The port of Turku’s cruise summer 2025 – new vessels and experiences await
The port of Turku is preparing for the initiation of its cruise summer on 16 May 2025, when Hapag Lloyd’s cruise ship Europa arrives in the harbour. The vessel will again visit our port during the summer on 11 July. Cruise ship Star Legend, owned by Windstar Cruises, will arrive in our port towards the end of June.
During the summer, the port of Turku will welcome international cruise ships, some of which are visiting our harbour for the first time. As a small cruise port, we are able to offer individualised services for both crews and passengers during ship calls in the harbour.
SeaDream Yacht Club’s cruise ship Seadream II will arrive for its first visit in Turku in July. The ship was specially designed to offer luxurious cruise experiences to passengers. Cruise ship Spirit of Discovery will moor in the port in August for its maiden visit to Turku. Additionally, Turku will welcome cruise ship Seven Seas Splendor in late August, which marks the ship’s second visit, with its first port call being last summer.
A variety of services and programmes are on offer for all cruise passengers. A tourist information service desk in the harbour will offer guidance and the Port provides free Wi-Fi to both visiting passengers and crews, which will facilitate the movement of visitors and assure they get sufficient information. A free shuttle bus will transport cruise passengers between the port and the city centre, making it easy and pleasant for guests to explore Turku.
The City also offers a wide selection of activities and experiences. Guided tours, themed walking tours, river cruises along the Aura River and electric bicycles are just a few of the perks that passengers can take advantage of. The beautiful nature of the surrounding archipelago and the diverse activities and events make Turku an attractive travel destination.
The most rewarding aspect of cruise season preparations is the satisfaction of visitors
The most rewarding aspect of the preparations for the cruise season of 2025 has been the positive feedback and surprised comments on how much Turku has to offer as a small tourist destination. Annika Schulman, Sales Coordinator for the Port of Turku, emphasises that the maiden visits of new shipping companies are particularly rewarding, and three new cruise lines will be calling in Turku during the coming summer. The most challenging aspects have been the geopolitical situation, the safety situation on the Baltic Sea and the high price level that has affected the routes of the cruise lines.
“The disproportionate rise in fairway fees has also not made our work any easier. This is a significant challenge for all of Finland’s ports.”
The number of port calls has remained constant and at a satisfying level despite extremely challenging times that have heavily affected cruise tourism in our area.
New cruise ships bring cultural tourists to Turku
Seadream II is a high-class mega yacht that is equipped for enjoying warm waters and sunshine with its waterslides, saltwater pools and jetskis. It normally cruises the Caribbean and Mediterranean Sea, but this summer, it will head to the Baltic Sea to enjoy our pleasant summer climate.
Spirit of Discovery is a larger ship owned by Saga Cruises and will bring approximately 1,000 British passengers. Saga’s clientele includes many repeat customers; older, well-travelled British passengers who appreciate our clean, natural and accessible city. They are interested in our history, nature and local culture.
“It is important for them to have personal and safe service and a paper map for exploring the destination”, states Schulman.
Meticulous preparations guarantee a smooth visit
We always endeavour to offer the best possible welcome services for all visiting vessels, whether they are calling at Turku for the first time or are repeat visitors. Prior to the ship’s arrival at port, we contact the port agent, who will clarify the ship’s maintenance needs. This helps us to assure the necessary waste management, water refill and wastewater reception.
“It requires a good amount of planning to arrange the timely departure of potentially more than 1,000 passengers for excursions and city tours, to provide them with local information while also carrying out the necessary maintenance measures on the ship as inconspicuously and smoothly as possible.”
Additionally, we collaborate with parties providing guide services by experienced professionals to ensure functional and smooth services and logistics for passengers. One example of the new excursions available is the tour of Paimio Sanatorium, which is a fascinating tourist destination for those interested in architecture.
Sustainable development and environmental friendliness are integral aspects of cruise operations, and further investments will be made in these areas over the coming years. The Cruise Finland network annually assesses the key marketing opportunities and decides collectively where to participate.
“We are hoping for more targeted sales visits to the shipping companies and invitations for shipping company representatives to visit the possible destinations in person”, states Schulman.
Text: Heli Kaijansalo
Photos: Cruise Lines, Jouni Saaristo and Markku Koivumäki
Turku’s appeal factors for international cruise passengers
- Unique location: Turku is located within a picturesque archipelago, and half of the experience is already enjoyed while cruising amidst the islands of the archipelago.
- Proximity to the city centre: The port is located very close to the city centre, which gives passengers easy access to the city sites.
- Diverse cultural and culinary delights: Turku offers a wide range of interesting places to visit for those passengers looking for cultural and culinary experiences.
- Outdoor experiences and activities: Active passengers can take advantage of the wonderful setting and opportunities for outdoor fun and activities in the archipelago and on Ruissalo Island.
