Sailing in the Baltic States : Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania
Introduction
From the limestone cliffs of Estonia to the immaculate dunes of Lithuania, the Baltic coastline unfolds a mosaic of islands, shallow bays and long sandy beaches.
Whether you're a fan of exploration in a RIB, coastal cruising or nature-based stopovers in historic ports, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania offer accessible, safe and exotic sailing, punctuated by bright northern lights and steady winds.
Bordered by an inland sea with no marked tides, the region is distinguished by its archipelagos of islets, sheltered estuaries and lagoons - including the famous Curonian Lagoon - where you can enjoy a maritime art of living on a human scale.
At Orca Retail, we know that the Baltic States appeal to sailors in search of simplicity, endless beaches, pine forests, wooden villages, waterside saunas and late-summer ambiences with endless sunsets.
This guide will help you prepare for your sailing in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania: regulations, weather, seasons, infrastructure, itineraries, safety, and unmissable sea and inland ports of call.
Get ready to discover a sober and luminous sea, between Hanseatic cities, wild islands and spectacular dunes.
Foreword: What you need to know before sailing in the Baltic States
Permits required
Yachting is well developed in the Baltic, with well-marked channels and welcoming marinas. Foreign visitors generally sail with a recognized license (ICC, French coastal license) and up-to-date ship's papers.
Depending on the country and the power/length of the boat, a national license may be required:
Estonia: a boating license is required for boats over 25 hp (18.6 kW). For smaller engines, no license is required. However, the skipper must have the boat's papers (registration, insurance) and crew list on board.
Latvia: license required to pilot a pleasure boat with a motor of over 5 hp (3.7 kW) or any craft over 5 m in length. Checks are frequent in the Gulf of Riga.
Lithuania: license required for any motorized craft over 10 hp (7.35 kW) or over 4 m in length. No permit is required for small boats or sailboats without a powerful motor.
Strict respect for the environment: no discharge into the sea, Natura 2000 zones, national parks and reserves (dunes, reed beds, archipelagos) subject to anchoring/landing restrictions. Stay within the marked passes, especially in shallow areas.
Weather and sailing conditions
The season extends from May to September. Mild summers (15-23°C), prevailing westerly to south-westerly winds, short seas in the case of gusts and onshore orientation, fog possible in the off-season. Weather changes can be rapid: keep a close watch, consult Notices to Mariners, and take care on shoals and sandbanks. Little tide, but possible surges during gales.
In June and July, the days are very long, with superb opportunities for early-morning or late-day coastal crossings.
Port infrastructure
All three countries have a network of modern marinas and guest pontoons, often close to town centers or in natural settings. Water, electricity, showers/saunas, fuel and small workshops are commonplace. Numerous moorings are available in sheltered bays and lagoons; prefer sandy bottoms and respect protected areas.
Seasonality
High season runs from mid-June to the end of August: mild temperatures, Midsummer festivities, busy harbors. May and September offer calm and low prices, with more changeable weather and cooler nights. Out of season, sailing becomes technical (cold, fog, short days).
Choosing your itinerary in the Baltic States
From north to south, the coastal route links the Hanseatic capitals, the Estonian archipelagos, the Gulf of Riga and the Lithuanian dunes. Example of an emblematic itinerary:
- Departure from Tallinn, Estonia's capital on the Gulf of Finland
- Coasting in the western archipelago: Hiiumaa and Saaremaa, via the Väinameri inland sea
- Descent to Pärnu, "summer capital" and gateway to the Gulf of Riga
- Entering Latvia: Riga and Jūrmala, then the open coast to Ventspils and Liepāja
- Crossing into Lithuania: Klaipėda, gateway to the Curonian Lagoon, then Nida along the dune spit.
- Optional inland water loop: Curonian Lagoon and Neman Delta
Maritime destinations in the Baltic States
Tallinn (Estonia)
What to do in Tallinn
Capital of medieval charm, Tallinn 's UNESCO-listed old town, with its cobbled streets, ramparts and bell towers overlooking the sea, is a real charmer.
The creative Telliskivi district is teeming with galleries and trendy cafés, while the Seaplane Harbour maritime museum plunges visitors into the region's naval history. In summer, lively terraces, colorful markets and long Nordic evenings create a friendly, festive atmosphere.
