Drotten Ship Details and Seafarer Feedback

During a routine inspection conducted on January 27, 2026, legionella bacteria were detected onboard the ferry 'Drotten', which serves the Visby to Oskarshamn route. The discovery indicated that elevated bacterial levels originated from either a shower head or a drain within one of the vessel's 70 cabins, but reassurances were provided that the drinking water remained unaffected. As a precautionary measure, all cabins were temporarily closed for bookings to eliminate the bacteria, a process anticipated to take about a week. Despite this setback, ferry operations continued as usual. Following standard protocol, clean-up operations commenced on January 28, with ongoing monitoring through sampling to ensure safety. Notably, as of January 28, there have been no reported cases of illness linked to the bacteria on the ferry prior to its scheduled 04:50 p.m. departure from Visby on January 27.

In a significant development, both individuals suspected of issuing a bomb threat against the ferry 'Drotten' are now in police custody and undergoing questioning. The suspects have confessed to leaving the threat of an explosion but simultaneously claimed that their intentions were not serious and posed no genuine danger. The case has now been transferred to the prosecutor's office, who will determine the next steps in the investigation. The incident has raised concerns about security and safety in maritime transport.

In a tense turn of events on the evening of September 19, 2025, authorities were called to address a potential bomb threat concerning the 'Drotten' ferry in Oskarshamn. The alert was received at approximately 7:40 PM, prompting immediate action from local law enforcement. Police officers swiftly boarded the ferry to conduct investigations, engaging with both the crew and the vessel's captain regarding the situation. As the night progressed, the police determined that the threat was likely unfounded but have classified the incident as a serious unlawful threat and continue to pursue the investigation. The alarm was raised after a staff member discovered a handwritten note aboard the ferry suggesting an intent to cause an explosion. Authorities believe the note may have been left by an individual who disembarked the ferry. For more detailed coverage, including photos and video from the incident, visit: https://www.aftonbladet.se/nyheter/a/3Mrj2v/misstankt-hot-pa-destination-gotlands-farja-i-oskarshamn?fbclid=Iwb21leAM6peFjbGNrAzql3mV4dG4DYWVtAjExAAEenLluTlmyDAumjvNQ0LRExwx86GFGbVScAjSyak46kGS-yoabiSjoUpyOt1c_aem_rMjSTZ96PWBcVGSuv5RKzQ.

On the afternoon of August 27, a technical malfunction in the propulsion system of the ferry 'Drotten', which operates the route between Visby and Oskarshamn, caused considerable disruptions to ferry services. The vessel, slated to depart from Visby at 4:40 p.m., remained docked at the port well into the early hours of the following day, delaying its service until after midnight. Due to the persistent propulsion issues, the 'Drotten' has been temporarily removed from its scheduled operations, prompting additional delays on August 28. Recognizing the urgency of the situation and the inability to resolve the mechanical issues quickly, ferry operators arranged for a replacement vessel to take over overnight. Consequently, the morning sailings on August 28 were also impacted as a result of these unforeseen complications. Fortunately, the 'Drotten' successfully resumed its ferry service between Visby and Oskarshamn after completing the necessary repairs later that day.

On June 19, 2019, the ferry 'Gotland' experienced a significant engine malfunction that disrupted its timely departure from Nynäshamn, originally scheduled for 11:15 a.m. After addressing the technical issue, the vessel eventually set sail from Oskarshamn at noon. Following the delay, 'Gotland' reached its destination in Visby by 3 p.m., causing inconvenience to passengers awaiting the service.

The ferry 'Gotland', which was traveling from Oskarshamn to Visby, faced an unexpected delay on March 24, 2018, around 11 p.m. The reason for the hold-up was a cooling water issue that needed immediate attention. After successful repairs were conducted, the vessel was able to proceed into the dock without further incident. During the delay, the captain kept passengers updated and ensured their safety by advising them to remain seated and calm while the ferry drifted off the port.

On November 28, 2016, gale force winds led to the cancellation of the scheduled sailing of the 'Gotland' ferry from Nynäshamn at 8:05 PM. Travelers were further affected as the morning departure from Visby on November 29 at 7:30 AM was also scrapped due to the harsh weather conditions. Additionally, the ferry route from Oskarshamn, which was supposed to operate on November 28 at 8:10 PM, faced disruptions. This service has been rescheduled for the morning of November 29, with an anticipated arrival in Visby at 10:55 AM. Passengers are advised to stay updated on conditions as severe weather continues to impact ferry operations across the region.