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Dreaming of a day trip or vacation across the Gulf of Finland? You’re in luck: ferries leave from Helsinki in Finland to Tallinn in Estonia up to 7 days a week throughout the year, with approximately 75 weekly crossings in summer, and around 46 crossings the rest of the year! The earliest ferry in the morning sets sail from Helsinki at 09:00, and the latest leaves the port at 21:40. The fastest ferries on this route take only 2h to reach Tallinn. Ticket prices vary depending on several factors, but you can expect fares to range between €16.00 and €143.12. Find the perfect ferry to Tallinn right here on Ferryscanner!
Ferry companies operating from Helsinki to Tallinn
You’ll find the crossings from Helsinki to Tallinn for the upcoming week below, sorted by company and starting ticket price.
Helsinki to Tallinn ferry schedule
The ferry schedule and timetable for Helsinki to Tallinn varies by company and season. Here’s an overview to help plan your trip:
Can I take a ferry from Helsinki to Tallinn, Estonia?
Yes! Many ferries operate between Helsinki and Tallinn, providing a convenient way to travel from Finland to Estonia. This route is served by ferry operators Eckerö Line, Tallink Silja, Tallink, Viking Line, Viking Line. The quickest crossing between Helsinki and Tallinn takes approximately 2h. Ferries connect the two cities weekly.
How long is the ferry from Helsinki to Tallinn?
This ferry trip between Helsinki and Tallinn in Estonia is often referred to as a shuttle, because it usually takes only 2h to connect both capitals. Night cruises usually take around 9h as there is no rush to reach the destination port facilities, which open at dawn.
Travel times vary depending on the ferry company and the weather conditions on the day. Not to worry, though, the Gulf of Finland is known for its calm seas. The distance between Helsinki and Tallinn is approximately 80.93km or 43.67nm.
Booking tip: While arranging your ferry to Tallinn with Ferryscanner, look for the options labeled Recommended. Our algorithm highlights the most direct routes and best travel times to help you choose.
Fastest ferry from Helsinki to Tallinn, Estonia
The fastest ferry from Helsinki to Tallinn takes only 2h to cross the Gulf of Finland. That’s how close the Finnish and Estonian capitals are! This speedy crossing is operated by Tallink, but other companies can also get you to Estonia in only 3h 26min.
Is a day trip from Helsinki to Tallinn an option?
Yes! A day trip from Helsinki to Tallinn is the perfect gateway to discover another Nordic culture and understand why Finns come to the Estonian capital for a good time. The ferry ride is only 2h and there are no customs or security checks when boarding, even if you’re not an EU national. Just showing your boarding pass and passport is enough.
Our advice: take one of the earliest ferries in the morning to enjoy your day. You can search and book a return ticket on our platform, and by booking with us, you’ll even be able to enjoy day-trip return offers (often called shuttles) from our partners.
Can I take an overnight cruise from Helsinki to Tallinn?
Yes! On this route, Tallink and Viking Line offer overnight cruises from Helsinki to Tallinn to enjoy a unique night on the seas. Shared, private and luxury cabins with beds are available onboard, too, if you’d like to get some rest before exploring Tallinn. At night, the ferry takes around 9h to complete the journey.
This summary for the Helsinki (Finland) to Tallinn (Estonia) ferry route is based on recent data and is updated regularly. However, schedules may vary depending on seasonal changes, ferry companies, and availability. For the most accurate and detailed ferry timetable, including routes, stops, and pricing, please check out our ferry search and booking system.
Return trip from Tallinn
Be sure to check the best ferries from Tallinn to Helsinki to organize a convenient return trip.
Ferry prices, offers and discounts from Helsinki to Tallinn
The final price of your ferry tickets will depend on a few factors. Are you traveling with a vehicle? Will you book a cabin or premium seating onboard?
- Foot passengers can expect to find tickets between €16.00 and €143.12, depending on the seating choice, onboard services and ferry operator.
- Travelers with their own vehicle should expect to pay an additional price starting at €40.77, depending on the type of vehicle.
Booking tip: Prices go up the closer you get to departure, so book early for the best deal. Also keep in mind some ferries require passengers to have a vehicle in order to board (only Eckerö Line vessels departing from Vuossaari).
Ferry Offers
On the Helsinki to Tallinn route, ferry companies often launch seasonal offers, especially for day trips! And good news, most of these offers can be applied when booking with Ferryscanner. If an offer is available, the discounted price will automatically appear at checkout on our platform. Want to know every time an offer comes up? Follow Ferryscanner on social media, subscribe to our newsletter or check out our discount blog articles.
