Turku: Full-Day Boat Tour to Seili Island offers an inviting mix of stunning scenery, history, and local cuisine that truly captures the essence of Finland’s archipelago. For around nine hours, you’ll travel from the bustling riverfront of Turku to the tranquil waves of the Archipelago Sea, with plenty of charming sights and stories along the way. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just seeking a peaceful escape, this tour provides a well-rounded slice of Finnish island life.
We love the relaxed boat cruise, which affords plenty of opportunities to enjoy the breathtaking views of the archipelago, and the chance to spot seals and seabirds that often grace the water. The buffet lunch at Restaurant Seili is another standout, offering authentic Finnish dishes in a cozy setting that enhances the sense of being truly immersed in the local environment.
A possible consideration is the duration of the overall day, which is quite full—if you prefer a shorter or more leisurely visit, some might find the timing a bit packed. Also, this tour isn’t suited for those with mobility issues or seasickness, given the boat ride and walking around the island.
This experience suits travelers who appreciate a balance of scenic tranquility, historical storytelling, and regional flavors. If you’re eager to explore Finland’s lesser-known islands with a comfortable and well-organized group, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.
Key Points
- Scenic Cruise: A 1.5-hour boat ride through the Archipelago Sea offers panoramic views and wildlife spotting.
- Historical Insight: Optional guided tour of Seili’s unique past as a leper colony and mental asylum.
- Authentic Finnish Cuisine: A buffet lunch at Restaurant Seili provides local dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
- Flexible Exploration: Free time on Seili lets you walk nature paths or join a guided tour, depending on your interest.
- Comfort & Convenience: Spacious vessels with sun decks, indoor seating, and onboard snacks make the journey pleasant.
- Ideal for Relaxed Sightseeing: Perfect for those who want a mix of nature, history, and good food without rushing.
A Welcome Voyage into Finland’s Archipelago
Starting from the lively riverfront of Turku, the tour kicks off with a relaxed 1.5-hour cruise aboard either the M/S Norrskär or M/S Lövskär. These vessels are well-maintained, offering plenty of outdoor sun decks to soak up the fresh sea air and indoor seating for comfort if the weather turns cool or windy. During the cruise, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the Archipelago Sea, which stretches across southwest Finland in a mosaic of tiny islands and shimmering waters. Keep your camera ready—seals and seabirds often make appearances, adding to the sense of adventure.
What makes this cruise particularly enjoyable is how it blends scenic beauty with relaxed comfort. The vessels are spacious, with quiet, cozy indoor spaces to sit back with a drink from the onboard café, which sells light snacks and beverages. It’s a nice touch that adds to the leisurely feel of the day, making the journey itself a highlight.
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Exploring Seili Island: A Historical and Natural Treasure
Once you arrive on Seili Island, the real stories begin. The island is famous for its fascinating past—it was once a leper colony and later served as a mental asylum. These stories aren’t just history books but are brought to life through a guided tour that lasts about 1.5 hours. The tour takes you to the Seili Church and walks along peaceful nature paths, where you can take in panoramic views that sweep across the archipelago.
If you prefer to explore on your own, Seili’s serene environment invites leisurely walks in lush surroundings. The quiet paths and the gentle sounds of nature create an atmosphere of calm that many travelers find restorative. One reviewer, who called the experience “very peaceful in the nature environment,” appreciated the quiet pace and the opportunity to simply soak in the surroundings.
A Delicious Taste of Finland
The highlight for many might be the buffet lunch at Restaurant Seili, where you’ll enjoy a variety of Finnish dishes. The food is wholesome, hearty, and authentic—perfectly suited for a day of outdoor exploration. The review mentions that the lunch “ticks the boxes,” with “good food” well appreciated by visitors. Sitting in this cozy setting, surrounded by the natural beauty of Seili, makes the meal feel even more special.
Return Journey and Additional Comforts
After a few hours on the island, you’ll reboard the boat for the return cruise, once again enjoying the breathtaking scenery. The boat ride back is approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, giving you more chances to spot marine life or simply relax and reflect on your day.
