Baltic's longest pier opens in Germany, Prerow, boosting tourism and safety
After more than two years of construction, the longest pier on the Baltic Sea was officially opened in the German resort of Prerow. This investment, which cost 46 million euros, is expected to attract tourists and protect ships in distress.
12:02 PM EDT, October 17, 2024
The impressive structure measures 2,362 feet in length and 14 feet in width and is supported by 87 piles. Work on this enormous project started in August 2022.
Initially, the plan was to complete construction and open the pier in the summer, but the inauguration was delayed due to staffing issues and postponed technical approvals.
The new pier is meant to be functional
The unique pier in Prerow stands out not only for its length but also for its functionality. With a width of 14 feet, it can accommodate even emergency vehicles, making it the only structure of its kind in Germany equipped with traffic signals.
As the Ministry of Environment of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern highlighted, “the pier is not intended for public vehicular traffic.” Service and rescue vehicles will be allowed but at a limited speed.
Terrace with a view of the Baltic
A new harbor has been constructed at the end of the pier, covering an area of 107,639 square feet and accommodating 33 recreational units. Some spaces have already been reserved for local fishermen. The harbor aims to improve sailors' infrastructure and provide a convenient docking spot between Warnemünde and Barhöft.
The investment also includes the construction of service facilities. A building with offices and water, sewage, and electrical installations will be built on the pier.
The project will be crowned by a rooftop terrace accessible to tourists, offering picturesque views of the Baltic. Plans also include a sun terrace and a bridge crossing at the rescue tower. All work is expected to be completed by May next year.
The new pier in Prerow is not just a tourist attraction but also a significant investment that will substantially improve the region's coastal infrastructure.
With the opening of the pier in Prerow, the pier in Sopot has lost its leading position. Its walking section is 1,678 feet, of which 1,503 feet extend into the Gulf of Gdańsk. The new pier is, therefore, over 656 feet longer.
