Cross Oder cruises from Szczecin prove a tourism success

Nearly 1,800 tickets sold, 18 cruises and boats sailing close to capacity – the first Cross Oder season has shown that connecting Szczecin with the German towns of Mescherin and Gartz can be an attractive way to discover the Polish-German border region. The journey also offers passengers a chance to experience one of the area's most interesting natural landscapes: the Lower Oder Valley.

A total of 1,800 tickets were made available for 18 cruises. During the season, 1,782 passengers travelled aboard the “Sedina”, accompanied by 162 bicycles. Return tickets proved to be the most popular option. Families with children also embraced the service, accounting for around 10 per cent of passengers.

Szczecin, the Oder and the German border region

Cross Oder was more than a traditional sightseeing cruise. The project connected Szczecin with Mescherin and Gartz, turning the Oder itself into a cross-border tourism route. With bicycles allowed on board, passengers could also combine a boat trip with a cycling excursion and explore destinations on either side of the border.

The scenery of the Lower Oder Valley was one of the journey's main attractions. Participants in a passenger satisfaction survey particularly appreciated the opportunity to observe nature and enjoy the river landscapes from the water. The relaxed holiday atmosphere on board was another frequently valued aspect of the experience.

The cruises therefore appealed not only to visitors staying in Szczecin but also to residents of the wider border region looking for an idea for a day trip. From a tourism perspective, the service also highlights Szczecin's potential as a starting point for exploring the wider Polish-German Oder region.

Additional cruises also attracted passengers

The popularity of Cross Oder led to additional commercial cruises being introduced on Tuesdays and Thursdays. These services achieved occupancy rates of 80–85 per cent and carried almost 1,300 passengers.

The project also attracted attention from the tourism and hospitality sector. River connections of this kind can complement Szczecin's existing visitor attractions and encourage tourists to extend their stay, using an additional day to discover the Lower Oder Valley and the German side of the border region.

The first Cross Oder season has demonstrated the potential of the Oder as a tourism route linking Poland and Germany. The project will now be evaluated and conclusions drawn for the future. Its popularity already provides a strong indication that combining river travel, nature and cycling is an appealing way to discover Szczecin and the surrounding region.