Lake cruises in Savonlinna rank among Finland’s most scenic boat experiences. Three main tours stand out for visitors: The hour-long “Sightseeing Cruise Around Savonlinna” offers the best views of Olavinlinna Castle and the historic waterfront. Families will appreciate the “Little Captains” cruise, where kids can play maritime games while parents enjoy the scenery. Nature enthusiasts should book the unique “Mushroom Cruise,” which combines lake views with expert insights into local fungi. I’m particularly fond of the castle cruise for its perfect photo opportunities and engaging commentary. Let’s explore these top-rated boat tours in detail.
Key Points
- The Little Captains Sightseeing Cruise offers a 1-hour journey through Savonlinna with family-friendly activities and audio guides in multiple languages.
- The 1-hour SIGHTSEEING CRUISE AROUND SAVONLINNA showcases key sights like Olavinlinna Castle and Casino Islands, with a live tour guide in multiple languages.
- The Mushroom Cruise on Lake Saimaa provides a 1-hour educational experience to learn about local mushroom varieties while enjoying scenic lake views.
- All cruises are wheelchair accessible and offer onboard amenities like free Wi-Fi and toilet facilities, with flexible booking options.
- The Evening Photography Tour on Lake Saimaa offers a 3-hour experience for photography enthusiasts to capture the area’s natural beauty during golden hour.
Savonlinna: Little Captains Sightseeing Cruise M/S Leva
The Little Captains Sightseeing Cruise aboard the M/S Leva offers a delightful 1-hour journey through the heart of Savonlinna. Priced from Kč 581 per person, this family-friendly cruise explores the city’s notable landmarks and picturesque spots.
Departing from the Savonlinna passenger harbor, the tour is available in Finnish and English.
Onboard, guests can enjoy engaging activities and interactive games for children, while an audio guide provides commentary in Finnish, English, German, and Russian. The cruise also offers free Wi-Fi and toilet facilities, ensuring a comfortable experience.
With a focus on learning about Savonlinna’s history and culture, the cruise is wheelchair accessible, allowing all visitors to participate.
Passengers can reserve their spot without upfront payment and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a flexible and convenient option.
Read our full review: Savonlinna: Little Captains Sightseeing Cruise M/S Leva Review
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SIGHTSEEING CRUISE AROUND SAVONLINNA
Sightseeing cruises around Savonlinna offer visitors a chance to explore the city’s picturesque waterways and landmarks from the comfort of a boat. The m/s IEVA sightseeing cruise lasts for 1 hour and is available from June 1 to August 31, with cruises operating from May to October.
Passengers can admire the impressive Olavinlinna Castle and the scenic rocky beaches of the Casino Islands during the tour. The cruise also provides views of Laitaatsalmi, home to one of Finland’s largest concrete bridges and the only year-round inland shipyard.
Travelers may even spot the Ringed Seal swimming or sunbathing along the way. Priced from $24.31 per person, the cruise features a live tour guide available in Finnish, English, German, and Russian.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, and onboard amenities include WiFi. With an overall rating of 4.5/5 based on 8 reviews, the sightseeing cruise is a popular choice for couples, families, and solo travelers alike.
Read our full review: SIGHTSEEING CRUISE AROUND SAVONLINNA Review
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Mushroom Cruise on the Lake Saimaa
Mushroom enthusiasts exploring Savonlinna can embark on a unique adventure – the Mushroom Cruise on the Lake Saimaa. This 1-hour sightseeing cruise offers a delightful opportunity to discover the region’s diverse mushroom varieties while surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of Lake Saimaa.
Priced at Kč 581 per person, the cruise is a new activity in Savonlinna and caters to small groups. Participants can expect to learn about the different types of mushrooms found in the area from knowledgeable guides, as well as enjoy the serene lakeside views.
The cruise is ranked highly by GetYourGuide based on factors like popularity, diversity, and customer satisfaction.
Those seeking a more immersive mushroom-themed experience can also consider the Evening Photography Tour on Lake Saimaa, which lasts 3 hours and is priced at Kč 4,547 per person. This tour allows visitors to capture the beauty of the lake and its surroundings during the golden hour.
Read our full review: Mushroom Cruise on the Lake Saimaa Review
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The Sum Up
Savonlinna’s sightseeing cruises provide visitors with a unique perspective of the town and its scenic surroundings. The Little Captains Cruise and the Mushroom Cruise on Lake Saimaa offer engaging experiences, allowing travelers to explore the region’s natural beauty and rich history. These boat tours are convenient and accessible, making them an excellent choice for those seeking to make the most of their time in Savonlinna.