Viator Rating : 5 (289 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 7.1/10 (Solid Experience)
Helsinki
Helsinki Canal Cruise: See City Sights by Water
90
Overview
Helsinki Canal Cruise: Discover Helsinki's beauty from the water on a relaxing 1.5-hour sightseeing cruise. This tour is perfect for anyone who wants to see the city's famous places in a fun and easy way.
See amazing spots like the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site with a lot of history from the 16th century. The boat goes through places like the Hevossalmi Strait and past islands like Villinki and Vartiosaari. You also get to see the Degerö Canal, Kulosaari Island, Korkeasaari Zoo, and Katajanokka from the water. Relax on the deck or inside the boat and enjoy the views.
The cruise has free WiFi. There is information in different languages like Spanish, Italian, French, Portuguese, Japanese, Chinese, Swedish, and Estonian. You can listen to the tour guide on the loudspeakers in English, German, Finnish, and Swedish. This tour does not include tips or any food and drinks. 
Experience DNA Fingerprint
Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.
What People Love
Safety (8 - Secure) : Strong feeling of safety and control
Upsell Risk (8 - Transparent) : No upsells or hidden costs
Mobility (8 - Easy / Accessible) : Comfortable for most people
Pacing (8 - Balanced) : Smooth and comfortable timing
Guide Reliability (8 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through
What to Watch Out For
Crowd Density (5 - Standard) : Normal crowd, some waiting or tight spots
Logistics (7 - Friction) : Issues but experience continued
Instagram Factor (7 - Scenic) : Some good photo moments
Guide Quality (5 - Adequate) : Informative but average
Highlights
See Helsinki's Best Sights: Cruise past famous places like Suomenlinna Sea Fortress.
Relax and Enjoy the Ride: Sit back on the deck or inside with free WiFi.
Learn About Helsinki's History: Listen to the tour guide in English, German, Finnish, or Swedish.
Information in Multiple Languages: Written information available in different languages.
Sentiment Analysis
Passengers enjoyed the views of Helsinki and the islands.
-
Many found the audio guide to be informative and helpful.
-
The cruise is a relaxing way to see the city's important landmarks.
-
Some reviewers like the availability of multiple languages.
Some said that the food and drinks are a bit expensive.
-
Few found the cruise slightly shorter than expected.
The Journey
Helsinki Canal Route
Experience Helsinki from a unique perspective on the Beautiful Canal Route. This popular cruise glides through the city's stunning archipelago, offering breathtaking views of historic landmarks and picturesque islands. A must-do for first-time visitors, the canal route provides an excellent introduction to Helsinki's maritime charm.
Departure Point
The journey begins at a convenient departure point, easily accessible and serving as the gateway to Helsinki's archipelago. Typically located near the city center, it offers quick access to the beautiful canal cruise, setting the stage for a memorable voyage.
Suomenlinna Sea Fortress
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Suomenlinna is a magnificent sea fortress that has guarded Helsinki for centuries. Explore its ramparts, tunnels, and museums, and step back in time to experience Finland's military history. The fortress offers stunning views of the Baltic Sea and is a perfect destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
Santahamina Military Base
Santahamina is an island primarily known for housing a Finnish military base. While generally not accessible to the public, glimpses of its strategic importance and operational activities can sometimes be seen from surrounding waters. It plays a critical role in Finland's national defense.
Hevossalmi Strait
The Hevossalmi strait offers a picturesque passage through the Helsinki archipelago. The narrow waterway is framed by verdant islands, providing stunning views and a serene atmosphere, a perfect snapshot of the natural beauty that defines this region.
Villinki Island
Escape to Villinki, a tranquil island known for its unspoiled nature and charming summer cottages. Wander through lush forests, relax on secluded beaches, and experience the peaceful island life just a short boat ride from Helsinki. It's an ideal getaway for those seeking respite from the city's hustle and bustle.
