The Helsinki International Boat Show 2025 (Vene 25 Båt) has officially wrapped up, leaving behind a wake of inspiration, innovation, and incredible enthusiasm for boating. This year’s event saw remarkable growth, attracting over 67,500 visitors, more than 10,000 above last year’s attendance. The expanded selection of sailboats, innovative marine products, and sustainable solutions captured the interest of both local and international guests, solidifying its status as Northern Europe’s largest boating event.
This year, Venemessut embraced new trends with a strong emphasis on boat recycling, sustainable boating practices, and cutting-edge fishing vessels. The event’s synergy with Helsinki’s Outdoor & Fishing Expo during the opening weekend played a role in the increased footfall, as outdoor enthusiasts explored both worlds under one roof.
But while the boating industry thrives in Finland, sailing here is not your typical warm-sea charter experience. Finnish waters demand skill, adaptability, and a love for the raw beauty of the Nordic archipelago. Unlike Mediterranean sailing, where steady winds and predictable weather prevail, Finnish sailing means navigating through thousands of islands, shallow waters, strong currents, and ever-changing conditions. It’s an adventure that rewards those who seek a true connection with nature, quiet anchorages, and the midnight sun glistening on the waves.
And of course, no authentic Finnish Water Culture experience is complete without one of Finland’s most iconic traditions—the floating sauna. Whether docked at a marina or drifting on a tranquil lake, these unique saunas bring warmth and relaxation after a long day. Many charter companies now offer yachts with onboard saunas or can arrange stops at floating sauna experiences, adding a true Nordic touch to every voyage.
Charter Companies for Exploring Finnish Waters
For those inspired by the show and eager to set sail, Finland offers several high-quality charter companies providing a variety of vessels:
⛵ Nylunds Boathouse – Premium motorboat & sailing yacht rentals
⛵ Skipperi – Flexible subscription-based boat sharing
⛵ Laguuni – Adventure-focused water experiences & boat rentals
⛵ SailQuest – Sailing charters & training in Finnish archipelagos
⛵ Saaristomeri Yacht Charter – Luxury sailing charters in the stunning Turku Archipelago
Popular Marinas in Finland & Pricing
Finland’s vast archipelago offers countless marinas and guest harbors, perfect for mooring overnight or restocking supplies. Here are some of the most popular ones:
⚓ Helsinki Marina (Hernesaarenranta) – Prime location in the capital, mooring fees ~€40-80/night with electricity, water, and services.
⚓ Hanko Guest Harbor – A favorite summer destination, ~€40-60/night, sauna access included.
⚓ Nauvo Guest Marina – One of the busiest in the Turku Archipelago, ~€30-50/night, excellent restaurants and services.
⚓ Kasnäs Marina – Ideal for exploring the Archipelago Sea National Park, ~€35-55/night.
⚓ Björkholmen Marina (Turku) – Quiet yet well-equipped, ~€25-45/night, great for a peaceful stop.
⚓ Mariehamn West Harbor (Åland) – A top spot in Åland, ~€30-70/night, depending on the season.
Whether you dream of owning a boat or chartering a unique Nordic sailing experience, Venemessut 2025 showcased plenty of options. And, of course, no refined nomadic lifestyle on the water is complete without Makuu’s sustainable hemp bedding, bringing ultimate comfort to every cabin.
Did you attend Venemessut 2025? What were your highlights? Share with us on Instagram: @makuu.slow.living ⛵✨
