Sonderborg in Denmark is Cruise Europe’s most recent member and is keen to attract calls. The island of Als and Sonderborg is connected to the mainland by two bridges. Karsten Justesen of Visit Sonderborg says it is a natural port of call before or after going through the Kiel Canal.
Ships up to 100m in length can tie up alongside the 90m-long pier at the castle which dates back to the 11th century. The turning diameter for the southern basin is 180m according to Kurt Prehn, maritime operations Sonderborg Municipality.
Larger vessels can anchor about 0.8nm off the pontoon bridges. The depth in the anchorage area is between 20m and 25m. Tenders arrive at the steps (see photograph) where shelter will be provided. It is then five minutes walk to the city centre. Buses and taxis can park at the harbour. There are no air draught restrictions.
In order to provide a good service the port says it is not able to handle more than 2,500 passengers and more than one ship alongside and one ship on the roads at the same time.
