Cruise Saimaa Concept

Transcription

Cruise Saimaa Concept
Investors’ Handbook
2011
Savonlinna Region – Cruise Saimaa Concept – Investors’ Handbook - October 2011
2
Contents
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Part 1 - The cruises
1.1 Map of system showing mooring locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
1.2 Tourist info on Saimaa region . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
1.3 Tourist information on each location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
1.4 Activities on the lakes (fishing, swimming, sauna, wildlife observation) . . . . 10
1.5 Unique island locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
1.6 Other suggestions on themed cruises . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
1.7 Low season possibilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
1.8 Winter possibilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
1.9 The northern hub - Kuopio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
1.10 Sample Saimaa cruise itinerary : 7 days . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Part 2 - Technical feasibility
2.1 The ship . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
2.2 Navigation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
2.3 Ice specification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
2.4 Authorisations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
2.5 Moorings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Cover photo Savonlinna, the natural hub of cruising itineraries in Saimaa Lakeland
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Introduction
This Handbook is an initiative by the Savonlinna Region Federation of Municipalities, acting on behalf
of the four regions in Eastern Finland which are united by the Lake Saimaa network of waterways.
After a preliminary investigation by the well-known consultants Euromapping with the collaboration
of specialist consultant Brian Kirton, formerly CEO of Kingdom Tours, the authors are convinced that
the Saimaa Lakeland offers unique and practically untapped potential for innovative and inspiring river
cruises.
Finland could become the next ‘must-do’ destination for the growing international clientele of river
cruise enthusiasts. No need to fly to China or Vietnam for a completely new and refreshing experience,
made up of a blend of culture, nature and Nordic wellness.
Ready for fish soup on Linnansaari
This Investors’ Handbook has been prepared for presentation at the seminar organised by VNF in Paris
on October 12-13, 2011.
It is designed to be delivered in a ring-binder for convenience, to allow the operator to insert new or
updated pages, new cruise itineraries, etc, as they are co-produced with the regional players in the field
of tourism, business and economic development.
Section I analyses the potential cruises, and Section II the feasibility of the operation.
The report is concluded with suggestions on the way forward for the Saimaa cruise product, in the light
of the experience gained.
4
1. THE CRUISES
1.1 Saimaa and Vuoksi river basin
The cruise ship operating basin is shown on the simple map below. The Finnish Transport Agency and
commercial users distinguish the 4.2 m deep system from extensions where the draught is limited to
2.4m. Since the latter draught is more than sufficient for large cruise ships, the more important criterion
is the capacity of the locks, which throughout most of the system to Iisalmi and Nurmes are minimum
82.5 m by 12.60 m (from Joensuu to Nurmes: 80 by 11.80 m). This map distinguishes the genuinely
‘high-capacity’ waterways from the waterways which have small locks only (Class I). These are the thin
blue lines on the map. However, some routes shown here as thin lines, where there are no locks, would
be accessible to large cruise ships. Such diversions need to be checked individually.
Map of system, showing the principal airports at Helsinki-Vaanta and Saint Petersburg Pulkovo, and the four main regional airports
Vaala
Oulujärvi
Nuasjärvi
Kajaani
Sotkamo
Nurmes
Iisalmi
93
106
2
Pielavesi
Tahko
Nilsiä
Pielavesi
Viitasaari
eli
ne
n
Pi
Lökkö
Juankoski
Luikonlahti
39
Tervo
22
Uimaharju
Kuopio
Keitele
38
Juojärvi
va
sve
si
Joensuu
Su
Äänekoski
Suolahti
Keitele
kan.
Liedenpohja
Virrat
Tarjanne
Kuru
Näsijärvi
Tampere
78
Pihlajavesi
M
46
36
35
Hauho
Hämeenlinna
Turenki
0
50
Savonlinna
33
Lahti
63
Puumala
Saimaa
74
Imatra
120
41
Lappeenranta
47
Joutseno
Saimaan
kanava
(Saimaa C.)
