Rostock-Gedser
Rostock–Gedser: a longer route between Germany and Denmark
The Rostock–Gedser ferry is the longer of Scandlines’ two main Germany–Denmark crossings. It is less of a quick shortcut than Puttgarden–Rødby, but it can be a very useful route if you are driving through eastern or northern Germany, heading towards Copenhagen, southern Sweden or returning from Denmark with a different route south.
The crossing takes around 2 hours, so you get more time on board than on the shorter Puttgarden–Rødby ferry. That makes the route feel less like a quick hop and more like a proper break in the journey: enough time to eat, sit down, walk around and reset before the next driving stretch.
For many travellers, the choice is not simply Rostock–Gedser or Puttgarden–Rødby. It depends on where you are driving from, where you want to arrive in Denmark, and whether your onward route points more naturally towards Copenhagen, the Øresund Bridge, Helsingør–Helsingborg or southern Sweden.
Map: ferries from Rostock to Gedser and Puttgarden Rodby
About the Rostock–Gedser crossing
The Rostock–Gedser ferry is a useful Germany–Denmark crossing if your route naturally takes you through eastern or northern Germany. It is longer than Puttgarden–Rødby, but that can also be part of the appeal: you get more time on board, a proper break from driving and a different arrival point in Denmark.
This route can work well if you are travelling towards Copenhagen, southern Sweden or the Danish islands, especially if Rostock fits better with your driving route than Puttgarden. From Gedser, you can continue north through Denmark and then choose how to cross into Sweden: via the Øresund Bridge towards Malmö, or via the Helsingør–Helsingborg ferry if you are heading further north.
The main alternative is Puttgarden–Rødby, which is usually the more obvious shortcut if you are driving up through western or central Germany towards Copenhagen. Rostock–Gedser is less about the shortest possible ferry hop and more about choosing the route that best matches your starting point, onward drive and preferred rhythm of travel.
Our advice is to compare the full journey, not just the crossing time. Look at your drive to the German port, the ferry sailing, the drive through Denmark and your final crossing into Sweden. On some itineraries, Puttgarden–Rødby will be the cleaner shortcut. On others, Rostock–Gedser gives you a calmer break and a better line through Denmark.
Ferry from Rostock to Gedser
The Rostock to Gedser ferry is a popular choice for travellers heading to Denmark, Copenhagen, or Sweden by car. This route connects Germany to the Danish island of Sjælland (Zealand), where Copenhagen is located, and offers onward access to Sweden via the Øresund Bridge.
The Crossing in Brief
- Route: Germany (Rostock) ➜ Denmark (Gedser)
- Duration: 2 hours
- Operator: Scandlines
- Best Alternative: Puttgarden–Rødby
There are two main ferry routes from Germany to Denmark:
- Puttgarden–Rødby: Located on the western side of the map, this shorter crossing (45 minutes) is particularly popular for its quick travel time and ability to reduce driving distances by 87 miles.
- Rostock–Gedser: Located on the eastern side, this 2-hour crossing is ideal for travellers heading to southern Sjælland or Sweden.
Both routes are frequently used for trips to Copenhagen and Sweden, offering flexibility depending on your itinerary.
Sailing and Check-In
- Sailing Time: The crossing takes just 2 hours.
- Check-In: Arrive at least 15 minutes before departure, but earlier arrival is recommended for a more comfortable trip.
Booking Tickets for Scandlines
Tickets for the Rostock–Gedser ferry can be purchased:
- Online: The most convenient and cost-effective option.
- By Phone: Additional fee of £13.
- At the Port: Additional fee of £13.
Booking online is highly recommended to save money and ensure availability.
Our own experience while sailing back on the route from Gedser to Rosck
Our ferry adventure: the shortcut to Denmark and Sweden!
Relevant crossings to combine with Rostock – Gedser plus alternatives
On board & ferry route maps
Additional Information
When travelling on ferries between the UK and Denmark (via France, the Netherlands, or Germany), here are a few important things to keep in mind:
- Bring your passport: Since Brexit, a driver’s licence or ID card is no longer sufficient for travel to Denmark.
- Download entertainment in advance: For longer crossings, it’s a good idea to download movies or series beforehand, as Wi-Fi on board can be expensive, and roaming in international waters can incur high costs. Especially on the longer sailings this is relevant.
- Travelling with young children on a night ferry? We’ve got helpful tips for travelling with kids to ensure a smooth journey.
- Driving in Europe: After disembarking, remember to drive on the right-hand side of the road. It may feel unfamiliar at first, but you’ll quickly adjust.
- Seasickness: Concerned about seasickness? Check out our tips to help prevent it during your crossing.
Useful for travellers to Scandinavia
Tips for ferry travellers
