Bydgoszcz Water Tram

The Bydgoszcz Water Tram is a seasonal water tram line operating from May to September on the Brda River in Bydgoszcz. The history of water transport in the city dates back to 1933, when the first regular line was launched by a Private Shipowner, offering trips from the pier to the "Riviera" bathing area. During the interwar period, special occasion cruises were also organized, such as those for rowing regattas. After World War II, tourist ships operated on the Brda, including the ship "Ondyna," which gained popularity in the 1960s and 1970s. In 2004, the Bydgoszcz City Council launched regular water tram services with urban transportation in mind, and recent changes introduced in 2018 transformed the water tram into a tourist attraction, offering diverse routes. In response to changing passenger needs, the routes have been modified multiple times, and in the 2023 season, the number of passengers increased to 30,000, despite a previously implemented break due to the COVID-19 pandemic. An interesting fact is that the water tram initially served as urban transport and later evolved into a tourist attraction. Key vessels in the fleet include "MS Bydgoszcz," "Słonecznik," and "Słonecznik II," which differ in propulsion, capacity, and purpose; "Słonecznik" is a solar-powered unit, making it an eco-friendly means of transportation. Plans for the revitalization of the Bydgoszcz Water Hub include expanding the water tram route, which is part of a broader concept for developing the city's water infrastructure. The Bydgoszcz Water Tram is not only a means of transportation but also an important part of the historical and cultural heritage, attracting both residents and tourists.