Helsinki – Mariehamn Ferries

Viking Line timetables and tickets for 2026

About

The Helsinki to Mariehamn ferry route provides a vital maritime link between Finland's capital and the Åland Islands. This overnight service typically spans a direct distance of approximately 160 nautical miles (296 kilometers). The average crossing duration is 11 hours and 15 minutes, with some variations depending on the vessel and prevailing weather conditions. Currently, Tallink Silja Line operates this route, offering daily departures. During peak season, typically from June to August, the frequency of departures remains consistent at one sailing per day from Helsinki, though additional services or larger vessels may be deployed to manage increased passenger and vehicle volumes. Tallink Silja Line's vessels maintain a maximum passenger capacity ranging from 2,800 to 3,700 individuals and vehicle deck capacity for up to 1,000 cars, catering to both foot passengers and those traveling with vehicles. The schedule primarily features evening departures from Helsinki, typically between 17:00 and 18:00, arriving in Mariehamn the following morning, between 04:00 and 06:00 local time. This overnight pattern allows passengers to maximize their time at both destinations. Off-peak months, from September to May, generally observe the same daily frequency, with no significant reduction in service, ensuring consistent connectivity throughout the year.

Operators Schedule

Tallink Silja Line is the sole ferry operator providing direct services on the Helsinki-Mariehamn route. The vessels typically deployed on this overnight itinerary include the M/S Silja Serenade and M/S Silja Symphony. These ships are sister vessels, each with a gross tonnage of approximately 58,376 GT and a length of 203 meters. Both vessels are rated for a service speed of 21.5 knots. The frequency is consistent, with one scheduled departure from Helsinki each evening at approximately 17:00 or 17:30, arriving in Mariehamn the next morning at 04:15 or 04:25. The total crossing duration averages 11 hours and 15 minutes. This daily schedule is maintained uniformly across both peak and off-peak seasons, without significant variations in departure timings or frequency. The operator ensures continuous service throughout the year, excluding extraordinary circumstances such as severe weather advisories or scheduled maintenance periods. Annual dry-dock rotations for each vessel are typically managed during low-demand periods, ensuring minimal disruption to the overall operational schedule.

Onboard Services

Onboard the Helsinki-Mariehamn route, passengers have access to a range of services designed for an overnight journey. Cabin accommodations vary, offering interior and exterior options, including 'A-class' cabins with windows and 'B-class' cabins without, typically ranging from 8 to 11 square meters. Suites are also available, often exceeding 20 square meters. Dining facilities include several restaurants, such as a buffet restaurant (e.g., Grande Buffet) offering fixed-price meals, and à la carte options (e.g., à la Carte Restaurant Bon Vivant). Duty-free shopping is standard, encompassing a 1,000-2,000 square meter retail space offering spirits, cosmetics, and confectionery. Pet policies permit animals in designated pet-friendly cabins or specific communal areas, with a typical per-pet fee of 30-50 Euros. Vehicle transport is available for Helsinki, Turku, and commercial vehicles, with deck height restrictions generally up to 4.2 meters. Wi-Fi connectivity is provided throughout the vessel, often with tiered packages: basic access for email and messaging, and premium access for streaming, with data caps or speed limitations dependent on the purchased package.

The Port of Helsinki, specifically the Olympia Terminal located at Olympiaranta 1, operates as the primary departure point for services to Mariehamn. This terminal is equipped to handle concurrent vessel departures and arrivals, managing thousands of passengers daily. Check-in procedures for foot passengers typically commence 90 minutes prior to scheduled departure and close 30 minutes before sailing. Vehicle check-in windows are generally 2 hours to 45 minutes pre-departure, requiring all vehicles to be parked in designated lanes based on booking codes. The terminal offers limited short-term parking, with off-site long-term options available within a 1-kilometer radius. Public transportation access is robust, with tram lines 2 and 3 providing direct connections from Helsinki city center to a stop directly adjacent to the terminal entrance. Additionally, several bus services serve the immediate vicinity. Vehicle boarding occurs via dedicated ramps, with specific instructions provided by port personnel based on vehicle class and size, including provisions for oversized vehicles up to 4.2 meters in height. The terminal facility includes passenger waiting areas, accessible restrooms, and basic catering services.

Mariehamn Port, located on the southwest coast of the Åland Islands, serves as the main entry point to the autonomous region, situated approximately 2 kilometers from the city center. Upon arrival, disembarkation for foot passengers typically begins 15 minutes after the vessel berths and is completed within 30 minutes. Vehicle disembarkation can take approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on the vehicle deck's configuration and traffic flow. The port has limited direct public transportation options; local bus services operate from a stop approximately 500 meters from the terminal, with limited schedules, particularly on weekends. Taxis are available for hire directly outside the terminal building, and car rental agencies operate offices within a 1-kilometer radius. Check-in procedures for return journeys to Helsinki mirror those at Helsinki's Olympia Terminal, with foot passenger check-in closing 30 minutes prior to departure and vehicle check-in closing 45 minutes prior. The terminal building offers basic amenities, including a waiting area, restrooms, and vending machines. Designated short-term parking is available directly adjacent to the terminal for pickup and drop-off, with no long-term parking facilities explicitly managed by the port.

Schedule

DateDepartureArrivalDurationVessel
2026-04-1517:1504:2511h 10mGabriella
2026-04-1617:1504:2511h 10mViking Cinderella
2026-04-1717:1504:2511h 10mGabriella
2026-04-1817:1504:2511h 10mViking Cinderella

About Viking Line

Viking Line is one of the leading ferry operators in the Baltic Sea, with a heritage spanning over 60 years. Known for exceptional customer service and modern vessels, Viking Line offers unforgettable cruises between Finland, Sweden, and Estonia. The fleet features extensive entertainment options, quality restaurants, tax-free shopping, and comfortable accommodations. Viking Line is committed to sustainable shipping and operates some of the most environmentally efficient vessels in the region, including the revolutionary Viking Glory powered by LNG.

HQ: Mariehamn, Åland

All departures: Helsinki – Mariehamn