# Polferries: A Baltic Shipping Giant ## History and Development Polferries, originally named Polska Żegluga Bałtycka (PŻB), was established on 31 January 1976 under a ministerial order to boost the economic activity of the Central Pomeranian region. Founded as a state-owned enterprise with headquarters in Kołobrzeg, it initially operated four ships acquired from the Polish Shipping Lines (PŻM). In 1992, the company transitioned from a state-owned entity to a private limited company. Over the years, it has adapted to market demands by modernizing its fleet and expanding services. Key milestones include joining the International Safety Management Code (ISM) in 1998 and achieving ISO 9002 certification in 1997. ## Fleet and Services ### Current Fleet - **MF Mazovia**: Ex-Vitaloon (Witold Czapski, 2015) – operates Świnoujście–Ystad route. - **MS Parsęta**: A cargo vessel used for regional transport. - **MF Scandinavia**: Replaced MF Rogalin (2003) on Gdańsk–Nynäshamn line until 2015. - **Nova Star** (2018): New addition to the Gdańsk–Nynäshamn route. Polferries also managed smaller vessels like kołmaxy (Morskie Kozaki) for cargo transport to ports such as Kołobrzeg, Darłowo, and Łeba. ### Tourist Offerings The company organizes cruises to Denmark, Sweden, Norway, and Finland, catering to outdoor enthusiasts (hikers, cyclists, anglers). Its routes include: - Gdańsk–Nynäshamn - Świnoujście–Ystad - Kołobrzeg–Nexø ## Privatization Attempts From 2009 to 2015, the Ministry of Finance sought buyers, culminating in seven bids. In 2015, Ministerial Decree No. 27/2015 outlined plans for privatization, drawing opposition from labor unions and regional authorities. ## Financial and Cultural Impact With 9 affiliated companies as of 2024, Polferries remains a key player in Baltic shipping. Notable achievements include transporting over 11 million passengers by 2003 and winning the 2003 Bronze Duck Award.