Discover Åland from the Sea
Discover Åland by boat and explore the unique landscapes of the Åland archipelago. Join a boat tour to a lighthouse island, step ashore where history comes alive, or explore dramatic cliffs, seabirds and untouched nature on remote islands. With more than 20 000 islands and skerries, the Åland archipelago is best experienced from the water.
Feel the fresh sea breeze, watch the horizon open up around you and discover places that can only be reached by boat. Here you’ll find trusted local operators offering guided boat tours, island hopping, lighthouse visits and boat taxi services throughout Åland.
Good to Know Before Your Boat Tour
Excursions are organised during the summer season, when the sea is usually calm and the archipelago is at its most vibrant.
Most boat tours need to be booked in advance, especially during peak summer weeks.
All departures depend on weather and sea conditions. Your safety and comfort always come first.
Dress for the weather and for the wind at sea. Even on warm days, it can feel cooler on the water, so bring a light jacket. On sunny days, remember sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat, as the sun is strong at sea.
If food is not included, bring your own lunch and water bottle. You are always welcome to ask your guide for practical advice before departure.
The archipelago nature is fragile and carefully protected. Many tours are organised in small groups to minimise environmental impact. Please respect nature and leave no trace.
Boat Taxi Services and Guided Boat Tours in Åland
1. Safewaters – Boat Tour Around Bomarsund Fortress
Experience the impressive Bomarsund fortress from the water. This peaceful 40-minute boat tour takes place in a charming 21-foot boat at a relaxed pace, perfect for soaking in the scenery and stories from the past. The Åland Museum’s OnSpot audio guide shares stories about the fortress and its dramatic history. Seeing the fortress ruins from a new perspective truly highlights their size and historical significance. After the tour, enjoy free admission to the Bomarsund Visitor Centre.
2. Shipland – Tailored Boat Tours and Island Hopping
Shipland, led by Captain Ville, offers boat tours and boat taxi services in the Åland archipelago. Travel on your own, with friends or with colleagues – every trip is tailored to your wishes. Join a popular guided island hopping tour and visit lighthouse islands, old pilot stations and remote fishing communities. You’ll gain insight into life in the islands – past and present. Departures are usually from Mariehamn, but other pick-up locations can be arranged.
3. Fiskelyckan – Daily Boat Tours to Kobba Klintar
Just outside Mariehamn lies the historic pilot island Kobba Klintar, recognised by its white beacon. Many visitors see it from the ferry – but with Fiskelyckan, you can step ashore and explore it up close. Daily boat tours depart from the western harbour in Mariehamn, next to the museum ship Pommern. Fiskelyckan also offers trips to Rödhamn, a beautiful guest harbour and natural refuge that for centuries was the last safe stop before crossing the Sea of Åland to Sweden.
4. Marina Hamnsundet – Wooden Boat Tours in Northern Åland
Discover northern Åland’s archipelago with a short boat ride to Boxö and Länsmansgrund Nature Reserve. The tour departs from Hamnsundet Marina in Saltvik and takes about 10 minutes in a traditional wooden boat built on Åland. On Boxö you’ll see the ruins of a coastal defence battery and, if you dare, visit Åland’s largest cave formation, Rövarbergsgrottan. The excursion includes rich birdlife, scenic landscapes and the option of a guided walk with a picnic.
5. Märket Lighthouse Tour – Between Finland and Sweden
From Eckerö, Norrö Stugor organises group tours for up to 10 passengers to the Märket lighthouse. The barren island is located on the border between Finland and Sweden and is famous for one of Europe’s most unusual borderlines. Landing depends entirely on sea conditions, as there is no harbour on the island. Tours only depart in favourable weather — and on calm summer days, visiting Märket feels truly magical. The journey takes about 45 minutes each way and the full excursion lasts around 4 hours. Keep an eye out for seals in the surrounding waters!
6. Hamnsundet – Boat Tours in Northern Åland
With Hamnsundet's guest harbour as a base, the boat taxi Ferry Go Round with skipper Petri organises trips to the northern Åland archipelago. A regular evening tour takes place every Wednesday (weather permitting) and lasts about two hours. The boat carries up to seven passengers, with a minimum of three participants. The boat is wheelchair accessible. Customised tours and transport services can be arranged, with or without catering.
7. Guided Boat Tour to Källskär in Kökar
Travel through Kökar’s outer archipelago to the remarkable island of Källskär. Tours depart from Hotel Brudhäll in Karlby, Kökar, during the high season. On Källskär, join a guided walk to Baron Åkerhielm’s architect-designed log house and Mediterranean-inspired garden – a surprising sight in the Nordic archipelago, where Mediterranean influences meet rugged island landscapes. The excursion lasts approximately 3.5 hours.
8. In the Footsteps of Stormskerry Maja – Boat Tour to Fiskeskär
Step into the world of author Anni Blomqvist and her beloved character Stormskerry Maja. Join skipper Linda on a short boat trip from Simskäla to Fiskeskär in northern Åland. The tour begins at Blomqvist’s boathouse, next to her former home, now a museum. On the island, you’ll hear stories about 19th-century archipelago life and enjoy time for fishing, rowing or even a traditional sauna. The excursion lasts about three hours.
9. M/S Silvana – Boat Tour to Sälskär Lighthouse
Sälskär Lighthouse rises from the open sea on Åland’s northwest coast, surrounded by an endless horizon. During the summer, you can travel here every Wednesday evening with M/S Silvana, which accommodates up to 50 passengers. You can board in Skarpnåtö or at Lolo’s Seaside Café in Geta. On the island, learn about the lighthouse's history and discover the unique birdlife and vegetation of Åland's outer archipelago. M/S Silvana also runs daily between Skarpnåtö and Lolo’s Sea Side Café in Geta, shortening your cycling trip from western to northern Åland.
