The installation of the first caisson of the new quay marks the first visible milestone of the expansion project, as Pier 6 begins to take shape.
The new Pier 6 at the Port of Thessaloniki is now beginning to take shape. The successful installation of the first caisson marks a major construction milestone, representing the first structural element of the new quay. This development signals the gradual formation of the new port infrastructure that will substantially enhance the Port’s capabilities and shape the economic identity of Northern Greece for the decades to come.
The first caisson was constructed at a specially developed worksite site within the premises of Thessaloniki Port Authority S.A. (ThPA S.A.), transported by sea to its installation location, and placed through a controlled operation in the waters of the expansion area. In total, the project includes the construction and installation of 21 caissons, which will form the main structural base of the new Pier 6. While the first caisson is being installed in the Thermaic Gulf, construction of the second is already underway at the dedicated facility. This approach ensures continuous workflow and supports the project’s progress in line with the established schedule.
Caissons are large prefabricated reinforced-concrete structures widely used around the world in the construction of modern port infrastructure. For the Pier 6 expansion project, each caisson measures approximately 30 meters in length, 15 meters in width and 20 meters in height, with a weight of around 1,400 tons. Upon completion of the expansion, the new Pier 6 will feature a quay wall extending 1,081 meters in length (from 568 meters today) and an operational depth of 16.8 meters (from 12.6 meters today), enabling the accommodation of mainline vessels and significantly strengthening both the capacity and international competitiveness of the Port of Thessaloniki.
During the installation of the first caisson, a Blessing ceremony was conducted at the construction site by His Eminence Metropolitan Barnabas of Neapolis and Stavroupolis, in the presence of His Holiness Metropolitan Philotheos of Thessaloniki.
On this significant project milestone, Angeliki Samara, Chairwoman of the Board of Directors of ThPA S.A., stated:
“Today marks far more than the installation of the first structural element of the new quay wall. It marks the visible realization 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. The progress achieved to date reaffirms ThPA S.A.’s commitment to a long term development strategy for a port that creates lasting value and a strong growth legacy for both present and future generations.”
Dr. Ioannis Tsaras, Chief Executive Officer of ThPA S.A., emphasized:
“The installation of the first caisson marks a major milestone, as the new Pier 6 is now visibly beginning to take shape. It confirms that the implementation of the largest investment project in the history of the Port of Thessaloniki is progressing according to schedule. Upon completion, Pier 6 will substantially enhance the Port’s operational capabilities and further strengthen Thessaloniki’s role as a key gateway for trade and intermodal transportation serving Southeastern and Central Europe. Realizing the full benefits of this investment is closely linked to the timely delivery of critical connectivity infrastructure and the resolution of outstanding issues affecting its seamless implementation, enabling the Port to fully leverage the opportunities created by this transformative project. Today is a day of pride and celebration for Thessaloniki and Northern Greece. It marks a historic milestone more than 30 years in the making. Soon, both residents and visitors will be able to witness along the city’s waterfront the project that will help shape the economic future of the region.”
The project’s progress reaffirms ThPA S.A.’s commitment to delivering its investment program and developing a modern, competitive and internationally connected port. Upon completion, Thessaloniki will possess infrastructure that will decisively strengthen its role as a key hub for trade, logistics and intermodal transportation in Southeastern and Central Europe, creating significant added value for both the local and national economy.
Pier 6 Emerges in the Thermaic Gulf
Pier 6 Emerges in the Thermaic Gulf
Pier 6 Emerges in the Thermaic Gulf
Pier 6 Emerges in the Thermaic Gulf
Pier 6 Emerges in the Thermaic Gulf
Pier 6 Emerges in the Thermaic Gulf
Pier 6 Emerges in the Thermaic Gulf
Pier 6 Emerges in the Thermaic Gulf
Pier 6 Emerges in the Thermaic Gulf
