Helsinki and the sea are inextricably linked. The city has grown and developed by the sea for 475 years, and its beaches and archipelago hold countless fascinating stories.
The beginning of the port city
When Gustavus Vaasa founded Helsinki in 1550, the goal was to create a trading port that would rival Tallinn. The original Helsinki was located at the mouth of the Vantaa River, but as the city grew in the 17th century, it was moved to its current location by the sea. As a port city, Helsinki has been an important hub for trade, culture and transport.
Suomenlinna – a symbol of defense and power
Built in the mid-18th century, Suomenlinna is one of Helsinki's most famous historical sites. Originally a defensive fortress for the Kingdom of Sweden, the island has been the scene of many significant events. It has been ruled by Sweden, Russia and Finland, and today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Helsinki's most popular tourist attractions.
The era of steamships and the popularity of sea travel
In the late 19th century, steamships revolutionized maritime traffic in Helsinki. Cruises on the Gulf of Finland, passenger traffic to St. Petersburg and Stockholm, and freight transport made Helsinki a bustling port city. The maritime atmosphere is still strong today, as archipelago cruises, international cruisers, and pleasure boats fill the city's beaches and harbors.
Archipelago life and modern Helsinki – a vibrant maritime city
The Helsinki archipelago has been home to fishermen, pilots and sailors throughout history. Small fishing villages and archipelago settlements have left their mark on Helsinki's history. For example, Vallisaari and Kuivasaari used to be military bases, but today they are popular archipelago cruise destinations, where you can feel the atmosphere of the archipelago's past.
Today's Helsinki is an international seaside city where port activities, tourism and recreation meet. The traditional market traders of the Market Square, the new maritime areas of Hietalahti, Hernesaari and Jätkäsaari, the strongly developing Kruunuvuorenranta area and the lively archipelago make Helsinki a unique place where history and modernity go hand in hand.
Sustainable tourism and archipelago protection
80 years old Royal Line Oy is one of the key players in Helsinki's maritime tourism. Our goal is to develop responsible and sustainable maritime local tourism. As part of the Meri Helsinki concept, Royal Line is committed to environmentally friendly practices, such as low-emission ships, waste recycling and the use of local raw materials. We promote sustainable archipelago tourism that supports the preservation of Helsinki's marine nature. We combine the beautiful archipelago, maritime history and experiential services into a seamless experience for both tourists and locals.
Events and celebrations at sea
During the summer, we organize various sightseeing cruises that take passengers through the city's most famous and hidden gems, such as Kaivopuisto, Suomenlinna, Vallisaari. And we are not just a shipping company, but also a provider of gastronomic restaurant experiences. Our lunch and dinner cruises bring Helsinki's food culture into the archipelago experience.
Royal Line also offers unique private and charter cruises. Corporate parties, weddings and other events on board are wonderful maritime experiences that combine the beauty of the archipelago, high-quality services and a historical atmosphere.
Have you experienced Helsinki by the sea in a way that has left a lasting impression on you?
Book your own summer 2025 sea adventures – buy directly from our online store or request a quote via our website.
See you on board!
