The Port of Klaipėda opens the cruise season: over 60 ships expected and a passenger record in sight

KLAIPEDA: The first cruise ship of the season has already arrived the Port of Klaipėda. This year, more than 60 impressive ships will arrive at the port, bringing a record number of tourists to the region.

“On Saturday, we welcomed the first cruise ship of the season – the Bahamas-flagged MS Hamburg. The first ship arrived nearly full, bringing not only several hundred tourists but also a promise of an active and record-breaking season. We expect around 90,000 tourists to reach Lithuania through the Port of Klaipėda this year – a record in the port’s history. And when we look ahead to 2027, we already see over 100 ships and even more travelers. This confirms that our decision to develop a new cruise terminal was timely – it will significantly improve the quality of passenger experience and strengthen Lithuania’s image as an attractive cruise destination,” says Algis Latakas, CEO of Klaipėda State Seaport Authority.

The cruise season in Klaipėda, which began on May 2, is expected to run until mid-October. During this period, 64 ships are scheduled to arrive, including four making their first call. Most ships are expected to arrive at full capacity.

July will be the busiest month, with 16 cruise ships expected. June and September will each see 12 ships, while August will welcome 14. A standout date this season is June 17, when three cruise ships will visit Klaipėda at the same time: the 225-meter MS Europa 2, the 193-meter Amadea, and the 100-meter Clio. On July 1, two ships – the 175-meter Deutschland and Clio – will be berthed at the port.

As every year, the season will also feature large cruise vessels. On May 8, the nearly 300-meter Sapphire Princess will arrive for the first time. This seven-deck ship can carry around 3,000 passengers. In May, Klaipėda will also welcome MSC Poesia and MSC Magnifica, both measuring 294 meters in length. The largest ship of the season, the 316-meter Mein Schiff 7, will arrive on July 16. Towards the end of the season, in late September, the 300-meter Rotterdam will call at the port. Slightly smaller but equally eye-catching is the colorful Norwegian Sun, decorated with bright sun motifs, which will visit Klaipėda for the first time on June 20. This ship is operating in the Baltic Sea region for its first season.

The Port of Klaipėda is preparing to handle the growing number of tourists. Construction of the new cruise terminal is already underway. It will become a high-quality public space for residents and create a strong first impression for visitors arriving in Lithuania by sea. The €50.3 million terminal is scheduled for completion in 2027.