Klaipeda, Lithuania, has its sights set on a new cruise facility
Klaipeda State Seaport Authority is in the planning stages of implementing a new cruise quay for completion in 2026. In 2024, the tenders will go out to select both the contractor and the terminal operator.
The plan is to build the new quay within the city waterfront district, which is also being developed. Within walking distance of the old town, there will be two quays of 220m and 369m in length and 8m and 11m draught respectively. The total area will cover 30,236m2.
This is adjacent to the existing quay which is 349m in length and has a depth alongside of 8.6m.
The total project cost will be funded by the Seaport.
In the last decade, calls to the port have hit highs of 62/63 (2022, 2017 and 2014) with numbers for this year due to reach 44. Passenger numbers peaked in 2017 at 74,700 with this year 45,000 expected. Out of the total port dues, about 1.8% (€750,000) come from cruise companies. Passengers spend an estimated €70 a day when visiting.
In 2022 the fairways were dredged up to -15m and this year the port entrance is being widened and dredged.
KLAIPEDA – LITHUANIA
A country on the eastern coast of the Baltic Sea, with a population of nearly 3 million, has the unique coastal region of Klaipeda.
Rich in culture and history, the country’s third largest city KLAIPEDA is surrounded by picturesque nature and remarkable historical and cultural sights.
KLAIPEDA region – the most important tourist destination in Lithuania. It displays the uniqueness of untouched nature, outstanding places of interest and a wide range of entertainment facilities. The region combines: Klaipeda city, Curonian Spit and Palanga resort town. Klaipeda city boasts of its Fachwerk-style old town, craftsmen’s courtyards, Lithuanian Maritime Museum and Dolphinarium, and a number of unique museums and sights. Curonian Spit – the confluence of untouched nature and ancient culture, renowned for the highest in Europe white-sand dunes. Palanga welcomes visitors to see its Amber Museum, botanical gardens and the long pier to the sea to enjoy the stunning sunsets.
(Klaipeda State Seaport Authority)
