On August 26, 2025, it was “Cast off!” for a very special guest: Bavaria’s Minister President Dr. Markus Söder set sail from Hamburg aboard the HSC “Halunder Jet” to Heligoland. He was following an invitation from the island’s mayor and tourism director. Already at the pier, the Minister President was warmly welcomed by Christian Baumberger, CFO of the FRS Group, Tim Kunstmann, Managing Director of FRS Helgoline, Katharina Schlicht, Helgoland’s Tourism Director, and Thorsten Pollmann, the island’s mayor. In the afternoon – accompanied by interested onlookers and members of the press – the journey to Heligoland began.
During the crossing, Dr. Markus Söder gained fascinating insights into the operations of the “Halunder Jet”. While visiting the bridge, he learned about the wide range of responsibilities on board: a glance through the binoculars and an announcement over the loudspeakers were, of course, not to be missed.
At high speed, the “Halunder Jet” raced across the North Sea until the red cliffs of the island came into view. Upon arrival, the high-speed catamaran was escorted into the harbor by Börteboote, and the Minister President was welcomed in true Heligoland fashion by locals in traditional dress.
On the island, Dr. Söder was treated to a varied program: among the highlights were a festive evening with a shanty choir and a visit to the famous rock formation “Lange Anna” as well as the Dune, showcasing the diversity and uniqueness of Heligoland.
With many wonderful impressions of Heligoland, the return journey to Hamburg on the “Halunder Jet” took place on August 27.
We would like to express our heartfelt thanks for the visit and the shared journey.
