The Historic Ferries of Basel: No Engine

For centuries, the Rhine River has been a vital artery for the city of Basel, Switzerland. But crossing it wasn’t always a matter of bridges and modern transport. For over three hundred years, a unique system of cable-operated ferries has connected the two sides of the city, relying not on engines, but on the power of the river itself. These aren’t just boats; they’re a living piece of Basel’s history, and a testament to ingenious engineering.

A History Rooted in Necessity

Before the construction of permanent bridges, crossing the Rhine presented a significant challenge. The river’s strong currents and fluctuating water levels made traditional rowing boats unreliable, especially during floods. The earliest documented ferry service dates back to the 15th century, but the system as we know it today began to take shape in the early 19th century. The need for a dependable connection between Grossbasel (Greater Basel) and Kleinbasel (Lesser Basel) spurred the development of these remarkable vessels. Initially, the ferries were propelled by oarsmen, but the strong currents quickly led to the implementation of a cable system.

How Do They Work? The Power of the Current

The Basel ferries are unique because they don’t use motors or paddles. Instead, they are guided across the Rhine by a submerged cable stretched between two towers on either bank. The ferry is attached to this cable via a system of ropes and pulleys. Crucially, the ferry isn’t pulled across. The current of the Rhine itself provides the motive force.

The ferryman skillfully angles the boat into the current, and the water pressure against the hull, combined with the cable guidance, propels the ferry sideways across the river. Steering is achieved by adjusting the rudder and subtly manipulating the ropes connecting the ferry to the cable. It’s a delicate dance between human skill and the river’s power. The process is surprisingly quick – a crossing typically takes only a few minutes.

The Four Remaining Ferries

Today, four of these historic ferries remain in operation, each with its own character and route:

• Wilde Maa: The oldest ferry, operating since approximately 1430 (though the current vessel is a later reconstruction).
• St. Johann: Located near the St. Johann railway station.
• Mittlere Brücke: Situated near the Middle Bridge, offering a short but scenic crossing.
• Petri-Fähre: The smallest ferry, connecting the city center with Kleinbasel near the Petri Church.

Each ferry is operated by a ferryman (or ferrywoman!), who is responsible for the safe passage of passengers and the maintenance of the vessel. These ferrymen are not simply operators; they are custodians of a tradition, often passing the role down through generations.

More Than Just Transport: A Cultural Icon

The Basel ferries are far more than just a means of transportation. They are a symbol of the city, deeply ingrained in Basel’s identity. They represent a connection to the past, a respect for the river, and a commitment to preserving unique traditions. The ferries are used by locals and tourists alike, offering a unique and authentic experience. They’ve also become a popular subject for artists and photographers, capturing the timeless beauty of these vessels against the backdrop of the Rhine. The ferries are listed as Swiss cultural heritage sites, ensuring their preservation for future generations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much does it cost to ride a ferry?
A: Around CHF 1.60 (Swiss Francs) – the same price as a short bus or tram ride.

Q: Are the ferries affected by the weather?
A: Yes, particularly during high water or ice conditions, services may be suspended for safety reasons.

Q: How long does a ferry crossing take?
A: Typically between 3-5 minutes.

Q: Can I take a bicycle on the ferry?
A: Yes, bicycles are usually allowed, but there may be a small additional fee.

Q: Are the ferries accessible for wheelchairs?
A: Accessibility varies between ferries. The Wilde Maa is not wheelchair accessible, but the St. Johann ferry has a ramp. It’s best to check beforehand.

Resources

• Basler Fähren: https://www.baslerfaehren.ch/en/ (Official website with timetables, fares, and history)
• Basel Tourism: https://www.basel.ch/en/experience/sightseeing/ferries (Tourist information about the ferries)
• MySwitzerland: https://www.myswitzerland.com/en/experiences/culture-and-traditions/traditional-transport/basel-ferries.html (General information about the ferries)
• YouTube – How the Basel Ferries Work: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=q-q-q-q-q-q (Visual explanation of the ferry mechanism – replace ‘q-q-q-q-q’ with a valid YouTube video ID)