Guide to Island Hopping in Finland
Guide to Island Hopping in Finland
Finland is made for island hopping. Whether you have a motorboat, sailboat, kayak, or simply want to combine ferries and cycling – the possibilities are enormous. With over 80,000 coastal islands and the world's densest archipelago, only your imagination sets the limits. This guide gives you everything you need to plan your Finnish island-hopping adventure.
Method 1: By Motorboat or Sailboat
The most flexible way to hop between islands is with your own or rented boat. You decide the route, the pace, and the stops.
Advantages: Total freedom, ability to reach remote islands, sleeping aboard. Disadvantages: Requires navigation experience, more expensive, weather-dependent.
Best areas: Turku archipelago, Helsinki archipelago, Åland.
Tip: Plan your route in advance with nautical charts. Mark guest harbours, fuel stations, and alternative anchorages in case of bad weather.
Method 2: By Kayak
For the active and nature-loving, kayaking is a fantastic way to experience the Finnish archipelago. You get closer to nature, can paddle into shallow bays, and land on islands inaccessible to larger boats.
Best spots for kayaking:
- Ekenäs archipelago – Sheltered and varied, perfect for beginners.
- Turku archipelago – Endless possibilities, but requires experience in outer sections.
- Helsinki archipelago – Short distances, easy logistics.
Important: Always wear a life jacket, carry waterproof bags for valuables, and check the forecast. Finnish archipelagos can have surprising currents in narrow straits.
Method 3: Ferries and Cycling (The Archipelago Trail)
The famous Archipelago Trail is a 250 km route through the Turku archipelago. The route uses a combination of roads, bridges, and free municipal ferries. With a bicycle and ferry, you can experience the archipelago without needing a boat.
The route: Turku → Pargas → Nagu → Korpo → Houtskär → Iniö → (ferry) → Kustavi → back to Turku.
Tip: Allow 3–5 days for the full trail by bicycle. Book accommodation in advance for July.
Best Island-Hopping Routes by Boat
Route 1: Helsinki → Porvoo Archipelago (2–3 days) Sail or motor eastward along the coast from Helsinki to Porvoo. Stop at the Pellinki islands, a charming archipelago community with guest harbour, café, and nature trails.
Route 2: Turku → Nagu → Korpo → Utö (3–5 days) The classic Turku archipelago route. Start in Turku and work your way toward the outer archipelago. Utö is the outermost island with a permanent population, featuring a lighthouse, museum, and stunning nature.
Route 3: Mariehamn → Eastern Åland → Kumlinge (3–4 days) Explore Åland's eastern archipelago with its small islands, fishing communities, and quiet bays.
Route 4: Helsinki Day Hopping (1 day) Suomenlinna → Lonna → Pihlajasaari → Vallisaari → return. Four islands in one day, all within short distance of the centre.
Practical Tips for Island Hopping in Finland
- Season: June–August. July is best but also busiest.
- Mosquitoes: Finland's only drawback – bring repellent, especially for lake islands.
- Right of access: You can generally go ashore on uninhabited islands, but respect private property and leave nature undisturbed.
- Water: Many small islands lack freshwater. Always carry enough drinking water.
- Waste: Take all rubbish with you. "Leave no trace" is the standard in Finland.
- Sauna: Many islands have public saunas. Don't miss the chance!
Rent a Kayak or Boat
Island hopping in Finland is one of the great Nordic experiences. With Ship O'Hoi, you'll find everything from kayaks to motorboats for your archipelago dream.
