HaparandaTornio: Heritage Cruise to Old Kemi Island
Exploring the coast of Lapland in Finland, this heritage cruise offers a unique glimpse into Kemi’s origins and its ties to timber processing. It’s a tour that combines scenic views, historical insights, and outdoor fun, making it a compelling choice for curious travelers.
What we love most about this experience is its authentic focus on the area’s industrial past, the peaceful cruise through calm waters, and the opportunity to walk on a historic railway and visit ruins that tell stories of early Kemi. The chance to relax in a traditional laavu and take a swim in the sea add a genuine outdoor adventure vibe.
However, one thing to consider is that the island of Laitakari is uninhabited, with no running water or standard toilets, which might be uncomfortable for some. Also, the tour runs in small groups, so booking in advance is advisable.
This tour suits those interested in history, nature lovers who enjoy outdoor activities, and anyone looking for an immersive experience that goes beyond typical sightseeing. It’s perfect for travelers who value authenticity and want to understand the roots of Kemi in a scenic, relaxed setting.
Key Points
Authentic Heritage Focus: The tour offers a genuine look at Kemi’s early industrial history through ruins and preserved relics.
Scenic Sea Cruise: The gentle 45-60 minute ferry ride on M/S Leila provides beautiful views of the inner Bothnian Bay.
Historical Exploration: Walking along old rails and inspecting ruins like the sawmill and power plant enriches understanding of the town’s development.
Nature and Relaxation: The natural landscape, a traditional laavu, and a sea swim make this a well-rounded outdoor experience.
Small Group Experience: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate adventure.
Practical Aspects: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, guided tour, and a snack break—offering good value for the overall experience.
In-Depth Look at the Heritage Cruise to Old Kemi Island
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Starting the Journey: From HaparandaTornio to Kemi
The experience kicks off with a hotel pickup, which is a huge plus for convenience. You’ll be driven in a small minivan marked with the LappOne logo, ensuring a smooth start. The drive from HaparandaTornio Resecentrum or Matkakeskus to Kemi’s port takes roughly 30 minutes, giving you a gentle preview of the Finnish Lapland scenery along the way.
Upon arrival, you’ll receive a brief introduction about Kemi’s history and a quick walk through the port area—an excellent way to set the stage before heading onto the water. The guide, speaking English, Finnish, or Italian, makes the experience accessible and engaging.
The Heritage Boat: M/S Leila
The boat, built in 1962, adds a nostalgic touch to the cruise. It’s a straightforward, calm ride that lasts about 45 to 60 minutes, allowing for plenty of scenic views. The boat’s history adds flavor, and its stability makes it suitable for those wary of seasickness. Past travelers appreciated the relaxed pace, noting how the boat’s gentle glide perfectly complements the tranquil waters of the Bothnian Bay.
Exploring Laitakari Island
Once docked, the true adventure begins. Laitakari, the original site of Kemi, is an uninhabited island dotted with industrial ruins—testament to the town’s roots in timber processing. As you walk along the island’s paths, you’ll see the remains of the sawmill, old rails used for logging, the manager’s mansion, and the power plant, which was a pioneer in providing electricity during its time.
Travelers have mentioned that walking these ruins gives a real sense of stepping back in time. One reviewer pointed out, “Seeing the old rail tracks and the abandoned sawmill really brought history alive. It’s fascinating to imagine how busy this place once was.”
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The island’s natural landscape, with spontaneous flowers, trees, and wildlife, shows how fast nature reclaims its territory. The walk across the island takes about 15-20 minutes, but many find it highlights a poignant transition from industrial activity to wilderness.
Halfway through, you’ll stop at a traditional laavu, a cozy shelter built around an open fire. This is where you’ll enjoy a snack, resting in a peaceful setting surrounded by the sounds of nature. Reviewers mention that the snack break is simple but adds an authentic touch—perfect for recharging before the next activity.
Swimming and Free Time
The tour includes a visit to a small sandy beach where you can take a safe swim—an unexpected delight for many. The water can be chilly, but the sea swim offers a refreshing pause amid history and nature. Before heading back, you’ll walk back across the island to the pier.
The Archipelago Cruise
Back on the boat, you’ll cruise through the archipelago, enjoying the calm waters and scenic views of Syväletto and Selkäsaari islands. After disembarking at the Kemi port, there’s a short break—up to 30 minutes—for coffee (not included) before the return drive to your hotel.
Practical Details and Value
This tour runs for about five hours, making it a manageable half-day adventure with plenty of authentic sights and outdoor time. The small group size (up to 8 people) ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off at the beginning and end of the day adds to the convenience.
Cost-wise, it’s a reasonable investment considering the guided tour, boat cruise, entry to ruins, and outdoor activities. The price reflects good value, especially for those seeking a historical and natural experience combined.
Insights from Past Travelers
Several reviewers have noted the tour’s well-organized nature, with smooth transitions from land to water activities. One said, “The boat was comfortable, and the guide shared fascinating insights into Kemi’s past. The ruins were atmospheric, and the swim was the perfect way to cool off after walking around.”
Others appreciated the intimate setting, with a few mentioning that the guide’s knowledge made the experience richer. The only recurring caution is the unavailability of amenities on the island—so come prepared with essentials like water, insect repellent, and weather-appropriate clothing.
The Sum Up
The HaparandaTornio heritage cruise to Old Kemi offers a thoughtful blend of history, nature, and outdoor activity. It’s a chance to step inside the story of a Finnish town that grew around timber processing, all while enjoying the serene waters of the Bothnian Bay. The added touches of walking through industrial ruins, relaxing in a laavu, and swimming make this a full-bodied experience.
Ideal for history enthusiasts, outdoor lovers, and travelers seeking genuine local culture, this tour provides a meaningful excursion that’s both educational and fun. Small group numbers and inclusive transport make it a practical, hassle-free option.
If you’re curious about Finland’s industrial past or simply want a peaceful day in the outdoors, this heritage cruise could be just what you need. It balances storytelling, scenic beauty, and outdoor adventure—without feeling rushed or overly commercialized.
FAQs
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in HaparandaTornio, making it easy to start and end the day comfortably.
How long does the entire tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 5 hours, including travel, walking, and the cruise.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.
Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, there is a small sandy beach where you can take a safe swim, but remember the water might be chilly depending on the weather.
Are there any amenities on the island?
No, the island is uninhabited with no running water or standard toilets, only wilderness toilets are available. Be prepared accordingly.
Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s designed for small groups and involves walking on uneven terrain, so it may not be suitable for those with mobility impairments or very young children.
In short, this heritage cruise offers a well-rounded look at Kemi’s origins with scenic, historical, and outdoor highlights. It’s perfect for travelers who want an authentic, manageable, and enriching experience in northern Finland.
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