The Friendly Port Initiative is a project of the Baltic Sail network partners to establish sustainable and common port regulations for traditional vessels and special purpose sail training vessels in Baltic harbours with the main goal to contribute to the preservation of traditional vessels in operation for future generations and as a trademark of northern Europe. The old-timers, masterpieces of European maritime heritage, represent maritime traditions and culture. They are eye catchers in the harbours not only during maritime festivals.

The members of the Baltic Sail Association appeal for a “Friendly Port Commitment” of Baltic port operators to offer special conditions for vessels, nationally registered as traditional vessel or operated as special purpose (sail training) ship with the intention to keep the ship in operation or to train traditional maritime craftsmanship. The “Friendly Port Commitment” shall contain at least the following regulation:

Nationally registered traditional vessels or vessels, operated as special purpose (sail training) ship with the intention to keep the ship in operation or to train traditional maritime craftsmanship, will not get charged harbour dues for 24 hours after time of arrival / berthing.