Kuusankoski
Kesälahti
33
Punkaharju
44
Ristiina
al
rju Can
a
h
ty
än
MantyMäntyharju
Heinola
30
Puhos
Mikkeli
Kangasala
65
37
37
Rantasalmi
Pä i j ä n n e
Länkipohja
Valkeakoski
Oravi
78
116
Jämsä
128
2
Pyhäselkä
44
Jyväskylä
Vilppula
67
Heinävesi
Haukivesi
Varkaus
50
5
Pielisjoki
78
3
83
2
54
8
Vuoksi
100 km
Kymi
Vyborg
Kotka
Turku
Sankt
Peterburg
Helsinki
5
The Saimaa Canal, which is the gateway to the system, offers limited dimensions, so that any ship to be
operated on the system would be limited to 82m in length.
Considering the opportunities for taking tourists to a great variety of remote locations in the lakes, in
some cases through winding channels, there are arguments for adopting a shorter ship for the system as
a whole, to give improved manœuvrability.
As the map shows, the system is extensive and offers potential for a series of week-long cruises with
completely different programmes.
The map shows the airports which offer good conditions of access to the main ports on the system:
Lappeenranta, Savonlinna, Varkaus, Kuopio and Joensuu.
In addition, there is a fast Pendolino train service from Helsinki to St Petersburg which all stop at the
border station of Vainikkala. This may also be used to transfer clients to and from Lappeenranta (at a
distance of 30km).
1.2 Tourist information on Saimaa region
The following extracts from the Saimaa tourist brochure are useful in describing the atmosphere and
unique character of the destination. This is publicity copywriting, but it conveys the messages which
the future operator would naturally wish to convey in his own material, in his own style. We reproduce
them here for your information, and convenience.
SAIMAA MOMENTS. When they are put into a timeline, they form a charming entity that is called
YOUR VACATION ‘The moments that are extraordinary and happy are the ones you’ll remember.
And cherish. The largest lake district in Finland and one of the country’s premier travel destinations,
Saimaa welcomes you to share its moments.’
Photographer: Tiu Kaitala / Comma
SAIMAA MOMENTS.
When they are put into a timeline, they form
a charming entity that is called
Y O U R VA C AT I O N.
The moments that are extraordinary and happy
are the ones you’ll remember. And cherish.
The largest lake district in Finland and one of
the country’s premier travel destinations, Saimaa
welcomes you to share its moments.
Vi s i t Sai m a a .c o m
2 3
Contents
Saimaa moments 2
Lake district 4
Cottage holiday 6
Sauna 8
Nature 10
Culture 12
Flavours 14
Ice and snow 16
Facts and figures 18
Map and places of interest 20
FAC T S A N D F I G U R E S
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Accommodation
Select from a wide range of high-quality accommodation,
including cottages, holiday centres and city hotels. Many of
the region´s manor houses and farmhouses have also been
renovated for guests so that you can experience the Saimaa
way of life at its best. Whether you are looking to enjoy
the peace of nature by yourself or whether you prefer the
convenience of having services close at hand, the region’s
pristine nature and crystal clear lakes are always nearby.
N O R WAY
Getting around
After you have reached Helsinki, you can fly conveniently
to Savonlinna or take train or bus to either Mikkeli or
Savonlinna. Being an ecological traveler is easy thanks to
the abundance of daily bus and train connections to the
region. In July, there`s a daily, yet inexpensive Savonlinna
express bus connection from Helsinki via Mikkeli (further
information: Savonlinna Travel). Probably the most flexible way to discover the labyrinth of lakes and forests is,
however, with your own or rental car. The driving culture
in Finland is safe. Of course, you can also explore the
region by canoe, rowing boat, motor boat or sail boat. You
can also take a cruise from one city to another to enjoy
the scenery and the traditional, peaceful way of travelling
across the lakes.
