Girteka, largest asset-based logistics company in Europe, has transported one of the most unique shipments in its nearly 30-year history: the traditional Lithuanian sailing boat Kurėnas SüD.1. The heritage vessel will represent Lithuania at Sail Amsterdam 2025, one of the world’s largest maritime festivals, held August 20–24 in the Netherlands.
The Kurėnas, a traditional wooden sailing boat once used in the Curonian Lagoon, was carefully delivered from Klaipėda to the port of Naarden, near Amsterdam. The initiative connected the Lithuanian Sea Museum with Girteka and international partners, underlining the role of business in supporting cultural exchange across borders.
“This is the first time in nearly three decades that Girteka has transported a cargo of such extraordinary cultural and historical value,” said Edvardas Liachovičius, CEO of Girteka Group. “It required precise coordination and the full engagement of our logistics experts. We are proud to contribute to a project that preserves maritime heritage and connects European nations.”
The initiative was supported by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Lithuania and the Embassy of Lithuania in the Netherlands, with both governments emphasizing how cultural exchanges strengthen bilateral ties.
“Ships have been connecting Lithuania and the Netherlands for centuries. And with ships came goods, trade, people, the exchange of technology and ideas. Ships are a window to the world, connecting people and nations before the internet. Wonderful that Girteka transported the historic Kurėnas vessel from Klaipėda to Sail Amsterdam, strengthening cultural ties between two countries. This is a testament to our longstanding bilateral relations and friendship,” said Jack Twiss Quarles van Ufford, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Lithuania.
“Working for a Lithuanian company, it is a great honor for me as a Dutchman to contribute not only to business growth but also to strengthening cultural connections between the Netherlands and Lithuania,” added Mark Mulder, Strategic Commercial Director at Girteka Logistics.
The Lithuanian Sea Museum, owner of the vessel, views its participation in Sail Amsterdam 2025 as an opportunity to present Baltic maritime heritage to millions of international visitors.
“This project unites institutions, businesses, and communities across borders. Thanks to Girteka’s support, the Kurėnas is not only reaching Amsterdam safely but also carrying a broader message of cultural cooperation in Europe,” said Romualdas Adomavičius, Captain of the Kurėnas and Deputy Director of the Lithuanian Sea Museum.
Sail Amsterdam, held every five years since 1975, attracts a spectacular fleet of historic and modern vessels, and millions of spectators from around the world.
