Port of HaminaKotka (Finland) celebrated a successful summer 2023 cruise season, hosting ~20,000 passengers across 13 ship calls. This maritime activity contributed ~EUR 4 million (US$4.3 million) to the region.
Among the calls were visits from both maiden voyages and returning ships that had previously docked in HaminaKotka. Notably, two of the ships anchored in the Eastern Gulf, near Ulko-Tammio Island.
The majority of cruisers were from six key source markets: the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the UK, and Germany. These visitors explored significant attractions, including Valkmusa National Park, the Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge, River Kymijoki, Maritime Centre Vellamo, and the towns of Kotka and Hamina.
A standout moment in the season was the arrival of Silver Wind (Silversea) at Ulko-Tammio Island in early June. Petra Cranston, the project manager for the port's cruise business, emphasized that these visits garnered significant international attention, showcasing the allure of the natural environment and fortification history of the island.
Looking ahead, the Port of HaminaKotka anticipates growth in the Eastern Baltic cruise market starting from 2026 and is proactively planning to meet this rising demand. Cranston noted that future cruise offerings may include innovative itineraries utilizing the archipelago, building on the success of visits to Ulko-Tammio during the previous summer. This approach allows cruise ships to provide a unique blend of experiences, combining visits to both a sea port and an island in the outer archipelago. The focus for the upcoming years, particularly in 2024, will center around Kantasatama.