Cruise ship traffic at the Port of Gdańsk remains stable, averaging around 60 calls per year. Although there have been some fluctuations over the past few years, the Port of Gdańsk has consistently remained one of the key destinations on the Baltic Sea cruise map. Soon, it may strengthen this position even further – thanks to its ability to accommodate larger vessels. For 2027, as many as 105 cruise ship calls have already been announced.

The record year for cruise calls was 2022, when traffic resumed after the pandemic-related hiatus. That year, 79 ships with a total of 29,500 passengers arrived at the Port of Gdańsk. It was also a unique year due to geopolitical circumstances – following the outbreak of war in Ukraine and the imposition of sanctions on Russia, passenger vessels began bypassing St. Petersburg, which had previously been the third most visited cruise port in the Baltic Sea. Some of this traffic was redirected to ports such as Gdańsk.

In the following years, the situation stabilized – in 2023, 42 ships called at the port; in 2024, 60; and in 2025, a similar number – with 57 cruise ships visiting the Port of Gdańsk this season. Altogether, more than 27,000 tourists from dozens of countries have arrived in Gdańsk. The majority are Americans, Britons, and Germans. Once ashore, visitors most often explore the Royal Route, Artus Court, St. Mary’s Basilica, Oliwa Cathedral (organ concerts), Malbork Castle, the European Solidarity Centre, the Amber Museum, and the Museum of the Second World War.

Larger Vessels – The Result of Investment

Stable cruise traffic is the outcome of a well-planned promotional strategy, which includes the Port of Gdańsk’s participation in prestigious international industry fairs such as Seatrade Cruise Global in Miami and Seatrade Cruise Europe in Hamburg. As a result, Gdańsk has become a recognized destination for tour operators planning Baltic Sea itineraries.

“Gdańsk has tremendous tourist and logistical potential. The Port of Gdańsk is located right in the heart of the historic city, allowing passengers to explore one of Poland’s most beautiful places within just a few hours. This is a major competitive advantage compared to many other ports in the region,” says Michał Stupak, Client Manager at the Shipping Market Department of the Port of Gdańsk Authority SA.

There are also other advantages. Until recently, only vessels up to 225–240 meters long could dock at the Port of Gdańsk’s quays. However, thanks to infrastructure investments and dredging works in the Inner Port, the port can now accommodate much larger ships – up to and beyond 250 meters in length. In July, the Crystal Serenity – a Bahamian-flagged giant – berthed at the Westerplatte Quay. It is one of the most luxurious cruise ships in the world, measuring 250 meters long and operated by the prestigious Crystal Cruises line, renowned for its exclusive service, elegance, and top-tier travel experiences. Built in 2003 and refurbished two years ago, the vessel offers 347 cabins, two swimming pools, a modern fitness center, a golf area, a full-size tennis court, a luxury shopping promenade, a casino, as well as restaurants and bars.

This season, the Viking Vella – a slightly smaller vessel at 239 meters – called at the Port of Gdańsk four times. Next year, the Rotterdam, measuring 299 meters, is scheduled to arrive. It will be the largest passenger ship ever to visit the port, marking a symbolic confirmation that the city on the Motława River has firmly established itself on the global map of maritime cruise routes.

Port of Gdańsk – A Key Point on the Baltic Sea

The Port of Gdańsk’s potential is far greater than its current 60 annual calls. According to estimates, the port could handle up to 120 ships per year, provided that scheduling and infrastructure continue to develop.

“Typically, cruise ships stay in the Port of Gdańsk for 8 to 12 hours, which gives passengers enough time for an intensive sightseeing experience of the city and its surroundings. However, there are also longer visits – overnight stays – about two to three times per year, when the cruise itinerary includes a night in port. These visits are particularly welcomed by local businesses and the tourism industry, as cruise ships and their passengers generate income mainly for the city,” adds Michał Stupak.

Steady traffic, growing capabilities, and continued investment make the Port of Gdańsk not only maintain but also strengthen its position among Baltic ports. It stands as proof of consistent investment, development, and the ongoing adaptation of infrastructure to meet the expectations of global cruise operators.