Comprehensive Guide to Helsinki Ferry Routes
With enchanting ferry routes, Helsinki is not merely a destination but a gateway to exciting journeys.
Choosing your destination and your ferry route is like selecting a story to live.
Each voyage has its tale, from the medieval wonders of Tallinn, the luxury of Stockholm’s night, and the peaceful retreat of Mariehamn to the historical exploration of Travemünde.
Consider your style, budget, and season, then hop aboard as we navigate the sparkling waves and unravel what awaits on the other side on one of these four Helsinki ferry routes.
Your nautical adventure from Helsinki begins here!
Helsinki – Tallinn
A blend of ancient charm and modernity, the Helsinki-Tallinn route is a ticket to a journey back in time. In just over 2 hours across the Gulf of Finland, you’ll be stepping onto the cobblestone streets of Tallinn’s medieval heart. This is the shortest of the Helsinki ferry routes and it allows for visitors to Helsinki to make a day trip to Tallinn, or visa versa.
This ferry route is a connection bridging two worlds and offers a seamless blend of the past and present.
- No. of Operators: 3
- Operators: Eckerö Line, Tallink Silja & Viking Line
- Average Daily Sailings: 11
- High-Speed Ferry: Available with Tallink Silja
- Reserve Cabin: Yes
Tallinn Mini-Guide
- Tallinn’s Old Town: Explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, a living testament to Tallinn’s medieval grandeur with well-preserved streets and city walls.
- Town Hall Square and Town Hall: The heart of the Old Town, once a bustling market square and the hub of city government, still resonates with historical significance.
- Toompea hill and castle: Dominating the cityscape, Toompea hill is synonymous with power. Toompea Castle, the seat of the Estonian Parliament, stands as a symbol of national authority.
- Kadriorg Palace and Park: Experience the splendor of Estonia’s only Baroque Palace, built over 300 years ago by Russian Tsar Peter the Great. The surrounding park adds to the royal elegance.
FAQ: Helsinki to Tallinn Ferry
Q: How long is the ferry from Helsinki to Tallinn?
A: The typical crossing time is approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes, though this can change depending on the season.
Q: How much is the ferry from Helsinki to Tallinn?
A: On average, the price is around $81, but it may vary depending on the time of year.
Q: How can I book ferry tickets from Helsinki to Tallinn?
A: Tickets can be booked through the deal finder, and the latest ferry deals are on the offers page.
Q: Can you travel on the ferry from Helsinki to Tallinn as a foot passenger?
A: Yes, you can travel as a foot passenger with Tallink Silja, Viking Line, and Eckerö Line.
Q: Can you take your car on the ferry from Helsinki to Tallinn?
A: Yes, you can travel with a vehicle with Tallink Silja, Viking Line, and Eckerö Line.
Q: Can you bring pets on the ferry from Helsinki to Tallinn?
A: Pets are allowed, but be aware of potential requirements like a pet passport. Tallink Silja and Viking Line currently allow pets.
Helsinki – Stockholm
A journey between two captivating capitals, the Helsinki-Stockholm ferry route is a maritime adventure filled with Nordic charm. This is perhaps one of the most important and compelling Helsinki ferry routes because it connects two of the most important Scandinavian capitals that do not have a rail connection.
As you sail beneath the stars, the 17-hour overnight voyage unfolds like a floating hotel experience, complete with luxury, leisure, and entertainment.
Awaken to Stockholm’s shimmering skyline, where history, culture, and natural beauty await your discovery.
- No. of Operators: 2
- Operators: Tallink Silja & Viking Line
- Average Daily Sailings: 1
- High-Speed Ferry: Available with Viking Line
- Reserve Cabin: Yes
Stockholm Mini-Guide
- Royal Palace: Stand in awe of the grandeur and architectural brilliance of Stockholm’s Royal Palace, a symbol of Sweden’s monarchy.
- Vasa Museum: Step back in time at the Vasa Museum, home to the perfectly preserved 17th-century Vasa warship.
- Open-Air Museums and Cultural Sites: Explore Skansen and other open-air museums that beautifully capture Sweden’s rich heritage.
- Archipelago Adventures: Don’t miss the chance to explore Stockholm’s stunning archipelago, where natural beauty meets tranquil relaxation.
Read more: Best Things to See and Do in Stockholm
FAQ: Helsinki to Stockholm Ferry
Q: How long is the ferry from Helsinki to Stockholm?
A: The typical crossing time is approximately 17 hours and 52 minutes, though this may vary by season.
Q: How much is the ferry from Helsinki to Stockholm?
A: The average price is around $167, but this can differ depending on the time of year.
Q: How can I book ferry tickets from Helsinki to Stockholm?
A: Tickets can be booked through the deal finder, and the offers page provides the latest ferry deals.
Q: Can you travel on the ferry from Helsinki to Stockholm as a foot passenger?
A: Foot passengers are allowed with Viking Line and Tallink Silja.
Q: Can you take your car on the ferry from Helsinki to Stockholm?
