Ferry reduces speed to cut soaring fuel costs

The ferry operator ÆrøXpressen has slowed its vessels between Marstal and Rudkøbing to reduce fuel consumption amid record-high prices, state broadcaster DR reports.

Passengers on the route will face extended travel times, with the ferry departing ten minutes earlier than scheduled once all booked vehicles and travellers are onboard. The company advises both foot passengers and drivers to reserve space in advance to avoid being left behind.

Local residents appear unfazed by the change. Gert Eriksen, a Marstal resident, told DR he has no objections to the slower crossings. “We live on an island, so we take things as they come—calmly,” echoed Ingvild Jørgensen, another passenger.

The measure is temporary, pending a stabilisation of oil prices. ÆrøXpressen director Henrik Schlotfeldt estimates the slower speeds will save around 1,000 litres of fuel per week.