Helsinki’s islands: ferries and routes for all seasons
The sea is part of everyday life in Helsinki.
With over 300 islands, bridges, and ferries weaving through the archipelago, getting around by water is both easy and magical. Whether you’re planning a sunny summer picnic or a crisp winter adventure, the journey across Helsinki’s sparkling coastline is always part of the experience.
This guide will help you explore Helsinki’s ferry routes, island connections, and best tips—in every season.
Created
| 4 min read
Public ferries and water-buses: how to explore Helsinki’s islands
HSL ferry to Suomenlinna
The easiest way to start island-hopping.
Public transport is a great way to get around the Helsinki metropolitan area. You can use the same public transport ticket to travel by tram, bus, metro, commuter train, light rail, and the Suomenlinna ferry.
HSL recommends purchasing an ABC day ticket in the HSL app, which covers travel from the airport to the city centre. If you’re already in the city an AB ticket will get you to Suomenlinna, find more information about HSL zones. Contactless payment is also available and offers a fast, easy way to purchase adult single tickets.
The public ferry to Suomenlinna departs from Market Square all year round. It’s part of Helsinki’s public transport system—meaning you can use a regular HSL ticket or travel card. Ferries run every 15–30 minutes, and the ride takes about 15 minutes.
- Price: Same as a city bus or tram ticket (around €3–€4 for a single journey).
- Buy tickets: HSL app, ticket machines, or transport card.
JT-Line summer ferries
Island-hopping made easy.
JT-Line operates scheduled traffic and private charter cruises with a fleet of nine cozy vessels throughout Helsinki’s stunning archipelago. Their primary destinations include:
- Korkeasaari Zoo — Accessible from Market Square aboard the traditional paddle-wheel vessel Pw/s Vispilä (daily June – August) and with wooden waterbuses M/s Hymy or M/s Ilves on weekends in May through September.
- Pihlajasaari — A popular summer getaway known for sandy beaches, scenic cliffs, and seaside saunas. Ferries operate from Merisatama and Ruoholahti daily between May 15 – August 31 2025.
- Mustasaari — A family-friendly island west of Seurasaari, owned by the Church in Helsinki. The island is accessible via ferry from Taivallahti from the beginning of June until the middle of August, find the full schedule and fare details.
All JT-Line vessels are powered by 100% renewable biodiesel, reducing carbon emissions by up to 90%. They are also certified with the Sustainable Travel Finland label and the EcoCompass environmental management system. JT-Line emphasises inclusivity, training staff to ensure a welcoming environment regardless of gender, ability, religion, or background. They are proud members of the We Speak Gay rainbow tourism community.
Fares (as of 2025):
Korkeasaari:
- Return: Adults: €9.20 | Children (4–17): €3.20 | Students/Seniors: €5.20
- One-way: Adults €5.20 | Children €2.20
Pihlajasaari:
- Return: Adults: €9.30 | Children (7–17): €6.30 | Seniors: €6.30
- 10-Trip Return Ticket: Adults €82 | Children/Seniors €52
- Tickets: Purchase online at JT-Line shop or onboard (cash, debit, and major credit cards).
- Accessibility: Most vessels are accessible; wheelchair users are advised to contact JT-Line in advance.
- Bikes: Not allowed on either Korkeasaari or Pihlajasaari routes (exceptions for small children’s bikes or kick scooters).
- Amenities: Pihlajasaari includes cookshacks with water and firewood, a restaurant, and a rentable sauna.
FRS Finland archipelago routes
FRS Finland operates scenic ferry routes connecting Helsinki and Espoo to several picturesque islands, offering a unique way to experience the archipelago.
Western Archipelago Route
This route links Espoo and Helsinki, allowing passengers to hop on and off at various islands:
- Espoo Stops: Nokkala (Matinkylä), Haukilahti
- Helsinki Stops: Kauppatori (Market Square), Suomenlinna, Vallisaari, Vasikkasaari, Kruunuvuorenranta, Kalasatama
The full journey takes approximately 2 hours, with departures available from June 7 to September 7, 2025.
Eastern Archipelago Route
Experience the lesser-known eastern islands of Helsinki:
- Route: Meritullintori – Kalasatama – Herttoniemi – Laajasalo – Vartiosaari – Kotiluoto – Kivisaari – Satamasaari – Rantapuisto – Malkasaari – Iso Iiluoto – Leikosaari – Neitsytsaari – Vuosaari
This route offers a 3-hour cruise through the serene eastern archipelago, operating during the summer months.
Iso Vasikkasaari
Accessible via ferry from Suomenoja, Haukilahti, and Nokkala, Iso Vasikkasaari is a popular recreational island in Espoo. The island features lush nature, swimming beaches, cooking shelters, and a summer café. Ferries operate multiple times daily from May 17 to September 14, 2025.
Ticket Information:
- Day Ticket: €26 (allows unlimited travel on the Western Archipelago Route for a day)
- Family Ticket: €60 (2 adults + up to 3 children aged 7–17)
- Children under 7: Free with a paying adult
Tickets can be purchased online at FRS Finland’s website or onboard the ferries.
Good to Know:
- Accessibility: Most vessels are accessible to passengers with mobility challenges; however, some routes may have limitations.
- Bicycles: Limited spots available; advance booking recommended.
- Pets: Allowed on most routes; check specific island regulations.
- Onboard Amenities: Cafés serving refreshments are available on select vessels.
For detailed schedules, stops, and ticket bookings, visit FRS Finland’s official website.
Walkable island connections
No ferry needed—just your feet (or bike).
Some of Helsinki’s favourite islands are connected to the mainland by bridges:
- Seurasaari: Open-air museum, squirrels, forest walks.
- Mustikkamaa: Beaches, summer cafés, kayaking spots.
- Uunisaari: While accessible all year round, you can walk to Uunisaari November – April via the winter bridge. In the summer you can access the island via ferry, find ticket and route information from the island website.
