Structure and architectural appearance of cruise ports

Introduction. The purpose of this study is to identify principles and trends in the construction and architecture of cruise ports. Presently, Soviet-era seaport buildings fail to meet cruise tourism development requirements and current norms and standards applicable to this type of structures. Today Russian seaports are limited to solely one function, that is, transportation of passengers, whereas abroad such structures have been transformed into multifunctional complexes. Materials and methods. Theoretical analysis of scientific literature, graphic materials, and written sources were used. The research methods include systematic, spatial, and socio-functional approaches. Results. The article presents the history of formation of the architectural appearance and the functional purpose of cruise ports. It specifies principal requirements and design standards for similar structures, as well as their integration into the mo­dern urban environment. The co-authors offer solutions to relevant problems, related to the architecture of seaport buildings in Russia, using a number of selected international design cases of multifunctional marine complexes. Conclusions. By transforming obsolete buildings of seaports multifunctional complexes, we end up with a new level of structures. The competent architectural planning structure will allow urban authorities to create interesting facilities that bring not only transport, but also commercial, recreational and social benefits to the city. The structure and architectural appearance of a cruise port must be designed with regard for contemporary design standards and encompass a wide range of functional, technical, urban planning, artistic and aesthetic requirements.