Are you transporting dangerous goods? Remember to let us know in advance

Cargo — 16.6.2026

Both the Port and shipping company must be notified of shipments of dangerous goods 24 hours before the goods arrive in the port area.  This duty to notify, along with other regulations governing the transport of hazardous substances, helps to ensure safety throughout the transport chain.

Many everyday products, such as aerosols, paints, fertilisers, fuels and pesticides, are classified as dangerous goods. The transport of these substances is subject to strict regulations, as they can pose a danger to people, the environment or property. 

These regulations ensure safety throughout the transport chain.

“It’s the shipper’s responsibility to ensure that the goods are properly identified and classified. Dangerous goods are divided into nine categories,” says Martin Härginen, Traffic Coordinator at the Port of Helsinki.

The shipper must provide advance notification of dangerous goods to the Port no less than 24 hours before the goods are brought into the port area. This must be done in addition to the notifications to the shipping company and port operator.

“We need to be notified in advance so that we know which substances are coming, and can prepare for their arrival and prevent accidents,” says Härginen.

The duty to notify in advance applies also to empty, unwashed transport units for dangerous goods. 

Notification system makes life easier for shippers

The Port of Helsinki has a notification system for dangerous goods that is unique in Finland. It makes things easier for both shippers and the Port. The system asks shippers a standard set of questions about the contents of each shipment. This ensures that the notification contains all of the required information.

The system also ensures that the Port receives dangerous goods notifications in a standard format, so that the data is easy to process. This is much more reliable than processing notifications via email.

Shippers must currently notify both the Port and shipping company. A terminal notification is made to the port operator.

“Our goal is for shipping companies to provide us with this information directly. It would make everyone’s life easier, and ensure that we receive timely information about shipments,” says Härginen.

He points out that advance notification is a legal requirement that enables the port to prepare for risk management and prevention.

The Port of Helsinki charges a fee for transport units containing hazardous substances in order to cover the costs of control and safety measures.

Explore, register or log in to the Port of Helsinki’s Dangerous Goods system here.

Customs actively inspects cargo

The authorities monitor cargo traffic at Helsinki harbours. Any unannounced shipments – aka ‘grey cargo’ – will be stopped. Customs will inspect both the vehicle and any documents, markings or equipment required for the transport of hazardous substances. The driver’s permits and licences will also be checked.

“If a customs inspection of the cargo finds hazardous substances that were not declared in advance, the driver will receive a traffic penalty fine. In the most blatant cases of grey shipments, criminal proceedings will be initiated and the investigation will be transferred to Customs’ criminal investigation unit,” says Customs Inspector Jukka Halinen.

How often does Customs discover shipments for which no notification of hazardous substances has been made?

“The last time was yesterday,” says Halinen.

If no advance notification of dangerous goods has been made, a substantial additional fee must be paid to the Port in addition to the traffic penalty fine.

Customs Inspector Jukka Halinen tells us about a cargo unit discovered during a dangerous goods inspection:

“The articulated lorry carried a full semi-trailer’s worth of Class 3 flammable liquids (almost 30,000 litres). A closer inspection revealed that this was an undeclared shipment. The articulated lorry didn’t have the proper markings, and the driver had no idea what he was transporting. The shipment is being held at Customs for further investigation.”

Safety is also important for shipping companies

Safety is a shared responsibility throughout the transport chain. Comprehensive safety begins with a good flow of information. 

At Eckerö Line, failure to comply with the requirement to declare dangerous goods may prevent the entire shipment from proceeding.

“The driver must make advance notification of the substances being transported to both us and the Port. If no notification has been made, the transport unit will not be allowed onto our ship,” says Tomas Sjödahl, Cargo Director at Eckerö Line.

Safety is also ensured in the port area. Sjödahl says that dangerous goods are directed to a designated area to await their turn to be loaded onto the ship.

Passenger-car ferries make up the majority of the traffic between Finland and Estonia. Most dangerous goods cannot be transported on them.

“The weather deck on Eckerö Line’s Finbo Cargo can be used to transport many hazardous substances that are not permitted on passenger ships,” says Sjödahl. For example, damaged electric cars are not transported on passenger ships. They are instead sent by cargo ship on the Vuosaari–Muuga route. Onboard this ship, Finbo Cargo, the vehicles are classified as dangerous goods and handled accordingly.

Shipper’s checklist

• If your company is required to appoint a security advisor, appoint one.
• Identify the substance: See Section 14 of the material safety data sheet or contact the manufacturer.
• Check the classification: The shipper is responsible for the accuracy of the classification.
• Use the correct packaging: Make sure the packaging bears a UN type approval mark. This indicates that the packaging has been tested and approved for the transport of that substance.
• Label the vehicle carefully in accordance with applicable regulations for the transportation.
• Get your documents in order: Record the names and classifications of the substances in the shipping documents, along with any other required information.
• Please notify us in good time: Remember to mention any dangerous goods when placing your transport order, and send your advance notification to both the Port and shipping company.

Source: Tukes

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Helsinki is more than just a stopover

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Helsinki is more than just a stopover

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Helsinki has appeal. This is reflected in both passenger numbers and feedback. 9.6 million passengers passed through the Port of Helsinki last year. The vast majority took scheduled ferry routes, for which customer satisfaction remained high.

Within this group of 9.6 million travellers, there is a smaller yet growing segment that plays a significant role in the development of tourism: international cruise passengers. More than 175,000 international cruise passengers docked in Helsinki last year, which is over 25 per cent more than in the previous year. They are an important part of Helsinki’s maritime vibe and the city’s international brand.

This growing number of cruise passengers, coupled with Helsinki’s appeal as a destination, is placing more and more focus on how long visitors stay in the city.

This year, Helsinki will welcome 15 turnaround vessels, eight of which will be large cruise ships carrying several thousand passengers. Helsinki is more frequently serving as a turnaround port, that is, a place where all of the ship’s passengers will either begin or end their cruise. When your trip either starts or ends in Helsinki, you won’t just make a quick pitstop – you’ll stay for a night or two, so you’ll have time to see and experience more.

“15 turnaround cruise ships will call at Helsinki this year.”

When travellers stay longer, they use services, need accommodation and see much more of the city than a tourist who just pops in for a few hours. The positive impacts of tourism will then extend more broadly throughout the city.

A turnaround port needs to provide a very well-coordinated package. Passengers will notice this in practice: how well-connected the harbour is, whether it’s easy to find a taxi or other transportation, and how effortlessly they can find things to do in the city if they have limited time.

We have a lot of strengths on our side. The cruise season is longer these days: international cruise traffic will once again run from March to the end of December. Helsinki is also a clean, compact and well-run city whose unique archipelago is accessible even to those who will only be staying for a short while.

Smooth transport and easily accessible attractions (such as cultural sites, coastal routes and local experiences) create a package that holds its own – even when compared internationally.

The appeal is there, and so are the prerequisites for success: the next step is to determine how effectively this potential can be translated into sustained growth.

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The Shipyard fairway improves traffic flow

Port developments — 15.6.2026

The Shipyard Fairway leading to Vuosaari Harbour was reopened to commercial shipping this spring. The fairway is about four kilometres long and runs along the western side of Pikku Niinisaari island. It will improve both traffic flow and Vuosaari Harbour’s resilience

From 1974 to 2004, the Shipyard Fairway was used by shipyards operating out of Vuosaari. Minor modifications have now been made to widen the fairway, and some dredging has also been carried out to make it safe and efficient for modern ships.

The fairway is initially used by Eckerö Line’s M/S Finbo Cargo, which operates between Vuosaari in Helsinki and Muuga in Tallinn. It visits Vuosaari up to three times per day. Using the fairway will save the ship a few minutes each time it passes through. It can then sail at a slower speed, which will save fuel and reduce emissions.

Re-opening the fairway is part of the FIN-EST Green Corridor project, which is developing a low-emission maritime route between Helsinki and Tallinn.

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Vuosaari’s gates are open 24/7

The free Gateway app is designed to make daily life at Vuosaari Harbour easier for both drivers and transport companies.

