A plate-type condenser comprises a row of spaced-apart heat transfer plates defining an alternating series of gaseous passages and cooling liquid passages. Within each gaseous passage is provided a plurality of liquid-collecting means for directing the condensed liquid vertically downwardly along discrete flow passages thereby minimizing contact between the heat transfer plates and the condensed liquid. The liquid-collecting means comprises either an array of inclined projections or recesses formed within the heat transfer plates.