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Zonnebloem cruise ship out of service after collision in Germany

The only ship operated by De Zonnebloem, a Dutch foundation providing vacations for people with physical disabilities, has been forced out of service for several months following a collision in Germany.
MPS de Zonnebloem has been sailing for 18 years, offering accessible river cruises since its launch in 2007. The ship travels through the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany, navigating the Rhine, Maas, and IJssel rivers, as well as various canals and waterways. Each year, it provides nearly 2,800 people with physical disabilities the opportunity to enjoy worry-free vacations. MPS de Zonnebloem operates primarily through donations and sponsorships. While guests pay a contribution for their stay, this amount is heavily subsidized thanks to the generous support of donors, sponsors, and volunteers. The foundation relies on these contributions to maintain the ship, provide high-quality care, and continue offering accessible vacations for people with physical disabilities. Photo: zonnebloem.nl
MPS de Zonnebloem has been sailing for 18 years, offering accessible river cruises since its launch in 2007. The ship travels through the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany, navigating the Rhine, Maas, and IJssel rivers, as well as various canals and waterways. Each year, it provides nearly 2,800 people with physical disabilities the opportunity to enjoy worry-free vacations. MPS de Zonnebloem operates primarily through donations and sponsorships. While guests pay a contribution for their stay, this amount is heavily subsidized thanks to the generous support of donors, sponsors, and volunteers. The foundation relies on these contributions to maintain the ship, provide high-quality care, and continue offering accessible vacations for people with physical disabilities. Photo: zonnebloem.nl

The accident occurred on the Rhine near Wesel, where the ship was hit head-on by a cargo vessel during the night from Friday to Saturday. Fortunately, no passengers or crew were injured, but the damage to the ship is severe enough to suspend operations for an extended period. This is according to De Telegraaf.


Impact on disabled travelers

The Zonnebloem ship offers unique vacation opportunities for people with limited mobility, and its temporary suspension is a major disappointment for many travelers who rely on its services. The ship is specially equipped to provide accessibility and comfort, making it a vital resource for disabled individuals who might otherwise be unable to enjoy a vacation.

Uncertain timeline for repairs

The exact duration of the repairs is still unknown, but the vessel is expected to be out of service for several months. This leaves the foundation in a difficult position, as alternative arrangements for their guests will need to be considered.

MPS de Zonnebloem, the only fully accessible cruise ship operated by De Zonnebloem, was involved in a collision in Germany on March 29, 2025. With 69 passengers, 65 volunteers, and 15 crew members on board, no injuries were reported, but the ship sustained severe damage and will be out of service for an extended period. This incident affects the nearly 2,800 disabled travelers who rely on the ship for accessible vacations each year. Photo: zonnebloem.nl
MPS de Zonnebloem, the only fully accessible cruise ship operated by De Zonnebloem, was involved in a collision in Germany on March 29, 2025. With 69 passengers, 65 volunteers, and 15 crew members on board, no injuries were reported, but the ship sustained severe damage and will be out of service for an extended period. This incident affects the nearly 2,800 disabled travelers who rely on the ship for accessible vacations each year. Photo: zonnebloem.nl

A setback for a beloved organization

De Zonnebloem has been a lifeline for many disabled people in the Netherlands, offering trips that provide not only relaxation but also a sense of inclusion and community. The collision is a significant blow to the organization’s mission and to the thousands of individuals who benefit from its services.


Details of the collision involving MPS de Zonnebloem

  • Date and Time:The collision occurred during the night between Friday, March 22, and Saturday, March 23, 2025.

  • Location:The accident took place on the Rhine River near Wesel, Germany.

  • Cause of the Collision:MPS de Zonnebloem was struck head-on by a cargo ship. The exact cause of the collision is still under investigation, but initial reports suggest that it happened during navigation through a busy section of the Rhine.

  • Damage Assessment:While no passengers or crew were injured, the collision caused significant damage to MPS de Zonnebloem, rendering it unable to operate. The ship has been taken out of service for repairs, which are expected to take several months.

  • Impact on Operations:The damage has forced the cancellation of multiple scheduled cruises, disappointing thousands of disabled travelers who depend on the ship for accessible vacations. The timeline for repairs is uncertain, leaving De Zonnebloem unable to provide alternative arrangements in the meantime.

Facts about MPS de Zonnebloem and the foundation

About De Zonnebloem:De Zonnebloem is a Dutch foundation dedicated to organizing vacations and activities for people with physical disabilities. It offers specialized care and ensures that its services are fully accessible for participants who would otherwise be unable to experience such trips.

MPS de Zonnebloem: The ship
  • Dimensions:

    Length: 115 meters

    Width: 11.5 meters

    Maximum draft: 1.80 meters

    Height clearance: 8.8 meters

  • Capacity:

    11 single cabins and 29 double cabins for guests, each equipped with high-low beds, ceiling lift systems, oxygen connections, radio, TV, and an emergency call system.

    12 crew members, including the captain, engineers, and hospitality staff.

  • Decks:

    Sun deck, salon deck, main deck, and lower deck.

  • Annual Operation:

    Approximately 40 weeks per year.

    Travels through the Rhine, German waterways, and Belgian and Dutch canals.

    Hosts around 2,850 guests annually.

Onboard facilities and activities

  • Medical and Care Support:

    Professional nursing staff and care volunteers ensure medical assistance.

  • Amenities:

    Reception, restaurant, bar with coffee service, dance floor, TV, sun deck, library, hair salon, and wellness bathroom with a high-low bath.

    A medical treatment room and Wi-Fi are available.

  • Activities:

    Guests can explore local towns and participate in organized excursions or enjoy entertainment onboard, including live music nights and the Captain’s Dinner.

  • Payment System:

    Only card payments are accepted on board.

Technical details

  • Speed:

    Against current: 12.5 km/h

    With current: 22 km/h

  • Fuel Usage:

    Fuel capacity: 78,000 liters of gas oil

    Average fuel consumption: 15,000 liters per trip

  • Distance Covered Annually:

    28,000 km per year

  • MPS de Zonnebloem is the only ship of its kind, providing a fully accessible vacation experience for people with physical limitations.

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