Vuosaari’s gates are open 24/7

Port developments — 15.6.2026

Vuosaari Harbour has made a perfectly-timed digital leap. In February, Finnlines launched Gateway – a self-service concept for trailer customers that has proven its worth from the outset. While the closure of the Vuosaari road tunnel has posed scheduling challenges, this 24/7 service has given transport companies critical room to manoeuvre.

“Although we came up with the idea for our digital Gateway service about ten years ago, the time wasn’t right until now. Technological advances and the widespread adoption of mobile apps have now made its implementation possible,” says Mikko Juuti, Manager, Ship Operations at Finnsteve.

The free Gateway app is designed to make daily life at Vuosaari Harbour easier for both drivers and transport companies.

“We wanted a simple and reliable system that would be easy for customers to adopt. We involved drivers and hands-on experts in the development process to ensure that the app actually works in the environment in which it’s used, such as a truck driver’s cab,” says Juuti.

The new app eliminates unnecessary waiting time at the gates, as it sends advance notifications of any missing details. Damage reports will also be added to the app during spring 2026. This will enable drivers to report any damage they observe at the harbour and upload photos directly to the system at any time of day.

Merja Kallio-Mannila, Commercial Director at Finnlines, notes that 24/7 service has been one of their customers’ top requests. This update is even more important now that the Vuosaari road tunnel is currently closed.

“Schedule pressures increase when traffic is rerouted. Now that the gates are open 24/7, transport companies can optimise their schedules while still ensuring that their units arrive at the harbour on time. Waiting times will also be reduced. All this boosts the efficiency of the supply chain, which in turn enables customers to save on both time and costs,” says Kallio-Mannila.

The project’s success is a result of close cooperation between experts from Finnlines, Finnsteve and customer companies. Instead of using external consultants, the app was developed by people with extensive practical experience in both forwarding and the port’s day-to-day operations.

Shipping has traditionally been a conservative industry, but Finnlines and Finnsteve want Gateway to be a trailblazer.

“The world around us operates 24/7, so the port must not be a bottleneck in this chain. We want to support our customers’ businesses as best we can,” says Mikko Juuti.

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Visit Vuosaari!

Topical — 15.6.2026

In late August, you can get a glimpse of what goes on in areas of Vuosaari Harbour that are normally closed to the public. You can expect big ships, interesting demonstrations and all kinds of fun for the whole family. There will also be live music from Jukka Poika, Rapid Fire, and talented students from local schools.

“This event, which is now celebrating its tenth anniversary, attracts thousands of visitors year after year. It’s a fun and slightly different day out for the whole family,” says the event’s producer, Pekka Pirkkala.

The main event area will be located in front of the Hansa Terminal. From here, buses will take visitors to some of the other locations.

Vuosaari Harbour Day, 29 August 2026, 11 am to 3 pm.

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The Port of Loviisa is investing in environmental responsibility

Topical — 15.6.2026

Last year, the Port of Loviisa managed to achieve a strong result in spite of the challenging global economy. Its profit of about EUR 183,000 for the financial year helped to enable significant investments in the future.

The port has prioritised modern warehousing capacity and environmental impact management.

One of its most significant investments was the conversion of a
4,400-m² covered storage area into an indoor warehouse – which also happens to be the first harbour warehouse in Finland equipped with an odour control system. All refuse-derived fuels (RDFs) passing through the port have been stored indoors since May 2025.

In addition to its environmental investments, the port has taken a digital leap by upgrading the vehicle scale used by port operators. The new system uses a cloud service that streamlines both inventory accounting and data management. Services in the port area have also been expanded: new charging stations for electric vehicles will support the green transition on a practical level as well.

Although general economic conditions were reflected in traffic volumes during 2025, the Port of Loviisa remained on a solid footing. Total cargo traffic fell by 21.1 per cent (to 613,803 tons) on the back of falling energy imports, but favourable growth was seen in export volumes.

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“In exceptional circumstances, ports will play an even more critical role in safeguarding Finland’s security of supply,” says Jouni Ovaska, who chairs Parliament’s Transport and Communications Committee.

Transport 12 shines the spotlight on port security

Topical — 12.6.2026

The Transport 12 plan, which was originally published in spring 2021, is currently being updated. As the plan extends to 2032, new priorities will be introduced at regular intervals, and its objectives will be revised in accordance with prevailing economic conditions.

Transport 12 places greater emphasis on both security and security of supply. When the 2021 plan was finalised, there was no war in Ukraine and Finland was not a member of NATO. The main issues at that time were sustainable transport, climate policy and long-term development.

“We are currently planning how we can improve our security in light of the current security situation. Cross-border cooperation to the west is now even more important,” says Jouni Ovaska, who chairs Parliament’s Transport and Communications Committee.

What changes will the plan bring to ports?

Increased security and west-bound connections are being concretised in various ways, such as through the development of northern rail and road networks. The upkeep of nationally critical routes is the most important aspect of road maintenance.

“We are highly dependent on effective maritime transport in the Baltic Sea. We must consider how our logistics in all areas would operate during a crisis. Ports are critical to security of supply for industry, the energy sector and logistics,” says Ovaska.

Port infrastructure must be NATO-compatible, so that troops from NATO countries can be smoothly transported through ports in crisis situations. Transport 12 provides a strategic foundation on which concrete action can be planned.

“We encourage ports to make use of EU funding instruments so that they can develop dual-use capabilities, that is, capabilities that serve both civilian and military purposes. We are also urging ports to promote the energy transition, digitalisation and multimodal transport.”

Ovaska identifies improved hinterland connections as another key area for development. They include not only rail and road connections, but also inland waterways that link ports to a broader geographical area, such as industrial zones and residential areas. These connectios are important for a port’s competitiveness and efficiency.

How can EU funding be used to improve security of supply at our ports?

When Ovaska considers the first steps that should be taken to improve security of supply, he mentions the digitalisation and automation of ports.

“Data needs to flow more efficiently and quickly at ports. Cybersecurity is another area of ongoing development. Funding must be secured for both Traficom and the National Cyber Security Centre Finland, so that we can protect all critical infrastructure while also better serving the private sector.”

“Reducing emissions will help to combat global climate change, which remains the greatest threat to humanity.”

“In exceptional circumstances, ports will play an even more critical role in safeguarding Finland’s security of supply. EU funding should therefore take into account not only military mobility, but also measures that support and safeguard security of supply, such as strengthening the critical infrastructure of ports (including cybersecurity) and guaranteeing energy availability and smooth logistics chains with the aid of crisis-resilient backup systems.

What is Transport 12’s stance on reducing emissions?

Action to reduce emissions will continue, as national emission targets remain unchanged and reducing emissions from transport is an essential aspect of achieving those targets. Reducing emissions will help to combat global climate change, which remains the greatest threat to humanity.

“The most important thing is to change how people get around, that is, encouraging them to adopt sustainable modes of transport such as public transport, walking and cycling. These matters are governed by MAL agreements between the State and municipalities.”

What role do ports play in the green transition?

“The most important current issue is to expand the use of shore power in port areas. Our committee visited a number of locations in early April, including the Port of Helsinki.”

Ports also play an important role in the transport and storage of renewable energy sources, such as wind power, hydrogen and synthetic fuels. They must also have the charging and refuelling infrastructure that is required to use renewable energy sources for all modes of transport. All this will require significant investments, which in turn calls for new funding models from the Government or EU.

“It’s important for us to be able to pilot the operational environment for hybrid ferries at the Port of Helsinki. The Port of Helsinki is particularly significant due to its high passenger volumes, and has done some exemplary work on behalf of the entire Finnish port network,” says Ovaska.

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Helsinki is an attractive tourist destination

Passenger traffic — 4.6.2026

2025 cemented Helsinki’s status as an attractive tourist destination. Overnight stays broke records, and international demand grew in all key markets. Helsinki has broad appeal, and that is precisely why we are stronger in the face of global changes. We are not dependent on a single market.

