The story of Narva-Jõesuu Harbour began in spring 2019, when the city council decided to establish a foundation to develop the harbour and the surrounding recreational areas. The move laid the foundations for a broader vision – to make the harbour not only a stop for boats and ships, but also a centre for community, tourism and leisure. Today, Narva-Jõesuu Harbour SA is 100% owned by the city, at Suur-Lootsi 2/4, and runs its operations through a small but dedicated team and a three-member board.
2024. Developments in 2011
The steps taken last year were primarily aimed at improving the port’s environment and infrastructure. A motorboat and a boat trailer were purchased, making the provision of port services more flexible. During the winter period, the car park was extended and a new fence was built, allowing safer and more orderly boat management.
Own revenue was mainly generated from the use of slipways and berths during the navigation season. Although the harbour is small, its impact on the community is noticeable – it provides opportunities for water tourism and water sports for locals and visitors, combining active recreation with an environmentally sustainable lifestyle.
The economic indicators showed stable development: revenue growth was nearly 11% compared to the previous year and the Foundation’s activities remained sustainable. Financial risks are assessed as low and the environmental impact is minimal.
Major project and cooperation in Ida-Viru County
2024. In 2007, the Port of Narva-Jõesuu received a strong boost with the approval of the major project “Development of the waterway network and tourism business in the Ida-Viru region”. The total cost of the project is close to €4 million and it will be financed by the EU Cohesion Policy funds. At its heart is the reconstruction of the Narva-Jõesuu pier, which will provide better access to the Narva River and create new opportunities for the development of waterfront services. The project is managed by Narva-Jõesuu Port SA in cooperation with Narva-Jõesuu city government, Toila and Alutaguse municipality. Completion of the works is scheduled for summer 2026.
2025. Year 2012 – Year of activities and events
This year, 2025, has become a particularly active one for the Foundation. Preparations and technical studies for the construction of the pier were launched in the spring. The Narva-Jõesuu Municipality allocated a grant of more than €1.4 million to the port, which will ensure that the work continues smoothly. A project manager was also recruited to coordinate the major investments and ensure that the project is on schedule and complies with European funding rules.
In addition to physical investments, the focus for 2025 will be on “soft activities”: networking events, theme days and training sessions for businesses to support local entrepreneurship and the development of tourism services. The port will actively participate in regional events such as Fishermen’s Day, Silmufestival and other water-related events. These bring together local residents, tourists and partners, increasingly making the port a community centre where sea and people meet.
In addition to the physical works and events, a virtual tour and VR solution will also be developed in 2025, which will allow visitors to explore the Narva-Jõesuu Pier and the underwater world digitally in the future. The virtual tour will be part of a wider marketing plan for the Ida-Viru waterways and will bring the history of the region and the heritage of the Hanseatic Route to audiences in Estonia and abroad.
The way forward and the role of the community
The harbour is closely linked to the local sailing school, whose young sailors use the harbour facilities for training and competitions. Together, the aim is to nurture a new generation of marine enthusiasts and introduce water safety principles from an early age.
Future plans include continued collaboration with the community, businesses and tourism developers. The port wants to become the heart of the Ida-Viru waterway network – a place where new maritime adventures begin and where business, culture and leisure meet.
