Experience a Floating Sauna Cruise in Turku—A Unique Way to Enjoy Finnish Nature and City Views
Imagine drifting along the Aura River in a floating sauna, feeling the warmth of the stove and then jumping into the Baltic Sea directly from the rooftop. That’s what the Turku Floating Sauna Cruise offers—a blend of relaxation, adventure, and authentic Finnish culture all wrapped into a 5-hour journey. This experience isn’t just about sweating in a sauna; it’s about savoring the scenery, enjoying the company of friends or family, and embracing the simple pleasures of Finnish outdoor life.
One standout feature I love is the interactive nature of the experience—you can cook sausages on the grill, dip into the sea from a hatch, or even try fencing on a SUP-board. The second thing that appeals to me is the stunning vistas—cruising past Turku’s harbor, spotting cruise ships arriving, and soaking in the peaceful beauty of the archipelago and river scenery.
A possible consideration is the weather—given Finland’s unpredictable climate, it’s wise to be prepared with warm clothing, even if you plan to swim or sit outside. Also, the activity is limited to a maximum of 12 guests, which keeps the experience intimate but requires booking well in advance, especially during peak summer months.
Key Points / Takeaways
Small group size ensures a personalized experience and more space to relax.
The world record floating sauna is a highlight, offering a genuine Finnish sauna experience on the water.
Multiple scenic stops along the Aura River provide ample opportunity for swimming, sightseeing, and unwinding.
Self-catering options let you enjoy a meal with a view, with the possibility to order food from a partner, Lone Star.
Guided commentary and captain Vellu add a friendly, informative touch to the cruise.
Varying weather conditions mean you should come prepared for both sunshine and rain, as the experience is outdoor-focused.
Exploring the Turku Floating Sauna Cruise: An In-Depth Review
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Starting at Vanha Kakskerrantie 29: The Launch Point for Finnish Relaxation
The adventure begins at a modest dock beside some large gray storage buildings. The meeting point is straightforward—look for the gate and the sauna ferry tied to the pier behind the buildings. It’s a practical start, and arriving 10 minutes early is a good idea to settle in and get comfortable before departure. The captain, Vellu, and the tour guide will greet you, and from there, the journey unfolds.
What immediately grabs your attention is the compact, well-equipped saunaferry. Despite its modest size, it boasts impressive features: a world-record floating sauna, a cozy rooftop sofa ensemble perfect for lounging, and a grill for preparing your own food.
The Scenic Cruise: Savoring Turku from the Water
Once underway, the cruise itself becomes a calming escape. You’ll glide along the Aura River, passing the city hall, busy harbor, and the arriving and departing cruise ships. It’s a fascinating way to see Turku, offering a perspective that land-based tours often miss—the quiet, slow-moving water, and the surrounding nature.
The guided tour is informative but relaxed, with Vellu sharing insights about the river, the city, and the sauna tradition. The boat cruise lasts about 1 hour, followed by additional scenic cruising that lasts around 75 minutes. During this time, you get ample chances to enjoy the views of the city and the surrounding archipelago.
The Real Sauna Experience: Heat, Sea, and Socialising
The heart of this activity is the floating sauna. It’s a genuine Finnish-style sauna with a wood-burning stove that’s been certified as a world record. The heat helps you relax and unwind, and the opportunity to throw water on the stove amplifies the authentic experience.
For the daring, there’s a hatch on the sauna floor from which you can plunge into the sea. This dip is optional but very much part of Finnish sauna culture—you’ll hear many say it’s invigorating and essential for cooling off after a good sweat. The guide will inform you about safe times and places for swimming and jumping, emphasizing that it’s at your own risk.
Floating, Swimming, and Fun on the Water
The cruise offers plenty of free time—around 3 hours—at a lovely swimming spot where you can take a dip, relax on inflatable water floats, or try fencing on a SUP-board. The rooftop sofa ensemble becomes a perfect spot for lounging, with panoramic views of the water and city.
Guests frequently comment on the stunning scenery, noting how peaceful it is to be floating in the Baltic Sea surrounded by nature. The silence and the gentle rocking of the boat create a meditative environment rarely found in busy city life.
Cooking and Snacking: Bringing the Flavors of Finland
You’re encouraged to bring your own food and drinks, which you can cook on the grill—sausages, burgers, or simple snacks. Alternatively, you can pre-order food from the Lone Star partner, which offers a menu suitable for the cruise. It’s a practical perk, especially if you want to enjoy a leisurely meal with a view without fussing over food prep in the outdoors.
The Return: Wrapping Up in Turku’s Harbour
As the cruise winds down, the boat will return to the starting point at Vanha Kakskerrantie 29. Before disembarking, many guests linger on the floating oasis called Merikettu, a large floating platform with a big palm tree, ideal for relaxing after the activities.
This cruise is a well-rounded experience—balancing scenic beauty, Finnish tradition, and fun water activities—making it a memorable part of any trip to Turku.
Practical Tips and Considerations
- Book at least a week in advance to secure your preferred date and time, especially in summer when demand is high.
- Arrive 10 minutes early to allow for settling in and safety instructions.
- The activity is limited to 12 guests, creating an intimate atmosphere.
- Bring warm clothes and swimwear. Weather can change quickly, so layering is key.
- You’re responsible for your own safety and belongings, so keep valuables secure.
- You can bring your own food and drinks, or order ahead to save time.
- The cruise is suitable for kids, but children must be accompanied by an adult.
- Swimming and jumping from the roof are at your own risk, with guidance provided on timing and safety.
Who Will Love This Experience?
If you’re seeking a relaxed, authentic Finnish activity that combines scenic cruising, outdoor fun, and the chance to try a traditional sauna, this is ideal. It’s perfect for small groups, families, or couples looking for something different from a typical city tour. The limited group size and personalized vibe make it suitable for those wanting a more intimate and engaging experience.
However, if you have mobility issues or prefer dry, indoor activities, this cruise may not be the best fit. Also, if you’re not comfortable with outdoor weather or jumping into cold water, you might find the swimming component less appealing. Still, even just sitting on the rooftop sofa and enjoying the views can be thoroughly rewarding.
The Sum Up
The Turku Floating Sauna Cruise offers a genuine taste of Finnish outdoor life, wrapped into a scenic boat journey along the Aura River. Its combination of traditional sauna, opportunities for swimming, and spectacular views makes it a memorable addition to any visit to Turku. You’ll appreciate the personalized experience, the charming guide, and the chance to relax in true Finnish style.
For anyone wanting a fun, relaxing, and uniquely Finnish activity—especially in good weather—this cruise delivers charm and authenticity in spades. It’s particularly worthwhile if you enjoy outdoor activities, scenic water views, and the idea of cooling off from a sauna into the Baltic Sea.
FAQ
How long is the floating sauna cruise?
The entire experience lasts about 5 hours, including scenic cruising, swimming, and time in the sauna.
What do I need to bring?
Bring warm clothing, swimwear, and drinks. You might also consider bringing snacks or a meal to cook on the grill.
Can I order food for the cruise?
Yes, you can pre-order food from the partner Lone Star or bring your own. The tour offers a grill to cook your own snacks.
Is swimming safe?
Swimming and jumping are at your own risk, and the guide will inform you about safe times and places for these activities.
Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate but must be accompanied by an adult. Keep in mind the safety precautions regarding swimming and jumping.
Do I need to book in advance?
Absolutely—booking at least a week ahead is recommended to secure your spot, especially in summer when demand peaks.
This floating sauna cruise isn’t just a way to see Turku—it’s a chance to unwind, connect with nature, and embrace a Finnish tradition in a fun and scenic setting.