Our quality also stands up to scrutiny. The visitor experience and the feedback received by businesses are both excellent. Helsinki residents are also behind this development, as the vast majority are proud of their city as a tourist destination. And we have once again achieved a top international ranking in an annual tourism sustainability index.

Our sights are already set on summer 2026. Expectations are cautiously optimistic – and with good reason. Growth in tourism cannot be taken for granted in an uncertain geopolitical and economic climate. Which is why it is not just growth that matters, but the type of growth.

Helsinki’s strength does not lie in mass tourism, but rather in its ability to offer well-organised and memorable experiences based on our strengths. Meaningful experiences, sustainability and wellbeing are key trends in tourism. More and more people are traveling during the off-season, and that is precisely where Helsinki has potential. We can offer a combination of experiences rooted in our happiness and the unique atmosphere of the North – all year round.

“We want tourists to stay longer and delve deeper into what the city has to offer.”

The key question is: are people staying in Helsinki or is it just a stopover? Our goal is clear. We want tourists to stay longer and delve deeper into what the city has to offer. That would support not only our local economy, but also the principles of sustainable tourism and regenerative tourism, in which tourism leaves more behind than it takes away, and even makes the destination a better place.

This is also where our coastal location rises to the fore. The Port and accessibility both play a crucial role. Turnaround cruises, in which the journey either begins or ends in Helsinki, will become increasingly important in 2026. They attract more overnight stays, increase service usage and give tourists a deeper connection with the city. Which is exactly what we need. Yet this development also presents us with a challenge. This new operating model requires functional infrastructure, efficient service chains, and seamless cooperation between the Port, the city and a variety of tourism operators.

Helsinki’s strength lies in its ability to reinvent itself. By combining growth based on sustainable tourism, longer stays and access by sea, we can build a tourism industry that better serves both visitors and residents. Summer 2026 will show us the way forward, but our true potential lies in innovative, vibrant, year-round tourism based on Helsinki’s strengths.

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The Port keeps you coming back

Port developments — 1.6.2026

The Port of Helsinki is an attractive employer. Many of those who come for summer jobs keep coming back, and some end up staying in permanently. About 10 per cent of permanent staff started out in summer jobs.

Many summer workers keep coming back to the Port of Helsinki, either to a job they’re already familiar with or to try something new. Those who started their careers with summer jobs appreciate the Port’s flat hierarchy, approachable supervisors, positive atmosphere and sense of community.

“Employees have the chance to influence their own roles. If you commit to the Port, the Port will commit to you,” says Teemu Erho, 26, who is currently working as business development specialist.

He first came to the Port of Helsinki for a summer job in May 2022, and returned time and again before becoming a permanent employee.

“I’ve had a plenty of opportunities to learn and grow.”

Erho particularly appreciates the fact that he can take on new tasks without having to be fully qualified for them in advance.

Ville Ryynänen, 30, also enjoys working at the Port of Helsinki. Ryynänen, who started as a service manager in summer 2025, says that the relaxed atmosphere makes it nice to come in to work every day.

“I feel like this is exactly where I belong. It’s really easy to talk to the managers – and even the CEO – about all sorts of things. At my previous workplace, we usually only talked about work. I’d love to continue in a permanent position this autumn once my summer job ends,” says Ryynänen, who is currently doing an internship at the Port.

Learning by doing

But what sets the Port of Helsinki apart from other workplaces?

Teemu Erho points out that the Port provides opportunities to grow and develop, and to learn by doing.

“Even though I’ve always been younger than my teammates – the ‘schoolboy’ – I’ve always been treated as an equal and a colleague. I’m happy and grateful for that.”

Erho appreciates how the Port offers opportunities to grow through new responsibilities, tasks and projects.

“I’ve been assigned tasks for which I haven’t always had prior experience or qualifications. But at the Port of Helsinki, having the motivation to learn new things and take on responsibility has often been enough, as it enables you to improve professionally. I’ve had plenty of opportunities to learn and grow,” he says.

When Erho first started his summer job at the Port of Helsinki in May 2022, his job title was logistics coordinator. He provided assistance in development projects, which included developing guidelines for the hazardous materials system, helping to piloting a computer vision tool, and assessing access control needs.

Once those tasks were completed, he was offered a new role: analysing traffic data from Vuosaari Harbour. That experience put him on track for his current responsibilities.

After his first summer, Erho continued taking summer jobs at the Port of Helsinki and also worked part-time in the winter during his studies.

After his first summer, Erho continued taking summer jobs at the Port of Helsinki and also worked part-time in the winter during his studies.

When his 2024 summer job ended, Erho began working on his thesis for the Port of Helsinki. The thesis focused on enhancing the monitoring and control of operations at Vuosaari Harbour with the aid of digital tools, and was completed in the spring of 2025. Erho has been working full-time at the Port since completing his thesis. In his current role, he’s a business development specialist in the cargo traffic development team.

“I still had a few courses left to take after completing my thesis, and finally received my MSc in industrial engineering in March.”

“As I’ve grown and developed, the Port of Helsinki has given me new opportunities, challenges and trust,” he says gratefully.isuuksia, haasteita ja luottamusta sitä mukaa, kun olen itse kasvanut ja kehittynyt, hän kiittelee.

It’s the human connection that counts

Ville Ryynänen is currently completing a 12-week internship at the Port of Helsinki. He will also continue in his current role of service manager for the upcoming summer season.

Service managers act as a liaison between the terminal manager and service providers, handle routine operations, and ensure high-quality service provision. Service managers closely monitor operations at the port, and report any observations to the heads of the passenger traffic team. They will also submit service requests if they notice something that needs to be repaired.

“The most important thing about this job is knowing how to get along with all kinds of people,” says Ryynänen.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in hospitality management, and is currently studying to become a Bachelor of Business Administration in Law.

“I think that studying at a university of applied sciences helped me to get a job at the Port.”

Ryynänen believes that his active career in ice hockey has also taught him important skills for his current job.

“I’ve refereed about 400 hockey matches, and have managed to develop quite a thick skin. It’s really hard to provoke me. I always try to defuse tense or threatening situations. And if something unpleasant happens at work or during a match, I won’t dwell on it – I know how to put it behind me. I won’t let mean comments or anything else follow me home.

Fortunately, these kinds of difficult situations are quite rare.”

Ville recalls one incident when he encountered a difficult and heavily intoxicated customer who was disturbing others.

“I went to talk to him. He eventually realised that the ship terminal wasn’t the right place to cause a disturbance, and left. We even parted on good terms. Kindness goes a long way.”

The Port of Helsinki

• The Port of Helsinki employs just over 100 experts and professionals from various fields.
• Although people have traditionally enjoyed long careers at the Port, it has also welcomed fresh, young talents.
• Personnel turnover is low, and the number of employees has increased by an annual average of 10 per cent.
• The Port of Helsinki will have 12 summer employees in 2026. About 10 per cent of permanent staff originally joined the company through summer jobs.
• The Port of Helsinki has been a certified workplace for three years in a row. It received Future Workplaces certification in 2023 and 2024, and in autumn 2025 it received the Great Place to Work Certification for providing an excellent employee experience.

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Marcus Risberg: “Towards electric shipping in the Baltic Sea” 

Faces — 29.5.2026

Viking Line’s CEO, Marcus Risberg, had his first taste of employment through a summer job at the Port of Mariehamn. Now he is steering Viking Line towards a more sustainable future.

When 17-year-old Marcus Risberg started his first summer job at the check-in counter in the Port of Mariehamn’s passenger terminal, he had no idea that he would one day be running a whole shipping company.

Risberg has spent the majority of his career in the shipping industry: many years at TallinkSilja (the last six as CEO), before taking the helm at the Swedish company Destination Gotland. Risberg took over as CEO of Viking Line in November 2025.

“Things have gotten off to a very fast and really good start,” says Risberg with a smile. Risberg lived in Sweden for a long time, and admits that his Finnish is still a bit rusty. And yet he speaks it confidently – and flawlessly – during the interview.

