Cruise port Ventspils
Live-Info for port Ventspils
Port information & tips for Ventspils
Ventspils, internationally known as Ventspils, is a shining jewel on the Latvian Baltic coast and perfectly combines Hanseatic history with modern, maritime flair. The city impresses with its well-kept parks, the famous colorful cow sculptures, and an inviting atmosphere that inspires discovery. Cultural highlights in the immediate vicinity include the historic Castle of the Livonian Order and the extensive Seaside Open-Air Museum with its authentic fishing huts. Cruise ships dock at the centrally located Ventspils Pasažieru termināls, from which the charming old town and the lively city center can be easily explored on foot in only about ten minutes thanks to the excellent location.
Ventspils, also known as Windau, is an up-and-coming and ice-free cruise port on the west coast of Latvia, which is enjoying increasing popularity thanks to its central location at the mouth of the Venta River and its modern infrastructure. The modern terminal is located less than a kilometer from the charming city center and is therefore excellently connected.
Car
The port of Ventspils is easily accessible via the European route E22, which runs directly through the city. Travelers from the direction of Riga take the A10 highway, while arrival from Liepāja is via the P111. In Ventspils, simply follow the signs for "Pramju Terminalis" (ferry terminal) to get directly to the port. Sufficient parking spaces for short-term and long-term parkers are available directly at the port area; additionally, a newly created, free parking lot at Dienvidu mols 5 (South Pier) offers a good alternative with an observation tower and Wi-Fi access near the swimming beach.
Airplane
For international guests from the DACH region, Riga International Airport (RIX) is the nearest major airport, which optimally connects Ventspils. Riga Airport is located about 155 to 190 kilometers away and offers numerous direct flight connections from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. Ventspils itself has a small airport (VNT), which is however used exclusively for general aviation and does not offer any commercial scheduled flights.
Transfer & Bus
From Riga International Airport (RIX) as well as the central bus station in Riga, comfortable long-distance buses run regularly and directly to the Ventspils bus station. The bus journey takes a pleasant 2 hours 50 minutes to about 3 hours 30 minutes. From the Ventspils bus station, you can reach the cruise terminal in only about seven minutes on foot thanks to the short distance. Alternatively, private taxi and shuttle services from RIX are available, which will bring you directly to the port in about 2 hours 10 minutes to 2.5 hours.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for the journey to the port accordingly and take into account that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The following also applies during the trip: For shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements as well as the notices on board, as berthing and departure times can change at short notice.
Ventspils, also known as Windau, is an up-and-coming and ice-free cruise port on the west coast of Latvia, which is enjoying increasing popularity thanks to its central location at the mouth of the Venta River and its modern infrastructure. The modern terminal is located less than a kilometer from the charming city center and is therefore excellently connected.
Car
The port of Ventspils is easily accessible via the European route E22, which runs directly through the city. Travelers from the direction of Riga take the A10 highway, while arrival from Liepāja is via the P111. In Ventspils, simply follow the signs for "Pramju Terminalis" (ferry terminal) to get directly to the port. Sufficient parking spaces for short-term and long-term parkers are available directly at the port area; additionally, a newly created, free parking lot at Dienvidu mols 5 (South Pier) offers a good alternative with an observation tower and Wi-Fi access near the swimming beach.
Airplane
For international guests from the DACH region, Riga International Airport (RIX) is the nearest major airport, which optimally connects Ventspils. Riga Airport is located about 155 to 190 kilometers away and offers numerous direct flight connections from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. Ventspils itself has a small airport (VNT), which is however used exclusively for general aviation and does not offer any commercial scheduled flights.
Transfer & Bus
From Riga International Airport (RIX) as well as the central bus station in Riga, comfortable long-distance buses run regularly and directly to the Ventspils bus station. The bus journey takes a pleasant 2 hours 50 minutes to about 3 hours 30 minutes. From the Ventspils bus station, you can reach the cruise terminal in only about seven minutes on foot thanks to the short distance. Alternatively, private taxi and shuttle services from RIX are available, which will bring you directly to the port in about 2 hours 10 minutes to 2.5 hours.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for the journey to the port accordingly and take into account that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The following also applies during the trip: For shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements as well as the notices on board, as berthing and departure times can change at short notice.
The Port of Ventspils impresses with its central location directly on the Venta and enables a pleasant arrival in Latvia. Thanks to the proximity to the historical city center, you can reach the most important attractions and the waterfront promenade comfortably and directly from the terminal.
On Foot
The picturesque old town and the promenade with its famous cow sculptures are reachable in just 10 to 15 minutes on foot. The path leads along the river and offers direct access to the sights as well as the cozy cafés in the center.
Excursion Ship and Tourist Train
The well-known excursion ship Hercogs Jēkabs departs in the immediate vicinity of the cruise berths and enables a relaxed tour on the Venta. In addition, the historic narrow-gauge railway Mazbānītis in the open-air museum offers a nostalgic connection between the park and the Baltic Sea beach.
Taxi and City Bus
Taxis wait for passengers at the port exit and will take you to the extensive beach or the adventure park in just a few minutes. Furthermore, the buses of the local transport company Ventspils reiss provide a reliable and uncomplicated connection throughout the entire city area.
To make the most of your time in Ventspils, a tour of the charming center and a visit to the award-winning beach are recommended, as all highlights can be perfectly combined thanks to short distances.
Old Town & Ostas Promenade
The historic district inspires with its carefully restored alleys and the modern promenade on the banks of the Venta; additionally, the famous colorful cow sculptures and stylish cafes invite you to a tour of discovery directly at the harbor.
Blue Flag Beach
This extensive section of beach impresses with its fine white sand and picturesque dune landscape, while the area also provides the ideal setting for a relaxing walk directly by the Baltic Sea thanks to its first-class infrastructure.
Castle of the Livonian Order
The imposing medieval fortress is the oldest building in the city and houses a state-of-the-art museum of regional history; furthermore, the historic castle courtyard provides a perfect backdrop for those interested in culture thanks to its authentic atmosphere.
Blue Flag Beach Ventspils
The extensive Blue Flag Beach of Ventspils is easily accessible from the port in less than ten minutes by taxi and offers the finest white sand as well as first-class water quality for an excellent beach experience. Thanks to the outstanding infrastructure with well-maintained wooden boardwalks, charming cafes, and comfortable changing facilities, you can enjoy complete relaxation directly on the Baltic Sea. It is best to visit the beach in the morning to experience the pure sea air and the vastness in peace, and plan your return trip to the ship no later than ninety minutes before departure.
The way back to the Port of Ventspils is extremely relaxed and safe thanks to the short distances and clear orientation along the Venta Promenade.
On Foot
From the historical market square and the Livonian Order Castle, you can reach the ship directly via the beautifully developed waterfront promenade. The path is easy to find thanks to the striking sculptures of the Cow Parade and clear signage, and it also offers a pleasant atmosphere for the final part of your shore excursion.
Taxi
Taxis are available at central points such as the bus station or in front of Hotel Dzintarjūra and will take you to the terminal in a short time. Additionally, you can conveniently use the Bolt app to call a vehicle directly from more remote locations such as Anchor Park or the beach and return to the ship on time.
Local Bus
The yellow city buses reliably connect the outskirts and the popular beach with the city center and the port region. Use the regular connections to the central bus station, from where it is only a short walk to your berth, and enjoy the easy ride through the well-kept cityscape.