Throughout the journey, the vessels’ spacious design and onboard amenities ensure a comfortable experience. The cruise operates in most weather conditions, but it’s wise to dress weather-appropriate, especially since early mornings and late afternoons can be cooler.
More Great Tours NearbyBreaking Down the Itinerary
- Start at Läntinen Rantakatu 37: The meeting point is conveniently located along the Aura River, marked clearly with Saaristolinja (SL) branding.
- Departure and Cruise: The first cruise lasts about 105 minutes, providing ample time to settle in and enjoy the views. This part of the excursion is often praised for how peaceful and scenic it is.
- Lunch at Restaurant Seili: A 1-hour break offers a hearty Finnish buffet. Many reviews highlight the quality and authenticity of the food, making it worth the price for food lovers.
- Time on Seili Island: You have around 4 hours to explore, which can be tailored based on interest. The guided tour covers the historical sites, but independent wandering is equally rewarding.
- Return Cruise: The journey back echoes the first cruise, with more opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy the scenery.
Authenticity and Value
This tour balances cost and experience well. The inclusion of a buffet lunch and the boat rides makes it a solid value for those interested in combining nature, history, and regional food. The tours are organized but flexible enough to accommodate different interests, whether you prefer guided insights or solo exploration.
Authentic Experiences Highlighted in Reviews
As one traveler noted, the trip is “very peaceful in the nature environment,” which is true whether you’re on the boat or wandering Seili’s paths. The lunch, described as “good food,” adds a satisfying culinary aspect that complements the visual and historical elements of the day.
Who Will Love This Tour?
If you’re someone who enjoys scenic boat rides and wants to see lesser-known Finnish islands, this tour is a perfect fit. It appeals especially to those who appreciate historical sites and authentic regional food. It’s also suitable for travelers seeking a comfortable, well-organized day that balances guided learning with free exploration.
However, if you have mobility challenges or are prone to seasickness, keep in mind that the boat ride involves some gentle rocking, and walking around Seili can involve some uneven paths.
Final Thoughts
This full-day boat tour from Turku to Seili Island offers an excellent way to escape the city, enjoy breathtaking views of the archipelago, and learn about Finland’s unique history. The combination of scenic cruising, historical storytelling, and delicious Finnish cuisine makes for a well-rounded day, especially if you like a relaxed pace and open-air adventures.
The experience’s strength lies in its balance—you’re not just cruising but also exploring, tasting, and learning. The chance to see seals and seabirds in their natural environment, combined with a peaceful walk through lush nature, makes it a truly authentic way to experience this part of Finland.
This tour is best suited for those who value authentic regional experiences, enjoy scenic travel, and want a day packed with variety and natural beauty. It’s a particularly good choice for curious travelers wanting a rich, yet relaxed, Finnish island day.
FAQ
How long is the entire tour?
The full-day experience lasts approximately 9 hours, including boat rides, lunch, and free time on Seili Island.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Läntinen Rantakatu 37 in Turku, right along the Aura River, and concludes back at the same point.
What is included in the price?
The tour price covers the round-trip boat cruise, a buffet lunch at Restaurant Seili, access to the vessels’ indoor and outdoor spaces, and panoramic views during the cruise.
Are guided tours of Seili available?
Yes, there’s an optional 1.5-hour guided tour of Seili’s history, including sites like the church and other historical buildings.
Is there any additional cost I should be aware of?
Extras such as drinks, snacks, or souvenirs are personal expenses. Entry fees for optional attractions or activities on Seili are not included.
Is the tour suitable for all weather?
The tour operates in most conditions, but it’s recommended to dress appropriately for outdoor weather, as the archipelago can be cooler and windier than mainland Turku.
Can I bring my own food or drinks?
Outside of the buffet lunch at Restaurant Seili, additional food and drinks are not included and can be purchased onboard if desired.
This tour combines the best of scenic beauty, historical interest, and regional cuisine, making it a worthwhile choice for those looking to experience Finland’s archipelago in a relaxed, authentic way.
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