Finnish Lake District: Best Lakes for Boating
Finnish Lake District: Best Lakes for Boating
Finland has 187,888 lakes – yes, someone has counted them. While Saimaa steals most of the attention, there's an entire universe of other lakes offering fantastic boating. Here we present four of the best, beyond Saimaa, for those who want to explore the Finnish lake district.
Päijänne – Deep and Clear
Päijänne is Finland's second-largest lake, stretching 120 km from Asikkala in the south to Jyväskylä in the north. The lake is known for its unusually clear water – it actually supplies Helsinki with drinking water via a 120 km tunnel!
For boaters: Päijänne is deeper and narrower than Saimaa, with steep, forested shores and a more dramatic landscape. Wind can pick up here – the lake is narrow enough for thermal wind to build but wide enough for surprisingly large waves.
Highlights:
- Päijänne National Park – A network of islands in the southern section with hiking trails, barbecue spots, and camping areas.
- Jyväskylä – University city with a vibrant cultural scene and Alvar Aalto's architecture.
- Padasjoki – Starting point for the national park, with a guest harbour.
Tip: Päijänne is perfect for sailing. The clear water and steady wind make it one of Finland's best sailing lakes.
Näsijärvi – The Tampere Lake
Näsijärvi lies north of Tampere, Finland's third-largest city. The lake covers 257 km² and offers beautiful islands, quiet bays, and views of forested hills.
For boaters: From Tampere, you can navigate northward through all of Näsijärvi to Virrat, a stretch of approximately 70 km. Along the way, you'll pass islands with summer cottages, swimming spots, and natural harbours.
Highlights:
- Tampere – Start in this vibrant industrial city with breweries, museums, and Finland's only Moomin Museum.
- Viitasaari – A charming small town in the north with a guest harbour.
- Helvetinkolu – A dramatic gorge in the rock near the lake's west side.
Tip: Tampere is connected to Pyhäjärvi (southward) and Näsijärvi (northward) via Tammerkoski – Finland's most famous rapids. You cannot navigate the rapids, but both lakes are accessible via locks.
Oulujärvi – The Wild Lake
Oulujärvi in central Finland is a large, shallow lake surrounded by wilderness. Settlements are few and far between, and the nature is raw and beautiful. The lake is popular for fishing – pike, zander, and perch are abundant.
For boaters: Oulujärvi is for those seeking solitude and nature. You can cruise for hours without seeing another boat. The islands are covered in old-growth forest, and wildlife – moose, bears, eagles – is never far away.
Highlights:
- Manamansalo – Finland's largest lake island, with hiking trails and campsites.
- Paltaniemi – A historic church village overlooking the lake.
- Fishing – Oulujärvi is one of Finland's best fishing waters. Remember to get a fishing permit!
Tip: Oulujärvi is shallow in many places. Use nautical charts and watch for shallows.
Inarijärvi – Arctic Adventure
In the far north of Finland, in the heart of Lapland, lies Inarijärvi. This Arctic lake has over 3,000 islands and a landscape unlike anything else in Europe. Mountain birch forest, tundra, and the midnight sun create an almost otherworldly atmosphere.
For boaters: The season is short – June to August – but the experience is extraordinary. The midnight sun in June gives you 24 hours of daylight, and the silence is total. The water is cold (rarely above 15°C) but clear and clean.
Highlights:
- Ukonsaari – A sacred island for the Sámi people. Observe with respect.
- Pielpajärvi wilderness – A 17th-century wilderness church accessible via a hike from the lake's west side.
- Northern Lights – In September, you can experience the Northern Lights over the lake – a magical end to the season.
Tip: Inarijärvi is remote. Ensure you have enough fuel, provisions, and warm clothing. There are no marinas in the traditional sense – only simple docks.
Lake Comparison
Lake | Size | Max depth | Nearest city | Best for
Päijänne | 1,080 km² | 95 m | Jyväskylä | Sailing, national park
Näsijärvi | 257 km² | 52 m | Tampere | City cruising, culture
Oulujärvi | 900 km² | 38 m | Kajaani | Wilderness, fishing
Inarijärvi | 1,040 km² | 92 m | Inari | Arctic adventure
Start Your Lake Journey
Finland's lake district is one of Europe's last great adventures. With Ship O'Hoi, you can find the boat that takes you out onto Finland's still waters.