Belonging to the temperate weather zone with cold winters,
Finland has four distinctive seasons. The mean temperature during the warmest month is no lower than 10°C and
the mean temperature will not rise above -3°C during the
coldest month. Typically, the highest temperatures in July
are around 30°C and the lowest in February around -30°C.
Rainfall is moderate in all seasons.
Being on such a high latitude means that sunlight
prevails in summer – the nature is awake around the clock
and the sun just dips below the horizon before rising again
to meet the new, exciting day.
The VisitSaimaa region can be reached easily by
plane, train or car
Air timetables:
Train timetables:
Bus timetables:
Finncomm www.fc.fi
VR www.vr.fi
Matkahuolto www.matkahuolto.fi
Travel times
Helsinki
Mikkeli
RUSSIA
FINLAND
Distances
Weather
hours
SWEDEN
by car Mikkeli Savonlinna by train Mikkeli Savonlinna
2:43
4:18
1:39
2:38
4:27
Mikkeli
232
258
109
Helsinki
Tampere
Lappeenranta
Mikkeli
Savonlinna
St. Petersburg
100
306
Savonlinna
335
360
158
100
344
Mean air temperatures
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
mean
- 8.3°C
- 8.3°C
- 3.3°C
2.0°C
9.3°C
14.3°C
16.3°C
14.1°C
8.7°C
3.5°C
- 1.9°C
- 6.1°C
highest
- 5.5°C
- 5.1°C
0.3°C
6.2°C
14.7°C
19.3°C
21.3°C
18.8°C
12.6°C
6.1°C
0.3°C
- 3.5°C
Longest and shortest days
June 21:
December 21:
19 hours 30 minutes
5 hours 16 minutes
lowest
- 11.5°C
- 11.6°C
- 6.9°C
- 2.0°C
3.9°C
9.3°C
11.6°C
10.0°C
5.3°C
1.1°C
- 4.1°C
- 9.2°C
Source: Mikkeli Suonsaari
7
Photographer: Ingrid Schindler
8:57 AM
SEPTEMBER 2
A RT & D E S I G N V I L L A S,
A N T TO L A
The VisitSaimaa region offers more than 43,000 cottages that are frequently used by 172,000 visitors. Many of the cottages are
cottages are situated by the lakeside, and they all come with a sauna – and usually a rowing boat too.
The
Visituse.Saimaa
region
offers
43,000
cottages
that
frequently
byexperience
172,000
visitors.
designed for year-round
The cottages range from
simple hideaways
to unique designmore
villas with all than
the modern conveniences
you
To appreciateare
Finnish culture
and the way of life here,used
you should really
the charm of a cottage
holiday.
would ever wish for. Whatever your wishes may be, you can rest assured that just the right cottage will be waiting for you. All the
After all, if you ask a Finn what he is going to do on vacation, he will answer: “I’m going to my cottage, of course!”
Many of the cottages are designed for year-round use. The cottages range from simple hideaways to
unique design villas with all the modern conveniences you would ever wish for. Whatever your wishes
may be, you can rest assured that just the right cottage will be waiting for you. All the cottages are
situated by the lakeside, and they all come with a sauna – and usually a rowing boat too.
To appreciate Finnish culture and the way of life here, you should really experience the charm of a
cottage holiday. After all, if you ask a Finn what he is going to do on vacation, he will answer: ‘I’m going
to my cottage, of course!’
1.3 Key features of the region (at all locations)
1.3.1 Saunas
There are over two million saunas in Finland, and there’s certainly no shortage of them along the Saimaa
shores. In fact, it would be hard to imagine a cottage without a sauna. Or a hotel without one. For Finns,
the sauna is a place for physical and mental relaxation:
throw some water on the stove and treat yourself to a good whipping with a “vasta”, a bunch of fresh
birch branches. Afterwards cool down either by sitting on the porch or by taking a dip in the lake –
when it’s frozen, just cut out a hole! Seasoned sauna enthusiasts repeat this ritual many times. The
sauna is an integral part of the Finnish identity, so in order to say that you’ve really been to Finland,
you’ll have to take a sauna. The most traditional version is a smoke sauna without a chimney, but you
can enjoy a unique sauna experience just as well in an electrically heated sauna.