Vartiosaari Island
Discover the natural beauty of Vartiosaari, an island famed for its walking trails and diverse flora and fauna. Explore its ancient forests, rocky shores, and hidden coves. A haven for outdoor enthusiasts, Vartiosaari offers a refreshing escape into nature and a glimpse into Finland's wilderness.
Degerö Canal
The Degerö Canal offers a unique perspective on Helsinki's waterways. This man-made channel provides a scenic shortcut, connecting different parts of the archipelago. Cruising through the canal allows you to appreciate the engineering ingenuity and stunning natural surroundings.
Kulosaari Island
Kulosaari is an elegant residential island, known for its beautiful villas and serene atmosphere. Stroll along its tree-lined streets, admire the charming architecture, and soak in the peaceful ambiance. Kulosaari offers a glimpse into the sophisticated side of Helsinki living.
Korkeasaari Zoo
Visit Korkeasaari Zoo, one of the world's oldest zoos, located on its own island. Home to a diverse collection of animals from around the globe, it offers a fascinating and educational experience for all ages. Explore the different habitats and learn about conservation efforts while enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding sea.
Katajanokka
Explore Katajanokka, an island district known for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture and the iconic Uspenski Cathedral. Wander through its charming streets, admire the ornate facades, and discover the unique blend of historical and modern elements. Katajanokka is a must-see for architecture enthusiasts and those seeking a glimpse into Helsinki's cultural heritage.
Know Before You Go
This Helsinki Canal Cruise includes free WiFi and written information in multiple languages. Commentary is provided in English, German, Finnish, and Swedish. Gratuities, food, and drinks are not included. Be sure to arrive at the departure point to board.
Hot Tip
Many past travelers recommend bringing a light jacket as it can get breezy on deck. Arrive a bit early to secure a good seat for optimal viewing and photo opportunities.
Review Summary
Customers finds this Helsinki Canal Cruise relaxing and informative, with frequent praise for the scenic views of Suomenlinna Fortress, Degerö Canal, and the archipelago, comfortable boat, multilingual audio commentary, and free WiFi.[3][7] Some note it's not wheelchair accessible and food/drinks are extra, but most travelers enjoy the 1.5-hour peaceful water tour.[1][3]
Frequently Asked Questions
This page is synthesized and developed by Dyvarcity Team
More like this
Helsinki
€149.9
Helsinki & Suomenlinna Tour: See Top Sights!
4.7
(240 reviews)
Duration: 300
minutes
The Helsinki and Suomenlinna Sightseeing Tour is a fun way to see the best of Helsinki and learn about Finland's history. This five-hour bus and walking tour takes people to famous places in Helsinki and Suomenlinna.
Visitors will see the Helsinki Olympic Stadium, Sibelius Monument and Park, the National Museum of Finland, and the Parliament of Finland. They will also see the Mannerheim Statue, Helsinki Central Railway Station, Uspenski Cathedral, Helsinki Cathedral, Senate Square, Old Market Hall, and Esplanadi Park. The tour also includes a ferry trip to Suomenlinna Fortress, where people can explore Suomenlinna church, Jetty barracks, and Dry dock.
This tour includes transport by A/C coach or mini van, both way ferry tickets to Suomenlinna, an English-speaking guide, and hotel pick-up from selected hotels. It does not include hotel drop-off, food and drinks or any personal expenses.
Helsinki
€189.9
Tallinn Day Trip from Helsinki: Hotel Pick-Up & Guided Tour
4.7
(19 reviews)
Tallinn Full Day Tour from Helsinki with Hotel Pick-Up offers a captivating journey to Estonia's medieval capital. This tour is perfect for travelers wanting to experience Tallinn's history and culture in a single day.
Travelers will be picked up from their Helsinki hotel and embark on a comfortable ferry ride across the Gulf of Finland. Upon arrival in Tallinn, a local guide will lead a 3-hour tour of the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Expect to see iconic landmarks like Toompea Castle, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Tallinn Town Hall, and the charming cafes and shops that line the cobblestone streets. The tour allows for free time to explore Tallinn's delights before returning to Helsinki by ferry.
