Instead of airport stress, the daily Finnlines ferry connection from Travemünde to Helsinki offers a comfortable, flexible, and eco-friendly alternative – perfect for anglers looking to head north in a relaxed way. During the roughly 30-hour journey, you can sit back, enjoy the onboard amenities, and travel to Finland with your own car, campervan, or even boat.
The Journey: How the Crossing Works
The ferry trip begins in the evening at the port of Travemünde. The process is simple and hassle-free. Here’s an example overview for passengers traveling with their own vehicle:
Check-in:
At the terminal, you present your travel documents and receive your boarding passes. Embarkation starts after check-in, around 11:00 p.m.
Boarding & Parking:
A shuttle bus takes you on board, and after guidance from the crew, you park your vehicle securely on the car deck. Important: Remember to take everything you’ll need during the crossing with you, as the vehicle deck is closed to passengers for safety reasons during the journey.
(Tip: A small carry-on bag with clothes, toiletries, sportswear, and flip-flops is sufficient – saving you from hauling a large suitcase.)
Cabin Check-in:
Once on board, you can get into the holiday mood with a light midnight snack or enjoy the view of the harbor while your cabin is being prepared.
Cast Off:
During the night, most likely while you’re already resting comfortably in your bed, the ship sets sail — your relaxing ferry crossing to Helsinki begins.
30 Hours of Time Off – Pure Relaxation
Schiff-Essen
The approximately 30-hour journey offers exactly what a flight cannot: time to arrive. Whether alone, with friends, or family – on board you’ll find many ways to make your crossing enjoyable:
Culinary:
From the breakfast buffet to dinner – the onboard restaurant takes good care of you.
Wellness:
Sauna, whirlpool, and fitness room provide physical well-being.
Shopping:
The Sailor’s Shop offers snacks and souvenirs. (Beer is often cheaper here than on the Finnish mainland.)
Leisure:
Cozy lounges, a bar with sea views, and play areas for children offer entertainment for all ages.
Cabins: Comfort for Every Need
cabin
Finnlines offers various cabin categories — all equipped with shower, toilet, and TV — so you can feel at home even at sea:
Advantages of the Ferry Journey
Prices (one-way, approximate)
Prices vary depending on season, vehicle size, and cabin category. Here are some examples:
Prices as of May 2025. For daily updated rates, check the Finnlines website directly.
Conclusion: The Perfect Start to Your Finland Vacation
The ferry crossing to Helsinki is more than just transportation — it’s part of the holiday experience. You travel relaxed, flexible, and sustainably, enjoy the comforts of a modern ship, and arrive refreshed at your desti