A: Yes, vehicles are allowed on this route with Viking Line and Tallink Silja.
Q: Can you bring pets on the ferry from Helsinki to Stockholm?
A: Pets are allowed, but you may need a pet passport and other documents. Both operators currently allow pets.
Helsinki – Mariehamn
Mariehamn, the heart of the Åland Islands, is a destination that epitomizes tranquillity and natural splendor.
A ferry ride from Helsinki to Mariehamn is more than a means of transportation; it’s an escape, a gentle journey weaving through the serene archipelago.
Let the waves guide you to Mariehamn’s inviting shores, where the sea’s fresh breeze mingles with the town’s maritime charm.
- No. of Operators: 2
- Operators: Tallink Silja & Viking Line
- Average Daily Sailings: 1
- Average Weekly Sailings: 10
- Reserve Cabin: Yes
Mariehamn Mini-Guide
- Pommern Ship and Maritime Museum: Admire the historic four-masted barque Pommern and explore Aland’s Maritime Museum.
- St. Goran’s Church: A visit to this church along the Lime-tree-lined Esplanaden Boulevard provides a glimpse of Mariehamn’s architectural charm.
- Torgatten Pedestrian Precinct: Explore the town’s shops, cafes, and restaurants and experience local life.
- Harbors: With two main harbors, both ice-free nearly all year, Mariehamn serves as a vital connection to Sweden, Estonia, and mainland Finland.
FAQ: Helsinki to Mariehamn Ferry
Q: How long is the ferry from Helsinki to Mariehamn?
A: The typical crossing time is approximately 11 hours and 12 minutes, but this can vary depending on the season.
Q: How much is the ferry from Helsinki to Mariehamn?
A: The average price is around $201, though this can differ depending on the season.
Q: How can I book ferry tickets from Helsinki to Mariehamn?
A: Tickets are available through the deal finder, and you can visit the offers page for the latest deals.
Q: Can you travel as a foot passenger on the ferry from Helsinki to Mariehamn?
A: Both Viking Line and Tallink Silja allow foot passengers on this route.
Q: Can you take your car on the ferry from Helsinki to Mariehamn?
A: Both Viking Line and Tallink Silja allow vehicles on this route.
Q: Can you bring pets on the ferry from Helsinki to Mariehamn?
A: Yes, but you may require a pet passport and other documentation. Both Viking Line and Tallink Silja currently allow pets.
Helsinki – Travemünde
Embarking on a voyage from Helsinki to Travemünde is like embarking on a journey through time, exploring the rich culture and maritime heritage that connects Finland and Germany. This is the longest of the Helsinki ferry routes, an overnight voyages that transports you North to South across the Baltic into Northern Germany.
As the ship docks in Travemünde, a unique blend of history, architecture, and the mouthwatering aroma of marzipan awaits you.
- No. of Operators: 1
- Operators: Finnlines
- Average Weekly Sailings: 6
- Reserve Cabin: Yes
Travemünde Mini-Guide
- Holstentor Gateway: This 15th-century gateway, with its two cylindrical towers, is the fairytale entrance to a medieval city filled with history.
- Old Town (Altstadt): Stroll through the streets of Altstadt to discover historical buildings and charming squares.
- Lubeck Cathedral: This beautiful 12th-century cathedral is a testament to the city’s architectural grandeur.
- Rantzau Castle (Schloss Rantzau): Immerse yourself in the elegance of this palace and its surroundings.
- Baltic Sea Beaches: The sandy beaches of Travemünde offer a seaside escape, where one can bask in the Baltic Sea’s coastal charm.
FAQ: Helsinki to Travemunde Ferry
Q: How long is the ferry from Helsinki to Travemunde?
A: The typical crossing time is approximately 31 hours, but this can vary depending on the season.
Q: How much is the ferry from Helsinki to Travemunde?
A: The average price is around $539, though this can differ depending on the season.
Q: How can I book ferry tickets from Helsinki to Travemunde?
A: Tickets are available through the deal finder, and you can visit the offers page for the latest deals.
Q: Can you travel on the ferry from Helsinki to Travemunde as a foot passenger?
A: Yes, Finnlines allows foot passengers on this route.
Q: Can you take your car on the ferry from Helsinki to Travemunde?
A: Yes, Finnlines allows vehicles on this route.
Q: Can you bring pets on the ferry from Helsinki to Travemunde?
A: Yes, but you may require a pet passport and other documentation. Finnlines currently allows pets.
Embarking on a Journey: The Sea’s Invitation Awaits
From the lively docks of Helsinki to the myriad enchanting destinations, traveling with Direct Ferries transcends mere transportation—it’s a call to adventure, a story waiting to unfold.
For those fortunately enough to get to visit Helsinki, we hope that you allow extra time to explore one of these compelling Baltic destinations, taking advantage of one of these Helsinki ferry routes.
As you embark on your voyage, let the sea guide you to uncharted wonders.
Explore, embrace, and let the maritime allure enhance your journey.
The sea is calling, echoing with the promise of exploration and enjoyment.
Will you answer?
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