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Submarine Vesikko: A Dive into Finnish Naval History

Explore a meticulously restored Finnish WWII submarine on Suomenlinna Island, offering a glimpse into naval history.

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The Submarine Vesikko, located on the island of Suomenlinna, Helsinki, is a meticulously restored Finnish submarine that saw action during World War II. Now a museum ship, it offers a unique glimpse into the cramped and challenging lives of submariners.

A brief summary to Submarine Vesikko

  • Monday 11 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 11 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 11 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 11 am-6 pm
  • Friday 11 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 11 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 11 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • The Vesikko is only open during the summer months, so plan your visit accordingly.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the submarine involves navigating tight spaces and ladders.
  • Purchase tickets in advance to avoid queues, especially during peak season.
  • Combine your visit to the Vesikko with a tour of the Suomenlinna fortress for a comprehensive historical experience.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach Submarine Vesikko, first, take a ferry from Kauppatori (Market Square) in Helsinki to Suomenlinna. The HSL ferry is part of Helsinki's public transportation network, and a single ticket costs €3. The ferry journey takes approximately 15 minutes. From the Suomenlinna main pier, follow the signs for the Military Museum or the 'Blue Route'. The Vesikko is located in Artillery Bay on the western shore of Iso Mustasaari.

  • Walking

    From the Suomenlinna main pier, follow the signs for the Military Museum or the 'Blue Route'. The walk to the Vesikko takes approximately 15-20 minutes. The route is well-marked and offers scenic views of the fortress. There is no fee for walking within Suomenlinna.

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Discover more about Submarine Vesikko

Submarine Vesikko offers a compelling journey into Finland's naval past. This meticulously restored vessel, located on the historic island of Suomenlinna, served in the Finnish Navy during the Winter War and Continuation War. Launched in 1933, it was initially a prototype for German Type II submarines before being acquired by Finland. Vesikko provides a tangible connection to the realities of submarine warfare. Visitors can explore the submarine's interior, experiencing firsthand the close quarters where a crew of 20 lived and worked. The vessel's design reflects the naval technology of the 1930s, with its compact size and innovative engineering. During its service, Vesikko sank the Soviet merchant ship Vyborg. After the war, Finland was prohibited from operating submarines, leading to Vesikko's conversion into a museum ship. Today, Vesikko stands as a memorial to naval warfare and a testament to Finnish maritime history. The museum attracts approximately 30,000 visitors annually. The submarine has undergone several restorations, including one in 2011 that addressed flooding issues. Vesikko is open to visitors during the summer months, from May to September.

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