Fate of the Greif: Credit for new life or museum ship?

Fate of the Greif: Credit for new life or museum ship?

The sailing training ship “Greif” has been inspiring people for over 30 years as the flagship and ambassador of the Hanseatic city of Greifswald in the Baltic Sea region. But the popular ship is facing a decisive turning point: after a long renovation phase, the “Greif” is threatened with the fate of becoming a museum base in Wieck harbor instead of being able to set sail again. The total costs of the renovation work so far amount to more than 4.4 million euros, but there is a lack of funds for the final measures, which cost another 2.9 million euros. Mayor Stefan Fassbinder from the Green Party has signaled that a loan to finance this essential work will be considered. This is reported by the Baltic Sea newspaper.

The “Greif”, which formerly bore the name “Wilhelm Pieck” and was the only ocean-going sailing ship in the GDR, has been in a shipyard in Stralsund for three years. The city of Greifswald is faced with the challenge of raising the necessary financial resources, while the deficit budget is causing additional concerns. Decision-makers in the community now have to decide on the fate of the ship by December 8th at the latest. In this context, Fassbinder is also holding discussions with potential funding providers, particularly the federal government, in order to obtain additional support. The financing is critically examined from various sides; The AfD is calling for clearer responsibility from the federal government, while Birgit Socher from Die Linke is hoping for regional and national support. The need to preserve the Greif as an active sailing vessel is supported by an online petition signed by almost 1,500 people.

The meaning of the “Gryphon”

Next summer the “Greif” will be 75 years old – a nice occasion to remember the region’s maritime tradition. It is all the more remarkable that in its long history the ship not only stands as a symbol of maritime culture, but also represents a connection to the history of the GDR. Many citizens of the region are hoping for a positive decision, because the “Greif” has long since secured a place in the hearts of the people of Greifswald.

But what happens next? The pressure on those responsible is increasing. According to reports, decision-makers are struggling to find the necessary financial resources while the population advocates for the preservation of the traditional ship. Citizens have a key role to play in not only rehabilitating the “Greif” as a monument of national importance, but also in getting it back on the waters as an active sailing ship. All eyes are now on the upcoming decision in December.

Overall, it shows that the “Greif” is much more than just an old ship. It is a living piece of history that embodies Greifswald's maritime identity. The place has a good knack for preserving its cultural heritage, and it remains to be hoped that this time too a way will be found to steer the traditional “Greif” into the future.