International cruise traffic in the Baltic Sea region has undergone significant changes in recent years due to the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical disruptions. After the worst phase of the pandemic eased in 2022, it appeared that the international cruise business was set for a strong recovery. The Port of HaminaKotka had confirmed bookings for 47 cruise ships for the 2022 season, which would have brought more than 100,000 cruise passengers to the region. However, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine significantly altered the market situation.
St. Petersburg, which had previously been a marque destination in Baltic cruise itineraries, was removed from routes due to the war. As a result, a completely new market area has gradually had to be developed for international cruise traffic in the Gulf of Finland. Years of cooperation with neighboring ports such as Helsinki and Tallinn, as well as with cruise operators, have yielded positive results in developing this new market. The Port of HaminaKotka is conveniently located along cruise routes near major cruise ports, particularly for multi-country itineraries lasting at least a week.
Seamless cooperation between stakeholders
This summer, three large cruise ships are scheduled to call at the Port of HaminaKotka. By 2027, the number is expected to grow to 10 cruise calls based on current projections, which is a strong achievement in the Finnish context. The outlook for 2028 is also promising. According to expert estimates, within a few years the Port of HaminaKotka could once again reach around 20 cruise ship visits annually.
Significant efforts have been made to promote international cruise traffic at the Port of HaminaKotka. Equally invaluable has been the strong international network built over the years with key industry stakeholders, as well as seamless cooperation with the cities of Hamina and Kotka and local service providers.
The profile of cruise passengers has changed in recent years. In addition to more mature travelers, there are now many families with children and young adults. Tour operators arrange a variety of guided tours for cruise visitors, and the diverse range of excursions has received very positive feedback. Ships stay in port for the entire day, from morning until late evening, enabling both passengers and crew members to explore destinations independently.
A strong position as a cruise destination
Next summer, AIDAdiva, part of the Carnival Corporation group, will make its maiden call at the Hamina harbour. A cruise line’s first visit is always particularly significant, as introducing a new destination is a major investment for the operator and typically involves several years of preparation. Additional first-time visits are expected in the coming years.
In 2028, the Kotka–Hamina region will also welcome an expedition-class vessel making its first visit during the off-season. Year-round cruising is emerging as a future trend in Finland.
The Port of HaminaKotka’s location near unique Finnish natural and cultural attractions, its well-functioning infrastructure, and its suitability for cruise ships of all sizes are widely recognized strengths in international cruise traffic. Cruise activity in the Baltic Sea is forecast to grow by approximately 10% annually, creating strong opportunities for the future development of cruise operations in HaminaKotka.
Cruise ships due to arrive at the Port of HaminaKotka in 2026:
31 May AIDAbella, Hamina
16 June AIDAdiva, Hamina
22 July Marina, Mussalo
(The information is subject to change)
Photo: Vesa Hovi