Sailing in Tallinn
Tallinn's maritime surroundings offer a variety of sailing opportunities, from protected basins to nearby islands. Approaches are well marked, but vigilance is required for shoals and commercial traffic. Boaters can moor at theOld City Marina, at the foot of the old town, or at the modern Haven Kakumäe Marina, surrounded by nature.
A trip out to sea takes you to the islands of Naissaar or Prangli, perfect for hiking and seal-watching. The waters of the Gulf of Finland abound with perch, pike, sea trout and salmon, ideal for inshore fishing.
Hiiumaa & Saaremaa archipelago (Estonia)
What to do in the archipelago
The islands of Hiiumaa and Saaremaa offer a unique historical and natural heritage. The lighthouses of Kõpu and Sõrve, wooden villages and windmills bear witness to their maritime past, while wild beaches and salt marshes seduce nature lovers. Kuressaare, on Saaremaa, attracts visitors with its medieval castle and cosy cafés. Nearby Matsalu National Park is a paradise for birdwatchers and hikers.
Sailing in the archipelago
Sailing in the Väinameri Inland Sea is gentle, with narrow but well-marked passes and sandy bottoms. Marinas such as Kuressaare Marina and Heltermaa Harbour offer modern services and welcoming pontoons. The anchorages at the foot of the beaches are perfect for a nature break. Fishing enthusiasts will find pike, perch, pike-perch and trout in the archipelago's sheltered waters.
Pärnu (Estonia)
What to do in Pärnu
Pärnu, nicknamed Estonia's "summer capital", boasts a long sandy beach and a festive atmosphere.
Festivals punctuate the town, while terraces and bicycle paths invite you to stroll, and spas offer relaxation and well-being. Strolls along the pier, colorful wooden villas and cozy cafés complete the seaside experience.
Sailing in Pärnu
Access to the Gulf of Riga is via a river and estuarine channel, where you need to follow the markings carefully due to shifting shoals.
Marinas such as Pärnu Yacht Club and Keskpargi Marina offer all the services required by yachtsmen. The calm waters are ideal for sailing out to nearby bays or the Estonian island of Ruhnu. Fishing is prolific here, with pike-perch, perch, pike and the occasional trout.
Riga & Jūrmala (Latvia)
What to do in Riga
Latvia's capital city, Riga has a seductive Art Nouveau architecture and a Hanseatic past. The cathedral, guild houses, central halls and contemporary museums can all be explored on foot.
Just 20 km away, Jūrmala rolls out miles of beach, wooden villas and pine forests, ideal for a seaside getaway.
Sailing in Riga
The port of Riga City Marina is modern and well-equipped. The canalized approaches allow safe sailing, with commercial traffic to be integrated. Coastal sailing to Jūrmala is easy, with stops at natural shelters and beautiful beaches. Fishermen will find pike, perch and pike-perch here, and birdwatchers can observe terns and cormorants.
Ventspils (Latvia)
What to do in Ventspils
Ventspils is a port city with a well-kept and friendly atmosphere. Its gardens, open-air sculptures and Blue Flag beach invite you to stroll and relax.
The open-air museum of the Curonian Spit offers an insight into local history and perfectly completes the experience of a pleasant maritime stopover for the whole family.
Sailing in Ventspils
The coast around Ventspils can be exposed, with established waves and wind, but sailing remains rewarding in good weather. Ventspils Yacht Club Marina offers all the modern facilities and technical services yachtsmen need.
Outings to the beaches and small harbors of the Curonian Spit allow you to take full advantage of the scenery and tranquility. Inshore fishing is abundant, with pike, perch and zander easily accessible from the boat.
Liepāja (Latvia)
What to do in Liepāja?
A lively and cultural city, Liepāja harmoniously blends its historic center, its immense beach and the fortifications of Karosta. The city is also renowned for its music scene and festivals, which bring the town to life throughout the year. The seaside cafés and restaurants offer pleasant breaks after discovering the architectural and natural treasures.
