Cruise Europe welcomes new member Kotka

The port, which recently joined Cruise Europe, offers berthing of 270mtr long and 200mtr long  close to the city centre, whilst general cargo ships are catered for in a new port area releasing Kotka Old Port for passenger traffic.

Kotka intends to target cruise ships able to come alongside the city centre berths however larger vessels can be handled in the new container port 5km away.

Project manager Cruise Port Kotka Petra Cranston said: 'Kotka is ready to handle cruise ships in 2016 thanks to the well-established local networking success and commitment of the local companies.' A wide range of shore excursions are on offer including customer-oriented activities, history, culture and relaxation.

'An alliance between C&C Port Agency, the shore excursion and tour operator department of Kristina Cruises, the Port of Hamina Kotka and Cursor continues to build the brand: Cruise Port Kotka, Getaway to Finland,' she added.

Planned for completion in 2017 are a designer outlet village, waterfront coffee shops and restaurants and entertainment area. Within easy reach are the Maritime Centre Vellamo and the Aquariumhouse Maretarium.

Cranston said: 'It looks encouraging as there are reservations for 2017. The real start-up year will most probably be 2018.'