A new era for Helsinki’s winter cruise tourism

3 min read

Helsinki has made history by welcoming international cruise ships during the winter months for the first time, and Next Travel Finland has been pivotal in ensuring the success of this unique accomplishment. According to Selja, Project Manager, Cruise Operations at Next Travel, this achievement marks a significant milestone for Helsinki and the cruise industry in Finland, in general.

Virve Kataja (on the left) and Selja Suominen (on the right)

“This is the first time ever there have been winter cruise ships in Helsinki. It’s a huge milestone!” Selja says enthusiastically. “Previously, the last cruise ships of the year would typically leave in late October, but now we’re seeing ships in December and January. This demonstrates Helsinki’s potential as a year-round destination,” she explains. “It’s a privilege to be part of such a historic moment for both Helsinki and Next Travel!” she adds.

“We closed 2024 with the last cruise ship on December 20 and opened the new year with cruise calls on January 2 in the port of Rauma and on January 5 in port of Helsinki,” Selja reflects.

This historic winter cruise season not only showcased Helsinki’s winter beauty but also positioned Next Travel as a leader among Destination Management Companies (DMCs) in Finland. “Next Travel stands out by offering comprehensive services that highlight Finland’s culture and nature in innovative ways,” Virve Kataja, Director of Sales and Operations at Next Travel explains. "This season’s success is a testament to the city’s growing appeal and Next Travel’s commitment to play a key role in the growth of winter tourism year-round," Virve adds.

As Helsinki strengthens its status as a year-round destination, Next Travel’s innovative approach ensures visitors leave with unforgettable memories of Finland’s winter magic also made in Helsinki and the capital region.

Let’s take a look at what took place this Winter Cruise season!

The state-of-the-art Ponant vessel, ‘Le Commandant Charcot’ designed for polar exploration did a series of cruises around the Baltic Sea and the Gulf of Bothnia. For instance, the vessel’s Scandinavian wonderland and Christmas markets cruises began on November 25 with subsequent departures on December 2 and December 11 starting in Helsinki.

Selja, Virve, Gustavo (from left to right), Next Travel's Cruise Operations team

In addition, the vessel’s Winter Magic in the Gulf of Bothnia cruises embarked on December 20 from Helsinki and during 9 days the ship cruised from Helsinki to the port of Kemi visiting along the way the ports of Stockholm, Rauma, Luleå and Oulu. On December 28, the cruise ship turned around in Kemi returning to the port of Helsinki passing the same route.

In Helsinki, Next Travel arranged transfers and private tours for the embarking and disembarking guests on the ship’s turnaround days on November 25, December 2, December 11, December 20 and January 5. “On December 20 alone, we handled about 50 transfers to and from the ship, hotels, and the airport, as well as 5 private tours and 3 pre- and post-cruise programs”, Selja notes.

In addition to the turnaround operations, Next Travel tailored pre- and post-cruise programs to showcase Finland’s unique offerings in wintery capital area. From Helsinki’s urban charm to immersive nature experiences, every detail was designed to delight the guests.

Christmas Market in Helsinki, Finland (Photo by Jussi Hellsten)

Ice-floating arctic experience

Picturesque wooden towns near Helsinki

Tallinn, Estonia

Feeding reindeer in Finland

“For the pre- and post-cruise programs, we organize everything from transfers, hotels, restaurants, guides, and activities, all tailored to our guests’ preferences. The majority of the guests of 'Le Commandant Charcot' were French-speaking, and we ensured they had French-speaking guides and seamless experiences throughout. There were English-speaking guides and experiences offered in English, too,” Selja explained.

Next Travel’s dedication to seamless logistics was evident throughout the winter season. “Our team -Selja, Gustavo and I- has truly gone above and beyond to make this season memorable which continues until April 1 when the last winter cruise call in Finland takes place,” Virve explained.

Gustavo Helal, Project manager, Cruise Operations, Next Travel

Welcome to Helsinki and Finland in winter and throughout the year!