Latest ferry company offers:
Helsinki to Tallinn Ferry timetable
Planning a day trip to Tallinn from Helsinki
Helsinki and Tallinn
Helsinki and Tallinn are often visited together, almost like twin cities. The two-hour ferry crossing links the two capitals, with several daily departures for commuters, day-trippers, and shoppers. It’s almost like taking the bus!
- Book an early trip: to make the most of Tallinn, make sure to book an early trip in advance. How about having breakfast onboard before reaching your destination?
- Pack smart: bring some layers for the sea crossing (even in the summer), but also comfortable shoes to wander around Tallinn’s Old Town cobbled streets.
- Cash or card: most small shops accept both, but make sure to have some cash (in Euro, just like in Finland), if a unique souvenir catches your eye from a street craftsperson!
- Getting places: use public transport or walk from the port; the center is close.
- Check your return time: you wouldn’t want to miss your ferry back to Helsinki!
Are foot passengers allowed on ferries from Helsinki to Tallinn?
Yes, foot passengers are allowed on all ferries from Helsinki to Tallinn, with the exception of Eckerö Line’s MS Finbo Cargo, departing from Vuosaari. Onboard, you’ll find amenities perfect for backpackers and day-trippers (cafés, restaurants, luggage storage). Both departure and arrival terminals are well-connected to the city centers by transportation.
Accessibility and assistance
All ferries from Helsinki to Tallinn are also wheelchair accessible, and adapted to other assistive devices. You can require boarding assistance for free no later than 48 hours prior to your trip. Ferryscanner has a dedicated page for each ferry company where you’ll find more detailed information on check-in and onboarding after your booking.
Can I take a car on the ferry from Helsinki to Tallinn?
Yes, all ferries from Helsinki to Tallinn allow cars and other kinds of vehicles onboard. Whether you’re traveling with a van, a camper, a bike or a motorbike, you’ll be able to find and book the right ferry ticket with Ferryscanner. Here’s a list of all vessels allowing vehicles onboard:
- M/S FINLANDIA- Eckerö Line
- VIKING XPRS- Viking Line
- VICTORIA I- Tallink
- MYSTAR- Tallink
- MEGASTAR- Tallink
The cost of transporting a vehicle starts at €5.00 and depends on the vehicle type, ferry operator, and time of year. For unaccompanied vehicles, get in touch with our support team.
Motorcycle and bicycle
You can embark with your motorcycle or bicycle on M/S FINLANDIA, VIKING XPRS, VICTORIA I, MYSTAR, MEGASTAR ferries from Helsinki to Tallinn. If additional prices apply, you’ll see it easily when booking your ferry ticket. Select the motorbike option and model when booking. Contact our Customer Service if you’re unsure how to get a bicycle ticket.
Vans
All companies on the Helsinki to Tallinn route offer vessels that accept vans. You’ll be required to add some dimension data about your vehicle while booking, as well as the fuel type. If you make an account with us, we’ll save this information for all your future trips! Any costs will be shown at checkout.
Luggage on board
Ferry companies typically allow passengers to bring luggage on board from Helsinki to Tallinn without additional charges.
Luggage allowance: there is usually no hard weight restriction nor additional fee, and most companies allow passengers to bring as much luggage they can carry themselves. For the ferries that still apply weight restrictions, you’ll find the luggage maximum weight allowed onboard below:
- : Up to 50kg per passenger.
Most ferries are equipped with shared storage units and lockers (for a small fee) on decks, but we suggest you check the ferry company’s luggage policy a few days before boarding, and ask the crew once on the ferry. Be sure to clearly label your luggage before storing it.
Cabins onboard
All ferries on the Helsinki to Tallinn route have cabins onboard. For a short trip, you might want to take a rest, unfold, or simply enjoy a bit more privacy. Or you might want to book a night cruise and enjoy the best of the onboard commodities before reaching Tallinn in the morning! On this route, some ferry companies like Tallink Silja Line or Viking Line even offer luxury cabins perfect for your night ferry experience.
Are cabins available to book from Helsinki to Tallinn?
Yes, cabins are available on the Gabriella, M/S FINLANDIA, MEGASTAR, MYSTAR, VICTORIA I, Viking Cinderella, Viking XPRS ferries, meaning you can travel to Tallinn and reach Estonia in comfort. You can choose the type of cabin you want when booking your ticket.
