Historic Schengen Agreement Ship Returns to Luxembourg

Historic Schengen Agreement Ship Returns to Luxembourg

The ship where the Schengen Agreement was signed in 1985 is preparing for its journey back to Luxembourg after undergoing a complete renovation. The vessel, named Prinzessin Marie-Astrid Europa, will depart from a shipyard in Niederkassel, Germany, on June 6.

40th Anniversary Celebrations

On June 14—the 40th anniversary of the Schengen Agreement signing—the ship will arrive in the Moselle village of Schengen, where it will be ceremoniously welcomed. The event will be attended by numerous politicians, Luxembourg’s Grand Duke Henri, Grand Duchess Maria Teresa, and other dignitaries.

A Symbol of Border-Free Europe

The Schengen Agreement, signed aboard this ship, established the gradual removal of border controls among Germany, France, Luxembourg, Belgium, and the Netherlands. Today, the Schengen Area includes 29 countries and nearly 420 million residents.

After its return, the ship will be permanently stationed in Schengen and will host an onboard exhibition. The vessel was repurchased by Luxembourg in 2021 after years of service as a passenger ship on the Danube.

Criticism of Border Controls

While Schengen symbolizes a border-free Europe, recent reintroductions of border controls by Germany have faced criticism, particularly in the tri-border region. Luxembourg has formally objected to these measures at the EU level.

The celebrations will also include the reopening of the renovated European Museum in Schengen and the inauguration of a new dock for the historic ship. The total cost of the project is estimated at €17.7 million.