On Baltic Sea Day, marine research and diverse marine nature are showcased onboard R/V Aranda and at Kansalaistori square

Research Vessel Aranda: marine research in practice

At the Pakkahuone Quay, R/V Aranda, managed by the Finnish Environment Institute (Syke), welcomes visitors to learn about Baltic Sea research activities and the vessel itself. Aranda is suitable for multidisciplinary research in the Baltic Sea and the world’s oceans; it has sailed both the North Atlantic and the waters of Antarctica. In addition to experts from Syke, experts from several other organizations will be onboard to present information and answer questions, the Finnish Meteorological Institute, the Natural Resources Institute Finland, and the City of Helsinki’s Harakka Nature Centre. Visitors will also have the opportunity to hear how noisy the underwater environment can be and learn about the well-preserved shipwrecks of the Baltic Sea.

Additionally, at the Quay, guests can visit the diving support vessel DSV Stella, the rescue cruiser Jenny Wihuri, and a Port of Helsinki presentation tent where experts explain how the Port addresses enviromental issues.

The Kansalaistori square: marine biodiversity showcased  

Syke also participates in the Baltic Sea Festival activities taking place at Kansalaistori Square. These include the Treasures of the Sea and the Marine Habitat Restoration presentation tents. The Baltic Sea biodiversity is showcased, for example, through aquariums and photographs. A five-meter sediment sample offers a tangible glimpse into the sea’s history. At the venue, visitors can find out how marine habitat restoration supports a healthy Baltic Sea, and can, for example, send a letter to the Baltic Sea.

Guidelines for the visitors 

The research vessel Aranda is not barrier-free. We welcome children onboard only with a supervising adult. For safety reasons, Aranda cannot accommodate daycare or other children’s groups. We do not recommend moving around the vessel with an infant. Visitors should be prepared to wait before boarding, as only a limited number of people can enter at a time. 

The event in Kansalaistori Square is accessible for all. Activities are suitable for visitors of all ages. 

Finnish Environment Institute on Baltic Sea Day, August 28th 

Aranda Open Ship 

Finnish Environment Institute, Finnish Meteorological Institute, Natural Resources Institute Finland, Harakka Nature Centre, FINMARI 

Pakkahuoneenlaituri, Eteläranta 7, 00130 Helsinki 

August 28, 12.00–19.00 (Please note: visiting time on board ends at 19.30) 

The research vessel is not accessible for people with reduced mobility. Free entry.

Kansalaistori Square

Alvar Aallon kuja 1, 00100 Helsinki 

August 28, 12.00–19.00 

Accessible and suitable for visitors of all ages. Free entry. 

 Tent 7:  Treasures of the Sea 

Velmu, The Finnish Inventory Programme for Underwater Marine Diversity 

Tent 8: Marine Habitat Restoration

Biodiversea LIFE-IP

Additional information: 

Aranda: 

Panu Hänninen, +358 29 525 1203, firstname.lastname(at)syke.fi, Finnish Environment Institute 

Kansalaistori square: 

Oona Piiroinen, +358 50 434 4879, oona.piiroinen@jnfoundation.fi, John Nurminen Foundation 

Tents 7 and 8: Wilma Viljanmaa, +358 29 525 1743, firstname.lastname(at)syke.fi, Finnish Environment Institute

Baltic Sea Day, initiated and coordinated by the John Nurminen Foundation, is celebrated annually on the last Thursday of August with various events and activities. The aim of the themed day is to highlight important maritime topics and inspire concrete actions for the benefit of the Baltic Sea. In addition to celebration, the goal is to increase awareness of the sea’s nature, culture, and history. In 2025, Baltic Sea Day will be celebrated on August 28. www.itameripaiva.fi/en/