On this route, you can book cabins with up to 4 beds, with or without windows. Both private and shared cabins are offered. You’ll also find allergy-friendly cabins, and even pet-friendly options are available on Tallink Silja Line’s vessels! Try and book early to ensure availability.
Are pets allowed on board?
Yes! All companies from Helsinki to Tallinn allow pets onboard provided you follow these general guidelines:
- Small pets should be carried in cages or bags and can be brought to most passengers' premises. Bigger pets, like large breed dogs, can remain in your vehicle during the trip. Some ferries also offer kennels onboard. If you wish to book a cabin, make sure the company allows pets in regular ones, or book a pet-friendly cabin.
- Service dogs are welcomed anywhere on the ship. Just make sure you bring its certification with you.
- Ensure you have all the necessary documents, tickets, and pet essentials for your trip. Please indicate you’ll be travelling with a pet when booking your ticket. You won’t be charged for it, but it lets the ferry company know you’ll have your companion with you.
Important: while your pet can usually remain in your vehicle during the trip, they should still appear on your booking. In some exceptional weather conditions, you might be required to take your pet on the passenger deck with you. If you’re unsure, check the ferry company’s page on our website or contact our support team for help.
Traveling from Helsinki to Tallinn, Estonia: Insider tips
Whether you’re planning a day trip or a longer stay, here are a few tips to help you make the most of your time in Tallinn.
- Foot passenger arrival time: be at the port between 1 hour and 1.5 hours before departure. Check in at the automatic machines to avoid a €5 fee at the desk.
- Driving passenger arrival time: be at the port between 1.5 hours and 2 hours before departure.
- Border and security control: as Finland and Estonia are both part of the European Union and the Schengen Area, there are usually no border checks or customs controls at boarding, regardless of your nationality. Just showing your boarding pass and passport is enough (driving licenses are not a valid ID, even with a photo).
- Weather and sailing conditions: the Gulf of Finland is generally calm, and the large vessels used on this route help ensure a stable journey in all seasons.
- Parking: if you plan to leave your vehicle at the port, you can book a parking space at the terminal for either short or longer stays.
- Transport in Tallinn: foot passengers can reach the city center easily by public transport. Bus 66 and tram 2 both take less than 25 minutes.
Visit our blog for more tips and ideas to make the most of your trip to Tallinn, Estonia.
Practical tips for Helsinki ferry terminals
The Port of Helsinki is one of Europe’s busiest, with two main areas and four terminals, so please arrive at your terminal check-in between 1 and 2 hours before departure for a smooth boarding.
The Main Port of Helsinki, south of the city center, includes West Terminal 2 (Tallink Silja Line), Olympia Terminal (Tallink Silja Line and Eckerö Line), and Katajanokka Terminal (Viking Line). All are accessible by tram from the city center in less than 25 mins, and also have parking slots you can book in advance. The second area, Vuosaari, is outside the city and includes Muuga Check-in (Eckerö Line), which is meant for passengers with vehicles only.
All Helsinki ferry terminals are fully wheelchair accessible, and you’ll find cafés, restaurants, waiting areas, and even dedicated spots to charge your phones. For any additional assistance or adapted vehicle needs, please contact Ferryscanner support during booking.
What to do in Tallinn for a day
From the ferry terminal, it is easy to reach the center on foot or by public transport, so you can start with a stroll through the Old Town, the city’s most famous area. Wander along its medieval streets, explore Town Hall Square, and take your time browsing small shops, cafés, and historic corners. Our favorite? Café Maiasmokk: one of the oldest and more atmospheric of the old town.
After that, head up to Toompea Hill for some of the best views over Tallinn’s red rooftops and church towers. Nearby, you can also see landmarks such as Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and other beautiful medieval buildings.
For lunch, choose a cosy restaurant or café in or around the Old Town and enjoy a long break rather than trying to fit in too much. You can then head back to the ferry ports and stop at Nautica Keskus Mall. Known for its wide offer and unique establishments, some Finnish people just take the shuttle ferry to spend their day there!
The perfect way to end your day trip in Tallinn, and make sure you’ll catch the ferry back to Helsinki in time.
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Take an insider’s look into the ferries operating between Helsinki, Finland and Tallinn, Estonia! Make sure to get all the information you need about accessibility, traveling with pets and much more!
MEGASTAR Tallink
MYSTAR Tallink
VICTORIA I Tallink
VIKING XPRS Viking Line
M/S FINLANDIA Eckerö Line
GABRIELLA Viking Line