Maritime culture is an integral part of Helsinki's identity, and the sea is never far away in the Finnish capital. During the first weekend of June, from 2nd to 4th, maritime entrepreneurs and other stakeholders offer a chance to explore maritime locations and services. Throughout the weekend, visitors can enjoy affordable cruises in the Helsinki archipelago, participate in nature excursions in the archipelago landscape, or even try electric boat rides.
Traditionally, the event was a one-day affair focused on the opening of the boating season. However, this year, the event has been expanded to encompass a wider range of maritime services and experiences. "There is so much happening on the sea and in the islands, from cultural activities to sports and food. The beauty of Helsinki's maritime culture lies in its diversity, and this year, we wanted to encourage people to experience the full range of maritime offerings," says Minttu Perttula, Special Designer at the City of Helsinki Sports Services.
The event weekend is organized by the City of Helsinki in collaboration with maritime operators.
Captivating views of the sea
Various exhibitions at Suomenlinna provide insights into the restoration of traditional boats, interpretations of the Baltic Sea by renowned artists, and the lives of soldiers at sea during both war and peace. The Unknown Baltic Sea, an art-oriented rescue operation, can be seen at Suomenlinna's Levyhalli. The exhibition brings together a diverse group of artists and is organized by the John Nurminen Foundation, featuring artists such as Meeri Koutaniemi and Anna Nykyri.
The summer season at the Military Museum starts with a bang on Finnish Defence Forces Flag Day on June 4th. From Sunday to Tuesday, the museum and the submarine Vesikko offer free admission, along with numerous guided tours and self-guided activities for families. Moreover, there is a unique opportunity to see the Enigma encryption device, which is only on display during the event days from June 4th to 6th.
On Sunday, June 4th, a free excursion called Suviretki Suomenlinnan luontoa ihaillen (Summer Trip Admiring the Nature of Suomenlinna) takes place at Suomenlinna.
Island hopping by cruise or kayak
On Saturday, June 3rd, visitors can hop on the water transport with discounted fares provided by FRS Finland, JT-Line, and Stromman lines.
All children (0-17 years old) can travel for free on the Vispilä paddlewheel ship between Kauppatori and Korkeasaari on Saturday, June 3rd, and children arriving by water transport (0-17 years old) also get free admission to Korkeasaari on that day.
The OmaStadi project, "Saaret saavutettaviksi" (Accessible Islands), will be launched on Friday, June 2nd, with the help of Callboats on-demand boat service. During the summer of 2023, the electric Callboats can be ordered via the Callboats application for transportation from Laajasalo Reposalmi to Malkasaari, Kotiluoto, and Pohjoinen Villaluoto. The service operates from Wednesday to Sunday, 12 PM to 8 PM, and the price for a single route is €6 for adults and €3 for children.
Natura Viva Kayaking Center in Vuosaari and Drumsö Kanotister Ry Kayaking Club in Lauttasaari offer opportunities to get acquainted with their activities. In Vuosaari, visitors can reserve a free Baltic Sea "plogging" kayak on Saturday, June 3rd, while in Lauttasaari, free kayaking trials are available on Sunday, June 4th.
For a comprehensive list of all events and offers during the Merellinen Helsinki weekend, visit the website "Koe merellinen Helsinki 2.–4.6. - Tapahtumakalenteri" (Experience Maritime Helsinki 2nd to 4th of June - Event Calendar).
HT
