The ferries of Basel

1 - Rivers have always been important to people’s lives. People could draw drinking water from them, travel long distances by boat and ship, and transport goods. Rivers were also used to dispose of rubbish and wastewater. But one of the most important questions has always been: how do you get from one side of a river to the other?2 - In the city of Basel, this was solved as follows: the Rhine flows right through the middle of the city, dividing it into Kleinbasel and Grossbasel. For a long time, there was only one bridge across the river, now known as the “Middle Bridge.”

3 - In 1853, a ferry across the Rhine was set up near the city. The people of Basel thought it was a good idea and wanted “flying bridges” of their own. That was the name given at the time to ferries that carried people across a river. 4 - Over time, five ferry crossings were established across the Rhine in Basel. They worked very well, and the ferrymen who carried passengers and goods across the river every day earned a good living. Several new bridges now cross the Rhine, however, and the ferries have become much less important.

5 - But they still exist today. Only four ferries now carry people from one side of the river to the other. They even have names: one is called “Ueli,” and the others are “Leu,” “Wild Maa” and “Vogel Gryff.”6 - The ferries work very simply. They are so-called “cable ferries.” Each boat is attached to a long cable that moves along a steel cable stretched across the Rhine, using a special mechanism. This long cable is fastened to a lever on the boat.

7 - When pushing off, the ferryman points this lever towards the bank. This causes the boat to lie at an angle in the river. The current presses against the boat and carries it across the Rhine. Just before docking, the ferryman straightens the boat again, and for the return trip he simply moves the lever to the other side.8 - This means there is no need for oars or engines. The current alone is enough to carry the boats back and forth. If you don't believe it, take a trip to Basel and try it out. - Pictures: Hamsterkiste