The beautiful and historic island of Vallisaari invites you to go canoeing. Set off from Kivinokka at the Natura Viva paddle point.
Kivinokka is a peninsula next to Herttoniemi and Kulosaari on the threshold of East Helsinki. From here you can go on kayaking trips both towards South Helsinki and to the East Helsinki archipelago. Natura Viva's paddle point in Kivinokka serves all paddling enthusiasts - grab your kayaks and SUP boards at Kivinokka and go paddling.
A great kayaking route in Helsinki
Paddling to Vallisaari from Kivinokka takes a few hours, but the route is well worth the experience. You start by heading from the Kivinokka headland under the Naurissalmi bridge to the Tullisaarenselkä, the bay between Kulosaari and Herttoniemi. From here, turn south and continue through Tullisaarensalmi to Kruunuvuorenselmi. The sea can be so rough that it is advisable to stay close to the shoreline of Laajasalo and protect yourself from the waves.
At the tip of Laajasalo, paddle past Koiraluoto across a short stretch of open water to the shelter of Vasikkasaari beach. After Vasikkasaar, on the south side of the island, you will have a stunning view of Suomenlinna and Vallisaari. Carefully cross the longer open water before reaching the shelter of Vallisaari.
The canoe trip to Vallisaari is 14 kilometres long, and during the trip you will see many of the sights of maritime Helsinki and enjoy the magnificent nature. See the beautiful outdoor areas of Tahvonlahti and Kaitalahti as you pass Laajasalo.
Please note that the kayaking route from Kivinokka to Vallisaari is long and demanding, and includes two crossings of the Ulapa. Check the weather conditions beforehand and remember to take care of your physical fitness and water intake.