Bremerhaven is planning a replica of the Najad – money problems threaten the project!

Bremerhaven is planning a replica of the Najad – money problems threaten the project!

The dream of replicating the historic “Najad” in Bremerhaven seems increasingly unlikely. The city originally planned to build the steel ship, which was built in Germany in 1888 and sank in 1917 during the First World War, as a replacement for the tall ship “Seute Deern”. This unique setting was last found in the Bremerhaven Museum Harbor before it burned down in 2019 due to a fire and neglect and sank in the Museum Harbor. The loss of the “Seute Deern” proved to be a turning point and sparked the desire of many to revive the “Najade” as a new landmark and world of experience, but the reality is different.

As the taz reported, SPD member of the Bundestag Uwe Schmidt secured 45 million euros in federal funding for the replica. But the plans met with resistance: The Left and the Taxpayers' Association questioned the economic viability of the project and called for a closer examination. The results showed that the replica of the “Najade” could only be economically viable in one of three scenarios - and only with an unrealistically high number of visitors. Science Senator Kathrin Moosdorf from the Green Party also made it clear that additional funds would not be available from her budget.

Political concerns and financial nunans

The financial challenge is more acute than ever. The federal government would provide around 46 million euros, but the state of Bremen would also have to invest. Moosdorf emphasized that the German Maritime Museum and the state of Bremen did not have any money available to support this project. Their focus is now on applying for financial support for the “Sharoun Building” of the shipping museum, which could mean that the “Najad” falls by the wayside for the time being. “There’s something going on,” one might say, and the city is faced with the question of what to do next.

Bremerhaven also sees itself in a difficult budget situation. Mayor Melf Grantz (SPD) explained that the city cannot raise the necessary funds. Instead, the city administration plans to reallocate part of the approved funds for the maintenance of existing ships in the museum harbor in order to ensure a certain preservation of shipping culture.

A look into maritime history

The stories surrounding ships like the “Najad” are deeply rooted in history. These fascinating tales of seafaring and shipping attract passionate historians and interested parties alike. The Shipping history not only offers a platform for discussions and exchange among experts, but also invites you to discover hidden facts about our maritime past. Looking at past adventures and technological developments can help us better understand the significance of historic ships.

It currently remains to be seen what will happen with the replica of the “Najade”. The pressure on politicians will grow, and it remains to be hoped that the unique maritime history in Bremerhaven will continue to be honored and preserved.