Hjejlen has been named a historical monument by the Ship Preservation Foundation.
S/S Hjejlen is Denmark’s oldest steamship and the world’s oldest coal-fired paddle steamer still in operation with its original engine. When Hjejlen was delivered in 1861, she was at the forefront of modern technology. Today, Hjejlen is designated a historic monument by the Skibsbevaringsfonden. When you step on board Hjejlen, you embark on a journey back in time.
You follow in the footsteps of proud locals, curious visitors, the Royal Family, and H.C. Andersen, all of whom loved sailing aboard S/S Hjejlen. As the beautiful scenery glides by, you can watch the stoker shovel coal into the boiler and see the engineer lubricate the old engine — exactly as it has been done for more than 150 years.
Since 1861
1861
On 25 May 1861, Hjejlen was launched at Baumgarten & Burmeister in Copenhagen, commissioned by Silkeborg’s visionary founder at a cost of 10,000 rigsdaler — double the approved budget.
The official inauguration took place on 24 June, when Frederik VII, Countess Danner, and Drewsen, together with specially invited guests, sailed from Himmelbjerget to Silkeborg.
1900
S/S Hjejlen underwent its first major refit ahead of the 1900 season. This included a new, modern ship’s boiler and a new, shorter funnel — which therefore no longer needed to be lowered when passing beneath the railway bridge. The wheel was moved forward, and the steering position was covered by an extended, fixed metal roof. In addition, a railing was installed around the foredeck, allowing for an increase in the number of side seats.
1936
On 24 June 1936, Hjejlen marked her 75th anniversary with an unofficial “mini regatta,” featuring harbour-side entertainment and an open-air dance on the town square following the cruise — though without fireworks.
2011
Hjejlen’s 150th anniversary was celebrated in grand style. Queen Margrethe II honoured Hjejleselskabet by taking part in the celebrations, including a voyage from Himmelbjerget to Silkeborg — just as Frederik VII and Countess Danner did on 24 June 1861, when S/S Hjejlen was inaugurated.
Engine power: 50 hp
Top speed: 8 knots
Max number of passengers: 130
Table seats: 100
On Hjejlen, you sit on benches upstairs and downstairs, outside and inside. You create your very own authentic experience on Denmark’s entire gem as she slowly but surely glides through the lakes of Søhøjlandet, embraced by the magnificent nature.
When you rent Hjejlen, you get a wonderful crew to sail the boat. You set the course, but there are always plenty of ideas and good advice available both at the Hjejleselskabet office and in the boat’s wheelhouse.
Perhaps the boat will take a round trip without stops while you enjoy refreshments on board. Maybe you’ll dock at one of the small landing stages along the lakes so everyone can disembark for a brisk walk. Or perhaps we can together create a different program based on your wishes and our experience. There are many possibilities when you set sail with a Hjejle boat from the dock.
With us, you decide whether you want to arrange your next event yourself or draw on our many years of experience. Contact us for further information at +45 86 82 07 66 or via mail@hjejlen.com.
Great events last longer than just a single day or evening. They live on in memories and conversations long after. By choosing to host your event on one of the Hjejle boats, you’ve already laid the solid foundation that ensures the event will be a resounding success.
Practical info
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