Helsinki - A stopover to remember

Berthing at the largest and oldest registered yacht club in Finland (Nyländska Jaktklubben), the ARC Baltic fleet were in for a treat mooring on the small island of Belckholmen, located in the centre of Helsinki. The welcome and hospitality of the dock masters and locals always makes for a pleasurable visit to the capital of Finland.

After exploring some of the hidden anchorages in the Finnish archipelago, crews had three days to enjoy the sights of the city. Using the ‘Hop on Hop off’ buses to explore the city, it allowed participants to sightsee at their own pace, being able to make the most of their time.

A crew dinner in the main hall of the NJK which is beautifully decorated with wooden beams made for a fitting venue for a crew gathering. Joined by Vice Commodore of the NJK Jan Hörman, he took the opportunity to welcome the fleet sharing his knowledge of the history of the club and wishing good winds and safe sailing through the archipelago, and for the rest of the rally. Several skippers used the opportunity to exchange their yacht club burgees adding to the impressive collection that is displayed on the clubhouse interior walls.

To thank the NJK, the fleet offered a parade of sail in Helsinki harbour before departure to the Åland archipelago. Circling with their dress overall flags raised, the fleet created a spectacle in the harbour aided by sunshine and a clear city backdrop. As on lookers took photographs of the parade, the fleet finished by sailing through the narrow channel past the NJK marking the end of a special stay in Helsinki.