Meridianas

In the heart of Klaipėda, Lithuania, lies a maritime gem that has become an enduring symbol of the city: the Meridianas. This majestic wooden sailing ship, known as a barquentine, is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the port city. Moored on the left bank of the Danė River, the Meridianas stands as a testament to Klaipėda's rich maritime heritage and serves as a beacon for locals and visitors alike.

The History of Meridianas

The story of the Meridianas begins in the aftermath of World War II. In 1944, Finland signed an armistice agreement with the USSR, obligating it to cover war damages amounting to 300 million US dollars. As part of this compensation, Finland constructed nearly one hundred wooden sailing ships, including the Meridianas. Built between 1947 and 1948 at the Oy Laivateollisuus Ab shipyard in Turku, Finland, the Meridianas was handed over to the USSR in 1949.

Initially, the ship served as a training vessel for the Klaipėda Maritime School. In 1954, it joined the Baltic Sea training fleet, where it became a floating classroom for maritime students from Kaliningrad, Riga, and Klaipėda. The ship's voyages took it to various European and African ports, offering invaluable practical experience to aspiring sailors. However, by 1968, the Meridianas was retired from active service and towed to Klaipėda, where it was transformed into a prestigious restaurant in 1971.

A Symbol of Resilience

The Meridianas has faced numerous challenges throughout its history. In 1956, the ship narrowly escaped disaster when it encountered a hurricane near Gotland Island. Later that year, it was trapped by ice fields on its return voyage to Riga, forcing it to winter in Leningrad. Tragedy struck in 1968 when six cadets lost their lives in a tragic accident aboard the ship. In 2000, the Meridianas was the target of a bombing attempt, which caused significant damage to its stern and wheelhouse. Despite these setbacks, the ship has been meticulously restored and preserved, thanks to the efforts of dedicated individuals and organizations.

The Restoration and Revival

By 2012, the Meridianas was in a state of disrepair, prompting urgent calls for restoration. The ship's support foundation, led by Artūras Žičkus, sought government permission to sink the vessel due to a lack of funds for repairs. However, local businessmen Aidas Kaveckis and Aloyzas Kuzmarskis stepped in to save the ship. With financial backing and a clear vision, they initiated a comprehensive restoration project. The ship was towed to the AB Klaipėdos laivų remontas dock, where extensive repairs were carried out. Rotten and damaged wooden structures were replaced, and the ship's masts and superstructures were meticulously refurbished. By November 2013, the Meridianas had returned to its permanent berth on the Danė River, where interior renovations continued.

Exploring the Meridianas Today

Today, the Meridianas is more than just a historic relic; it is a vibrant cultural and culinary destination. The lower deck of the ship houses a maritime-themed restaurant with seating for 60 guests. Diners can enjoy exquisite meals while surrounded by nautical decor and a unique ambiance that harks back to the ship's seafaring days. The restaurant's menu features a variety of dishes inspired by the sea, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

In addition to its culinary offerings, the Meridianas hosts educational activities organized by the Lithuanian Sea Museum. These programs are designed to engage children and foster an appreciation for maritime history and traditions. Visitors can also explore indoor and outdoor exhibits showcasing the ship's equipment, wooden structural components, ballast stones, and an authentic propeller. These displays provide a fascinating glimpse into the ship's construction and operational history.

Technical Specifications and Modern Adaptations

The Meridianas boasts impressive dimensions and capabilities. With an overall length of 51.7 meters (including the bowsprit) and a deck length of 43.57 meters, the ship is a formidable presence on the water. Its width is 8.75 meters, and the height of the hull is 3.9 meters. The ship's draft measures 3.45 meters, and it has a displacement of 626 deadweight tons (dwt) and a cargo capacity of 300 tons. The total sail area is 840 square meters, allowing the ship to reach speeds of up to 8 knots under sail and 7.5 knots with its original engine, a Swedish June Munktel with 225 horsepower.

Following the 2014 restoration, the Meridianas underwent several technical modifications. The hull was reinforced with metal and clad in wood, and the ship was registered as a floating structure. The engine was removed, and the ship was connected to the city's electrical grid, providing a stable power supply of 120 kW. The ship also features modern amenities, including a water supply and sewage system connected to the city's infrastructure, as well as a Daikin heat pump for climate control.

In conclusion, the Meridianas is not just a ship; it is a living monument to Klaipėda's maritime heritage. Its storied past, coupled with its modern adaptations, makes it a captivating destination for visitors of all ages. Whether you're enjoying a meal at the restaurant, participating in an educational program, or simply admiring the ship's elegant lines and sails, the Meridianas offers a unique and enriching experience that celebrates the spirit of the sea.