The ferry Tõll, after completing necessary dock repairs in Tallinn, is set to resume its service on the Virtsu-Kuivastu route on Friday. As the vessel makes its trip, it will break through an unofficial ice road that has formed between the mainland and Hiiumaa, a practice not uncommon during the winter months when the sea freezes. Such ice roads often serve as a temporary means for local residents to travel between the two land masses.

While these unofficial ice roads can provide crucial connectivity, they also pose risks, particularly when larger vessels like the Tõll operate in the area. The breaking of this ice road signifies a disruption in the local transportation method that many residents may depend on during the colder season. It highlights the ongoing reliance of island communities on creative solutions to maintain linkages, especially when faced with harsh winter conditions.

The event underscores the importance of official ferry services in ensuring safe transportation during winter while also shedding light on the balance that must be maintained between maritime operations and local travel traditions. The operations of vessels like Tõll play a key role in the broader transport network, ensuring that essential goods and services can continue to reach Hiiumaa while also navigating the challenges posed by seasonal changes.