A new water bus route to the Espoo archipelago will begin operating from Kalasatama starting in the summer of 2024. The route will begin service on June 8.
The Eastern Archipelago Route will gain a new alternative when service from Kalasatama to the Helsinki and Espoo archipelagos begins running nearly daily starting in early June. The western archipelago route runs from Kalasatama to the Nokkala Lighthouse and continues until early September.
FRS Finland, which operates the water bus route, notes that Kalasatama offers an excellent location along the new route. The area’s location and, for example, its proximity to the metro contribute to its appeal and practicality as a hub.
According to Tomi Ståhlberg, CEO of FRS Finland, tourism services were still concentrated in the city center 5–10 years ago, but today people are increasingly seeking services elsewhere as well. “The area’s appeal has led people to seek services closer to home,” he notes.
From the Espoo archipelago to East Helsinki in a couple of hours
According to Ståhlberg, Kalasatama is an excellent alternative hub to Kauppatori. “Kalasatama is a growing neighborhood whose residents are interested in exploring the surrounding area and the sea,” he says.
The water bus departs from Kalasatama and then continues to Kruununvuorenranta, Vallisaari, Suomenlinna, Lonna, Haukilahti, and finally to the Nokkala Lighthouse. Passengers can get off at the island of their choice to explore its unique features or enjoy the entire cruise in one go. The cruise lasts a total of two hours.
“Kalasatama is a growing neighborhood whose residents are interested in exploring the surrounding area and the sea.”
— Tomi Ståhlberg, CEO of FRS Finland
Greater regional appeal
Ticket prices have been significantly reduced from previous levels, and the change aims to attract larger numbers of customers. An adult day pass costs 25 euros, and children, seniors, and students can ride the water bus at a discounted rate.
The eastern archipelago route also departs from Kalasatama to Vuosaari and stops at the islands in eastern Helsinki. Tickets can be purchased both online and on board, and the boat has a café with a full liquor license.
More detailed information about the western archipelago route, its pricing, and schedules can be found on the FRS Finland website.