Risberg seems to enjoy his fast-paced job. And there’s definitely plenty to do: “We need to develop our business, improve our result and strengthen our ability to invest in the future,” he says.

Electrification requires cooperation with the Port

When our discussion turns to investing in the future, Marcus Risberg specifically mentions the green transition and the electrification of shipping. The Viking Line ships that sail between Turku and Stockholm already use at least 50 per cent renewable biogas. The company unveiled its Helios concept ship in June last year: if built, it would be the world’s largest electric passenger-car ferry.

“The transition to electric ships requires new solutions at ports.”

“Before the transition to electric ships can take place, we need new infrastructure to support them. At ports, this means things such as power distribution and charging solutions. Our collaboration with the Port of Helsinki is going well,” says Risberg.

 Calls for tenders will be made to shipyards on the basis of project specifications that are currently being determined. The final investment decision will also be influenced by EU policy regulations, such as the FuelEU Maritime Regulation, which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and the EU Emissions Trading System. Risberg has not yet confirmed the final timeline for these investments, but the direction is clear: towards lower-emission shipping.

Quicker to adopt new trends

The new CEO says that Viking Line is well-positioned and has a strong brand. The challenge is to ensure that it remains appealing to future travellers.

Risberg is encouraging his team to improve the customer experience: Viking Line needs to bring social media trends aboard its ships more quickly, whether it’s a question of food or shopping selections. The operating environment (passenger-car ferries) also poses its own challenges.

“Baltic Sea transport is a unique package: it doesn’t mean just a hotel, a store, a restaurant or a forwarding company – it means all of these things at once. This lends it a complexity that keeps it interesting,” he says.

Marcus Risberg spends half his time working in Mariehamn and the other half out and about visiting a variety of offices and ships.

“The best thing about this job is the people. When I see the joy and experiences that a cruise can give our customers,” says Risberg.

“My goal is to ensure that the Baltic Sea will be even more sustainable and enjoyable in the future than it is today.”

WHO?

Marcus Risberg 

• CEO of Viking Line, as of 3 November 2025.
• Born in Helsinki and raised in Mariehamn. Studied law at Stockholm University.
• His previous work experience includes CEO of Tallink Silja and Destination Gotland.
• Divides his time between Finland and Sweden.
• Has a wife and three children.
• Enjoys exercise and travel.

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Helsinki shines as a new hub

Passenger traffic — 27.5.2026

Regular turnaround cruises in Helsinki will reinforce the capital’s role as an attractive hub for international cruise tourism. When Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) chose Helsinki as its turnaround port, the decisive factors were the city’s excellent air connections and its unique sense of tranquility.

Turnaround port operations will have a significant impact on the city’s vitality, as the tourists they bring to Helsinki will stay longer and make more use of local services.

A total of 15 turnaround cruise ships are scheduled to call in Helsinki this year.

The smooth functioning of the whole package will require extensive cooperation between a number of operators. A joint effort from the Port of Helsinki, shipping companies, the airport, transport companies and local tourism and accommodation providers will ensure that Helsinki presents itself as a welcoming destination from the moment international visitors arrive.

Air connections are the cornerstone

No less than eight of the cruise ships that will be calling at Helsinki over the summer belong to the American company Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd (NCLH).

“When a cruise line chooses a new turnaround port, the first thing they do is look to the sky”, says Sandra Weir, Vice President of Government Relations and Public Affairs for Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, Ltd. (NCLH). She notes that the groundwork for turnaround operations is laid long before passengers arrive at the terminal. A broad range of direct flights is an absolute must for the shipping company.

“Our top priority is ensuring reliable air connections. The vast majority of guests on our Baltic Sea cruises come from the United States and Canada, so accessibility is everything. Helsinki-Vantaa’s reputation as an efficient airport is a major advantage for us.”

Weir emphasises that Helsinki is not just a stopover. The cruise line offers three-night packages that include city tours, visits to national parks and Porvoo, and – of course – authentic Finnish sauna experiences.

Weir says that Helsinki’s appeal lies in how it combines nature with an urban vibe. It’s rare to find a major city in which you can reach the complete tranquility of the forest in just 20 minutes.

During a visit to Helsinki in 2023, Weir had the chance to experience the city’s top-quality restaurant scene. Looking back on this trip, she highlights the laid-back, welcoming and highly individual atmosphere of Finland’s capital.

Weir found herself comparing the Finnish way of life to her own Canadian background, and recognised some similarities: an appreciation for nature and well-balanced daily life.

It is precisely this personal experience of Helsinki’s smooth functionality and calm energy that she hopes NCL’s guests will also discover.

A new era for the Baltic Sea without St Petersburg

The Baltic Sea cruise market has undergone an upheaval. First came the pandemic, then Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, which removed St Petersburg from cruise itineraries.

“The loss of St. Petersburg forced other Baltic ports to step forward and tell their own unique stories. Now each destination must shine on its own merits. Helsinki is one of the winners,” says Weir.

Helsinki’s role as a turnaround port is also changing cruise itineraries. As cruises now depart from one of the Baltic Sea’s capital cities, ships have additional time to spend at other destinations, such as Tallinn, Riga and Copenhagen. This allows for longer stops that last into the evening, which supports local businesses throughout the Baltic Sea region.

Functional infrastructure and green values

Passenger embarkation and disembarkation is a logistical puzzle in which thousands of people, their suitcases and re-provisioning the ship must all come together within a window of just a few hours. The turnaround terminal being built in Hernesaari is essential for the shipping company.

Efficiency goes hand in hand with responsibility. Helsinki was the first major city to receive Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) certification, which is a compelling argument for operators like NCL.

“Helsinki’s commitment to carbon neutrality, and its plans to electrify quays with shore power is relevant to our operational planning,” says Weir.

Looking ahead, the shipping company hopes for continual dialogue and the courage to evolve. Helsinki is seen as a flexible and forward-looking partner – a city with whom it makes sense to build the next wave of growth in the Baltic Sea region.

International cruise traffic is on the rise

• The Port of Helsinki is strengthening its role as a hub for international cruise traffic.
• More than 110 cruise ships are expected to call at Helsinki during the season.
• Turnaround cruises (that is, full passenger embarkations and debarkations) will bring tourists who will often stay in the city for several days.
• Fifteen turnaround cruise ships will visit Helsinki in 2026. Norwegian Cruise Line will have eight passenger embarkations and disembarkations in Helsinki this summer.

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Passenger traffic — 25.5.2026

Our turbulent times are being reflected in the growing popularity of local tourism. For ships, this means more passengers. Yet rising fuel prices are also causing concern for shipping companies.

Compared to previous years, last year was relatively stable for ship travel.

“Volumes haven’t changed much, and that might look a bit dull in the figures. Yet all sorts of things are happening at the moment, and the world is in turmoil. There are, however, some fairly positive signs regarding ship travel,” says Kaj Takolander, Vice President of Passenger Services at the Port of Helsinki.

He says that ship travel is generally considered to be a good product during a recession. If customers have to cut back on spending due to a decline in purchasing power, destinations like the Maldives and Thailand will be off the table – but local tourism will continue.

“This will, of course, be balanced against people’s overall purchasing power – how much they can spend on travel and treats. The harsh truth is that purchasing power hasn’t gone anywhere. We haven’t experienced any dramatic changes that would mean people don’t have any money. They are just being really cautious about spending right now. People have the purchasing power, but they don’t want to spend on travel, as it isn’t a necessity.”

Takolander says that Finland is attracting more interest from Southern European and Asian travellers now that trips to Southern and Central Europe are no longer appealing due to oppressive heat. 

“It’s incredibly hot in Southern and Central Europe right now, so people are heading to cooler countries for the summer. Here in Finland, we have pleasant temperatures and clean air.”

Liner companies are extremely important to the Port of Helsinki, as they bring considerable amounts of volume to the port.

“We also have good working relationships with shipping companies. Shipping companies are very forward-looking. They each have their own way of operating, and are aiming to build on their respective strengths.”

Viking Line appointed a new CEO, Marcus Risberg, last November, while Tallink Grupp welcomed its new CEO, Peep Jalakas, at the beginning of April. “This is a significant change for our industry, as new CEOs always bring a breath of fresh air. Expectations are therefore high.”

The importance of local travel is growing

Tallink Silja has had an excellent and busy start to the year, and passenger numbers have also increased. This growth came from both Finnish and international travellers.

“Our environment has changed. The world is so unpredictable at the moment – it’s hard to guess how things will unfold,” said Tallink Silja’s CEO, Margus Schults.

International travellers whose flights were routed through Arab countries had difficulty flying to Europe. Which is why some groups were cancelled during the spring. However, Schults believes that we have a good summer ahead of us.

“I believe that, after the initial shock caused by the war, international travellers will be able to reschedule their flights and interest in the Nordic and Baltic countries will continue unabated.”

As in previous years, Tallink Silja’s schedule includes special cruises to destinations that are otherwise quite difficult to reach from Finland without taking a ferry. Cruises to Riga and Visby are on offer during the summer. The shipping company is also organising an opera cruise to Saaremaa in collaboration with the travel agency Ikaalisten Matkatoimisto.

Priority boarding is being introduced on the Tallinn route, allowing people to board before other passengers.

“The downsides include the rising price of fuel. However, we have raised ticket prices only very slightly. It remains to be seen where fuel prices will settle. Our fuel costs totalled EUR 100 million last year. If costs rise by 20 per cent, we will have to take steps to recoup that loss.”

“Passengers are interested in environmental perspectives and emissions, but whether they are willing to pay for it is another question. If we have to charge higher prices, our passengers’ interest may quickly wane.”

Finnlines is modernising its fleet

The number of passengers on Finnlines’ German route increased by seven per cent last year. Summer bookings are on par with last year, which is a good start to the upcoming season.

“We are pleased to have achieved growth with the same capacity and schedules. Customer satisfaction with the route has also risen along with passenger numbers. The results show that our updates have been successful – and this work will continue,” says Marco Palmu, Head of Passenger Services at Finnlines.

German groups grew by 77 per cent during the first three months of this year thanks to favourable ice conditions.

“We’ve been working with Wasaline. We took our customers to Vaasa to see the sea ice, and there was also ice in the Helsinki region throughout February. Together, we have successfully marketed Finland to our German customers. February and March have now become our new high season.”

Fifteen themed cruises were organised on the German route over the past year, and their popularity has remained steady.

“Our goal for this year is to achieve growth. We’re preparing new ships with significantly greater capacity than our current fleet. The first new vessel will be completed in 2028.”

One of last year’s themed cruises was a Satu Rämö cruise in November 2025.

“The Literary Cruise combined our Travemünde–Helsinki route’s classic mini-cruise concept with an engaging literary experience. About 50 people arrived in Helsinki after crossing the Baltic Sea in 31 hours. They enjoyed a five-hour stay in the Finnish capital before returning via the same route.” Kristiinan Matkat is another partner with whom the company is seeking to expand its successful collaboration. The tour operator’s latest offering is city breaks, such as hotel stays in Hamburg

Themed cruises to continue throughout the summer

2025 was a mixed bag for Viking Line. Traffic from Helsinki performed well, and the Helsinki–Stockholm route saw robust growth. The overall market also grew, perhaps due to a slight increase in the shipping company’s capacity.

“2025 was also a good year for our Helsinki–Tallinn route. We came close to matching 2024 levels, which was a peak year for us,” says Minna Tuorila, Viking Line’s Commercial Director.

“Although we’re still the biggest and best on the Turku route, competition is fierce with three operators and five ships. We did quite well there as well, taking a market share of about 70 per cent.”

“This year has gotten off to a slightly slower start. The spring half-term was not as good as it has been, as people could go skiing even in southern Finland this winter. Finns love sport, so the Olympics definitely had some of our passengers glued to their TV screens. March was really good for trips to Tallinn.”

The number of international customers has increased. The USA is a large market, and there’s also been interest in Spain and Poland.

“Local tourism traditionally picks up during unstable times. But we’re currently facing an exceptional situation: a new crisis is far on the horizon, but it is hitting everyone’s wallet. If fuel prices start to rise, it may also drive up food prices. People have already had to deal with high electricity bills. It will be interesting to see how this plays out.

Everyone wants to travel responsibly, but few are willing to pay the biofuel surcharge. Customers assume that when they choose a responsible shipping company, it will just take care of everything.”

Well-balanced developments

Last year was a good year for Eckerö overall. Which is somewhat surprising to Taru Keronen, Eckerö Line’s CEO, as last year brought all sorts of surprises and they had to change tack many times.

“We’ve carried out a broad range of development projects, both before and after the turn of the year. M/S Finlandia headed to the dry dock in Landskrona. In addition to standard maintenance, a large steel tank (Konttinen) was installed on the ship’s ninth deck to house a battery the size of a shipping container. It will replace three per cent of fuel consumption with electricity.”

“We also made some changes to customer areas on M/S Finlandia. Our goal was to streamline customer flows: we renovated the buffet area and updated the menu.”

“There are lots of new and interesting things to experience in Estonia.”

A new area, Bistro & Cafe Satama, was also added to deck nine. The cafeteria gained 150 new seats. Horizon Seats – an area with another 150 seats – was created for customers seeking a quiet space to rest, work or relax.

“I believe we’ll have a good number of passengers, as there are many new and interesting things to experience in Estonia. Finns have long been interested in nature tourism, and Estonia has some great nature destinations. Leisurely activities like cycling are pretty easy in Estonia, as the country is so flat. Our customers are also interested in cultural attractions, and Tallinn has plenty of new and interesting exhibitions and events. Vacations also need some substance.”

Eckerö is hiring dozens of young people for the summer.

“We hire young people all throughout the year, but especially during the summer. It seems that about half of the young people who worked for us last summer want to come back again this year. They’re nice, smart people.”

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Towards memorable travel and green traffic

Columns — 19.5.2026

The Port of Helsinki is gearing up for a busy summer season. Also, the green transition and the new EU port strategy will require investments, supported by fairly allocated emissions trading revenues.

1.  A smoother journey

Summer is the major season for passenger traffic, and we’re preparing at full throttle. Today’s travellers want not only memorable experiences, but also a smooth journey. It’s no longer enough to simply get them from one place to another. We’re investing in the entire travel chain so that people can get into a holiday mood at the terminal – or even sooner. Smoother transport links to terminals, plus better restaurant services, have enhanced the passenger experience. In addition to our scheduled services to Tallinn and Stockholm, we’re offering special cruises to Visby and Riga this summer, with something for everyone, from families with children to cultural travellers.

2.  The Port’s technological leaps are supported by EU strategy

Our day-to-day work at the port leads us to look far into the future. The EU’s new port strategy underlines the importance of ensuring port competitiveness. It also highlights them as energy hubs – as energy storage, distribution and production centres. The Port of Helsinki is a forerunner in this: we’re investing in shore power and preparing for alternative fuels.

However, all technological leaps require funding. Now that the Emissions Trading System for Maritime Transport has been expanded, it’s vital to channel back the funds it raises into the sector’s green transition nationally. Investments are costly, so tax-like charges should be earmarked for securing the new technology and sufficient grid capacity required to maintain the sector’s competitiveness.

3.  A vital logistical backbone

The crises of recent years have highlighted the importance of everyday security of supply. The Baltic Sea’s north-south axis has become more pronounced following the dwindling of Russian trade.

The logistical backbone of security of supply ensures that industrial components, raw materials and daily consumer goods reach their destinations. It’s our responsibility to ensure that society doesn’t grind to a halt and that store shelves remain stocked.

The dual-use nature of ports is also emphasised in the current security environment. The quays and fairways that serve civilian traffic are also essential for military mobility and international aid.

To ensure the strength of this backbone, port infrastructure funding must be viewed as part of societal resilience. The Port of Helsinki is ready to fulfil its role as both a driving force for tourism and Finland’s logistical hub. Let’s work together to make the upcoming season memorable – and a step towards a more sustainable future.

