FerryConnect

Germany

Hamburg → Heligoland

The Halunder Jet catamaran runs from Hamburg’s Landungsbrücken down the Elbe, calling at Brunsbüttel and Cuxhaven, to Germany’s only offshore island. It is a full day trip from the city with about four hours ashore.

⏱ 3h 30m – 4h🚢 1 operator📅 One return trip a day in season

Hamburg to Heligoland ferry at a glance

The ferry from Hamburg to Heligoland takes 3h 30m – 4h across the Elbe / North Sea, operated by FRS Helgoline. It is a foot-passenger service; vehicles are not carried. Typical frequency: one return trip a day in season.

Crossing times and frequencies are typical figures and vary by season. Confirm the current timetable with the operator or booking partner before you travel. Route facts last reviewed 2026-09-29.

Sources: frs-helgoline.de · frs-helgoline.de · How we verify

Return crossing: Heligoland to Hamburg

FRS Helgoline also sails Heligoland to Hamburg, taking 3h 30m – 4h. The return sailing leaves Heligoland between 16:30 and 17:00.

Hamburg to Heligoland ferry timetable & sailing pattern

One departure a day from Hamburg between 08:30 and 09:00, arriving about 12:30–12:45; seasons run 19 March – 1 November 2026

Published departure times

  • 08:30 – 09:00 from Hamburg Landungsbrücken

Return: The return sailing leaves Heligoland between 16:30 and 17:00.

Timetables change by season and date. Check exact departures for your travel date on the official timetable.

Official FRS Helgoline timetable →

Source: FRS Helgoline Hamburg–Helgoland timetable. Verified 2026-09-29.

Maritime Crossing Route Map

Interactive sea passage between Hamburg and Heligoland

📐 83 Nautical Miles
Hamburg⇄Heligoland
⏱ 3h 30m – 4h · 📐 83 nm
© OpenFreeMap / OSM
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Check live availability, fares and sailing times with Direct Ferries.

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Operators on This Route

OperatorCrossing TimeVessels
FRS HelgolineAbout 3h 30m – 4hHalunder Jet

Route Features

🚗

Vehicles

Foot passengers only

🚶

Foot Passengers

Walk-on passengers welcome

🐕

Pets

No pet facilities

📐

Distance

83 nautical miles

Getting There & Onward Transport

  • Landungsbrücken is served by Hamburg S-Bahn and U-Bahn (U3) stations of the same name

Related Ferry Crossings

Onward from HeligolandCuxhaven → Heligoland1h 15m (Catamaran) / 2h 15m (Ship) · Reederei Cassen Eils, FRS HelgolineNearby alternative crossingHarlesiel → WangeroogeAbout 1h 30m (ferry and island railway) · DB Schiffahrt und Inselbahn WangeroogeNearby alternative crossingBensersiel → LangeoogAbout 1h (ferry and island railway) · Schiffahrt LangeoogNearby alternative crossingDagebüll → Amrum1h 30m direct – 2h via Föhr · W.D.R. (Wyker Dampfschiffs-Reederei)Nearby alternative crossingDagebüll → FöhrAbout 50m · W.D.R. (Wyker Dampfschiffs-Reederei)Nearby alternative crossingNorddeich → Norderney30m (e-catamaran) – 1h · Reederei Norden-Frisia
⛴ All ferries from Heligoland🌊 North Sea ferries🗺 All ferries in Germany🔎 Search all routes

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the ferry from Hamburg to Heligoland?
The crossing typically takes 3h 30m – 4h. Actual times vary by vessel, season and sea conditions, so check the timetable for your sailing.
How often does the Hamburg to Heligoland ferry sail?
One departure a day from Hamburg between 08:30 and 09:00, arriving about 12:30–12:45; seasons run 19 March – 1 November 2026. This is the pattern published in the FRS Helgoline Hamburg–Helgoland timetable (checked 2026-09-29); confirm exact departure times on the official timetable before you travel.
Which ferry companies sail from Hamburg to Heligoland?
FRS Helgoline operates this route. Compare sailing times and ticket types before booking, as they often differ between operators.
Can I take my car on the Hamburg to Heligoland ferry?
No. This is a foot-passenger service and vehicles are not carried. Use parking near the departure pier or public transport to reach it.
Can I take the Hamburg to Heligoland ferry as a foot passenger?
Yes. Foot passengers can travel on this route. Allow time to reach the passenger terminal and check the operator’s check-in closing time.
Are dogs and pets allowed on the Hamburg to Heligoland ferry?
This route has no dedicated pet facilities. Assistance dogs are normally carried, but confirm with the operator before travelling.
How far is Hamburg from Heligoland by ferry?
The sea crossing is about 83 nautical miles (roughly 154 km).