SIGHTSEEING CRUISE AROUND SAVONLINNA

Explore the Sightseeing Cruise Around Savonlinna aboard the m/s IEVA, a delightful 1-hour boat ride that showcases the essence of this Finnish town built on islands. Operating from early May to late October, this cruise offers a relaxed way to see Olavinlinna Castle, one of the area’s most iconic landmarks, along with scenic stops like the Rocky Beaches of Casino Islands and the impressive Laitaatsalmi concrete bridge. The cruise’s friendly guides provide commentary in English, Finnish, German, and Russian, making it accessible to diverse travelers.

While the cruise is mainly about soaking in the views and enjoying a peaceful boat ride, it also offers the chance, if luck is on your side, to spot a ringed seal swimming or sunbathing. Many appreciate the good value this tour provides, especially given its short duration and comprehensive sights. The tour operates from meeting points at m/s IEVA and m/s ELVIIRA, with wheelchair accessibility and no alcohol or drugs allowed, ensuring a family-friendly atmosphere.

Key Points

• Duration: 1-hour cruise, perfect for a quick sightseeing break
• Highlights: Olavinlinna Castle, Casino Islands, Laitaatsalmi concrete bridge, potential ringed seal sightings
• Languages: Guides available in English, Finnish, German, and Russian
• Meeting Point: Coordinates 61.866943359375, 28.885334014892578
• Booking Flexibility: Reserve now and pay later, free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point at Savonlinna’s Historic Waterways

The cruise begins at coordinates 61.866943359375, 28.885334014892578, at the docks of m/s IEVA and m/s ELVIIRA. These vessels are well-suited for short, scenic tours around the central islands of Savonlinna, offering a comfortable and scenic platform to relax and observe. The meeting points are easy to find, and the boats are designed for smooth navigation in the calm waters.

This cruise is ideal for visitors who want a short yet scenic sightseeing experience, especially for those with limited time or traveling with family. The 1-hour duration keeps it manageable while still covering major sights and offering beautiful views of the town’s island architecture and nature.

Olavinlinna Castle from the Water

The main highlight of this cruise is the chance to view Olavinlinna Castle, a striking medieval fortress that dominates the skyline. From the boat, viewers get a unique perspective of the castle’s stone walls and turrets, set against the lake and sky. The guide narrates some historical context, although the focus remains on the scenic spectacle.

Seeing Olavinlinna from the water offers a different appreciation compared to visiting on foot, with the castle appearing majestic amidst the surrounding waters. The cruise also provides a glimpse of the rocky beaches of the Casino Islands, adding to the variety of scenery.

The Rocky Beaches of the Casino Islands

The Casino Islands present rugged, rocky beaches that are visible during the cruise. Many find these landscapes appealing, with the crisp Finnish shoreline and rock formations providing excellent photo opportunities. The cruise allows travelers to enjoy these natural features without the need for a hike or land exploration.

The scenic views of the Casino Islands add a peaceful, untouched character to the cruise, contrasting the historic castle with natural beauty.

The Impressive Laitaatsalmi Concrete Bridge

One of the biggest concrete bridges in Finland, the Laitaatsalmi bridge, is a standout feature seen during the cruise. Its massive structure spans the water, connecting parts of Savonlinna and demonstrating Finland’s impressive engineering. The bridge’s year-round operation means it’s a familiar sight for locals, but for visitors, it’s a notable modern contrast to the historic castle.

This stop or view highlights the blend of historic and modern infrastructure in Savonlinna, making the cruise both scenic and informative.

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Chance to Spot a Ringed Seal

A special thrill of this cruise is the possibility of seeing a ringed seal. While not guaranteed, the seal might swim or sunbathe near the boat, adding a touch of wildlife interest to the trip. The seal sightings are a bonus for nature lovers and add a spontaneous element to the cruise.

This feature underscores the cruise’s ability to combine scenic views with wildlife encounters, enhancing the overall experience.

Practical Details and Accessibility

The cruise takes place from May to October, with multiple departures available, so it fits into most summer itineraries. The booking process offers the flexibility to reserve in advance without payment and cancel up to 24 hours ahead for a full refund.

The vessels are wheelchair accessible, ensuring that travelers with mobility needs can enjoy the experience. The tour does not permit alcohol or drugs, maintaining a family-friendly environment. Guidance is provided in multiple languages, including English, Finnish, Dutch, and German, making the tour accessible to international visitors.

How This Tour Compares to Other Savonlinna Cruises

The Sightseeing Cruise Around Savonlinna stands out with its short duration and scenic highlights, making it ideal for travelers seeking a quick overview of the town’s water-based sights. Similar experiences, like archipelago cruises or evening photography tours, offer different focuses, but this tour’s emphasis on Olavinlinna and nearby islands makes it a perfect daytime option.

The cost-effective nature of this cruise, combined with multilingual guides, makes it a value-packed choice for visitors wanting to see the town from the water without a long commitment.

Final Thoughts on the Savonlinna Sightseeing Cruise

This 1-hour boat ride offers a relaxing and scenic way to appreciate Savonlinna’s island landscape, historic Olavinlinna Castle, and modern Laitaatsalmi bridge. The guides’ multilingual commentary adds context, while the potential seal sightings provide an unexpected delight.

It’s best suited for visitors who appreciate short, scenic excursions that combine natural beauty with cultural landmarks. While the cruise is not lengthy, its well-chosen stops and views make it a valuable addition for any sightseeing day in Savonlinna.

If you enjoy water-based sightseeing, historic scenery, and small-group experiences, this cruise delivers good value and memorable views in a short time.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts 1 hour, making it a quick and easy sightseeing option.

What are the main sights seen during the cruise?
You see Olavinlinna Castle, the rocky beaches of Casino Islands, and the Laitaatsalmi concrete bridge.

Is there wildlife on the cruise?
There’s a chance to spot a ringed seal, which might swim or sunbathe near the boat.

What languages are guides available in?
Guidance is offered in English, Finnish, German, and Russian.

Where does the cruise depart from?
It departs from coordinates 61.866943359375, 28.885334014892578, at the docks of m/s IEVA and m/s ELVIIRA.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the cruise.

Is the cruise accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the vessels are wheelchair accessible.

When is the cruise available?
It operates from May through October, with multiple departure times.

Are food and drinks allowed onboard?
Alcohol and drugs are not permitted on the cruise.

Is this cruise suitable for families?
Yes, its family-friendly atmosphere and short duration make it suitable for all ages.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby