How long does the ferry from Helsinki to Tallinn take?
Crossing times between Helsinki and Tallinn.
Short answer
Ferry booking services such as Ferryhopper say the distance between the ports of Helsinki and Tallinn is about 43 nautical miles, or 80 km, and that crossings take from about 2 to 3.5 hours depending on the ship and company. Only conventional ferries run on the route, with no fast boats. Some evening departures that stay in port overnight take much longer. In Helsinki, Tallinn ferries leave from West Harbour Terminal 2 and Katajanokka, and some departures use Vuosaari.
Why
- Distance between the ports: about 80 km.
- Fastest crossing: about 2 hours.
- No fast boats run on the route.
Details
The Port of Helsinki recorded 2,480,041 passengers on the Tallinn route in January to May 2026.
Tip
Check which terminal your ferry uses, because West Harbour and Katajanokka are in different parts of the city.
What may differ
Booking services list both daytime crossings of about two hours and overnight departures of seven hours or more.
Common misconception
You can take a fast hydrofoil from Helsinki to Tallinn.
What actually happens
Only conventional ferries run on the route today.
People also ask
- Where does the ferry to Tallinn leave from in Helsinki?
- Do you need a passport for the Helsinki–Tallinn ferry?
- How many passengers use the Port of Helsinki in 2026?
Sources
- Ferryhopper: Ferry from Tallinn to HelsinkiChecked at:
- Omio: Ferries from Tallinn to HelsinkiChecked at:
- Port of Helsinki: Statistics January to May 2026Checked at:
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.

