Estonian icebreakers face €10M winter costs after harsh conditions extend operations

Estonian icebreaking operations this winter have cost over €10 million—more than €2 million above usual expenses. The rise comes after colder-than-average weather forced extended work across key harbours and waterways. Three icebreakers, Tarmo, EVA-316, and Botnica, have been active since January, with operations expected to last until April.

The season began on January 7, when EVA-316 started clearing ice in Pärnu Bay. By January 27, Botnica joined the effort, focusing on eastern Estonia near Sillamäe and Kunda. Later, it moved to the Gulf of Riga in February. Meanwhile, Tarmo took charge in the Tallinn area from February 11.

Throughout the winter, the icebreakers worked across 12 harbours and routes, including Tallinn, Pärnu, Haapsalu, and the Väinameri sea. Documented operations covered a Tallinn-to-Pärnu route (January 15-20), a Väinameri circuit (February 5-12), and Haapsalu approaches (February 20-25). So far, the three vessels have consumed 981,589 litres of fuel.

The additional €2.3 million will mostly cover fuel and labour costs. Last winter, when no icebreaking occurred but scheduled dock maintenance proceeded, expenses totalled €8.9 million. Normally, a winter season without active icebreaking costs between €8 million and €9 million.

This year's operations are set to continue until April, with total costs reaching over €10 million. The Estonian Maritime Administration has reported extended activity due to harsh conditions. Most of the extra funding will address higher fuel use and increased workforce demands.