Klaipeda – Karlshamn Ferries

Dfds Seaways timetables and tickets for 2026

About

The Klaipeda–Karlshamn ferry connects Lithuania’s main seaport with southern Sweden, forming an important maritime link across the Baltic Sea. Operated by DFDS Seaways, the route carries both passengers and commercial vehicles, providing a direct connection between the Baltic States and Scandinavia without the lengthy overland journey through Poland and Denmark. The crossing typically takes around 13 hours and 30 minutes, depending on the departure and operating conditions. Most sailings take place overnight, allowing passengers to depart in the evening and arrive the following morning. This schedule is particularly convenient for motorists travelling between Lithuania and Sweden, as well as freight operators transporting goods between the two regions. The route plays an important role in Baltic Sea transport. Klaipeda is Lithuania’s principal maritime gateway, handling international passenger and cargo traffic, while Karlshamn provides access to southern Sweden and the wider Scandinavian road network. Together, the ports support both regional trade and international travel. As an overnight service, the ferries are equipped with cabins, dining facilities and communal areas. Passenger cars, motorcycles and motorhomes travel alongside commercial vehicles, reflecting the route’s dual role in passenger and freight transport. Sailing frequencies and departure times may vary throughout the year according to operational requirements and seasonal demand. Weather conditions can also affect individual crossings, particularly during periods of strong winds in the Baltic Sea. The Klaipeda to Karlshamn ferry remains an established connection between Lithuania and Sweden, serving travellers exploring Scandinavia and commercial traffic moving between the eastern and western shores of the Baltic.

Operators Schedule

The Klaipeda-Karlshamn ferry route is exclusively operated by DFDS Seaways, employing vessels such as the M/V Athena Seaways and M/V Victoria Seaways. Both ships have a gross tonnage exceeding 25,000 GT and are designed for Ro-Pax operations, accommodating both freight and approximately 300-500 passengers. During the majority of the year, sailings occur six times per week in each direction, providing a reliable schedule. Departures from Klaipėda are typically in the late evening, around 21:00 or 22:00 local time, with an estimated crossing duration of 13 hours and 30 minutes. This leads to an arrival in Karlshamn approximately at 10:30 or 11:30 the following morning. Conversely, departures from Karlshamn generally follow a similar nocturnal pattern. Seasonal adjustments may occur during peak summer months (July-August), potentially increasing departure frequency to seven times weekly or deploying vessels with higher capacity to meet increased demand. Winter schedules (November-February) maintain the six-times-weekly pattern, though adverse weather conditions can impact punctuality or result in cancellations, especially due to high winds exceeding 8 on the Beaufort scale. Maintenance periods, typically scheduled during the low season, can also temporarily reduce the number of available sailings.

Onboard Services

Onboard services on the Klaipeda-Karlshamn route include a range of accommodation and amenities. Passengers can choose from various cabin types, including standard twin cabins, outside cabins with sea views, and deluxe cabins, with all typically featuring private WC facilities. The vessels offer dining options, such as a buffet restaurant serving breakfast and dinner, and a small à la carte area; prices for main meals typically range from 15-30 EUR. A duty-free shop is available, offering a selection of confectionery, beverages, and cosmetic products. Pet travel is permitted, primarily in designated pet-friendly cabins or in owner-provided vehicle kennels, subject to booking and a fee of approximately 25-50 EUR per pet. Vehicle transport options accommodate standard cars, vans, motorhomes, and freight vehicles up to specified dimensions; passengers requiring transport for vehicles exceeding 2.3 meters in height or 6 meters in length must declare these dimensions at booking. Wi-Fi access is available in designated public areas, often incurring an additional charge, with speed and stability varying during the crossing. Specific areas for children's entertainment are provided, typically comprising a small play area. Passenger capacity for these vessels is generally between 300 and 500 individuals, while vehicle deck capacity can accommodate over 200 cars or a combination of cars and commercial vehicles.

The Port of Klaipėda, located on Lithuania's Baltic Sea coast at coordinates 55.7196° N, 21.1345° E, serves as a significant maritime gateway. The ferry terminal for sailings to Karlshamn is situated in the central part of the port, specifically at Perkėlos g. 10. This location provides convenient access for departing passengers and freight. For vehicle boarding, designated marshalling lanes are clearly marked, and drivers are typically required to check in at least 90 minutes prior to the scheduled departure. Passenger check-in without a vehicle typically closes 60 minutes before departure. Parking facilities are available adjacent to the terminal building, with a capacity for approximately 150 vehicles. Public transport connections to the Klaipėda ferry terminal include local bus routes, with a stop located approximately 200 meters from the main entrance. Taxi services are also readily available, often congregating near the terminal during departure times. The port features basic passenger amenities, such as a waiting area, restrooms, and a small café with limited hours. Access to the vehicle decks is strictly controlled, with only authorized personnel and vehicle occupants permitted during boarding and disembarkation procedures. Freight units, including heavy goods vehicles, follow a separate check-in and boarding process, often utilizing dedicated gates and marshalling areas to streamline operations. Security checks are routinely conducted for both vehicles and foot passengers in accordance with international maritime regulations.

The Port of Karlshamn, situated on Sweden's southeast coast in Blekinge County at coordinates 56.1667° N, 14.8667° E, is a key arrival point for Baltic Sea traffic. The ferry terminal for arrivals from Klaipeda is located at Östra Piren, with clear signage directing disembarking passengers and vehicles. Vehicle disembarkation is an efficient process, typically completed within 60-90 minutes of the vessel docking, subject to customs and immigration procedures. Foot passengers disembark via designated gangways, with access to the terminal building. The port infrastructure includes several deep-water berths, capable of accommodating vessels up to 240 meters in length and a draft of 9.9 meters. Upon disembarkation, various transport options are available. The Karlshamn train station is approximately 2.5 kilometers from the ferry terminal, accessible via local bus service (Route 1) with a journey time of about 10 minutes. Taxi ranks are also available directly outside the terminal building, particularly coinciding with ferry arrivals. The terminal facilities include a small waiting area, public restrooms, and an ATM. There are no extensive retail or dining options directly within the immediate terminal building, although central Karlshamn provides these services. Freight operations are efficiently managed with dedicated offloading areas and customs checkpoints, designed to process commercial vehicles swiftly. Security protocols are consistently enforced for all incoming traffic, including vehicle inspections and passenger identification checks.

Schedule

DateDepartureArrivalDurationVessel
2026-10-1420:0009:1514h 15mAura Seaways
2026-10-1518:0008:3015h 30mOptima Seaways
2026-10-1520:0010:0015h 0mNils Dacke operated by TT-Line
2026-10-1720:0010:3015h 30mAura Seaways

About DFDS Seaways

DFDS is Northern Europe's largest integrated shipping and logistics company, with a rich history dating back to 1866. The company operates an extensive network of ferry routes across the Baltic Sea, North Sea, and English Channel. DFDS passenger ferries offer cruise-like experiences with excellent restaurants, entertainment, and comfortable cabins. The company is known for its overnight cruise ferries that transform your journey into a memorable mini-cruise.

HQ: Copenhagen, Denmark

All departures: Klaipeda – Karlshamn