Things to do in Eastern Finland

m/s IEVA takes you around the central islands of Savonlinna, on which the town is built. Welcome aboard to relax and enjoy the sights from the lake! On this cruise you get to admire the magnificent Olavinlinna Castle, the rocky beaches of the Casino Islands, in Laitaatsalmi one of the biggest concrete bridges in Finland and the only year-round inland shipyard – and if you're lucky, you may spot Ringed Seal swimming or sunbathing somewhere. Guidance is available in Finnish, English, German and Russian. We do cruises from the beginning of May to the end of October. Ask the shipping company more about schedules.

In departure location meet your friendly captain Arto who will welcome you on board the eco-boat. The eco-boat is the only 100% electric boat in Finland and the most nature-friendly boat. The cabin is comfortable, covered, and weather resistant. Sail to the best lake areas of Puumala archipelago to search the rare Saimaa seals, one of the most endangered freshwater seals in the world. Along the way captain will tell you stories about the seals, their behaviour and habitat, as well as the unique Saimaa lake complex. Seals are most likely to be spotted after the melting of the ice sheet in May and early June, when adult seals often are seen on rocks sunbathing. Once a seal is found, there is a good opportunity to take photos of this rare mammal. Later in summer we search for seals in the water as they spend most of their time in the water. The landscapes in Puumala archipelago are fantastic and a nice nature experience is allways guaranteed. During the 3-hour tour, the captain will serve coffee and tea. Return back to the departure location after the tour where souvenirs will be sold by the captain.

Embark on a scenic tour cruise aboard m/s Elviira, sailing close to the majestic Olavinlinna Castle and through the stunning Savonlinna archipelago. Marvel at the picturesque summer cottages and traditional saunas dotting the shoreline. Keep an eye out for the rare Saimaa ringed seal in its natural habitat! Audio guidance is available in Finnish, German, and Russian. The onboard café/bar offers a variety of refreshments, including coffee, beer, sparkling wine, and other alcoholic beverages. Stay connected with free WiFi available throughout the cruise. The cruise starts and ends in Savonlinna passenger harbour, in Satamakatu. The cruise is 1 hour.

Experience lake Saimaa in just 90 minutes on a comfortable lake cruise by unique electric Ecoboat. Captain Arto, the happy finn, tells you interesting stories about Saimaa seal, Finland and lake Saimaa, serves coffee and entertains by accordion music in stunning lake scenery. This narrated sightseeing cruise should be part of every visitors summer program in Saimaa region! With some luck you might even spot a rare Saimaa seal. Highlights - Beauty of lake Saimaa, possible to spot a rare Saimaa Seal and Osprey - Comfortable weather-proof Ecoboat, enjoyment for all senses - Friendly skipper tells stories about Finland and lake Saimaa - Tea and coffee service and live accordion music Departures from Puumala harbor between 10.6-31.7. Tue-Sat. Later 1.8.-31.8. departures from Sahanlahti Resort on Tue-Sat . Best service guaranteed and good value for the money

It's very difficult to see bears while hiking in the Finnish nature since the bears are experts of hiding. In our hides, located at the bears feeding area, you are able to spend the night in a wooden hide and follow the life of the wild bears. An expert guide will tell you about the bears seen and you can take pictures with your mobile or with a camera. We will start the excursion at 16 with a short drive by company car. Then there is short walk through a forest trail to the wooden hides. The hide has room for 12 persons. Each person has own seat and photography hole. There is also bunk beds for sleeping with sleeping bags and dry eco toilet. During the night you will get some coffee/tea, sandwiches and biscuits. The guide is there to tell you about the bears and guarantee your safety. During one night stay at the bear hide we normally see several bears. In the end of June onwards is good chance to see also bear cubs born in the previous winter. We will leave the bear hide next morning after 7 with several new memories. The excursion will start (at 16) from Martinselkonen Wilds Centre, Pirttivaarantie 131 Suomussalmi. The Centre is about 2 hours drive from Kuusamo and Kajaani airports. The excursion will end the same location next morning about 7:30. For the excursion you need comfortable clothing suitable for nature activity. Please note that Finnish summers can sometimes be very cold, so its good to have enough warm clothing. In rainy days the path to the hide can be muddy, so choose your shoes accordingly. In June-July there can be mosquitoes - you are allowed to use repellent, but best protection is covering clothing. Please note that there is no running water or electricity in the hides. Smoking and drinking alcohol is forbidden during the night.

