
Street:	South quay South harbor
Postcode & city:	27498 Heligoland
Country:	Germany
GPS:	54.173909, 7.892603

Travel information

Arrival by plane

• Helgoland Airport (HGL): There are irregular private flights to Helgoland Airport from various German cities.

Additional information

Cars are not allowed on Heligoland, and the island can be easily explored on foot or by the island train.

From the main residential area, it is only a few minutes’ walk to the Südkaje ferry terminal.

Itinerary

Check-in for your trip

For your ferry trip from Hamburg to Heligoland with FRS Helgoline, you should arrive at the ferry terminal in Hamburg St. Pauli at least 15 minutes before departure. As the crossing takes place daily and only once, it is advisable to plan early and book tickets in advance.

Departure in Hamburg

The trip to Heligoland begins at the Port of Hamburg, from where the Ferry departs on time. The exact departure times vary depending on the day of the week. Check the schedule for details.

Hamburg offers an impressive backdrop as a starting point and in fine weather the start of your sea voyage will be particularly impressive.

On board the Ferry

During the trip, which lasts between 3 hours and 30 minutes and 4 hours and 15 minutes, you can enjoy the amenities on board.

On the way to Helgoland, you will cross the Elbe and dock briefly in Brunsbüttel and Cuxhaven before heading out to sea. Enjoy the time on deck, the fresh sea air and the view of the North Sea.

Arrival on Heligoland

After 180 kilometers, you’ll reach Heligoland. The island’s small harbor welcomes you with its idyllic atmosphere.

Heligoland is known for its red sandstone cliffs and its rich wildlife, especially the bird colonies. Once you arrive at your destination port, you can experience the island’s unique nature and tranquillity first hand.

Day Trip from Hamburg to Heligoland

The Halunder Jet is a great option for a day trip from Hamburg to Heligoland. You depart in the morning from the St. Pauli Landungsbrücken and return to Hamburg in the evening. Depending on the day of the week and the schedule, the entire trip takes 11 to 12 hours.

Depending on the route, the travel time alone is about three and a half to a little over four hours each way. Along the way, the catamaran makes stops in Brunsbüttel and Cuxhaven. Even the journey through the Port of Hamburg and along the Elbe River is thus an important part of the trip.

How much time do you have on Heligoland?

According to the regular schedule, you’ll arrive on Heligoland around noon. The return trip begins in the late afternoon. This usually gives you between 3 hours and 45 minutes and 4½ hours on the island. The exact length of your stay depends on the day of travel and the specific departure times.

These times are for your reference only. Therefore, please check the current schedule before booking and again shortly before your trip. Please note that arrival and departure times may be subject to change due to weather, tides, or boat traffic on the Elbe.

What can you see on a day trip?

On your first visit, we recommend taking a tour of the main island. Starting from the harbor, you’ll first reach the Lower Island. From there, you can take the stairs or the elevator to the Upper Island. The Cliff Trail leads you from there to the Lummenfelsen and the Lange Anna, among other sights.

Also, be sure to set aside some time to explore the lowlands, the harbor, and to take a break at a restaurant or café. Shopping is also popular on Heligoland, since the island lies outside the European Union’s customs territory. Be sure to observe the applicable duty-free allowances.

If you’re only staying for a short day trip, it only makes sense to visit the dune if you plan your time carefully. You’ll need to take the dune ferry and allow enough time for the return trip to the Halunder Jet. If you want to explore Helgoland and the dune without feeling rushed, a multi-day trip is the better choice.

Important: Please check in at the harbor for the return trip no later than the specified check-in time. The Halunder Jet will not wait for late day visitors.

Which seat class on the Halunder Jet is right for you?

On the Halunder Jet, you can book a reserved seat. You can choose from Jet Class, Panorama Class, and Premium Class. In Panorama Class and Premium Class, you can also book a VIP seat in the front row. All seating areas are equipped with USB ports. Wi-Fi and in-seat dining service are also available.