Sailing in Liepāja
The approaches to Liepāja are clear, but you'll need to be vigilant about the weather to take full advantage of the long coastal crossings to Lithuania. Liepāja Marina is welcoming and well-equipped, ideal for a stopover before setting sail again. Offshore, seals and seabirds punctuate the navigation, while fishermen can count on an abundance of pike, perch and zander.
Klaipėda & Nida - Curonian Spit (Lithuania)
What to do in Klaipėda and Nida?
Klaipėda, formerly known as Memel, boasts a historic Hanseatic heart and a lively waterfront. From the town, it's easy to reach the UNESCO-listed Curonian Spit, which leads to Nida, an elegant seaside resort where giant dunes, lagoons, colorful houses and amber workshops create a unique atmosphere. Bicycle paths under pine trees and waterfront cafés invite you to relax and explore.
Sailing in Klaipėda and along the Spit
Navigation in the Curonian Lagoon is particularly safe, with well-marked canals and channels. Marinas such as Klaipėda Yacht Club and Nida Marina offer pontoons and full services. Anchorages near reedbeds allow you to observe the local wildlife in peace and quiet.
For open sea sailing, it's advisable to choose stable weather slots along the long, straight beaches. The waters abound with perch, pike-perch and pike, offering excellent fishing opportunities.
Curonian Lagoon & Niemen Delta (Lithuania)
What to do in the lagoon?
Between dunes, reed beds and lakeside villages, the lagoon offers a peaceful and unique experience. Nida charms with its typical Baltic architecture and welcoming cafés, while a number of observatories allow you to admire the region's wealth of birdlife.
Sailing on the lagoon
Shallow waters and winding channels make for calm sailing, suitable for both RIBs and sailboats. Local marinas offer pontoons and basic services. Please respect protected areas and keep an eye on sandbanks. The fishing is generous, with pike, perch and pike-perch, perfect for family outings or with friends.
Lake destinations in the Baltic States
Lake Peïpous (Estonia)
What to do around Peïpous
Lake Peïpous, an immense inland sea shared with Russia, is surrounded by picturesque fishing villages and wild beaches. Traditional onion crops and unspoilt forests add to the sense of rural authenticity, ideal for those seeking contact with nature.
Sailing on Lake Peïpous
Shallow stretches of water demand special attention to the weather, which can change rapidly. Harbors such as Mustvee Marina and Kallaste Pier offer pontoons and simple services for yachtsmen. Fishing is very popular, with perch, pike and zander in abundance.
Lake Usma (Latvia)
What to do around Usma?
In the Kurzeme region, Lake Usma is perfect for outdoor activities: beaches, small islands and forests allow hiking, cycling and swimming. The calm environment is perfect for relaxing and discovering the local wildlife.
Sailing on Lake Usma
Calm waters, yacht clubs and accessible pontoons make boating pleasant and stress-free. Anglers can easily find pike, perch and pike-perch, while the surrounding scenery offers an idyllic setting.
Lake Galvė (Trakai) - Lithuania
What to do in Trakai?
Just a few kilometers from Vilnius, Trakai Castle, set on an island, is a real gem. Strolls around the lake, museums, Caraimite cuisine and traditional boat trips are just some of the ways to make the most of this emblematic site.
Sailing on Lake Galvė
Sailing between islets and wooded banks is picturesque and relaxing. Near the castle, speed and proximity are regulated. The waters are home to an abundance of pike, perch and zander, ideal for a day out on the lake.
Conclusion
Sailing in the Baltic States means choosing a sea that's close by and easy to understand, where every stop combines Hanseatic history, unspoilt nature and simple hospitality.
From the ramparts of Tallinn to the dunes of Nida, from the archipelagos of Estonia to the long beaches of Latvia, you'll find yourself sailing at a gentle pace, between well-kept ports, saunas, sandy anchorages and big summer skies.
Here, navigation is an art of living: reliable signposting, reasonable distances, human infrastructures and respect for the environment. Enjoy the silence, the light and the freedom to multiply short legs as the wind blows.
Whether you're a sailing enthusiast, a RIB enthusiast, a freshwater or brackish water fisherman, or just interested in stress-free coastal sailing, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania offer you a generous and accessible sea.
Cast off... and discover one of Europe's most underrated destinations!
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