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The timing of Finnish holidays needs updating

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Finland’s tourism industry is suffering from the poor timing of the school summer break. Tourism services are closing just as the holiday season is getting underway in Central Europe. The Port of Helsinki has published a petition calling for school summer holidays to be shifted later in the year.

The Finnish summer is beautiful yet extremely short – at least from the tourism industry’s perspective.

When the summer break ends in early August, domestic tourism comes to a screeching halt. Young people working in tourism go back to school, which means that services will close. Central Europeans vacationing in Finland in August are greeted by closed doors, and many return home disappointed.

“A 2018 report by the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment estimated that shifting the school summer break by two weeks would generate an additional EUR 220 million in revenue for the tourism industry. So we’re not talking about small sums here, but rather a significant competitive advantage and a boost to Finland’s international image. However, the matter was shelved and the shift was never implemented,” says Kaj Takolander, Vice President of Passenger Services at the Port of Helsinki.

According to a report published last year by MaRa and PAM, the financial impact of shifting school holidays would be even greater: an estimated revenue increase of EUR 336 million for the sector.

“A slight change in the timing of holidays could generate hundreds of millions in additional revenue for Finland. It’s time to update our summer break calendar,” says Takolander.

The school year could be divided into three terms instead of two. The autumn term could run from the beginning of September to mid-December. The spring term could run from Epiphany (6 January) to Easter, when there would be a week-long break. The summer term would then run from Easter to mid-June.

Widespread support for shifting school holidays

The Ministry of Education is currently conducting a study on shifting the holiday season. It’s hoped that the report will provide a comprehensive overview of the effects that shifting the holiday season would have on tourism, the economy, employment, children’s wellbeing and families’ daily lives. A petition launched by the Port of Helsinki calls not only for research, but also for concrete decisions on rescheduling school holidays.

The idea has broad support within the tourism industry.

“I strongly support shifting school holidays. It would be an important change for Finland’s economic growth. Tourism is a major export sector, and unlike other export sectors, it’s the only one that pays value-added tax in Finland. The direct and indirect impacts of tourism are significant,” says Tomi Lohikoski, Managing Director of Moominworld.

He says that the holiday season cannot be extended without rescheduling the school summer break.

“It’s a matter of both workforce and demand. Many tourism companies would not be profitable without domestic demand, as international demand alone would not be sufficient – at least not initially.” School started on 7 August last year, and there were hardly any services left open in the archipelago after that.

Laura Tarkka, Head of Scandic Hotels in Finland, also believes that shifting the school holidays would have favourable impacts on the tourism and restaurant industry.

“If we shift our school holidays, we will be better able to provide services to both domestic and international travellers. Extending the holiday season would also have significant impacts on employment, and particularly by extending the working season for young summer workers.”

Jari Ahjoharju, CEO of Visit Tampere, is on the same page.

“Moving the school summer break two weeks later in the year would improve Finland’s tourism offering for European tourists in particular.”

Note!

Visit http://www.adressit.com to sign the petition.

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Kim Lindström found a career from the ship

Faces — 25.2.2026

Viking Line Cargo’s Sales Manager Kim Lindström has been in the service of the red ships for 21 years.

Many of those who are looking for temporary work take jobs at shipping companies. Temporary staff are needed during the peak season in particular, as the ships are packed with holidaymakers.

“Towards the end of my business administration studies, I started wondering how I could make some extra money,” says Kim Lindström.

He had some acquaintances who worked as temporary staff for Viking Line, so he called the shipping company’s office and enquired about work.

“And that’s how it all started. I worked on the Rosella on the Helsinki–Tallinn line for a few weekends in late 2003, then for a few weeks, and then permanently. I’ve gone through almost all of the store-related roles since then. For the last 15 years, I’ve been a store manager on a number of different ships and have also been involved in a broad variety of projects,” says Lindström.

Lindström’s last ship project was designing Viking Glory’s tax-free shop.

“I was working with the Glory during both the construction phase and the ship’s first summer season in service, before transferring to Cargo on 22 August 2022.”

Pleasant people inspired me to stay

Lindström says that Viking Line’s ships have incredible teams. It was one of the factors that made him stay and choose a career at sea.

“I met some really great people on board and made some good friends. I got used to spending one week at work followed by a week off. It was ideal for my life situation at the time. But it was undeniably a challenge to be away at sea after my wife and children came along a bit later. On the other hand, I had much more time to spend with my children when I was at home during my weeks off.”

You work on board for about a week and then get the following week off. In addition to these free days, you also get a three-week holiday every six months.

Let’s see whether I find myself back aboard a ship one day.

“In other words, you spend more than half the year off work. Of course, this means that you may not be able to do any hobbies that require regular attendance, as you can only take part when you’re at home. A sports team member has to attend regularly, as you can’t miss ten days of training.”

“So there are both good and bad sides to this, as with any other job.”

“Sometimes I yearn to go back to sea”

Seafarers often say that they miss both the sea and the distinctive life that’s shaped by it. Lindström also admits that he misses the sea from time to time.

“Working at sea is hectic, and no two days are ever alike. That was one great feature of working on the ships. But in my current life situation, I’m really happy to have a job ashore. Still, ‘never say never’. Let’s see whether I find myself back aboard a ship one day,” he laughs.

Lindström says that his former work at sea has a lot in common with his current career with cargo. He has a similar sense of purpose and ambition with regard to everything he does.

“The sales situation is, of course, very different from that aboard a ship. We take a longer-term view of our customer relationships, and work with our customers to find the best possible solutions regardless of whether we’re dealing with a contract customer or a one-off special transport that requires customisation. Everyone who works in sales has to find their own way of doing things and be as good as possible at what they do. This applies to my earlier and current work. I try to do everything as well as possible.”

Hundreds of encounters a day

Both selling cargo and working with customers on ships are equally important. Neither could succeed without the other.

“Working on ships has given me a lot of experience in how to get along with people. You can meet hundreds of new people a day when you work on a ship. Everyone must be treated equally, and the right solutions must be found for each customer. And that has always been my goal: satisfied customers.”

Note! Dozens of professionals work on board a ship. Skilled personnel are also needed ashore.

In addition to his business administration studies, Lindström has received training in both onboard stores and his current work with cargo. Viking Line has given him the opportunity to learn and take courses related to his profession. And if help has ever been needed, it has always been there.

“I try to enjoy the present and live in the moment, because you never know what the future will bring. I’m really happy right now.”

Responsible for Sweden, Norway, Denmark and Finland

At Viking Line Cargo, Lindström is responsible for the Nordic countries of Sweden, Norway, Denmark and Finland. Bilingualism is a clear advantage in this role.

“I aim to visit my clients three or four times a year to make sure that everything is going exactly as agreed. I started in my current role during the pandemic, so client meetings were held over Teams at that time. Some still are, of course, but customers value face-to-face meetings. Being able to meet with clients in person enriches the work we do together.”

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Drones have an increasing role in the port

Port developments — 23.2.2026

Engineering student Tuomo Seppälä conducted a study for the Port of Helsinki on the benefits of using drones in port environments. Drones already play an important role in the digitalisation of port operations, and this will only increase.

• Drones can be used to produce a broad range of imagery to support the port’s digital future.
• Drones can aid surveillance in the port area. They can be used both as flying surveillance cameras and for technical surveillance. Artificial intelligence coupled with a thermal camera can be used both for visual surveillance and to monitor thermally controlled containers.
• Drones are well suited to inspect the condition of port infrastructure. For example, checking the condition of quays used to require the efforts of several people and a boat. Yet now, one person can check the quays in a couple of hours with the aid of a drone.

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Ports navigate uncertainty, but within it lies an opportunity

Columns — 19.2.2026

The global port sector stands at a crossroads. Geopolitical tensions, shifting trade patterns, and climate pressures are testing supply chain resilience like never before. Yet within this uncertainty lies opportunity: ports that act strategically today can secure growth, influence global trade flows, and strengthen long-term competitiveness.

