Petra Cranston, head of sales and marketing Cruise Port Kotka, commented: 'We are proud of having confirmed a few calls from significant cruise lines as a new start-up. The networking with the Port of Hamina Kotka as the co-owner of the cruise project has been fabulous.'
Ships are now able to load potable water and offload grey and blackwater by truck. However the plan is to start laying pipes to the main city port, Kantasatama, this year with the hope of completion in time for the summer season next year.
Shorepower connection and WiFi communications are due to be implemented. Cranston also said: 'We have LNG availability already. However a big LNG terminal is planned to be built and ready in Hamina.' A passenger terminal is also being considered with a view to if and when ferry traffic begins.
Last month, the go -ahead was given for clearance work to start at Kotka Old Port for the construction of a designer shop outlet and leisure facilities. The first phase will be completed in early 2018.
The outlet centre will be located only a few hours away from St Petersburg as well as major Finnish cities and airports. About 1.2m Finns live within 90 minutes’ drive.
