Int´l cruise starts in Helsinki amid arrival of M/S Artania

The international cruise traffic started in the Helsinki airport on Friday amid arrival of M/S Artania at Hernesaari in the noon.

It was the first visiting cruiser since 2019 in Hernesaari, said the Port of Helsinki in a press release.

“We are happy to welcome cruisers and see travel recover. In addition to Artania’s port call, we are also expecting some visits by other cruisers this season,” said Port of Helsinki Harbour Master Antti Pulkkinen.

Earlier, on 15 July, the government approved the decision on ending internal border control. The government also provided rules for the calls of international cruisers at Finland’s ports. Under specific conditions, only cruisers from another EU or Schengen state are allowed in Finland.

As the restrictions are partially lifted, Helsinki is able to start its international cruise season.

The Port of Helsinki has also been working with operators such as cruise ship companies and agents to develop models for cruise travel in which health and safety is taken into account in everything – both aboard the ship and during visits ashore. Operators are cooperating closely with the healthcare authorities of the ports of call.