Energy transition represents both a challenge and an opportunity. Ports, shipowners, and energy suppliers are taking steps to establish global networks for low- and zero-carbon fuels. Collaboration with sovereign funds and private investors is key to building the infrastructure for a sustainable future. Initiatives like the Clean Energy Marine (CEM) Hubs, led by IAPH and the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), accelerate infrastructure deployment and de-risk investments, ensuring shipping access to low-carbon fuels.

The recent postponement of the International Maritime Organization’s Net Zero Framework is a setback in this regard. Shipping and ports need a global framework to provide legal certainty for decarbonization investments. Without it, fragmented national and regional measures risk creating a complex regulatory patchwork with unintended consequences. We therefore hope that IMO member states will be resuming constructive talks soon.

Climate change in any case reshapes port strategy. Adaptation and mitigation – ranging from flood defences to carbon reduction technologies – are central to long-term planning. Knowledge-sharing is vital. IAPH’s World Ports Sustainability Program has catalogued over 500 sustainability projects since 2018, offering valuable lessons for ports worldwide. Initiatives like onshore power have moved from pilot phases to operational realities, highlighting both the challenges of cost and maintenance and the potential for emissions reduction.

Digitalisation offers opportunities to support energy transition, improve efficiency, and build resilience but also brings risks. Ports are critical nodes in global trade, and reliance on data systems exposes them to cyber threats. Strengthening cyber resilience is now essential. In IAPH we have developed guidelines for securing operations and safely integrating innovative technologies. These now have to be put in practice.

As we celebrate our 70th anniversary this year, our historical motto – “Global peace through global trade, global trade through global ports” – reminds us of the sector’s broader role. Ports are more than gateways for goods; they are engines of economic growth, innovation, and sustainability. By collaborating, sharing best practices, and investing wisely in infrastructure, technology, and energy transition, ports can navigate uncertainty, seize opportunity, and ensure global trade thrives in an era of change. IAPH provides a unique global platform to enable this.

Patrick Verhoeven is the Managing Director at International Association of Ports and Harbors (IAPH).

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Posti and Paulig introduced the first electric terminal tractor to the Vuosaari port this summer.

Electrifying Vuosaari and the port’s work machinery

Port developments — 12.2.2026

Vuosaari Harbour will take a significant step towards carbon neutrality next summer when port operator Finnsteve Oy Ab commissions three electric straddle carriers. These carriers will help to reduce CO₂ emissions from the company’s port operations by up to 13 per cent.

By 2030, the Port of Helsinki is aiming to reduce carbon dioxide emissions from port machinery by 60 per cent compared to the 2015 baseline.

Time is now running out. Although ships are already using shore power and cargo operators have responded to climate requirements, port machinery is still lagging behind. Finnsteve operates at Vuosaari Harbour and the Port of Turku, where the company serves a number of shipping companies, including Finnlines. Finnsteve is now taking a significant step towards electrification.

“For us, electronic straddle carriers are the first step in the right direction. Three straddle carriers will be commissioned in the spring. Straddle carriers are one of the basic tools that we use for moving containers. Their fuel consumption is high, so replacing even one of them with an electric model will achieve significant reductions. We now have the opportunity to introduce three at once, which is a great start for both us and the entire Port,” says Mika Niskanen, Senior Manager, Technical Department at Finnsteve.

Finnsteve currently has a total of 13 diesel-powered straddle carriers in service, some of which will be replaced by electric ones. This alone is estimated to reduce the company’s CO₂ emissions by 13 per cent.

“The new carriers will always be the first ones to be used, and will therefore have a high utilisation rate,” says Niskanen.

Charging capacity is a future challenge

Electricity has been considered a substitute energy source for the future, although other alternatives, such as fuel cells and hydrogen, are also being anticipated. Kalmar, a major manufacturer and Finnsteve’s main supplier of port machinery, is a strong believer in electricity. Electricity availability can be a challenge at smaller harbours. However, the situation is quite good in Helsinki.

“We have 150 pieces of machinery, and about a hundred will be in use at any given time. So a great deal of charging capacity will be required in the future. These are the first electric machines of this size in Finland,” says Niskanen.

There will also be challenges involved in commissioning, particularly in terms of infrastructure and operating procedures. The construction of the charging station is already well underway, as the carriers will be arriving in a few months.

“Electric straddle carriers have been used elsewhere in the world for some time, so in that sense the technology is familiar. Maintenance will initially be carried out by Kalmar’s technicians, but will later be transferred to Finnsteve’s own workshop personnel, who will receive the necessary training. New technology always brings its own challenges,” says Niskanen.

Reductions are significant.

An electric straddle carrier can be operated for about 45–50 minutes at a time, and can be recharged in five minutes. Although this affects the operator’s work, breaks occur naturally in the operation anyway. Electric machinery is quiet, which improves the comfort and working conditions of both the operator and others in the surrounding area.

Finnsteve hopes to electrify an even broader range of its equipment in the future. Niskanen, who has been working in the port sector since 1980, considers it a privilege to be part of this major step forward.

“I hope that we will have plenty more electric machinery in use in five years’ time.”

Electric terminal tractor tested in the summer

Last summer, Vuosaari Harbour tested a terminal tractor, sometimes nicknamed a ‘yard dog’, which is used to move large loads at terminals. The experiment was the brainchild of two of the harbour’s long-standing partners, Posti and Paulig.

This collaboration began in 2008 with personnel leasing, and in 2014 it expanded to the transport of raw coffee containers from Vuosaari Harbour to Paulig’s roastery in Vuosaari. Posti will be responsible for the equipment and personnel, while Paulig will purchase services to cover both container transfers and the running of the finished goods warehouse.

The partnership has already taken steps towards lower emissions: emissions were cut by almost 90 per cent when terminal tractors switched to biodiesel in 2017. Electric terminal tractors are the next step towards Paulig’s group-wide goal: the electrification of local transport and zero emissions.

“Paulig has been a pioneer in low-emission solutions, including at a European level. Biodiesel was a giant leap, but electric terminal tractors are an area that will help us progress towards zero emissions,” says Tapio Hyvönen, Transport and Customs Manager at Paulig.

Surprising battery life

The two 78-kilowatt-hour batteries used by the terminal tractor that was tested in June were quite sufficient for one shift. Depending on the day, this involved collecting 4–6 containers and returning empty containers to the port area. A full container weighs 22,000 kilos.

“The tractor did well, and its battery life was surprising. Pulling such heavy loads with two batteries sounded impossible, but it worked,” says Teemu Ruotsalainen, a warehouse manager at Paulig.

Ruotsalainen says that these terminal tractors are also available with batteries that have a combined capacity of 236 kWh, which considerably increases their range.

Note! 63 per cent of the Port of Helsinki Ltd’s total energy use was carbon-free in 2024.

The operators were also satisfied. Electric terminal tractors are quiet, which, together with their gearless transmission, makes them smooth and comfortable to operate.

Kai Kankaala, Account Management Director at Posti, notes that this test was just the beginning.

“It was a positive experience, but winter is a question mark. You need four-wheel drives in winter, and if we can find them, we could get emissions down to zero. Rear-wheel drive could be enough, as long as the battery distributes the weight evenly, but that needs testing first, as it’s a major investment.”

Charging infrastructure was not a problem during the test, as Paulig has sufficient charging capacity on its own site. However, both companies hope that the Port of Helsinki and other operators will also invest in low-emission machinery to develop the entire logistics chain. Electrification is strategically important for both Posti and Paulig.

“The Port’s investments and the involvement of other operators are helping to move things in the right direction,” says Tapio Hyvönen.

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Skipjack tuna are smaller than bluefin tuna, and can swim in schools of up to 50,000 fish. Skipjack tuna are not an endangered species.

Tuna has a long way from Vietnam to Vuosaari

Cargo — 6.2.2026

Tuna is an important fish for Finns. Finland is a large consumer of tuna in comparison to other Nordic countries. All tuna containers from faraway countries are imported to Finland via Vuosaari Harbour.

