Canal hopping cruise from Savonlinna to Heinävesi

The Canal hopping cruise from Savonlinna to Heinävesi offers a captivating journey through Eastern Finland’s stunning lake landscapes and historic waterways. Departing from Savonlinna, this 8.5-hour trip takes travelers aboard the steamship S/S Heinävesi, a vessel that exudes vintage charm and transports you back in time. The tour showcases the Heinävesi route, one of Finland’s national landscapes, renowned for its nearly untouched lake scenery, historic canals, and picturesque villages. It’s an ideal choice for those who appreciate tranquil waters, scenic vistas, and a taste of Finland’s boating history.

While the cruise provides an immersive experience with guided commentary in Finnish and English, it also offers leisure time at cafes with local treats, making it suitable for visitors with an interest in nature, history, and relaxed cruising. The tour’s emphasis on natural beauty and cultural heritage makes it especially appealing for travelers seeking a peaceful, scenic escape. A key consideration is the tour’s timetable—departing early from Savonlinna and including bus transfers—so timing and punctuality are important to ensure a smooth experience.

Key Points

• Duration: The cruise lasts 8.5 hours, from morning until late afternoon.
• Departure point: Savonlinna harbor, at coordinates 61.86726760864258, 28.88532257080078.
• Main vessel: The historic steamship S/S Heinävesi, a fully licensed vessel with a café and lunch options.
• Route highlights: Traverses the Heinävesi route, connecting Kallavesi and Haukivesi, through long, narrow bays, rocky beaches, and maze-like archipelagos.
• Highlights: Views of 19th-century canals, the Heinävesi landscape, and possibly sightings of the Saimaa Ringed Seal.
• Guidance: Provided in Finnish and English, with audio guides also available.
• Additional amenities: The ship’s café/bar offers refreshments, coffee, local coffee cakes, beer, and sparkling wine.
• Timing: Departures are scheduled for Thursdays, June 26 and August 14, 2025, with check-in from 8:00 to 8:30 AM.
• Transport: The cruise includes a bus transfer from Kerma channel around 15:00, returning to Savonlinna approximately 5:00 PM.
• Booking flexibility: Fully cancellable up to 24 hours in advance, with a reserve now, pay later option.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Historic Canals of the Heinävesi Route

The Heinävesi route is a historic waterway that started being canalized in 1895. It connects Kallavesi and Haukivesi, passing through Vehmersalmi, Suvasvesi, and Varisvesi. The route’s main feature, Kermajärvi, is characterized by long, narrow bays, rocky beaches, and a maze of archipelagos. The rock formations along the shores rise dramatically from the water, offering striking views and a sense of untouched wilderness.

This waterway remains a landscape of national significance, with natural features that include pine forests, birch groves, and steep rocky cliffs. The canalization process began in 1895, facilitating boat traffic from Kuopio and Savonlinna by the early 20th century. The old canals and historic ships like the steamship S/S Heinävesi evoke a bygone era of Finnish waterways.

Travelers get to witness the authentic water landscape of the Savo Lake District, with varying natural features like narrow waterways, wider ridges, and rapid sections that add excitement to the cruise. The scenery is marked by pine forests, which dominate the lakeside landscape, and birch groves that have grown over long-standing forestry practices.

The S/S Heinävesi and Its Vintage Charm

The steamship S/S Heinävesi is the heart of this cruise, offering a chance to experience traveling on a vessel with over a century of maritime history. Fully licensed, the vessel features a café and bar, where guests can purchase refreshments, local coffee cakes, and beverages including beer and sparkling wine.

The ship’s vintage design and authentic atmosphere contribute significantly to the charm of the cruise. The guides on board provide commentary in Finnish and English, sharing insights into the route, local history, and natural features. The audio guide options enhance the experience, making the journey accessible and engaging for everyone.

The lounge areas and outdoor decks allow for relaxed viewing, especially as the vessel navigates through the narrow canals and broad lake stretches. The café serves as a perfect spot to enjoy a coffee or a local pastry while soaking in the scenery.

