Šventoji Harbour Approach

About This Anchorage

Šventoji is Lithuania's northernmost coastal resort, a small fishing town at the mouth of the Šventoji River, just 1.5km south of the Latvian border. The harbour is a popular weekend destination for Lithuanian sailors and the starting or finishing point for those sailing the short Lithuanian Baltic coast. The outer bay anchorage is in 3–7m over sandy seabed, open to the west across the full Baltic fetch — it is very much a fair-weather option, suitable for a brief stop in settled summer conditions or as an overnight berth when the wind is from the east. The small harbour has a restaurant and basic facilities, and the town has a market with fresh produce. Šventoji's beach is popular with Lithuanian holidaymakers in July and August, giving the town a lively summer atmosphere. The anchorage offers a good base for sailors making the short passage between the Lithuanian coast and the Gulf of Riga. The Latvian border is close — ensure you are in possession of correct documentation if crossing into Latvian waters.

Hazards

• !Fully exposed to W and NW Baltic swells — anchorage untenable in westerly winds above F4
• !Shallow bar at Šventoji harbour entrance — check depths before entry
• !Latvian border 1.5km north — be aware of territorial waters boundary
• !Fishing nets in the approach — maintain watch

Skipper's Tips

• →Use this anchorage only in settled easterly conditions — have a plan to proceed if wind shifts west
• →The harbour is the better option for overnight stay — call ahead for berth availability
• →Good staging point for passages to/from Gulf of Riga and Latvia
• →Šventoji market (Jul–Aug) has excellent fresh produce and Lithuanian food specialities

Nearby Anchorages