Kapellskar – Paldiski

Key Facts

Crossing time

9h 30min – 10h

Frequency

1x daily

Operator

Tallink Silja

Departures

09:00 – 21:00

Car transport

Yes

Route Overview

The Kapellskär–Paldiski ferry links the Swedish mainland with northwestern Estonia, taking around 9–10 hours. Paldiski is a port town roughly 50 km west of Tallinn, making this a useful alternative to the busier Tallinn crossings for travellers who prefer a quieter arrival and a more direct route into Estonia's western coast.

The route is served by two operators: DFDS Seaways (the dominant carrier, running around 449 sailings per year, partly inherited from the former DFDS Lisco fleet) and Tallink Silja (around 329 sailings per year). Combined, they offer close to daily service in each direction year-round.

The crossing is long enough to make a cabin worthwhile, especially for overnight sailings. Road connections from Paldiski to Tallinn take under an hour on the E20. On the Swedish side, Kapellskär is about 90 km north of Stockholm, served by direct bus from the city.

Operators & Schedule

The Kapellskär–Paldiski route is operated by two companies: DFDS Seaways and Tallink Silja. DFDS Seaways is the leading carrier on this route, operating around 449 annual sailings — a fleet that includes vessels formerly operating under the DFDS Lisco brand. Tallink Silja covers approximately 329 sailings per year. Both operators run Ro-Pax vessels capable of transporting passengers, cars, and freight.

Onboard Services

On board: a restaurant, café, duty-free shop, passenger lounges and cabins suited to the 9–10 hour crossing. The atmosphere is generally quieter and more relaxed than on the main Tallinn cruise ferry routes — expect fewer entertainment options but a comfortable overnight experience.

Kapellskar

Kapellskär is a small ferry port about 90 km north of Stockholm, connected to the city by direct bus service. The terminal is compact and easy to navigate — check-in for vehicles typically opens 90 minutes before departure. Road access is via the E18 and then road 77 north.

Paldiski

Paldiski is a port town in northwestern Estonia, about 50 km from Tallinn via the E20 motorway — a straightforward drive of under an hour. The port is smaller and less congested than Tallinn's passenger terminal, which makes disembarkation quick. Local bus connections to Tallinn are available but limited; a car or taxi is the most practical option.

Operating Ferry Companies

• Tallink Silja