Tuna has always been a delicacy in Finland, whereas mackerel is more popular in other Nordic countries. Most of the tuna sold in Finland is skipjack tuna, which is not actually real tuna. However, it can be sold as tuna as long as its scientific name is shown on the can. And unlike bluefin tuna, skipjack tuna are not an endangered species.

“We also sell yellowfin tuna. The albacore is one of these species of yellowfin tuna,” says Marja Kauko-Achy, Category Manager at SOK.

Unlike skipjack tuna, yellowfin tuna are true tuna.

SOK has a fish policy that defines acceptable fishing areas and methods, and approved species. This policy is closely monitored and its content is updated annually.

“We also employ MSC certification, and will gradually move to full MSC certification next year. We strive for sustainability and a sustainable stock of fish. We are much stricter in this respect than many other European countries,” says Kauko-Achy.

MSC certification guarantees that the fish have been sustainably fished in accordance with the Marine Stewardship Council’s Fisheries Standard.

Bluefin tuna are caught in all major sea areas. The fish are immediately frozen onboard the fishing vessel while they are still fresh. They are then transported from the port to a packing plant, where they are washed, cut, canned, stored and sent back to the port.

All the tuna that you can buy is wild, as no one has yet succeeded in farming tuna.

A two-month trip

When tuna are landed onto a boat in Vietnam, a purchase order is placed by SOK’s supply chain planner in Finland. SOK then works out how to ship the cans from their country of origin in a timely and efficient manner.

Samples of the batch are submitted, tasted and checked to ensure that they meet the criteria and requirements.

“The order will then be forwarded to Kuehne+Nagel, one of the world’s largest logistics operators,” says Lasse Korhonen, International Logistics Manager at INEX.

“The supplier places a transport order in the Kuehne+Nagel system, which contains our purchase orders. Kuehne+Nagel plans the shipment, that is, reserves the containers and berth in accordance with the transport order and delivers the empty container to the supplier’s warehouse for loading.

Finns eat around 36 million cans of tuna per year.

The container will be loaded onto an ocean-going vessel in the Vietnamese Port of Vung Tau (now part of Ho Chi Minh City), from where it will sail to the Port of Singapore. The container will then be transferred to another container ship, the MSC Marie, which will bring the container to the European Port of Antwerp.

“These journeys are currently quite long, as ships have to go around Africa on their way to Europe. Each extra one-way trip around Africa will add ten days to the journey,” says Korhonen.

Container ships used to sail through the Suez Canal until November 2023, when Houthi attacks led to a change of route.

Once the MSC Marie arrives in Antwerp, the tuna container will be transferred to a smaller feeder vessel that will bring it to Vuosaari.

Always well prepared

INEX prepares for customs clearance and official declarations while the shipment is still on route.

“A container may contain catches from several different fishing vessels. The factory provides us with detailed information, including catch certificates for each batch, which we then forward to the ELY Centre’s Fisheries Authority at least one week before the containers arrive in Vuosaari. The authorities check that the declarations meet all of the applicable criteria. We prepare the documents and arrival notices for veterinary border control a couple of days before the tuna is taken to the Vuosaari border inspection post, so they know what’s coming,” says Jarno Pakalén, a forwarding manager at INEX.

“When drivers collect containers from the port and take them to the inspection post, they will have the original documents with them for inspection.”

Onwards to local stores

The recipient can view all of the shipment’s status information at product level in Kuehne+Nagel’s system, such as whether the purchase has been booked, whether shipping has been completed, how many packages and kilos are in transit, and when the ship is arriving.

“Data is sent to several systems in order to support multiple retail functions. Control data is very well integrated into the system,” says Pakalén.

In spite of having digital systems in place, paperwork is still used: for example, the original catch certificates are sent to Customs after clearance.

“Our partner brings the tuna containers to our warehouses, either the buffer stock warehouse or the one in Sipoo. The tuna shipment will be received by the warehouse, and will remain there on pallets until an order is placed.”

Deliveries from the Sipoo logistics centre are usually made via regional terminals to the S Group’s approximately one thousand stores. The tuna then makes its way from store shelves onto Finnish pizzas, pastas and salads.

Facts

• Tuna thrive in warm waters, large oceans and big schools.
• Tuna are usually fished with a purse seine, hand line, trawl or pole-and-line. Tuna fishing is very strictly regulated. Methods that attract tuna to fishing grounds may only be used at certain times of the year.
• The S Group sold more than 2.2 million kilos of canned tuna last year

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Stockholm prepares for cargo traffic challenges

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Ports of Stockholm consists of many parts. Cargo traffic has remained stable in spite of the geopolitical situation, but preparations are being made for potential changes.

Stockholm became a port and trading centre 750 years ago. For centuries, Stockholm’s shipping has been crucial not only for the city and its surrounding areas, but also for Sweden’s economy as a whole.

Ports of Stockholm consists of several parts. Värtahamnen, Frihamnen, Stadsgården and Skeppsbron are its most commercially important ports. Around half of the international cruise ships that stop in Stockholm each year call at Frihamnen. The port has several cruise berths and a large, modern cruise terminal.

Stockholm’s southernmost port, Nynäshamn, lies about fifty kilometres south of Stockholm. Both passenger and cargo ships depart from there. It is a modern passenger and ro-ro port that is served by ferries to Visby and Gdansk. The Port of Nynäshamn also accommodates larger international cruise ships that cannot, or do not need to, pass through the Stockholm archipelago.

Kapellskär is Stockholm’s northernmost port. Its location, combined with very short sailing times, enables the speedy transport of goods and passengers to Stockholm and the Mälardalen area, as well as to the rest of Sweden, Finland, Norway, the Baltic countries and mainland Finland.

Norvik is a new, modern ro-ro and container port in a prime location on the Baltic Sea. Short sailing times and efficient transport links provide direct access to one of Europe’s fastest growing regions. Norvik is by far the closest container terminal to Sweden’s largest consumption area.

Stable cargo traffic

Cargo traffic at Ports of Stockholm has remained stable this year in spite of the geopolitical situation, says Johan Wallén, Chief Commercial Officer at Ports of Stockholm.

“We expect next year to be similar in terms of continued growth in ro-ro and container traffic, and with regard to stable demand for bulk and project cargo traffic. However, we’re also preparing for potential market changes both in the Baltic Sea region and globally.”

Cargo customers are facing a challenging market with rising costs and increasing competition.

We are investing in efficiency.

“We work closely with them to understand their needs and offer competitive prices and services. Whilst we’re not immune to market pressures, we are committed to maintaining high levels of quality and service. We’re investing in new infrastructure, technologies and processes to improve efficiency and reduce costs,” says Wallén.

“Cargo prices for containers are falling sharply, due to overcapacity on eastbound services in particular. This is problematic for shipping lines. However, Stockholm is more of an import region and westbound prices are still at an acceptable level. We are not, therefore, as strongly affected by exports as more export-driven ports.”

The construction sector is important in terms of goods passing through ports.

“As the construction sector is going through challenging times, this is also affecting us, However, we have seen a change in this area in recent months, and particularly in goods coming from the Baltic countries,” says Wallén.

Sustainable solutions

“We work closely with our customers to deliver sustainable and efficient port solutions. We have been working on electrification with Viking Line since the 1980s, and inaugurated a second onshore substation for cruise ships this year. Tallink Silja is connected to shore power at all berths at the Port of Värtahamnen. We have also been working on electrification and automooring solutions with Finnlines,” says Wallén.

Like Helsinki, Stockholm is working on creating a green corridor between Finland and Sweden.

“We want to provide a green and efficient transport solution for end users.”

Ports of Stockholm and its partners have launched an innovative project that combines shore-based power supply with microgrid technology. This initiative will reduce emissions, improve energy efficiency and increase the port’s ability to meet future sustainable energy requirements.

The port is working strategically to meet the EU’s 2030 requirements for shore power connections for ships.

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