Count's Jetty

On the western shore of South Bay lies the grand entrance to the city from the sea, which has become its most recognizable symbol. This is Grafskaya Wharf—a majestic 19th-century architectural monument that has welcomed sailors and travelers visiting Sevastopol for decades. In a country like Ukraine, it is hard to find a more harmonious combination of classical austerity and maritime vastness.

Count's Quay. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The architectural ensemble is centered around an impressive double colonnade of the Doric order, which frames the path to the water. A wide grand staircase made of light-colored Inkerman stone leads down to the piers. Special charm is added to this historic site by the marble lion figures, which seem to guard the city’s peace, and an elegant antique-style arch.

Today, the wharf is not only an important transport hub for boat services but also the main center of attraction for residents and visitors alike. It offers breathtaking views of the bay, and the atmosphere of the place is imbued with a spirit of maritime adventure and solemnity.

To plan your visit and get the exact location, you can use the following details:

The first thing to do is walk up and down the grand staircase, feeling the scale and grandeur of the structure. This is an ideal spot for classic photos against the backdrop of the snow-white columns. Don't forget to look at the details: the marble lions at the foot of the stairs are a favorite among tourists and frequent stars of local snapshots.

From the upper platform of the wharf, a magnificent panorama of Sevastopol Bay opens up. From here, you can watch the movement of ships for hours and see the silhouettes of the famous Konstantin and Mikhailov Forts on the opposite shore. In the evening, when the decorative lighting comes on, the colonnade is transformed, creating the perfect setting for a romantic stroll.

You can set off on a boat trip right from the wharf. Numerous boats and skiffs offer tours of the waters, allowing you to see the city embankments and naval vessels from a new perspective. It is also a popular spot for meetings and relaxation: you can often hear street music here, and it hosts city festivals and solemn ceremonies.

The landmark is located in the very heart of the city, right on Nakhimov Square. This makes it incredibly accessible for tourists: most walking routes through the historical center inevitably lead to this magnificent colonnade. You can easily reach it on foot if you are strolling along Primorsky Boulevard or the central streets.

For those coming from further away, numerous public transport routes (buses, trolleybuses, and shuttle buses) go to the "Nakhimov Square" stop. From the railway or bus station, the journey takes no more than 10–15 minutes by public transport or taxi.

If you are traveling by car, keep in mind that parking spaces right by the square can be limited during high season. It is recommended to leave your car on the nearest side streets and walk for a few minutes, enjoying the sea breeze and the atmosphere of the old city.

The history of this site began in 1783, when a simple wooden pier was built on the shore. It received its current name thanks to Count M. I. Voinovich, the commander of the Black Sea Fleet, who frequently moored here. Despite official attempts to rename it Catherine's Wharf, the popular name "Grafskaya" (the Count's) proved much more enduring.

The site gained its current grand appearance in 1846. The major reconstruction project was developed by the talented engineer John Upton. It was his design that featured the majestic Doric colonnade, which became the architectural focal point of the entire waterfront. At the foot of the wide Inkerman stone staircase stand the famous marble lions, created by the Italian sculptor Ferdinando Pelliccia.

Over the centuries, the wharf has witnessed many historical figures and events. It has been rebuilt and restored, yet it has consistently remained the city’s grand "gateway," surviving the tests of time and preserving its unique classical style.

For a leisurely look at the architecture, a walk up the steps, and taking some memorable photos, 30–60 minutes is usually enough. It is an ideal spot for a short stop during a larger tour of the city center.

If you decide to take the opportunity to go on a boat trip on one of the vessels that depart regularly from here, you should set aside about another hour. Many tourists also prefer to linger longer just to sit by the water and watch the ships in the bay.

Since the site is an open public space, it is available for visiting around the clock. You can come here at dawn to see the city waking up, or late at night to enjoy the silence by the sea.

According to current information, the schedule is as follows:

• Monday — Sunday: Open 24 hours

A walk around the wharf offers excellent opportunities for further exploration of the city. The center is packed with interesting sites within walking or short driving distance, allowing for a rich cultural itinerary.

Exploring the surrounding area will help you dive deeper into the history and modern life of the region. Below is a list of nearby places worth visiting: