WATCH: Thessaloniki pier expansion reaches milestone

The reinforced concrete caisson, built at a dedicated facility within the Thessaloniki Port Authority (ThPA) site, was transported by sea and positioned to form the first structural section of the new quay.

A total of 21 caissons, each measuring around 30 metres long, 15 metres wide and 20 metres high and weighing approximately 1,400 tonnes, will be installed as part of the project.

“The installation of the first caisson marks a major milestone, as the new Pier 6 is now visibly beginning to take shape,” said chief executive Dr Ioannis Tsaras.

“It confirms that the implementation of the largest investment project in the history of the Port of Thessaloniki is progressing according to schedule.”

Once complete, Pier 6 will feature a quay extending 1,081 metres, almost doubling its current length of 568 metres, while increasing operational depth from 12.6 metres to 16.8 metres. The upgraded infrastructure will enable the port to accommodate larger mainline vessels and strengthen its international competitiveness.

ThPA said the expansion will reinforce Thessaloniki’s role as a strategic gateway for international trade while delivering long-term economic benefits for northern Greece and the wider region.

“Today marks far more than the installation of the first structural element of the new quay wall,” said Angeliki Samara, chair of the Board of Directors of ThPA.

“It marks the visible realisation of a vision that for decades has represented a strategic aspiration for Thessaloniki and Northern Greece. The Pier 6 expansion is an investment of national significance that will further strengthen the port’s position on the international transport map.”