The Port of Klaipeda (Lithuania) has commenced construction of a EUR 43.9 million cruise ship terminal.
Contracted to UAB Tilsta, the 3-year project will involve reconstructing existing quays, constructing new berthing infrastructure, and adjusting basin depths near Winter Harbour to accommodate modern maritime demands.
Algis Latakas (Director General of the Klaipeda State Seaport Authority) emphasized the terminal’s role in merging port functionality with cultural and recreational spaces. The design, finalized in late 2023, includes an open amphitheater facing the water, pedestrian and cycling pathways, event zones, and a marina for recreational vessels to address current docking shortages. An adjacent administrative building will house port management offices, a cafe, a conference room, and a rooftop observation deck.
Environmental impact assessments concluded in July 2023, with building permits secured by October 2023. Procurement for ancillary works is ongoing.
The project aligns with shifting cruise industry trends, evidenced by the 2024 season’s early commencement on February 24th with Ambassador Cruise Line’s vessel Ambience. Latakas noted this reflects growing off-season maritime tourism, necessitating adaptable infrastructure. In 2025, Ambience delivered 1,289 predominantly British passengers, with ~40% of scheduled vessels exceeding 290 meters in length.
This investment underscores Klaipeda’s strategic response to increasing cruise traffic and the sector’s year-round operational evolution, positioning the port as a competitive Baltic hub.