The Route from Kallavesi to Haukivesi

The Heinävesi route begins in Kallavesi, traveling through Vehmersalmi, then on to Suvasvesi and Varisvesi. The journey continues to Kermajärvi, the main lake of the route, known for its rocky beaches, long bays, and narrow waterways. The maze-like archipelago in this area creates a picturesque setting, with many islands featuring rocky shores and bare cliffs that rise tens of meters above the water.

The route showcases natural diversity, including pine forests that blanket much of the shoreline, alongside birch groves that reflect the region’s forestry history. The steep, narrow waterways offer a sense of adventure and showcase the rugged beauty of the Savo Lake District. The water bodies are protected under local programs, emphasizing their ecological importance.

Travelers experience the timeless landscape that has remained largely unchanged for generations, with human influence limited to historic canals and small villages that dot the shoreline.

Practical Details: Meeting Point and Transportation

The cruise departs from the m/s Katrilli at the coordinates 61.86726760864258, 28.88532257080078. It’s important to arrive by 8:00 to 8:30 AM for ticket check and boarding. The return involves a bus transfer at the Kerma channel around 15:00, bringing guests back to Savonlinna by approximately 5:00 PM.

This logistical setup means travelers should plan for an early start and be punctual to ensure they don’t miss the departure. The bus transfer adds an element of convenience, connecting the boat journey with land transportation smoothly.

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Comparing This Tour to Similar Waterway Experiences

This canal hopping cruise stands out for its focus on historic canals and the scenic Heinävesi route, which is a designated national landscape. Unlike shorter or purely sightseeing cruises, this tour emphasizes natural scenery, historic canals, and the authentic maritime atmosphere of the steamship S/S Heinävesi.

Compared to other lake and archipelago tours around Savonlinna, this experience offers a deeper dive into the waterway history and natural beauty of the region. The inclusion of guided commentary in two languages, plus audio guides, enhances its educational appeal.

Who Would Enjoy the Canal Hopping Cruise

This tour suits history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and relaxation seekers alike. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate scenic boat rides and want to learn about Finland’s historic waterways. The vintage steamship adds a nostalgic touch, making it perfect for those interested in maritime history.

It’s well-suited for visitors of all ages, especially those comfortable with early starts and bus transfers. The leisurely pace and scenic views make it a good choice for a peaceful day on the water, away from crowded tourist spots.

Final Thoughts on the Savonlinna to Heinävesi Canal Hopping Cruise

The Canal hopping cruise from Savonlinna to Heinävesi invites travelers to discover one of Finland’s most beautiful waterways aboard a historic vessel. The combination of natural scenery, historic canals, and the vintage steamship experience makes it a memorable outing.

While the early departure and bus transfer require some planning, the spectacular views, guidance, and relaxed atmosphere generally justify the effort. This cruise offers a genuine connection to Finland’s waterway heritage and the serene landscape of the Savo Lake District.

If natural beauty and historic waterways appeal, and a slow-paced, scenic journey sounds appealing, this tour will likely meet expectations and provide a rewarding day on the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts 8.5 hours, starting early and concluding in the late afternoon.

Where does the cruise depart from?
It departs from Savonlinna harbor, at coordinates 61.86726760864258, 28.88532257080078.

Is lunch included?
Lunch is available for purchase on the vessel; the ship’s café offers local coffee cakes, refreshments, and alcoholic drinks.

Are the commentary guides available in English?
Yes, guidance is provided in Finnish and English, with an audio guide option also available.

What scenery can I expect along the route?
You’ll see historic canals, rocky beaches, narrow bays, maze-like archipelagos, and pine and birch forests.

Can I see the Saimaa Ringed Seal?
Yes, it is possible to see the Saimaa Ringed Seal during the cruise.

What is the best time to take this tour?
The scheduled departures are June 26 and August 14, 2025, but check availability for other dates.

How do I book this tour?
Reservations can be made with Blue Lake Cruises Oy, with options to reserve now and pay later, and full cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

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