New pier in Prerow redefines Baltic tourism and safety
After more than two years of construction, the longest pier on the entire Baltic Sea was officially opened in the German resort of Prerow. The project, which cost €46 million (around CAD 66 million), will not only attract tourists but also serve to protect ships in danger.
The impressive structure is approximately 720 metres long and 4 metres wide, supported by 87 piles. Work on this enormous project began 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 delayed 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 4 metres, it allows even emergency vehicles to use it, making it the only structure of its kind in Germany equipped with traffic signals.
As highlighted by the Ministry of Environment of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, “the pier is not intended for public vehicular traffic.” Service and rescue traffic will be allowed, but with limited speed.
Terrace with a view of the Baltic
At the end of the pier, a new harbour has been located, covering an area of approximately 10,000 square metres and accommodating 33 recreational units. Some spaces have already been reserved for local fishers. The harbour aims to improve infrastructure for sailors, creating a convenient place to dock 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, from which picturesque views of the Baltic can be admired. In the future, it is also planned to complete a sunny terrace and a bridge crossing at the rescue tower. All works are expected to be completed by May next year.
The new pier in Prerow is not just a tourist attraction, but also an important investment that will significantly improve the coastal infrastructure of this region.
With the opening of the pier in Prerow, the pier in Sopot has lost its leading position. Its walking section is 512 metres, of which 458 metres extends into the Gulf of Gdańsk. The new pier is therefore over 200 metres longer.
