Arktika – An unforgettable birding and nature experience

Experience the spring archipelago. Join the experts and watch the mass migration of birds and the awakening of the archipelago’s nature in spring. Rakinkotka Island is a unique, authentic Viking island, combining the peace of nature, the mystique of Viking history and the hospitality of a host family.

The guided sea voyage is aboard a traditional wooden pleasure boat, the m/s Walhalla. Already during the trip, you will enjoy the enchanting scenery and the spring migration of the birds with an experienced skipper. This is the perfect day trip for those interested in the spring migration of birds and nature. It is also a great trip for those interested in photography.

Highlights and special value of the product

  • A unique archipelago destination: an island village with old buildings – each with its own story. The island is open to a limited number of tourists.
  • -Arktika: Millions of Arctic birds fly over the Rakin Kotka towards their northern breeding grounds. This is one of Europe’s most spectacular birding events
  • Viking history: the island harbours traces of the Viking Age, including a Viking burial ground.
  • Nature experiences: On the nature trail, you’ll encounter fascinating nature- and Viking-themed questions. The birdwatching tower invites you to observe the soaring birds, as the island lies on a major migratory route. Even the majestic white-tailed eagle nests here, keeping a watchful eye on its surroundings. The island’s vegetation is rich and diverse, featuring treasures such as alder groves, Solomon’s seal, and ballast plants.
  • Ecology: the well-being of nature and the environment is taken into account in everything we do.
  • Relaxation: On the island, you can enjoy a traditional wood-fired beach sauna, relax in the gentle heat of the rock smoke sauna, or soak in hot tubs (available by advance reservation). Take a refreshing swim in the sea and explore the island at your own pace, discovering your favourite spots along the way
  • Activities available for an extra charge: jungle gym, sup board (2), canoe (1), rowing boat (3), fishing.
  • Indulge in the restaurant’s delicacies, including afternoon coffee or refreshments. The island has alcohol serving rights.
  • Additional excursion: a boat trip to the fishing village of Tammio for an additional fee.
  • Fascinating stories at sea: the captain tells stories about the archipelago, the landscape, navigation and history. How the Vikings navigated, and which routes did they sail? Learn more about these fascinating topics aboard the m/s Walhalla.

Trip details

  • Date: on Saturdays from 10.5.2025 and 24.5.2025. Arrival at the departure pier at 8:30 AM, return at 5:00 PM. On 17.5.2025 arrival at the pier at 11.30 AM and return at 09.00 PM.
  • Guidance: in Finnish, on request in English
  • Duration: 7 hours
  • Departure pier: Tervasaari Pier (address: Tullimakasiiniranta 9, Hamina)
  • Parking: free parking next to the departure pier.
  • Public transport: from the nearest bus stop about 800 m, from Hamina bus station about 1 km.

Price

Adult 95 €
Child 6-12 years 25€

Timetable

  • 08.30 Welcome to ms Walhalla.
  • 09.00 ms Walhalla departs from Tervasaari pier (address Tullimakasiiniranta 9, Hamina).
  • 11.00 After about an hour at sea we will land at the Rakinkotka Island. You will be welcomed
  • to the island by the host/hostess.
  • 13.00 Lunch and coffee
  • After lunch there is the possibility to do activities on your own or extra activities for an additional fee.
  • 16.00 ms Walhalla departs Rakinkotka Island back towards Hamina.
  • 17.00 return to Tervasaari departure pier.

Good to know before participating

  • Not suitable for people with reduced mobility
  • Price includes: guided round trip by sea, guided nature trail, salmon soup for lunch (G, L, M), bread (also G on request), jug of water, coffee/tea, small sweet (also G on request).
  • Refreshments, alcoholic beverages, grilled sausages, marshmallows and other snacks available for purchase.
  • Outdoor clothing and footwear according to weather conditions
  • Weather reservation.

Booking conditions

Reservations must be made online at least 12 hours in advance, after which reservations can be made by phone.
Cancellations must be made at least two weeks before the start of the trip.
A booking confirmation will be sent by e-mail immediately after the purchase decision and will serve as a ticket.

Contact details for customer service

Petri Luotio, NaviKotka, 050 4654188, petri.luotio@navikotka.fi
Virpi Illi, Vimpa Islands 044 0806566, virpi.illi@vimpa.com

Book here