By
Rebecca Gibson |
The Port of Kiel in Germany is set to expand its handling facilities for large cruise ships, with the extension of Berth No.1 at Ostuferhafen.
“The shipping routes of northern Europe attract more and more big cruise ships as well as a constantly increasing number of tourists,” said Dr Dirk Claus, managing director at the Port of Kiel. “By enhancing our capacities we are offering our customers planning reliability and an excellent basis for continuing growth.”
The construction work is already underway and when completed, the berth will
accommodate three large cruise ships at the same time, as well as offering handling capacities for several smaller cruise vessels. The 395 metre-long berth will have a constant water depth of 10.50m and will be certified according to the international ISPS Code. Its fenders will be adapted to the requirements of large ships, while the passenger gangway will be installed by the end of May 2013.
“In a first step, Berth No.1 will relieve our existing cruise terminal Ostseekai regarding stop-overs before handling passenger turnaround next year,” added Claus. “With Berth No. 1, we provide shipping companies with best conditions– in nautical and operational respect.”
The port’s 2,500sqm luggage handling area will also be redesigned, while the 1,500sqm passenger terminal area will located in a floodlit pavilion next to the waterfront. Embarking passengers will also be able to park their cars at the terminal building throughout the duration of their trip. The terminal will have the capacity for handling cruise ships with up to 4,000 passengers.
Holland America Line’s Eurodam will be the first vessel to call at the newly extended Berth No.1 on 9 June 2013.