Don’t fear the ferries — they’re part of the magic.

One of the most common concerns I hear from people planning their trip to the Finnish archipelago is: “But what about all the ferries?”

And I get it — it can sound complicated at first glance.

But here’s the truth: the ferries are not only incredibly easy to use, they’re also part of what makes traveling here so special.

Let’s break it down.

💡 Most ferries are completely free.

Yes, really. Almost all ferries in the archipelago — including the ones connecting the main islands like Pargas, Nagu, Korpo and Houtskär — are free of charge. You don’t need to book anything in advance. You just drive to the pier, wait in line, and hop on when it’s your turn. If you miss one, you wait for the next — usually no more than 10–60 minutes away.

🚗 Worried about your car? Don’t be.

These ferries are made for cars and all sizes of vans, locals and travelers alike. Just follow the queue and enjoy the short ride. It’s that simple.

📱 Download the Finferries app

If you’re going to use just one travel tool out here, make it this one. The Finferries app is easy to use and gives you real-time schedules for every ferry in the system. You can also find the same info on their website, but the app just makes things smoother on the go.

🏝️ Heading to the smaller islands? Here’s what to know:

The ferries to the smaller islands require advance booking. These routes are also free, with just two exceptions:

Nagu → Seili

Mossala (Houtskär) → Iniö

Most of the smaller islands don’t allow cars for visitors, but you won’t need one anyway. Everything’s walkable, and that’s part of the charm.

So if the ferries have been holding you back from exploring the archipelago — let this be your sign. They’re not a hassle, they’re a gift. A slow, scenic way to move from one island to the next. A chance to pause between places, breathe in the sea air, and enjoy the ride.