FRS Helgoline Schedules 2026

The HSC "Halunder Jet" was built specifically for this route, and it shows in one detail that matters more than speed: it berths directly in Helgoland's harbour. On an island where larger ships have historically had to transfer passengers ashore in open boats, arriving alongside is the difference between stepping off and being ferried off.

Three mainland departures

The catamaran runs to Helgoland from Hamburg, Brunsbüttel and Cuxhaven, at up to 36 knots (67 km/h). From Hamburg it leaves St. Pauli Landungsbrücken, pier 3/4, at 08.30 or 09.00 depending on the day, reaching the island between 12.30 and 12.45 — roughly three and a half to four and a quarter hours down the Elbe and out into the German Bight. The return leaves Helgoland at 16.30 or 17.00 and is back in Hamburg by 20.15–20.45. The season runs 19 March to 1 November 2026.

Seat classes, not just seats

Fares are quoted by travel time — classes C, B and A — and then by cabin category on top. A Hamburg day trip in Jet Class costs €92.10, €102.80 or €114.70 depending on the departure. Panorama Class adds €16.50 per leg (VIP €29.00) and Premium Class €28.30 (VIP €29.00). A multi-day return runs €112.00–€140.00 in Jet Class.

Who pays less

Children 4–14 pay roughly half. Over-60s and passengers with 70%+ disability pay €83.00–€103.00 on day trips. Families of two adults and three children are €224.00–€278.80; groups of 10–24 get €81.70–€101.50 and groups over 25 slightly less; school groups of 16 or more pay €62.10–€77.40, the cheapest adult-equivalent fare on the route. A dog is €27.00. As at other North Sea operators, a temporary fuel surcharge sits on top of published fares.

Practical

Be at the pier at least 15 minutes before departure. Seats are reserved, service comes to your seat, and there are open decks for anyone who wants the weather. Helgoland is duty-free, which is a large part of why the day-trip traffic exists at all. A special Music-Cruise sailing on 12 September 2026 leaves Hamburg at 09.00 and returns from the island at 20.00, reaching Hamburg at 23.45 — much later than the standard service.