Libava

The reconstructed 17th-century Latvian sailing ship Libava is well known as a frequent guest at the Baltic Sail regatta. The ship’s home port is Liepāja, from which its name is derived — Libava, from Old High German, means “Liepāja.” Reconstruction began in 2007 at the Russian shipyard Varyag in Petrozavodsk and was completed in 2008. Since then, the vessel has been a regular participant in Baltic Sail events. The reconstruction was based on drawings of Dutch luxury ships known as Herren, provided by museums, primarily the St. Petersburg Maritime Museum.

The ship was built using sailing ship construction techniques from 300 years ago. As such, Libava reflects the long-standing traditions of prestige and leisure once reserved for the European aristocracy — while today remaining accessible to sailing enthusiasts from all walks of life.

Each summer, the ship sails approximately 10 kilometers from Riga to Jūrmala, a popular resort on the Gulf of Riga. While in Riga, the captain and crew welcome lovers of summer sailing adventures aboard. Libava has taken part in numerous charity events, including the children’s festival “Daugava Under Sail 2016” in Ķīpsala, which was attended by more than 250 children.