Turku, Finland’s former capital, is a city that breathes water. Its strategic location on the Aura River and proximity to the sprawling Archipelago Sea make it an ideal spot for boat tours and cruises. Whether you’re after a leisurely day exploring tiny islands, cruising past medieval castles, or relaxing in a floating sauna, Turku offers a variety of options to suit every interest. We particularly like the full-day Nauvo Island tour for its mix of scenic sailing and island exploration, and the Seili Island trip for its combination of history, nature, and the chance to enjoy a delicious buffet lunch.
Turku isn’t just about sightseeing; it’s about experiencing the sea’s role in daily life. These tours give you a glimpse into Finland’s maritime culture, whether you’re relaxing on deck, learning about medieval castles, or jumping into the sea from a rooftop sauna. And because each offers a different flavor—from eco-friendly river cruises to all-day island adventures—you’re sure to find a trip that matches your travel vibe.
Quick Overview
Below, you’ll find a list of top boat tours and cruises in Turku, each with its own unique charm. From full-day island adventures (full-day Nauvo Island) to scenic river cruises (guided river tour), and even floating sauna experiences (floating sauna cruise), there’s something to match different interests and schedules. Finally, the full-day trip to Seili Island offers a mix of nature, history, and local cuisine. Read on to find out what each has to offer and which might suit your travel plans best.
1. Turku: Full-Day Boat Tour to Nauvo Island
At number one, the full-day boat tour to Nauvo Island combines scenic sailing with laid-back island exploration. This 9-hour experience starts at central Turku and whisks you through Finland’s stunning Archipelago Sea. The boat cruise itself takes about 2 hours each way, giving you ample time to relax, take panoramic photos, and enjoy the fresh sea air. Once on Nauvo, you’ll find a colorful, lively harbor, charming streets, and plenty of cafes and shops to browse at your own pace.
What makes this tour stand out is the balance of active exploration and relaxing onboard time. You get to soak in the maritime culture while enjoying beautiful Archipelago views. The free time on Nauvo allows for spontaneous adventures, whether that’s sampling local foods or simply wandering the quaint streets. The return cruise offers another chance to unwind and admire the scenery.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect for travelers wanting a full day of island hopping with plenty of free time and scenic sailing. It’s a good mix of comfort, culture, and natural beauty, especially if you’re keen on discovering the quieter side of Turku’s maritime life.
2. Turku: Guided River Cruise with Scenic Views & History
The guided river cruise along the Aura River offers a much shorter dive into Turku’s waters—just 1.5 hours of relaxed sightseeing. Departing from Länsinen Rantakatu, this eco-friendly voyage takes you past key landmarks like Turku Castle and the Archipelago Sea, which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The boat used, the M/s Aurella, is powered by biofuel and solar energy, making it a greener choice. As you listen to an informative audio guide, you’ll learn about Turku’s history while enjoying tranquil riverside views. This cruise suits travelers short on time but eager to get a taste of the city’s history and scenic beauty. Unlike longer trips, it doesn’t go into islands but provides a solid overview of Turku’s landscape from the water.
Bottom line: Ideal for those wanting an introduction to Turku’s sights without a big time commitment, this eco-friendly cruise combines history, nature, and sustainability. It’s perfect for families or anyone interested in a quick, informative escape on the water.
3. Turku: Floating Sauna Cruise
For something uniquely Finnish, the floating sauna cruise offers a memorable blend of relaxation and adventure. Over about 5 hours, you’ll cruise along the Aura River and into the Archipelago, with opportunities to jump from the rooftop sauna into the sea or take a dip through the sea hatch.
This experience highlights Finnish sauna culture—warmth, socializing, and cooling off in the sea. You can cook your own meal on the grill, enjoy scenic views from the rooftop sofa, and even try stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). The tour is suitable for those who want a relaxed, social experience that combines outdoor fun, wellness, and spectacular scenery.
While reviews are mixed, many appreciate the authenticity and the chance to combine a sauna with a boat trip. It’s less about sightseeing and more about feeling the Finnish connection to water and nature firsthand.
Bottom line: This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who want to combine wellness and outdoor fun in a scenic setting. It’s perfect if you’re looking to do something different and memorable.
4. Turku: Full-Day Boat Tour to Seili Island
Rounding out our list is the full-day boat trip to Seili Island, rated a perfect 5/5 by travelers. This 9-hour journey takes you through the Archipelago Sea to explore historic sites, enjoy scenic views, and relax in a tranquil setting. The cruise includes a buffet lunch at the cozy Restaurant Seili, giving you a taste of local cuisine amidst stunning surroundings.
Seili is renowned for its historical significance—once a leprosy hospital, now a quiet retreat with old buildings and nature walks. The boat journey offers chances to spot seals and marine life, making it a favorite for wildlife lovers. The free time on Seili allows exploration of the island’s historic buildings or a peaceful walk through nature.
Guests describe the trip as both relaxing and enriching, emphasizing the beautiful scenery and the opportunity to experience Finland’s maritime heritage. This tour offers great value for those interested in combining history, wildlife, and scenic cruising.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want a well-rounded day of scenery, history, and local flavor. It’s the most highly-rated tour on our list, and booking early is advised since spots tend to fill up quickly.
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour in Turku
Choosing between these options depends on what you’re after. If you prefer a full day of island hopping with free exploration, the Nauvo Island tour is your best bet. For a quick overview of Turku’s landmarks from the river, the guided river cruise fits nicely into a tight schedule. If you’re looking to unwind with sauna, swimming, and scenic views, then the floating sauna cruise offers a uniquely Finnish experience. Finally, for a combination of nature, history, and wildlife, the Seili Island tour stands out.
Consider your budget, time constraints, and what interests you most—be it wildlife, local culture, or wellness. Booking early is wise across all options, especially in the summer months when boat trips fill quickly.
To sum it up, Turku offers a wonderfully diverse set of boat experiences, whether you want a relaxing cruise, island adventure, or a taste of sauna culture on the water. For a full-day escape, the Nauvo Island tour and Seili Island trip deliver immersive experiences, while the guided river cruise provides a quick scenic overview. The floating sauna cruise adds a fun, authentic Finnish twist. Whatever you choose, these trips will deepen your appreciation for Turku’s maritime charm and natural beauty.
Now is the time to plan your water-bound adventure—early booking guarantees you a spot on these popular tours. Happy sailing!