Where are the best seats on the Halunder Jet?

Which seats are best for you are determined by your personal preferences. If you want to travel as affordably as possible, Jet Class offers a reserved seat and food service. For families or small groups, the seating areas with tables can be convenient.

If the view is especially important to you, the window seats in Panorama Class are a good choice. The VIP seats in the front row offer the unobstructed view straight ahead. You’ll find more peace and quiet, legroom, and additional amenities in the separate Premium Class lounge.

The number of seats in the higher categories and VIP seats is limited. We therefore recommend making a reservation well in advance, especially on weekends, holidays, and during school breaks. You can find additional technical details and photos on the FRS Halunder Jet Catamaran page.

Getting There, Parking, and Boarding in Hamburg

The Halunder Jet departs from the St. Pauli Landungsbrücken in Hamburg, Pier 3/4. The boarding area is on the waterfront. Since the Landungsbrücken are quite spacious and there are many people there during peak season, you should allow plenty of time to find the right pier.

Getting There by S-Bahn and U-Bahn

The “Landungsbrücken” station is served by S-Bahn lines S1 and S3, as well as by U-Bahn line U3. From there, it’s just a few minutes’ walk to Bridge 3/4. Various bus and harbor ferry lines also stop in the Landungsbrücken area.

Before you leave, check the current service status from the Hamburg Public Transportation Authority. Construction, route closures, or out-of-service elevators may increase your travel time.

Parking at the Landungsbrücken

If you’re traveling by car, you’ll find paid parking spaces and parking garages in the area around the Landungsbrücken. These include parking garages near St. Michael’s Church, as well as other downtown parking options. Since your car will be in Hamburg for many hours during your day trip, you should check the maximum daily rate and the operating hours of the parking garage you choose.

Keep in mind that parking spaces in the immediate vicinity can fill up quickly on weekends and during vacation periods. Therefore, allow plenty of time to find a parking spot and walk to the pier. You cannot take your car to Helgoland.

Check-in and Boarding

The published check-in deadline of 15 minutes before departure is the latest time you should be at the pier. To ensure a stress-free trip, you should arrive at the Landungsbrücken about 30 to 45 minutes before departure. If you’re traveling by car or need to check luggage, you should allow even more time.

1. Have your ticket or digital travel document ready.
2. Check your luggage from the designated baggage drop-off area.
3. Then follow the signs and the staff’s instructions to the gangway.
4. After boarding, find your reserved seat.
5. Store your carry-on luggage so that emergency exits and aisles remain clear.

For the return trip, you should also return to the designated port on Heligoland well in advance. Depending on weather and port conditions, the Halunder Jet departs from either the Inner Harbor or the South Harbor. Be sure to check the current departure point on the day of your trip.

Luggage, Dogs, and Accessible Travel

How much luggage can I bring on the Halunder Jet?

Carry-on luggage must not exceed 45 × 30 × 17 centimeters in size and must weigh no more than 8 kilograms. Larger pieces of luggage must be checked for security reasons.

For multi-day trips, the fare includes one piece of non-commercial luggage per person weighing up to 20 kilograms. No single piece of luggage should exceed this weight. Fees may apply for additional luggage or excess weight.

In Hamburg, you check your luggage directly from the Halunder Jet. Check-in times vary depending on the day of departure. If you plan to check luggage, you should therefore arrive at the ship well in advance of 15 minutes before departure.

For guests staying multiple days, a paid luggage service is also available. With this service, luggage is delivered directly to your accommodations on the main island of Helgoland upon arrival. Prices and terms are subject to change and should be checked before your trip.

Traveling from Hamburg to Heligoland with Your Dog

Dogs are allowed on the Halunder Jet. You must specify your dog when making your reservation and book a separate ticket for it. A separate fee applies for pets on one-way trips; for round-trip travel, the fee is double that amount.

