The well-known entrepreneur Viktor Siilats, who also owns Grand Holm Marina and Veskiviigi Yacht Harbour in Haapsalu, has acquired the marina property located at the tip of the Marienholm peninsula along with the adjacent historic granary.
“Viktor Siilats was the best possible buyer for these properties – he has deep knowledge of the maritime sector and the capability to bring appropriate development to the area. The tip of Marienholm is a historic location, and we’re excitedly anticipating its swift completion and fresh revival,” said Maido Lüiste, founder and CEO of Scandium Kinnisvara.
Port Marienholm
Port Marienholm will be developed on a historic harbour site, where in the 19th century even the largest ships docked – including Russia’s Emperor Alexander II and members of the royal family. The current marina property is among the most promising deep-water marina sites in Haapsalu, with existing building rights allowing for a 1,400 m² marina building, including 700 m² of base area across two floors directly by the water, on the pier.
Next to the harbour stands a historic granary built in 1862, which is planned to be expanded into four floors with a total volume of 1,064 m². The vision includes a top-level restaurant with a 360-degree view, designed to attract both domestic and international visitors.
First Steps of Construction to Begin Immediately
Existing fixed piers will be repaired, the granary and surrounding area will be tidied, surveying of the harbour basin will commence along with its legalization, and a permit will be sought to restore a submerged pier.
“If all goes well, I’d like to establish at least 4–5 mooring spots this summer, ideally 10,” said Siilats. “The goal is to have part of the Muhu Väin regatta fleet stop at Marienholm, which has the advantage of deeper access waters compared to existing Haapsalu harbours, allowing for larger vessels,” he added.
“Maybe we’ll even manage to organize a harbour basin clean-up with hobby divers, as we once did with Grand Holm Marina. If I’m in Estonia at the time, I’d gladly dive in myself again,” Siilats noted.
Plans for the first season include temporary floating piers, pop-up beach bars, and modular saunas for sunset lovers. As in other harbours managed by Siilats, a self-service kiosk may soon operate in Marienholm. There’s also consideration of locating a voluntary sea rescue unit at the tip of the peninsula to shorten response time and travel distance.
According to Siilats, running small harbours is generally not highly profitable, which is why he is considering joint management of all three Haapsalu marinas – Port Marienholm, Grand Holm Marina, and Veskiviigi – to improve efficiency and user experience.
Largest Investment in the Area
The overall development of Marienholm is progressing rapidly and is becoming one of the most prominent areas in Haapsalu. The peninsula has nearly 2 km of shoreline, and in addition to the new marina, a spa hotel, public park near the water tower, and a high-end restaurant in the historic granary are planned.
The creators behind the largest recent investment in Haapsalu include Scandium Kinnisvara, architectural firm 3+1 Architects, interior design studio KAMP, and landscape architects Tajuruum, with the vision developed by the placemaking agency What If.