Experience the lake nature and observe wildlife with a local photographer. Discover the National Urban Park of Savonlinna, which consists of 7,700 hectares of land and water around the medieval castle Olavinlinna. Lake Saimaa is the home range of the Saimaa ringed seals. The only existing population was estimated to be approximately 430 individuals in June 2022. The Saimaa ringed seals (Pusa hispida saimensis) are among the most endangered seals in the world. In addition to the seals, you may see ospreys and waterbirds. On this photography tour, drive with a local photographer to the best observation areas in the archipelago of Lake Saimaa and wait to see and photograph seals without disturbing them. Find seals sitting on rocks digesting their food, resting, and socializing. Your guide will help you to spot wildlife and give you tips on how to get the best wildlife photographs. If you are more interested in landscape photography, the Saimaa archipelago offers great opportunities for that, too.

Board the m/s Katrilli and set sail from Savonlinna. Enjoy the stunning lake scenery of Saimaa as you cruise through the narrows of Virtasalmi and Bobrikov Strait to Punkaharju. Relax on the comfortable indoor and outdoor decks, and take in the views from the covered outdoor deck, which protects from excessive sunlight and possible rain and wind. Purchase refreshments and small snacks from the onboard café. Arrive at Punkaharju and disembark at one of the three piers: Kruunupuisto, Hotel Punkaharju, or Tuunaansaari. Spend 2 hours exploring the area. Visit the Kruunupuisto spa, the Lusto forest museum, or the Art Mansion Johanna Oras. Enjoy a wonderful lunch at Hotel Punkaharju's Metsä restaurant. After your time in Punkaharju, board the ship for the return journey to Savonlinna.

Cruise along the Pielisjoki River on a 2-hour cruise from Joensuu. Sit back and relax as you take in the beautiful scenery of the Finnish countryside and unique river route. Board the M/S Sinivuokko in Joensuu and set off on your cruise. Grab a drink from the onboard bar and take a seat on the deck to enjoy the views as you sail along the Pielisjoki River. The captain might share some local stories and interesting facts! Keep the kids entertained at the onboard play point, and enjoy a variety of games and reading materials of the area. The ship is covered, so rain will not interfere with your cruising day! After your cruise, return to the port in Joensuu.

On the Little Skipper tour, you'll explore the charming heart of Savonlinna, hearing intriguing stories and discovering the city's rich history and culture. As you glide through the scenic waters, you'll pass by notable landmarks and picturesque spots, making the journey both educational and visually captivating. For the youngest members of the family, the tour offers exciting opportunities to test their skills with fun and engaging activities designed just for them. They can take part in interactive games and challenges, ensuring an enjoyable and memorable experience for everyone. The Little Skipper tour is perfect for families looking to explore Savonlinna in a unique and entertaining way.

Cruise comfortably to the evening opera performance aboard m/s Elviira. This elegant journey offers a unique and relaxing way to arrive at your event. As you sail through the picturesque waters of Savonlinna, you can savor the beauty of the archipelago and its serene surroundings. Enhance your cruise experience by ordering pre-opera meals and drinks. Indulge in a delicious dinner or enjoy light refreshments such as sparkling wine and strawberries. The ship's restaurant offers a variety of culinary delights, ensuring that you begin your evening on a delightful note. The ship departs from the harbor at 5:30 pm, giving you ample time to unwind and enjoy the cruise before your performance. As you approach your destination, you'll be treated to stunning views of Olavinlinna Castle. The ship arrives at the castle's dock at 6:30 pm, providing you with direct access to the auditorium. This seamless transition from cruise to opera allows you to fully immerse yourself in the evening's cultural experience. Whether you're a seasoned opera enthusiast or a first-time attendee, the journey aboard m/s Elviira adds an extra layer of elegance and enjoyment to your night.