FerryConnect

Finland → Estonia

Helsinki → Tallinn

One of Europe’s busiest passenger ferry routes, linking the capitals of Finland and Estonia across the Gulf of Finland in about two hours. It is easy as a day trip, with Tallinn’s medieval Old Town a short walk from the harbour.

Helsinki to Tallinn ferry at a glance

The ferry from Helsinki to Tallinn takes 2h – 2h 30m across the Gulf of Finland, operated by Tallink Silja, Viking Line and Eckerö Line. Both vehicles and foot passengers are carried. Typical frequency: many sailings daily with three operators, year-round.

Crossing times and frequencies are typical figures and vary by season. Confirm the current timetable with the operator or booking partner before you travel. Route facts last reviewed 2026-10-03.

Sources: en.tallink.com · How we verify

Return crossing: Tallinn to Helsinki

Tallink Silja and Viking Line and Eckerö Line also sail Tallinn to Helsinki, taking 2h – 2h 30m.

Helsinki to Tallinn ferry timetable & sailing pattern

Tallink Silja Line sails Helsinki–Tallinn all year round with 6 daily departures.

Timetables change by season and date. Check exact departures for your travel date on the official timetable.

Official Tallink Silja timetable →Check prices & book on 12Go →

Source: Tallink Silja Line Helsinki–Tallinn page. Verified 2026-10-03.

Maritime Crossing Route Map

Interactive sea passage between Helsinki and Tallinn

📐 45 Nautical Miles
Helsinki⇄Tallinn
⏱ 2h – 2h 30m · 📐 45 nm
⚡ Instant E-Ticket

Ready to cross from Helsinki to Tallinn?

Book your crossing with 12Go: live fares, availability and sailing times.

Operators on This Route

OperatorCrossing TimeVessels
Tallink Silja2hMyStar, Megastar
Viking Line2h 30mViking XPRS
Eckerö Line2h 15mFinlandia

Route Features

🚗

Vehicles

Cars, campervans, and motorbikes accepted

🚶

Foot Passengers

Walk-on passengers welcome

🐕

Pets

Pets allowed with valid documents

📐

Distance

45 nautical miles

Getting There & Onward Transport

  • Helsinki West Harbour is served by trams 7 and 9; Katajanokka by trams 4 and 5
  • Tallinn’s Old City Harbour is a 10–15 minute walk from the Old Town; tram 2 links the terminals with the city
  • Tallinn Airport is about 15 minutes by tram from the harbour area

Tips for the Helsinki to Tallinn Crossing

  • Check which Helsinki terminal your operator uses: Tallink and Eckerö sail from West Harbour, and Viking Line from Katajanokka.
  • Friday evening and Saturday morning sailings are busiest, so book ahead if you are taking a car.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I do a day trip from Helsinki to Tallinn by ferry?
Yes. With crossings of around two hours and early morning and late evening sailings, a Tallinn day trip from Helsinki is very popular. Estonia and Finland are both in the Schengen Area, but carry your passport or ID card.
Which ferry is fastest from Helsinki to Tallinn?
Tallink’s shuttle ships (MyStar and Megastar) are usually the fastest at about 2 hours. Eckerö Line and Viking Line take slightly longer and are often cheaper.
How many Tallink ferries a day between Helsinki and Tallinn?
Tallink Silja Line offers 6 daily departures, all year round.
How long is the ferry from Helsinki to Tallinn?
The crossing typically takes 2h – 2h 30m. By operator: Tallink Silja about 2h; Viking Line about 2h 30m; Eckerö Line about 2h 15m. Actual times vary by vessel, season and sea conditions, so check the timetable for your sailing.
How often does the Helsinki to Tallinn ferry sail?
Tallink Silja Line sails Helsinki–Tallinn all year round with 6 daily departures. This is the pattern published in the Tallink Silja Line Helsinki–Tallinn page (checked 2026-10-03); confirm exact departure times on the official timetable before you travel.
Which ferry companies sail from Helsinki to Tallinn?
Tallink Silja, Viking Line, Eckerö Line operate this route. Compare sailing times and ticket types before booking, as they often differ between operators.
Can I take my car on the Helsinki to Tallinn ferry?
Yes. Vehicles are carried on this route. Book vehicle space in advance for peak dates, and check the operator’s height, length and trailer limits for campervans and larger vehicles.
Can I take the Helsinki to Tallinn ferry as a foot passenger?
Yes. Foot passengers can travel on this route. Allow time to reach the passenger terminal and check the operator’s check-in closing time.
Are dogs and pets allowed on the Helsinki to Tallinn ferry?
Pets are accepted on this route, subject to the operator’s rules (for example staying in the vehicle, kennels or pet-friendly cabins). International crossings also require the correct pet travel documents.
How far is Helsinki from Tallinn by ferry?
The sea crossing is about 45 nautical miles (roughly 83 km).