Klaipėda North Approach

About This Anchorage

The Klaipėda North Approach anchorage lies on the open Baltic coast 2 nautical miles north of Lithuania's only international port, in the main staging area for vessels waiting to enter Klaipėda or transiting between the port and northward passages along the coast. The anchorage is in 5–12m on sandy seabed — reliable holding in good conditions — but the location in the approaches to a busy international port means AIS is essential and shipping lane charts must be consulted. The view south from this anchorage is dominated by the industrial cranes of Klaipėda's container terminal and the distinctive outline of the Curonian Spit tip, where the strait cuts through to the lagoon. In clear conditions, the ferry terminals are visible with DFDS and Stena Line vessels moving in and out on their Northern European routes. This is primarily a waiting anchorage for vessels timing a port entry or waiting for ferry clearance — not a destination in its own right. The nearest full shelter is inside the Klaipėda Strait, reached in under 30 minutes under power.

Hazards

• !Heavy shipping traffic in Klaipėda approaches — DFDS and Stena Line ferries, container vessels
• !Fully exposed to W and NW Baltic swells
• !Shipping lanes nearby — do not anchor in marked channels
• !Strong currents in the strait approaches during wind-driven conditions

Skipper's Tips

• →Use as a brief waiting anchorage only — not suitable for extended overnight stays
• →Contact Klaipėda Port Control (VHF Ch 09) for entry instructions and timings
• →The Curonian Lagoon (through the strait) provides excellent shelter in all conditions
• →Monitor AIS continuously — large vessels move at speed in these approaches

Nearby Anchorages