Visitors can discover Tallinn's historical charm, explore local shops and cafes, and enjoy a relaxing ferry ride. The tour includes round-trip ferry tickets, hotel pick-up in Helsinki, transportation in Tallinn, and a guided tour of the Old Town. Personal expenses, food, and hotel drop-off are not included.
Helsinki
€165
Helsinki to Tallinn: Discover Medieval Charm with a Guided Day Trip
4.5
(478 reviews)
Experience Tallinn's medieval beauty on a guided day trip from Helsinki. Enjoy a comfortable round-trip cruise, hotel pickup, and a 3-hour walking tour of Tallinn's UNESCO-listed Old Town. Benefit from 3 hours of free time for exploration and souvenirs, maximizing your Baltic adventure.
Helsinki
€300
Luxurious Tallinn Escape: VIP Day Trip with Lavish Buffet
4.4
(27 reviews)
Enjoy a luxury day trip to Tallinn from Helsinki via cruise, complete with an exclusive buffet and private cabin. A guided walking tour unveils Tallinn's medieval Old Town, a UNESCO site, followed by a delightful cruise experience with duty-free shopping and entertainment. Includes hotel pick-up and drop-off for ultimate convenience.
Helsinki
€41
Tallinn Day Trip: Discover Medieval Charm from Helsinki
4.3
(211 reviews)
Explore Tallinn: enjoy a self-guided day cruise from Helsinki. A quick ferry ride transports you to Tallinn's medieval Old Town. With 4-7 hours, explore historic sites, galleries, and boutiques at your own pace. Enjoy onboard shopping and dining, creating a memorable cross-sea adventure. Best things to remember valid travel documents.
Helsinki
€28
Helsinki Archipelago Cruise: See Islands & History!
4.1
(100 reviews)
Duration: 90
minutes
Sightseeing Cruise in the Archipelago of Helsinki offers a memorable journey through Finland's captivating history and stunning landscapes. This cruise departs from Helsinki's famous Market Square. It shows amazing sights, like the South Harbour, the beautiful Seaport, the Jugend-style Eira district, and the lovely UNESCO World Heritage Site Suomenlinna.
Expect to see key landmarks such as the Helsinki Market Hall and Esplanadi Park. The tour travels through the charming Eira District and past the imposing Suomenlinna & King's Gate. It also goes by Vasikkasaari Island and the Helsinki Zoo on Korkeasaari Island. Then, it heads to the unique Katajanokka District, home to the Finnish Icebreaker Fleet.
This cruise includes an audio guide in 28 languages available on smartphones (QR code provided onboard). Plus, there's free Wi-Fi! Please note that lunch is not included. This sightseeing cruise promises amazing views and stories of Finland's past.
Nearby Events
Kangasalan kesäteatteri
July 15
6:00 PMKangasalan kesäteatteri: Nelinpeli Tickets | Comedy
Kangasalan kesäteatteri: Nelinpeli brings a fresh comedy experience to the stage at Kangasalan kesäteatteri in Kangasala, Finland. This theatrical production combines sharp wit and engaging performance to deliver an evening of laughter and entertainment for comedy enthusiasts. The production showcases the creative talents of Kangasalan kesäteatteri, known for producing quality theatrical performances that resonate with audiences seeking genuine entertainment.
Kangasalan kesäteatteri: Nelinpeli represents the versatility and artistic excellence of the venue, which has established itself as a premier destination for theatrical productions and cultural events in the Kangasala region. This comedy performance continues the tradition of delivering memorable experiences to theater audiences, making it an essential outing for anyone interested in contemporary Finnish theater and comedy arts.
APOLLO LIVE CLUB
Nov 12
Mo Gilligan Live Comedy Show at APOLLO LIVE CLUB
Mo Gilligan - The Mo You Know brings the acclaimed British comedian’s high-energy and sharp wit to APOLLO LIVE CLUB in Helsinki for a night of unforgettable stand-up comedy. This event showcases Mo's unique blend of observational humor, cultural insights, and infectious personality, establishing it as a must-see for comedy lovers near and far.
