The company and its routes
Aktien-Gesellschaft „Ems" is a shipping company based in Emden, founded in 1889 to run the seaside service to Borkum. It is the oldest of the companies serving the East Frisian Islands today, and the only one that reaches its island from two countries.
What AG Ems runs
There are three ways to Borkum, and all three belong to the same company. The traditional car ferry leaves from Emden's outer harbour, alongside the considerably faster catamaran for passengers travelling without a vehicle. From Eemshaven in the Netherlands the crossing is shortest, and unlike the Emden route it follows fixed times rather than the tides.
Which crossing suits you depends mainly on your car and your approach route. The comparison of all three, with crossing times and what sets them apart, is on the Borkum page.
Fleet
The fleet consists of car ferries, catamarans and excursion vessels. The company became known for its propulsion: after conversion, the MS Ostfriesland became the first ship under the German flag with LNG propulsion, and the MS Helgoland the first German newbuild with that technology. The catamaran route from Emden is served by the MS Nordlicht and the MS Nordlicht II.
What else belongs to the group
AG Ems is the parent of several companies. On Borkum it runs the Borkumer Kleinbahn, the island railway that takes passengers from the jetty into the village. The group also includes Reederei Cassen Eils with the Heligoland crossings from Cuxhaven and Bremerhaven, an offshore service provider and the East Frisian air service.
FAQ
Which crossings to Borkum does AG Ems operate?+
Three of them - the car ferry from Emden, the catamaran from Emden and the ferry from Eemshaven in the Netherlands. You will find all three on the Borkum page.
Can I take my car on an AG Ems ferry?+
On the car ferries from Emden and from Eemshaven, yes. The catamaran carries foot passengers only.
Does AG Ems sail in winter?+
Yes, the car ferry from Emden runs all year. Departure times follow the tides and change daily, so check the current timetable.
Is the Borkum island railway part of AG Ems?+
Yes. Like Reederei Cassen Eils, the island railway on Borkum belongs to the group.