Helsinki: Suomenlinna and Lonna Hop-on Hop-off Cruise

Exploring Helsinki’s maritime charm is a breeze with this hop-on hop-off boat cruise that takes you to two of its most iconic islands—Suomenlinna and Lonna. For just $10 per person, you can spend a day gliding through the archipelago, choosing to explore at your own pace or just sit back and enjoy the views. Departing from Helsinki Market Square, this cruise offers a laid-back way to see the city’s waters and islands without the fuss of complex transportation.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how easy it is to tailor your day—you can hop off at Suomenlinna for a walk through one of Finland’s most famous fortress islands, or head over to Lonna for a quick bite at its well-regarded restaurants. The flexible schedule, with departures roughly every 30 minutes, means you won’t feel rushed or tied to a strict timetable. Plus, at just ten bucks, it’s a surprisingly good value for a day of scenic cruising.

One thing to keep in mind: food and drinks aren’t included, so bringing a snack or picnic isn’t a bad idea if you plan to spend a while on the islands. Also, if you’re looking for a deep historical tour, this cruise leans more toward relaxed sightseeing rather than guided storytelling. That said, the stunning views of Helsinki’s skyline and the islands make this a worthwhile outing for most travelers.

This experience suits travelers who love outdoor scenery, want flexibility, and appreciate affordable, authentic ways to see Helsinki’s maritime side. If you’re visiting with family, friends, or solo and want a relaxing way to add some variety to your city visit, this cruise hits the mark.

Key Points

• Affordable price at just $10 per person provides great value.
• Flexible schedule allows you to hop on and off at your convenience.
• Stunning views of Helsinki’s archipelago are the highlight.
• Self-guided exploration on islands like Suomenlinna makes for a personalized experience.
• Round-trip option lets you stay onboard or return at your leisure.
• Accessible and easy to find meeting point at Helsinki Market Square.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Cruise Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Booking

Set your expectations early: the cruise departs from the Keisarinluodonlaituri 1 area, marked by red ‘FRS Finland’ flags. It’s a straightforward meeting spot in Helsinki’s bustling Market Square, where the view of the harbor makes for a lively start. Booking is flexible—reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance without penalty. This makes it perfect for uncertain schedules or last-minute plans.

The Vessel and Crew

The boat itself is designed for sightseeing, with open decks that maximize viewing opportunities. The crew and captain—who are there to ensure your safety—are generally friendly and helpful. You’ll be on a round-trip vessel that makes frequent departures, averaging every 30 minutes, so even if you’re late, chances are you’ll catch another soon.

The Itinerary

The cruise begins with a gentle departure out of Helsinki harbor, offering panoramic views of the city skyline and the surrounding sea. As you leave the harbor, you’ll notice how the urban landscape quickly gives way to peaceful islands and open water.

Your first stop, Suomenlinna, is a highlight. This UNESCO World Heritage site is quite expansive, allowing for hours of walking, exploring, and soaking up the atmosphere. Visitors love the chance to wander through historic fortress walls, tunnels, and museums. One reviewer, Justine, mentioned, “Suomenlinna is a pretty large island, and you can spend several hours walking around and visiting,” which echoes what many travelers find appealing.

More Great Tours Nearby

Suomenlinna

This fortress island dates back to the 18th century and combines military history with charming scenery. While the cruise doesn’t include guided tours, wandering on your own allows you to discover the stone ramparts, cannons, and scenic picnic spots. It’s perfect for those interested in history, architecture, or just enjoying a walk with great views.

Lonna Island

After Suomenlinna, the boat continues to Lonna, a smaller, more intimate island. While it may not be as large or historically focused as Suomenlinna, Lonna’s charm is in its modern restaurants and relaxed vibe. A review notes that “Lonna isn’t really interesting,” but many still enjoy grabbing a snack or drink at its well-regarded eateries.

Returning to Helsinki

You have the freedom to disembark at either island and return on your schedule. If you choose to stay longer, you can buy a new ticket or stay onboard for a circular cruise, enjoying the scenery without the hassle of planning multiple rides. This flexibility means you can spend your time exploring Suomenlinna’s alleys and museums or simply relaxing at Lonna’s cafes.

What Makes It Special

The real charm of this cruise lies in the stunning views of Helsinki’s waterfront and the archipelago—these are the moments you’ll want to capture. The gentle motion of the boat combined with the scenic islands makes for a tranquil experience. We loved the way the boat’s open decks offered unobstructed vistas, perfect for photography or just soaking in the sea breeze.

Considerations and Tips

Since food and drinks aren’t included, consider bringing your own snacks or planning to visit the island cafes. Also, while the schedule is convenient, it’s wise to check the exact departure times on the provider’s site, especially in case of weather changes or seasonal adjustments.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal for budget-conscious travelers looking to enjoy Helsinki’s waterfront without breaking the bank. It’s perfect if you want flexibility—you can hop off and explore at your own pace—and enjoy stunning panoramic views. If you love outdoor activities, history, or just want a relaxing boat ride with minimal hassle, this experience ticks all those boxes.

It’s especially suited to solo explorers, couples, or families who appreciate authentic, laid-back sightseeing. Since it’s accessible and straightforward, even those with limited mobility will find it manageable. If you’re after an immersive guided tour, this might not be the right fit, but if you’re happy to wander independently, you’ll find plenty to love.

The Sum Up

In a nutshell, this Suomenlinna and Lonna hop-on hop-off cruise offers a simple, affordable way to see Helsinki’s most iconic islands from the water. With stunning vistas, flexible timing, and the chance to explore at your own pace, it provides a relaxed and authentic maritime experience. For just $10, you get access to some of Finland’s most photogenic spots, with the freedom to linger or move on as you please.

While it’s not a guided tour filled with historical storytelling, the breathtaking views and the chance to walk around Suomenlinna’s historic fortress make it well worth considering. It’s a great choice if you want a peaceful, scenic break from the city’s streets while soaking up Helsinki’s maritime charm.

If you’re someone who loves seeing a city from the water, values flexibility, and appreciates authentic island experiences, this cruise will likely be a highlight of your Helsinki trip.

FAQ

How much does the cruise cost?
The round-trip boat cruise costs $10 per person, making it a very affordable way to explore the islands.

Where do I meet the boat?
You meet your guide at Keisarinluodonlaituri 1 in Helsinki’s Market Square, marked by red ‘FRS Finland’ flags. It’s a central, easy-to-find location.

Can I hop off the boat at Suomenlinna?
Yes, you can disembark at Suomenlinna and explore at your own pace. The same ticket allows you to return later or catch another departure.

Is there a schedule I need to follow?
Departures happen roughly every 30 minutes, giving you plenty of options. Check the schedule online for exact times, especially in different seasons.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. Bringing your own snacks or visiting the island cafes is recommended, especially if you plan to stay longer.

Is the cruise accessible?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs.

How long is the entire experience?
The cruise itself lasts about a day, but the actual time you spend exploring the islands depends on your schedule. You can stay as long as you like on Suomenlinna or Lonna.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
It’s advisable to reserve online to secure your spot, but you can also buy tickets on the day, subject to availability. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This Helsinki boat tour balances scenic beauty with practicality, all at an attractive price point. Whether you’re after some leisurely island exploring or just want to enjoy breathtaking views of the archipelago, it’s a simple way to add a maritime touch to your Helsinki adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: