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Navigate the Lakes
Calling All Explorers at Heart
Independent holiday with private activities
Dates
On request
Mid May - September
Duration
7 days/6 nights
Suitable
For adventurous families or groups of friends wanting to explore the lakes on a private cruise
Price
From AUD 2785 per person
This unforgettable holiday effortlessly combines the historic charm of Savonlinna, the unique thrill of sailing through Finland’s picturesque waterways, and the vibrant atmosphere of Kuopio, another charming lakeside town. It offers ample opportunities to fully immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes of Finnish Lakeland.
Start your journey in the enchanting town of Savonlinna, celebrated for its idyllic lakeside setting and rich historical heritage. Located by Lake Saimaa, Savonlinna is home to the medieval Olavinlinna Castle, which provides a captivating glimpse into the region's past. The town also boasts a dynamic cultural scene, including the renowned annual Opera Festival held at Olavinlinna Castle, as well as delightful local cuisine, making it the perfect introduction to your adventure.
Set sail aboard a former navy vessel, now transformed into a comfortable sightseeing boat with modern amenities, as you embark on a memorable voyage from Savonlinna to Kuopio. During your voyage, you’ll explore a series of picturesque lakeside stops, where you can partake in various outdoor activities. Kayak or stand-up paddle board on the tranquil waters, try fishing, or hike along scenic trails to fully experience the natural beauty of the area. There is also a wide selection of board games and gaming consoles to enjoy if the weather isn't ideal. And no matter the conditions, the sauna is always a perfect retreat.
As you travel along the historic Heinävesi route, a network of canals and locks built in the early 1900s, you’ll pass through one of Finland’s 27 “National Landscapes,” recognised for their cultural and historical significance. The locks and canals, originally used for commercial traffic, now offer a charming and distinctive experience for pleasure craft and tour boats. The self-service locks and stunning scenery make this journey a truly memorable adventure.
Your voyage culminates in Kuopio, a vibrant city set on the shores of Lake Kallavesi. Known for its breathtaking lake views, Kuopio offers a rich blend of cultural attractions and outdoor activities. The city features a lively market square, charming wooden architecture, and exceptional local cuisine. Additionally, Kuopio provides easy access to nearby nature reserves and national parks, where you can continue to explore the region’s natural splendour.
This holiday is perfect for an adventurous family or for a group friends keen to enjoy an active holiday together.
Tour Highlights
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Visit two beautiful lake side towns of Savonlinna & Kuopio
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Sail from Savonlinna to Kuopio onboard former navy vessel
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Enjoy a variety of nature activities while cruising the lakes
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Enjoy stunning lake scenery
Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Travel by train to Savonlinna
Begin your journey by catching a train from Helsinki to Savonlinna. The scenic train ride through Finland’s picturesque countryside offers a relaxing start to your adventure.
Upon arrival, take a short walk from the railway station to your charming boutique hotel in Savonlinna. Settle into your accommodations and enjoy the cosy atmosphere as you prepare for your exploration of this lakeside town.
Day 2: Discover Savonlinna
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at your hotel.
Spend the morning exploring the picturesque town of Savonlinna. Stroll along the scenic lakeside paths, visit local shops, and enjoy the charming architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
In the afternoon, join a private guided tour of the medieval Olavinlinna Castle. This 15th-century fortress, once a crucial defense of the Swedish Empire’s eastern border, offers fascinating insights into Finland’s history before it was ceded to Russia in 1809. Discover the castle’s storied past and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding lakes.
Day 3: Set Sail
After a hearty breakfast, make your way to the harbour where the crew of your ship awaits. Begin with a tour of the vessel, including safety instructions, and prepare for departure.
Set sail aboard a former Finnish navy vessel now converted into a comfortable sightseeing boat. The 18-meter-long ship features four cabins with double bunks, a sauna, a shower room, and two toilets. The boat is equipped with a Valmet 612 diesel engine running on renewable HVO diesel and a solar system for charging electrical devices.
You won’t have to worry about going hungry on this voyage! All meals are included, along with snacks to satisfy any post-activity cravings. This region was awarded the prestigious European Region of Gastronomy title in 2024, underscoring the excellence of its local cuisine. You will be enjoying some of the local delicacies on your voyage.
Navigate the stunning Lake Saimaa region, known for its vast expanse and intricate archipelago of 14,000 islands. Experience the beauty of the lake as you cruise through narrow, rocky channels and open waters.
These national parks are along the sailing route: Linnansaari National Park and Kolovesi National Park.
Day 4-5: Sailing & Exploration
Over the next two days, explore the waters and some islands, part of local national parks, along the way. These areas offer breathtaking natural beauty and opportunities for outdoor activities. The crew will stop at the best - and less crowded spots - where you can enjoy some water activities, fishing and maybe even short hikes in the surrounding forests.
Sail through the historic Heinävesi lake route, a network of canals and locks built in the early 1900s. This route is part of Finland’s “National Landscapes” and provides a unique and scenic cruising experience.
Conclude your voyage in the vibrant city of Kuopio, where you will disembark and prepare for your next adventure. Upon arrival a transfer to your centrally located hotel where you will stay the following two nights.
Day 6: Explore Kuopio
After breakfast, spend the day exploring Kuopio, a city renowned for its beautiful lake views and rich cultural heritage.
Conclude your unforgettable holiday with dinner at the iconic Puijo Tower Restaurant, a landmark renowned for its breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Savour a meal crafted from locally sourced ingredients while enjoying the restaurant’s 360-degree rotation, offering an ever-changing perspective of the stunning lake scenery. Afterward, a return transfer will take you back to your hotel.
Day 7: Train to Helsinki
After breakfast, stroll to the Kuopio railway station to board your train for the return journey to Helsinki.
Price
Tour price
From AUD 3995 per person when min 4 people in the group (based on 2 people sharing a room at the hotels)
From AUD 3190 per person when min 6 people in the group (based on 2 people sharing a room at the hotels)
From AUD 2785 per person when min 8 people in the group (based on 2 people sharing a room at the hotels)
Ask for a quote for your group/party!
What's included
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2nd class train tickets with seat reservation Helsinki-Savonlinna, Kuopio-Helsinki
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2 nights' accommodation in double/twin rooms in Savonlinna including breakfast
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2 nights' accommodation in double/twin rooms in Kuopio including breakfast
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Private tour of Olavinlinna Castle including entrance fees
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3 course dinner at Puijo Restaurant in Kuopio including return transfers
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Private 3 day/2 night cruise from Savonlinna to Kuopio
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Full board on the cruise
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Activities included in the cruise: fishing, kayaking, SUP, hiking, swimming, sauna experience
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A donation on your behalf for protection of the endangered Saimaa Ringed Seal read more >
What's not included
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Meals other than described
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Alcoholic beverages during meals unless mentioned
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Tips or any other items of personal nature
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Flights
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Travel Insurance
Please note
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Alcohol is not served on board, but the crew is happy to assist you in purchasing wine, beer, or other beverages locally before you embark on your cruise.
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Please note that the boat is not accessible due to multiple sets of stairs and ladders.
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Basic swimming ability is required for safety reasons.
Booking Conditions
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SAFETY & TRAVEL INSURANCE
All outdoor activities carry an element of risk and we strongly advice you to purchase a comprehensive travel insurance. You warrant that the information you provide regarding your health & fitness is accurate and there are no other medical issues (both physical/mental) that may impact your ability to enjoy this experience without the need for special assistance.
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WEATHER
If the organisers do not deem one of the activities safe, they reserve the right to change the order of the activities or the content of the program if necessary due to the weather. In extreme conditions they might have to reschedule or cancel.
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ALTERATIONS BY ORGANISER
Sometimes the organiser has to make changes, usually because of circumstances out of their control. If this happens, they reserve the right at any time to substitute accommodation or activities. If this means extra cost to you, we’ll let you know.
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ACCEPTANCE OF RISK
You acknowledge that travel involves personal risks which may be greater than those present in your everyday life. This could be as a result of the adventurous nature of your trip or the visiting of destinations which present geographical risks and dangers.
Our full terms & conditions (link).
Ask us about
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Adding extra activities to your holiday
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Arrangements for special celebrations or milestones during this tour
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Creating a tailor-made pre and/or post tours
Weather
Please note that weather conditions vary from year to year and it is advisable to check the weather conditions before your arrival. You can check the weather on weather service sites such as
Daylight
Check daylight hours for this region via this link
Payment & cancellations
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20% deposit is required within 7 days after your holiday is confirmed
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Balance due 65 days prior to travel
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Cancellations:
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More than 66 days prior to departure - loss of deposit
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From 65 to 31 days prior to departure – loss of 50% of total cost
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Less than 30 days prior to departure - loss of 100% of total cost
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Please arrange a comprehensive travel insurance which covers listed winter activities and any cancellation costs, should you not be able to travel
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Our full terms & conditions can be found here (link)