Tallinn experiences growth but needs it to continue

29/07/2024 | by Cruise Europe Press

Tallinn is expecting 100 calls this year, which is an increase on last year’s 90. However, the ships are smaller and hence the expected number of passengers will be less than prior to the pandemic and the Russian invasion of Ukraine, explains Sirle Arro, head of marketing & communication department Port of Tallinn.

Despite this, she comments: “It is encouraging to see that this year most of the ships are fully booked, underscoring the Baltic Sea’s growing popularity.”

Cruiselines that have returned to the Estonian capital this year are AIDA Cruises, Azamara, Crystal and Windstar, with the hope being that Viking and Carnival will come back next year. “We give special thanks to TUI Cruises who started first after Covid and have kept the capacity since then,” says Arro.

The majority of of cruise passengers are German, followed by Americans and British. An increase is now being seen in in travellers from as far afield as Australia, China and Japan.

In 2024, Tallinn will host 42 different ships, including 10 making their first-ever call. A highlight this summer and a remind of busier times in 2019, was July 10 when there five cruiseships in at the same time.

“We hope that cruiselines realise that the destinations need their support by bringing back the ships. We cannot lose more guides and buses and bus-drivers to other industries. This is supported by the positive trend that people would like to explore the destination in depth and more of them are choosing organised tours,” adds Arro.

Another positive trend is that the season is becoming longer. Traditionally it was May to September but this year it began with Fred Olsen Cruise Line’s Borealis in April, there are several calls in October and two Christmas calls from Ponant in December. Next year is looking similar.

“We are positively surprised that some more cruiselines are considering to bring their guests to Tallinn and the Baltics during Christmas. We have a few enquiries for 2026 and beyond. Our Christmas market on town hall square is rated one of the best in the Europe. There are Christmas concerts and special winter programmes in most of the attractions, and we have not had ice until February for many years,” says Arro.

The new terminal features modern facilities and improved access to the city. On top of the terminal is a 850m-long open seafront promenade with scenics view to the sea and the city. Being located close to the Unesco-listed Old Town, it is easy for passengers to explore the city on foot, thereby reducing carbon emissions.

Tallinn is increasingly focused on sustainable tourism, offering several eco-friendly products and experiences. Guided bike tours provide a green way to explore Tallinn's neighbourhoods, parks, and coastline. Nature-based experiences in Rocca Al Mare Open Air museum showcase traditional Estonian village life, Lahemaa National Park offers hiking, birdwatching and exploring historical manor houses. From next year the port area will be connected by tram, providing a green travel option for getting around the city.

Arro says: “With its picturesque coastlines, vibrant cities, and a commitment to sustainability, the Baltic is well-positioned to attract more cruiseships and provide unforgettable experiences for travellers. It is time for the cruise Industry to believe in our destination and bring more ships back.”

The port is no stranger to onshore power, having installations at five quays to service the ferries. The plan now is to provide OPS for cruiseships in 2030 but, due to a shortage of power in the city centre, the port is looking for and analysing solutions for the power supply.

Whilst already supplying LNG to the cruiseships, the port is discussing with energy companies the possibility of providing alternative fuels, such as green methanol in the future.

AIDAdiva, Celebrity Silhouette and Mein Schiff 1 in Old City Harbour, Tallinn © Argo Viikvald

TALLINN | Estonia

Cruise Europe Press
susanparkersp@gmail.com

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