Taking the Ferry from Tallinn to Helsinki: Everything You Need to Know
Taking a ferry from Tallinn to Helsinki is one of the most popular and convenient ways to travel between the two capital cities. The journey takes around two hours and offers beautiful views of the Baltic Sea along the way. We tried it ourselves, and in this guide, we share our experience along with practical tips to help you plan your trip.
After a previous boat ride to Lokrum Island, we already knew we loved traveling by sea. Still, the ferry from Tallinn to Helsinki is an entirely different experience. These ships feel more like floating cities than simple boats. When planning our trip to Tallinn, visiting Helsinki was an easy decision since it is so close. While flying is an option, we highly recommend taking the ferry instead. If you have never been on a ship like this before, it is an experience in itself and a great way to travel between Estonia and Finland. Let’s take a closer look at what you can expect.
Which Ferry To Choose Between Tallinn and Helsinki
Several ferry companies operate on the Tallinn–Helsinki route, each offering a slightly different travel experience. Choosing the right one depends on your budget, schedule, and what you expect on board.
- Tallink Silja Line is one of the largest ferry operators in the Baltic Sea region and runs multiple daily crossings between Tallinn and Helsinki. Their fleet includes large cruise-style ferries with ample onboard amenities, including restaurants, cafés, shops, and entertainment. This is the company we personally used and can confidently recommend, especially if you want a comfortable and well-equipped ferry experience.
- Viking Line is another major operator on this route, also offering several daily departures. Their ships feature restaurants, bars, and shopping areas, making them a solid alternative with a similar onboard experience to Tallink Silja Line.
- Eckerö Line also operates daily crossings, using slightly smaller ships. They focus more on straightforward transport and cargo services, with fewer onboard facilities, which can make them a good option if you are mainly looking for a simple and often more budget-friendly crossing.
All three companies offer different ticket types and onboard services, so it is worth comparing prices and departure times before booking. Whichever ferry you choose, it is best to book your tickets in advance, especially during the summer and holiday periods, to secure your preferred time and seat.
How Long Is the Ferry from Tallinn to Helsinki
The ferry journey from Tallinn to Helsinki usually takes about 2 hours, but the exact duration depends on the ferry operator, ship type, and weather conditions.
Most standard ferries complete the crossing in about two hours, which was also the case for our trip. Some services can be slightly faster or slower, with travel times ranging from 1 hour 40 minutes to around 3 hours.
The fastest option is the high-speed catamaran operated by Linda Line Express, which can make the crossing in just 1 hour and 40 minutes. However, this service is seasonal and weather-dependent, so it is not available year-round.
Weather can occasionally affect sailing schedules, especially during rough conditions on the Baltic Sea, which may result in delays or longer travel times. For that reason, it is always a good idea to check the ferry operator’s timetable and the weather forecast before booking.
Ferry Costs from Tallinn to Helsinki
The cost of the ferry from Tallinn to Helsinki varies depending on the ferry operator, time of year, and ticket type. As a rough guide, one-way tickets can start at around €10 with budget-friendly options like Eckerö Line. Prices can reach €40 or more for a return ticket with larger operators such as Tallink Silja Line or Viking Line.
Ticket prices are usually higher during the peak travel season from June to August and on weekends, so booking in advance is a smart way to secure better deals. Many ferry companies also offer discounts for early bookings or reduced prices when you book a return ticket.
Prices can also change depending on the onboard options you choose. You can travel with basic seating or upgrade to private cabins, including more comfortable options with sea views and private bathrooms.
For reference, our return tickets for two people cost €78.
Plushies, of course, travel for free.
| Item | From-To | Departure | Arrival | Total Price | Price/Person |
| Boat Ticket | Tallinn-Helsinki | 8th of April | 8th of April | €78.00 | €39.00 |
| Helsinki-Tallinn | 8th of April | 8th of April | €39.00 |
Ferry Terminals and Getting to the City Center
On the Helsinki side, ferries from Tallinn with Tallink Silja Line usually arrive at West Harbour (Länsiterminaali 2), which is about 2.5–3 km from Helsinki city center. Getting into town is quick and easy. Trams stop directly outside the terminal, with tram lines 7 and 9 taking you to the central railway station area in around 10–15 minutes. Taxis are readily available, and ride-hailing apps work well. If you enjoy walking and the weather is nice, you can even walk part of the way along the waterfront, although most travelers will prefer the tram after the ferry crossing.
In Tallinn, ferries typically depart from the main passenger terminals near the port, which are within easy waddling distance of the Old Town. From Viru Gate, the walk takes roughly 20 minutes, making it very convenient if you are staying centrally and do not want to rely on transport early in the morning.
This easy terminal access on both sides is one of the reasons the ferry is such a popular, stress-free way to travel between Tallinn and Helsinki.
Our Experience Taking the Ferry from Tallinn to Helsinki with Tallink Silja Line
Taking the ferry from Tallinn to Helsinki and back is not just a practical way to travel; it is an experience in itself. There are plenty of onboard options to help pass the time, and if you are a first-timer like we were, simply exploring the ship is part of the fun.
Our ferry departed at 7:30 am, so we arrived at the terminal early. Boarding was very straightforward and stress-free. We scanned our tickets once, boarded the ship, and that was it: no repeated checks or complicated procedures.
The ferry terminal is within easy walking distance of Tallinn’s Old Town. From Viru Gate, it took us roughly 20 minutes at a relaxed pace, making it a convenient and scenic start to the journey.
One of the biggest advantages of traveling by ferry is the chance to enjoy the beautiful views of the Baltic Sea. The journey is scenic, with wide stretches of open water and small islands passing by along the way. From the ferry, you also get great views of the coastlines of both Estonia and Finland, which makes the crossing feel like part of the travel experience rather than just a transfer.
Note: Seats next to the windows are limited. As soon as boarding started, we noticed people heading straight inside to secure the best spots, so if views are important to you, it is worth boarding early.
Before we started exploring the ferry, we grabbed a coffee and took a moment to enjoy the view as the ship pulled away. There are several food and drink options on board, making it easy to settle in straight away. You can order coffee at the counter, use a self-service coffee machine, or sit down in one of the onboard restaurants offering breakfast-style options such as pastries, light meals, and hot drinks.
Besides cafés and restaurants, there are also bars, shops, and comfortable seating areas, so whether you want a quick coffee, a proper breakfast, or just a place to relax, there is plenty to choose from while crossing the Baltic Sea.
Beyond the views, there are plenty of onboard amenities that make the journey comfortable and enjoyable. Tallink Silja Line offers a wide range of dining options, including restaurants, cafés, and bars. Whether you are after a quick snack, a coffee, or a more relaxed meal with sea views, you will find something to suit your mood.
If relaxing is more your style, the ferry also has comfortable lounges and seating areas, perfect for unwinding, reading, or simply watching the Baltic Sea pass by. With so many options onboard, the crossing feels more like part of the trip than just a way to get from A to B.
There are also plenty of entertainment options on board, which make the crossing feel more like a mini-cruise. On the Tallink Silja Line ferry, you will find a PlayStation gaming area, a shopping zone with souvenirs, cosmetics, and snacks, as well as slot machines and arcade-style entertainment.
Whether you want to browse the shops, keep kids entertained, or waddle around and see what the ship has to offer, there is always something to do. With so much happening on board, the two-hour journey passes surprisingly quickly.
Our favorite part of the ferry was the sun deck. Stepping outside, you could really feel the fresh Baltic Sea air and the wind rushing past your flippers. Even though it was quite windy, the views made it absolutely worth it. Watching the open sea, passing islands, and the coastline slowly disappear behind the ship was one of those simple travel moments that stay with you. It was the perfect spot to pause, take photos, and fully enjoy the journey between Tallinn and Helsinki.
Right below the sun deck, there is a bar where you can grab a drink, sit back, and relax. It is a great spot to unwind with a book or simply enjoy the views through the windows while the ferry makes its way across the Baltic Sea.
The sunset on the way back from Helsinki to Tallinn was absolutely stunning. Warm colors filled the sky, reflecting off the sea, and even the strong wind did not bother us at all. It was the perfect, peaceful end to our ferry journey across the Baltic Sea.
Among the main advantages of traveling by ferry are the stunning views of the Baltic Sea, as well as the comfort, affordability, and frequent schedules offered by ferry companies. The regular departures make it an easy, flexible option for travel between Tallinn and Helsinki.
Since this was our first ferry trip of this kind, it is hard for us to list many disadvantages. That said, one thing to keep in mind is weather dependency. The Baltic Sea can be rough, especially in winter, and in rare cases, sailings may be delayed or canceled due to adverse conditions. This can be inconvenient if you are traveling on a fixed schedule.
Another potential downside is the travel time, which can be longer than expected if weather conditions are poor. Lastly, seasickness can be an issue for some travelers. If you are prone to it, the crossing may feel uncomfortable, particularly on windy days.
Pro Penguin Tip
- Check the Weather Forecast. Before booking your ticket, always check the weather forecast. The Baltic Sea can be unpredictable, and rough conditions may lead to delays or cancellations. If the weather looks unfavorable, it may be better to adjust your plans or consider an alternative mode of transport.
- Book Early. To avoid disappointment, book your ferry ticket in advance. During peak season, sailings can sell out quickly, and last-minute tickets may be limited or more expensive.
- Arrive Early. Make sure to arrive at the terminal with plenty of time to spare. Late arrivals may miss the ship, leading to inconvenience and unexpected extra costs.
Pros
- Beautiful views of the Baltic Sea
- Comfortable ships with plenty of onboard amenities
- Frequent departures throughout the day
- Affordable ticket prices, especially when booked early
- Easy and relaxed boarding process
Cons
- Weather-dependent, especially during winter
- Travel time can be longer in rough sea conditions
- Risk of seasickness for sensitive travelers
- Window seats and outdoor spots can fill up quickly
Overall, our ferry ride from Tallinn to Helsinki was enjoyable. The crossing was smooth, the onboard facilities were comfortable and well organized, and the journey itself felt like part of the adventure. We relaxed, enjoyed the views of the Baltic Sea, and easily passed the time thanks to the many amenities on board. If you are planning a trip between Tallinn and Helsinki, we recommend taking the ferry for a practical, scenic, and genuinely pleasant travel experience.
Pack your bags and board a ferry to Finland!
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