Mariehamn - Åland

The best way to enjoy Åland is by boat. You can either take a ride on a ferry or go on an unforgettable excursion during your stay here. Apart from simply enjoying the unspoiled nature, you might also catch a glance of a curious seal. There are various types of boats for rent. Would you prefer a leisurely trip in a beautiful sailboat, or would you rather have more speed and spray on board a rigid inflatable boat? If you would like to get really close to the unique archipelago we recommend a kayak trip. You may choose between package tours or your own custom-designed excursion. Boat- and canoe rental: Ro-No Rent

The Åland archipelago offers an infinite number of kayaking opportunities. Regardless of whether you are a beginner or veteran kayaker, there are suitable routes for you. The archipelago creates excellent conditions, whether you prefer the tranquil bays or rugged skerries near the open sea. Do you want to come close to nature and animal life and spend time on your own in peace and quiet? Or, perhaps, you prefer kayaking in a group with a guide along a designated itinerary? Some of the most popular places to visit are Kobba Klintar and Kastelholm, as well as the Märket lighthouse for very experienced kayakers. Nimix Kayakrentals:

The Paddle Shack is an activity centre in Mariehamn. They have offered a varying range of sporting activities through the years, lately narrowing the scope of their services to paddleboard and kayak rentals, and offering kayaking courses. Their skilled instructors also organise a climbing school for groups.

Åland offers world class wreck diving. More than 500 ships are known to have been wrecked due to the difficulties of navigating in the archipelago. The unique water climate contributes to preservation of old wood structures, and steel hulls corrode slowly. In the summer of 2010, a fascinating discovery was made in the Åland archipelago: the world’s oldest champagne and beer were found aboard a 200 years old schooner. Accompany professional diving guides and experience Åland's underwater treasures. Every year new shipwrecks are discovered. If you fancy taking up diving, follow a diving course on Åland. Basic and further training is offered within the NAUI training system.

The Mariehamn Maritime Museum (Ålands Sjöfartsmuseum) narrates the story of Åland's seafaring tradition via informative, family-friendly exhibits spread over three floors. The display contains historic artefacts like rare photographs and remaining parts of ships once in use.

Get close to wildlife, and enjoy a great activity for the whole family. Get on the safari carriage on a guided tour, and see the symbol of the province of Åland, the red deer, known as the prototype of Disney’s Bambi. Fallow deer, wild boars, ostriches, and - since recently - lamas also live on the grounds. Best time to visit is in spring, when the deer get their spotted calves and the wild boars get their lovely striped piglets.

A well-restored castle ruin located in idyllic surroundings. The atmosphere at Kastelholm, a medieval castle, is magical. During the reign of Gustav Vasa Kastelholm became a royal castle. A visit provides excellent glimpse into the history of the islands and of the castle itself.

In 1832, Russia began construction of the fortress of Bomarsund. Since Åland then constituted the westernmost part of Czarist Russia and had a location of strategic importance, Russia desired a strong military presence and an impressive fortress there. During the Crimean War, in 1854, an Anglo-French naval force attacked the fortress, which resulted in the Battle of Bomarsund. The fortress was demolished and today only ruins (and the Bomarsund Museum) serve testament to Russian presence and the grandiose plans once wielded for Åland. If you wish to find out more about this part of the struggle between the great powers during the Crimean War, visit Bomarsund, and watch the film “Bomarsund, vägen till fred” ("the road to peace").

Visit the Ålandstravet tortting track in Mariehamn. Catch the action at warm up and feel the excitement at the start of an exhilarating race. Trotting competitions are organised monthly from spring to autumn. In addition there is a large number of jumping, dressage, and Iceland horse competitions on Åland.

The museum ship Pommer (Museifartyget Pommern) is the world’s only four-masted freight sailing ship still in its original condition. It reminds onlookers of the time when an entire fleet of such ships was based in Mariehamn. Visit the Pommern in the Western Harbour.