The Eastern Helsinki archipelago is a perfect paddling destination. Visit the Vuosaari Paddling Center, rent a kayak and head on the sea.
The paddling waters in Eastern Helsinki are calm and paddling here is generally easy and relaxing. The routes are plentiful and you can also go ashore on many nearby recreational islands along the routes. The islands have services for recreational visitors, and it’s also allowed to camp on some islands.
Paddling routes in Eastern Helsinki archipelago
The Eastern Helsinki archipelago contains various islands, small islands (also known as islets or rocks with just little vegetation), straits, bays, channels, beaches and cliffs. We have gathered our best picks for paddling routes, but you can also create your own. Once you embark on a paddling trip on the sea, you will be handed a map of the area with important information about boat lanes, prohibited islands, traffic lights, recreational spots and points of interest.
As you paddle on the sea, the routing possibilities are plentiful. Always pick your route in accordance with your previous paddling experience, paddling skills and the prevailing weather conditions. Be content and advised, that you might need to change your paddling plans even while paddling when the circumstances so dictate. Wind is always the most important weather factor. Whenever possible, choose your routing so, that you will first encounter headwind and later tailwind. Of course this is not always possible, since the wind direction can change rapidly. There are no strict wind limitations, but generally for beginners the manageable wind is around 4–5 m/s at most. On harder winds handling the kayak will become increasingly difficult.
You can download the paddling map with the routes above here: Natura Viva Paddling Map (PDF) Natura Viva Melontakartta (PDF)
Read more about Eastern Helsinki islands on the Itä-Helsingin Ulkoilusaaret -website.
When embarking on a paddling trip from the Paddling Center, there are also many route options for a longer trip towards the Sipoo archipelago and town of Porvoo. We will gladly provide you with more information, camping tips and good routes. Ask us at the counter!
Helsinki–Porvoo paddling guidebook
The shoreline to the nearby coastal town of Porvoo creates a fascinating paddling environment. The Helsinki–Porvoo paddling guidebook is provided by Outdoor Finlands.
You can download the Helsinki - Porvoo kayaking map which is good for planning a longer trip (PDF): Helsinki-Porvoo Merimelonta (PDF)
