Ferris wheel in Kaunas may rise on Nemuno Island

Preparations for a potential ferris wheel site have begun on Nemuno Island in Kaunas, as reported by local news portal Kas vyksta Kaune.

Kaunas city municipality has confirmed that work is underway to create a space for various attractions and mobile installations requiring a solid foundation, which could include a ferris wheel. Paulius Pachomovas, head of the Construction Management Department, stated that pedestrian and bicycle paths will also be integrated into the island’s existing network.

The municipality has not yet officially confirmed Nemuno Island as the final location, though workers at the site have suggested the ferris wheel will be built there. Earlier reports from Kaunas IN, the city’s tourism and business development agency, indicated that the planned mobile ferris wheel would stand 45 meters tall with 32 enclosed, heated, and air-conditioned gondolas.

A Dutch company, SkyView Creation B.V., won the public tender for the project, signing a €4.6 million (including VAT) contract. The company will also provide technical maintenance for one year after installation.

Ticket prices have already been approved by the municipality: €12 for adults (16+), €8 for children (4–15), students, seniors, and persons with disabilities. Family tickets will cost €35 (2 adults + 2 children) or €39 (2 adults + 3 children). VIP cabins for 1–2 people, including a glass of sparkling wine or a drink, will be priced at €50, with an additional €25 for extra passengers (up to 4 people). Discounts of 50% will apply to children’s groups of 10 or more, as well as corporate groups. Free entry will be granted to tour guides and children under 4.

The council also set a 700% markup for food and drinks with a cost price below €0.50 and a 70% markup for items priced between €5.01 and €15. Additionally, the monthly rental price for administrative premises managed by Kaunas IN on Europos Avenue will increase by €0.50 to €8.50 per square meter.

Parallel to the preparations, waste removal work is ongoing on Nemuno Island, as the area has historically been used for city waste disposal. Similar spaces for mobile installations are planned in Mažasis Ąžuolynas and Vytautas Park, where large crowds gather.