The work was supported by the federal government with over two million euros. The city of Cuxhaven also made a significant contribution to the preservation of this maritime cultural asset with 400,000 euros.
Ship parade and helicopter accompany the "Elbe 1"
An impressive ship parade is planned for the ceremonial return of the "Elbe 1": From around 2 p.m., the convoy will set course for Alte Liebe from the Kugelbake. A total of seven ships and a naval helicopter from Nordholz will accompany the "Red Lady" on her return home. Among others, the government vessels "BP 83 Bad Düben", "WS 1 Bürgermeister Brauer" and "MZS Neuwerk", the "Schlepper Wulf", the sea rescuers with the "Annelise Kramer" and, as a guest, the sail training ship "Großherzogin Elisabeth" from Elsfleth will be on board.
The arrival at Alte Liebe is planned between 2.30 and 3 p.m. - traditionally and musically accompanied by the Cuxhaven Shanty Choir. Those interested can follow the maritime spectacle live along the coast and at many vantage points.
It will be a very special moment to welcome the 'Red Lady' back to her home country!
Cuxhaven's Lord Mayor Uwe Santjer thanks everyone involved: "I would like to thank everyone from the bottom of my heart - the shipyard for the professional repairs, the volunteers on the 'Elbe 1' for their tireless commitment, the administration and all the institutions and crews who immediately agreed to take part in the parade. This interaction shows how strong the cohesion in our maritime community is."
Remaining work for the upcoming season
Once in the harbour, the lightship is prepared for the upcoming season. For organisational reasons, it is unfortunately not possible for the public to visit the ship on the day of its return. The use of drones is also strictly prohibited for safety reasons - in particular due to the use of the naval aircraft.
Floating monument
The "Elbe 1" is not only a floating monument to German shipping history, but also the last manned lightship in this position. The "Red Lady" was once built at the Meyer shipyard in Papenburg and was once the largest lightship in the world with a length of 57.30 metres. The "Elbe 1" itself was decommissioned in 1988 and has been housed in Cuxhaven as a museum ship since 3 June 1990. With her return on Easter Sunday, the "Red Lady" continues her history as a living symbol of maritime tradition - an event that will not only delight ship lovers.
