Ferry from Rostock to Klaipeda

Rostock Guide

The German city of Rostock is located in the Mecklenburg-Vorpommern region of northern Germany and lies on the Warnow River. The city's centre is roughly 12 km to the south of the Baltic Sea coast. A popular attraction in the city, and perhaps one of the prettiest, is the New Market Square (Neuer Markt). The 13th century, Gothic Town Hall is also there and interestingly had a Baroque facade and banqueting hall added in the 18th century. There are also six, 15th and 16th century restored gable houses in the square. The city used to have other examples of houses built in the Hanseatic style, that bordered the square, although they were all destroyed by air raids in 1942. The city is also home to the University of Rostock which was founded in 1419 and is one of the oldest universities in the world.

Rostock's port is Germany's largest and has grown to become one of Europe's most important. It has excellent road links and facilities including cafes, restaurants, shopping areas and a bureau de change. Ferry services using the port depart to Gedser in Denmark, with a 2 hour crossing time, Trelleborg in Sweden (5 hours and 45 minutes) and a super fast ferry to Hanko in Finland with a 22 hour crossing time.

Klaipeda Guide

The city and port of Klaipeda is Lithuania's only ort and therefore its history and prosperity is inextricably linked to the sea. Popular attractions in the city include the summer Sea Festival and the biennial Tall Ships regattas and the sea museum. The city also has a sea faculty at the local university and is also home to major stevedoring companies. Ever since its establishment by the Teutonic Knights (as Memelburg) in 1252 the city was distinct from the rest of Lithuania. It was ruled by Germans together with the rest of Lithuania Minor. Even its Lithuanian name “Klaipeda”, first mentioned in the 16th century, is believed to mean “Bread eater”.

Visitors to the city should note that it is quite a windy city that experiences many storms during the year which are characterised by sea breezes from April to September and gales in the autumn and winter. It is also not uncommon for snow to fall during the autumn and winter months and can, on occasions, paralyze the city but fortunately the port remains mainly frost free.

Klaipeda's ferry port is located in the south-west part of the city and offers passengers services to Kiel and Karlshamn.