AIDA Cruises returns to Riga (Latvia) after 5-year hiatus

   June 27, 2024 ,   Cruise Industry

This season, AIDA Cruises returns to Riga (Latvia) with 9 scheduled calls across 3 ships, marking the end of a 5-year hiatus.

An AIDA spokesperson stated they are pleased to return to this wonderful port, offering their guests the diverse experiences of the Baltic. AIDA Cruises have more calls planned than in 2019, with 9 calls expected in both 2024 and 2025. Their shore excursion program caters to all preferences, from quick overviews of Riga to full-day trips to Kemeri National Park or Jurmala.

On average, 40% of AIDA passengers participate in land tours, which is a typical rate for shore excursions. These tours include various thematic excursions around the capital, such as cultural and local tourism programs and culinary tours. Other options include visits to the picturesque town of Sigulda and Rundale Palace, as well as guided walks along marsh paths.

Most cruise tourists arriving in Riga are from Germany. In 2023, German cruise passengers accounted for 40% of all cruise tourists, totaling 32.7 thousand passengers. This year, Riga anticipates even more German visitors due to AIDA's return.

This season, the port has 68 calls planned.

Following discussions at Seatrade Cruise Global with cruise line representatives, Riga has secured calls from several companies for their world cruise itineraries in 2025 and 2026.