Port of Gdańsk: steady cruise traffic and larger vessels on the horizon

From record numbers to steady growth

The year 2022 marked a record high for Gdańsk, when 79 cruise ships carrying 29,500 passengers visited the port – a strong rebound after the pandemic pause. The increase was also influenced by geopolitical factors. Following the outbreak of war in Ukraine and sanctions imposed on Russia, Saint Petersburg – previously the third most visited Baltic cruise port – disappeared from cruise itineraries, and a portion of that traffic was redirected to alternative ports, including Gdańsk.

In the following seasons, the situation stabilized. In 2023, 42 cruise vessels called at Gdańsk, followed by 60 in 2024 and 57 in 2025. Over the 2025 season alone, more than 27,000 international tourists – mainly from the US, UK, and Germany – visited the city. The most popular attractions among passengers include the Royal Route, Artus Court, St. Mary’s Basilica, the Oliwa Cathedral (famous for organ concerts), Malbork Castle, the European Solidarity Centre, the Museum of the Second World War, and the Amber Museum.

Bigger ships, better infrastructure

The stable cruise traffic is a result of a well-planned promotional strategy, including the Port of Gdańsk’s active presence at major international industry events such as Seatrade Cruise Global in Miami and Seatrade Cruise Europe in Hamburg.

- Gdańsk has huge tourism and logistics potential. Its unique advantage lies in the port’s location – right in the heart of a historic city – allowing passengers to explore one of Poland’s most beautiful destinations within just a few hours, says Michał Stupak, Customer Relationship Manager at the Shipping Market Department, Port of Gdańsk Authority SA.

Infrastructure upgrades have also played a key role. Until recently, the port could accommodate vessels up to 225–240 metres in length. Thanks to dredging and modernization works within the Inner Port, Gdańsk can now receive significantly larger ships – up to 250 metres and more.
In July, the Bahamian-flagged Crystal Serenity berthed at the Westerplatte Quay – one of the world’s most luxurious cruise ships. Measuring 250 metres in length, the vessel features 347 cabins, two swimming pools, a golf area, a full-size tennis court, a shopping arcade, a casino, and several restaurants and bars.

The 239-metre Viking Vella has called at the port four times this season, while next year Gdańsk will welcome the Rotterdam – a 299-metre cruise ship that will become the largest passenger vessel ever to visit the port. Its arrival will serve as a symbolic confirmation of Gdańsk’s growing status on global cruise itineraries.

Ambitious outlook

The Port of Gdańsk’s potential goes far beyond the current 60 annual calls. According to estimates, the port could handle up to 120 vessels per year with proper scheduling and further infrastructure expansion.

- Cruise ships typically stay in Gdańsk for 8 to 12 hours, allowing passengers to explore the city and nearby attractions. We also host overnight calls 2–3 times a year, which bring even greater economic benefits for local businesses and the tourism sector, adds Stupak.

With stable operations, ongoing investments, and expanding capabilities, the Port of Gdańsk is steadily strengthening its position among the leading cruise destinations in the Baltic. It stands as a clear example of consistent infrastructure development and long-term strategic planning in alignment with the expectations of global cruise operators.