Other pets may be brought along in a suitable carrier, subject to prior arrangement. During the crossing, passengers must comply with the conditions of carriage and the crew’s instructions.

Dogs must be kept on a leash on Heligoland’s main island. Dogs and other pets are not allowed on the offshore dune at any time of year. If you’re visiting Heligoland with your dog, you should therefore limit your day’s activities to the main island.

Is the Halunder Jet accessible?

The Halunder Jet is equipped with accessibility features. The main and upper decks feature wheelchair spaces, seats with adjustable armrests, and accessible restrooms. An elevator connects the two decks.

The facilities are designed to accommodate wheelchairs with a maximum width of 75 centimeters. The narrowest gangway in use is 80 centimeters wide. The elevator on board can accommodate wheelchairs up to 80 centimeters wide and 120 centimeters deep.

Please specify your wheelchair and any assistance needs when making your reservation. If you need help boarding or disembarking, you must always notify us at least 48 hours before your trip. In this case, you may also need to arrive at the port earlier. An accompanying person required for safety reasons travels free of charge in Jet Class; for a higher seating category, the respective surcharge applies.

Please note that conditions may vary from port to port. On Heligoland, many paths in the Unterland and Oberland are accessible by wheelchair or walker. The Oberland is accessible via an elevator. However, some smaller stores and certain paths may have limited accessibility.

Hamburg, Brunsbüttel, or Cuxhaven: Which port of departure is right for you?

The Halunder Jet departs from Hamburg and travels via Brunsbüttel and Cuxhaven to Heligoland. Which departure port is best for you depends on where you live, your preferred travel time, and how you plan to get there. The length of stay on Helgoland is similar for regular day trips, since all guests use the same ship for the return trip.

From Hamburg: The longest, but most scenic trip

If you’re traveling by public transportation or want to experience a boat ride through the harbor and along the Elbe, Hamburg is the perfect choice. However, you’ll spend significantly more time on board than if you were to depart from Brunsbüttel or Cuxhaven. Finding a parking spot and the higher parking fees are also factors that might make Hamburg a less appealing option.

From Brunsbüttel: Convenient for drivers

From Brunsbüttel, the crossing is significantly shorter, and there is free parking near the ticket booth. However, the Halunder Jet does not depart from here every weekday. There is also a slightly uphill walking path about 400 meters long between the ticket booth and the ship. Allow about 15 minutes for this.

For more information, visit the page about the Brunsbüttel–Helgoland Ferry.

From Cuxhaven: The shortest crossing

The Halunder Jet takes only about 70 to 75 minutes to reach Heligoland from Cuxhaven. If you prefer the shortest possible crossing or are prone to seasickness on longer sea voyages, this port of departure is a good choice. There are paid parking lots behind the dike. You should allow an additional 20 minutes or so for parking your vehicle and walking to the pier.

For more information, visit the page about the Cuxhaven–Helgoland Ferry.

Conclusion: Hamburg offers the most comprehensive travel experience on the Elbe and the North Sea. Brunsbüttel is particularly convenient for drivers, though the Ferry does not run daily. Cuxhaven offers the shortest crossing. When making your decision, always check the total travel time, parking options, and the schedule for your desired travel date.

 Source: FRS Helgoline

The Halunder Jet before leaving for Heligoland in the port of Hamburg. Source: FRS Helgoline

 Source: FRS Helgoline

The Panorama Class on the Halunder Jet. Here you can enjoy the view of the Elbe and the North Sea. Source: FRS Helgoline

 Source: FRS Helgoline

FRS Helgoline Halunder Jet off Heligoland.

 Source: FRS Helgoline

The Halunder Jet of FRS Helgoline in the Helgoland inland port. Source: FRS Helgoline

 Source: FRS Helgoline

The Halunder Jet at sunset before docking in the port of Hamburg. Source: FRS Helgoline

Book ferry Hamburg ↔ Heligoland

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