Inland navigation in the Southeastern and Eastern Baltic Sea basin remains an under-researched area; however, enhancing the potential of Inland Waterway Transport (IWT) is essential for sustainable transport development. This article identifies the key factors influencing the logistical attractiveness of inland waterways, focusing on three main parameter groups: technical (river depth, vessel dimensions, bridge height limitations), technological (navigation equipment, fuel consumption, engine types), and navigational (water level fluctuations, current velocity, ice conditions). The expert evaluation results revealed that the most critical factors are river depth, vessel compatibility with waterway conditions, and bridge clearance restrictions. Technological parameters received more divergent evaluations (Kendall’s W = 0.46), while navigational factors - such as water level fluctuations - were recognized as essential, although ice conditions were deemed less critical due to the short navigation season. The study provides practical recommendations for the development of IWT in the Baltic region, emphasizing the importance of infrastructure modernization and the creation of a sustainable logistics network.