Do international cruises start or end in Helsinki?
Turnaround cruises and cruise traffic in Helsinki.
Short answer
Verkkouutiset reported that Norwegian Cruise Line chose Helsinki as one of its turnaround ports, with 15 turnaround ships arriving during 2026. On a turnaround cruise, passengers start or finish their trip in Helsinki instead of visiting for one day. The City of Helsinki said in September 2026 that turnaround cruises visited the city for the first time that summer and that their passengers stay overnight and spend money on other services.
Why
- 15 turnaround ship calls were planned for 2026.
- Passengers start or end their cruise in Helsinki.
- Summer 2026 was the first season with turnaround cruises.
Details
The City of Helsinki report on tourism said 97 international cruise ships called in 2024 and 98 calls were expected in 2025.
Tip
If your cruise starts in Helsinki, plan a night in the city before boarding.
What may differ
Helsinki recorded 4,924,251 registered overnight stays in 2025, a record and 8.2 percent more than in 2024.
Common misconception
Cruise passengers only visit Helsinki for a few hours.
What actually happens
Turnaround passengers start or end their trip in Helsinki.
People also ask
- How many passengers use the Port of Helsinki in 2026?
- Which harbours does Helsinki have?
- How far is Helsinki airport from the city centre?
Sources
This answer is for reference only. Ferry routes and terminals change, so check the Port of Helsinki and your ferry company before you travel.
Transport, roads, car rentalRelated questions
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Can you get assistance at Kamppi bus station if you have reduced mobility?
Matkahuolto says assistance for disabled people and people with reduced mobility is available at Helsinki bus station, in the long-distance coach terminal of the Kamppi Shopping Centre.
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Can you store luggage at Kamppi bus station in Helsinki?
The Kamppi Centre says the long-distance transport terminal is open 24/7 and that you can leave luggage for short or long periods in the 24/7 storage.
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Where do long-distance buses leave from in Helsinki?
Matkahuolto says the Kamppi long-distance terminal is the hub of public transport in Helsinki and is open 24/7.
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How do you get to Vuosaari Harbour in Helsinki by public transport?
Port of Helsinki says the Hansa Terminal is in Vuosaari Harbour, about 3 kilometres from the nearest metro station, Vuosaari.