Heweliusz: Release date on Netflix

Heweliusz: Netflix’s New Polish Series Based on the Tragic Jan Heweliusz Ferry Disaster

On November 5th, 2025, Netflix will release one of its most ambitious productions from Eastern Europe: Heweliusz, a Polish series that revisits the tragic story of the Jan Heweliusz ferry sinking in 1993. This historical drama promises not only to deliver intense emotions but also to offer a deep dive into one of the most discussed maritime disasters in Polish history.

With a stellar cast and a large-scale production, Heweliusz aims to captivate a global audience and position itself as a standout hit in Netflix’s catalog. Below, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about this gripping series.

What is Heweliusz About?

Heweliusz tells the story of the sinking of the MS Jan Heweliusz, a tragic event that occurred on January 14th, 1993, near the German island of Rügen in the Baltic Sea. Out of the 64 people on board, only 9 survived, while 55 lives were lost in the storm. This disaster not only shocked Poland but also raised numerous questions about safety failures, negligence, and corruption within the maritime industry of the time.

The series’ plot goes beyond the sinking itself. It also explores the emotional and legal aftermath of the disaster, focusing on the victims’ families who fought for justice. Using real testimonies, court documents, and a carefully crafted narrative, Heweliusz promises to be a powerful work that interweaves human drama with historical tensions.

The Historical Context Behind the Disaster

The Jan Heweliusz, grimly nicknamed “the floating coffin,” had a long history of mechanical problems before its sinking. Previous incidents included a fire at sea and a near-sinking in port. Additionally, the ship had not undergone stability tests after recent repairs, making it particularly vulnerable during the violent storms that struck the Baltic Sea on that fateful day.

Captain Andrzej Ułasiewicz and his crew were also the subject of controversy, as initial investigations attempted to blame them for the tragedy rather than addressing the structural and maintenance issues of the ferry.

What Makes the Heweliusz Series Unique?

1. Based on Rigorous Research

The series, directed by Jan Holoubek and written by Kacper Bajon, is built on extensive research, including:

• Survivor testimonies.
• Court documents from the Maritime Chamber trials.
• Accounts from the victims’ families.

While many characters are fictional, the events are deeply grounded in real-life facts, ensuring an authentic and emotionally impactful portrayal.

2. A Human and Emotional Focus

Beyond the tragedy itself, Heweliusz stands out for its focus on the survivors, the victims’ families, and their fight for justice. According to the producers, the series not only recounts the events but also sheds light on the systemic failures that led to this catastrophe.

3. Large-Scale Production

Filmed across more than 70 locations in Poland and Belgium, the series includes:

• 700 tons of water used to recreate the storm scenes.
• Immersive sets designed to simulate the sinking.
• Over 120 actors and 2,000 period vehicles to accurately capture the essence of the 1990s.

Heweliusz Cast Highlights

Heweliusz features a star-studded cast of renowned Polish actors, both nationally and internationally acclaimed. Some of the key names include:

• Borys Szyc (Cold War) as Captain Andrzej Ułasiewicz.
• Magdalena Różczka (33 Scenes from Life) as Jolanta Ułasiewicz, the captain’s wife.
• Jan Englert (Katyń) as Ojciec Bintera.
• Jacek Koman (Moulin Rouge!) as Ignacy Budzisz, a lawyer for the families.
• Magdalena Zawadzka (Pan Wołodyjowski) as Matka Bintera.

With over 120 actors, the cast breathes life into the passengers, the families, and key figures involved in the subsequent investigations.

Where Was Heweliusz Filmed?

The series was primarily filmed in Poland, in cities such as Wroclaw and Warsaw, but also included scenes shot at a specialist studio in Brussels, Belgium. This facility, equipped with advanced technology, allowed for the recreation of maritime storms with an impressive level of realism.

Actors faced intense challenges during filming, especially in underwater scenes. According to one cast member, “the water sequences felt so real that it seemed like we were genuinely fighting for survival.”

Heweliusz Release Date on Netflix

The series will premiere exclusively on Netflix on November 5th, 2025. With an expected runtime of 5 episodes, Heweliusz promises to be a gripping experience for fans of historical dramas.

Why Should You Watch Heweliusz?

If you enjoy series based on real-life events, filled with emotions and a solid narrative, Heweliusz is a must-watch. This production not only revisits one of the most impactful maritime tragedies but also highlights the importance of memory and the pursuit of justice in the face of adversity.

Frequently Asked Questions About Heweliusz

1. Is Heweliusz based on a true story?

Yes, the series is inspired by the sinking of the Jan Heweliusz ferry in 1993, one of the largest maritime disasters in Polish history.

2. When will Heweliusz be released on Netflix?

The series will be available starting November 5th, 2025.

3. How many episodes does the series have?

While not officially confirmed, the series is expected to have 5 episodes.

4. Who directs Heweliusz?

The series is directed by Jan Holoubek, known for his work in historical dramas.

Heweliusz promises to be one of the most anticipated series of the year, blending a compelling true story with an impressive production scale. Are you ready to dive into this gripping tale? Let us know your thoughts and get ready for the premiere on Netflix this November 5th!