Heltermaa Harbour
Hiiumaa
Heltermaa Harbour is a vital maritime gateway located in the village of Heltermaa on Hiiumaa island, Estonia. Established in 1860 through the initiative of local manor owners, the harbour serves as the primary ferry connection between Hiiumaa and the mainland port of Rohuküla. The harbour spans a land area of 71,000 m² and a water area of 216,700 m², with five quays totaling 335.5 meters in length and a maximum depth of 5.1 meters. It accommodates vessels up to 115 meters in length and 20 meters in width. Architecturally, the harbour blends functional ferry infrastructure with artistic elements, including two notable sculptures: "Tuules" by Aulin Rimm, a bronze female figure symbolizing the winds, and "Vanamees ja kits" by Aivar Simson, added in 2016. Over the years, the harbour has undergone expansions such as the 1959 ramp construction enabling bow disembarkation and modern upgrades to ferry operations. As the main maritime link for Hiiumaa, Heltermaa Harbour plays a crucial role in local transportation, tourism, and economy, offering visitors a unique blend of cultural heritage and coastal scenery.
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Tip: The best time to visit Heltermaa Harbour is during the warmer months when ferry services operate frequently and weather is favorable for coastal walks. It is advisable to check ferry schedules in advance and consider booking tickets ahead during peak tourist seasons to ensure smooth travel. Visitors can enjoy views of the sculptures and harbour activities; some areas may be restricted during operational hours, so follow posted signs and local guidance. There are no specific ticket requirements to explore the harbour area itself, but ferry tickets should be purchased through official operators. Discounts may be available for groups, seniors, or children.
Interesting facts
- •Heltermaa Harbour connects Hiiumaa island with the mainland port of Rohuküla by ferry.
- •The harbour covers 71,000 m² of land and 216,700 m² of water area.
- •It has five quays with a total length of 335.5 meters and a maximum depth of 5.1 meters.
- •The bronze sculpture "Tuules" ("In the Wind") by Aulin Rimm was originally created in 1975 as a plaster model and cast in bronze in 1989.
- •The sculpture "Tuules" was relocated multiple times due to harbour construction and currently stands on a pier about 20 meters north of its earlier position.
- •"Vanamees ja kits" by Aivar Simson was installed in the harbour in 2016.
History
Heltermaa Harbour was established in 1860 by local manor owners, initially featuring wooden and stone piers.
Over time, the stone part of the pier was expanded, and in 1959 a ramp was built to facilitate bow disembarkation from ferries.
The harbour has continuously evolved to support increasing ferry traffic between Hiiumaa and mainland Estonia, with major upgrades including a new harbour building completed in 1996 and small boat entrance construction started in 2009.
Historically, the village of Heltermaa was first mentioned in 1620 and was part of the Suuremõisa Manor estate before becoming a separate village in 1977.
Place Guide
"Tuules" Sculpture1989
A bronze female figure created by sculptor Aulin Rimm symbolizing the wind and coastal spirit. Originally modeled in plaster in 1975 and cast in bronze in 1989, it has been relocated several times due to harbour renovations and currently sits on a pier north of the harbour basin.
"Vanamees ja kits" Sculpture2016
A sculpture by Aivar Simson depicting an old man and a goat, installed in Heltermaa Harbour in 2016, adding to the cultural landscape of the port area.