Mo Gilligan, a triple BAFTA winner and celebrated TV personality, has garnered international fame through his sold-out tours, including a spectacular O2 Arena show, and highly praised Netflix specials like Momentum and There's Mo to Life. The APOLLO LIVE CLUB, known for its intimate atmosphere and vibrant arts scene, offers an ideal venue for experiencing Mo’s dynamic live performance in Finland.
SIBELIUSTALO
Mar 09
7:00 PMLetz Zep Led Zeppelin Tribute at Sibeliustalo Lahti
Letz Zep, the world's highest-ranked Led Zeppelin tribute band, takes the stage at SIBELIUSTALO in Lahti for an electrifying performance of rock's greatest hits. Endorsed by Robert Plant and Jimmy Page, this British powerhouse delivers Led Zeppelin's iconic sound from Stairway to Heaven to Whole Lotta Love with unmatched authenticity.
Letz Zep has performed on six continents, sharing stages with legends like Jane’s Addiction and Cheap Trick, and earned accolades from BBC, Kerrang!, and Warner Music as the premier tribute act. SIBELIUSTALO, a premier concert hall in Lahti, provides an intimate acoustic setting perfect for their powerful live energy.[1][2][3]
FINLANDIA-TALO
Feb 14
7:00 PMElämäni Biisi -kiertue Tickets at Finlandia-Talo
Elämäni Biisi -kiertue invites audiences to an unforgettable theatrical concert experience at Helsinki’s iconic Finlandia-Talo. This live event blends popular Finnish music hits with engaging storytelling, featuring performances led by the renowned Elämäni Biisi band under Kalle Torniaisen's direction. It promises a unique fusion of music and theatre, celebrating Finland’s rich artistic culture.
Elämäni Biisi is celebrated for its heartfelt renditions of beloved songs paired with personal artist stories, making each show emotionally captivating. Finlandia-Talo, a landmark of modern architecture in Helsinki, offers world-class acoustics and a premier venue setting, enhancing the event’s immersive atmosphere and cultural significance.
APIANNIEMI
Jun 11
6:00 PMKatri-musikaali: Katri Helenan Elämän Tarina
Katri - musikaali Katri Helenan elämästä marks the theatrical debut celebrating one of Finland's most legendary artists. This premiere production at APIANNIEMI in Valkeakoski brings to life the extraordinary journey of Katri Helena, the beloved "bluebird of song" whose 60-year career has defined Finnish schlager music and touched millions of hearts. The musical explores her rise to stardom and the personal moments that shaped her iconic status in Finnish culture.
Katri Helena's legacy spans 52 albums and 1.5 million records sold, making her one of Finland's most cherished performers. Her signature ballads and timeless hits have become woven into the nation's cultural fabric, inspiring generations of artists. APIANNIEMI in Valkeakoski provides an intimate theatrical setting for this celebration of her life and artistic achievements.
Veikkaus Arena
Jun 16
Def Leppard VIP Tickets at Veikkaus Arena Helsinki
Def Leppard returns to Helsinki’s Veikkaus Arena for an electrifying Live 2026 Tour concert. Known for their arena rock anthems from multi-platinum albums like Pyromania and Hysteria, the band continues to captivate fans with timeless hits and their recent 2023 album, Drastic Symphonies. The event features special guest Extreme, adding to an unforgettable night of rock music.
Def Leppard’s enduring influence in rock music is underscored by over 110 million albums sold worldwide and induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame®. Their show at Veikkaus Arena—a premier venue recognized for hosting top international music events in Helsinki—promises an iconic concert experience in a vibrant, modern setting.
The Bucket List Playbook: Top Things to do in Helsinki
Ready for adventure? Dyvarcity is your ultimate guide to the top 100 things to do in Helsinki From must-see attractions like Short Term Availability, Music, Private Sightseeing Tours & Pop in Helsinki. We've handpicked events & experiences with passion: whether you love activities that move your body, vibrant music, sports, food, or cultural explorations.
View Helsinki Activities