6 7
8
Photography: Saimaa Holiday
8:33 PM
July 1
Sauna 82°C
8 9
There are over two million saunas in Finland, and there’s certainly no shortage of them along the Saimaa shores. In fact, it would be
hard to imagine a cottage without a sauna. Or a hotel without one. For Finns, the sauna is a place for physical and mental relaxation: throw some water on the stove and treat yourself to a good whipping with a “vasta”, a bunch of fresh birch branches. Afterwards cool down either by sitting on the porch or by taking a dip in the lake – when it’s frozen, just cut out a hole! Seasoned sauna
enthusiasts repeat this ritual many times. The sauna is an integral part of the Finnish identity, so in order to say that you’ve really
been to Finland, you’ll have to take a sauna. The most traditional version is a smoke sauna without a chimney, but you can enjoy a
unique sauna experience just as well in an electrically heated sauna.
1.3.2 Gastronomy
The region boasts a rich food culture. Naturally, fish is a key ingredient, and it is served in many ways:
baked, grilled, fried, smoked and even raw. An absolute must is vendace (known locally as ‘muikku’),
a small but delicious whitefish. Try for example ‘paistetut muikut’, fried vendace served with mashed
potatoes.
Here, the Nordic influences of Finnish cuisine are combined with Russian flavours. The tastes are
simple yet rich, and there’s always a lot of bread, root vegetables, meat and fish on offer. Whatever the
season, freshness is always an integral part of the region’s culinary culture.
The flavours of the forest are also to be savoured: arctic berries and mushrooms can be picked
throughout the late summer and autumn. Naturally, they are at their best when fresh, but they can be
given a new lease of life conserved, or even as a wine.
Photographer: Elina Enho
1:44 PM
AU G U S T 9
E N J OY I N G
T H E F L AV O U R S
14 15
OF SAIMAA
The VisitSaimaa region boasts a rich food culture. Naturally, fish is a key ingredient, and it is served in many ways: baked, grilled,
fried, smoked and even raw. An absolute must is vendace (known locally as “muikku”), a small but delicious whitefish. Try for example
”paistetut muikut”, fried vendace served with mashed potatoes.
In the VisitSaimaa region, the Nordic influences of Finnish cuisine are combined with Russian flavours. The tastes are simple
yet rich, and there’s always a lot of bread, root vegetables, meat and fish on offer. Whatever the season, freshness is always an integral part
of the region’s culinary culture.
The flavours of the forest are also to be savoured: arctic berries and mushrooms can be picked throughout the late summer and
autumn. Naturally, they are at their best when fresh, but they can be given a new lease of life conserved, or even as a wine.
9
1.3.3 The lakes and their unique environment
Photographer: Kari Palsila / Comma
4:11 PM
4 5
J U LY 2 7
YO U R V E RY OW N S P OT
IN THE SAIMAA LAKELAND
During the warm summer days, kids easily spend more time in the lake than on solid ground. Who can blame them? With such pure
25% of the total
area is pure, clean
water
80% of the
land area is
forest
4,782 km2
covered by
water
7,000 lakes,
countless
ponds
5,000 km of
streams and
rivers
water, the lake is the place to be. And if you happen to visit Saimaa in winter, you can still go for a swim even if it’s a bit chilly…
During
the warm summer days, kids easily spend more time in the lake than on solid ground. Who
You can experience Saimaa in countless ways, for example by fishing, sailing, cruising, rowing, canoeing, diving, hiking, cycling, berry
picking, skiing, ice skating, relaxing in a hot sauna or just enjoying your cottage.
can blame them? With such pure water, the lake is the place to be. And if you happen to visit Saimaa
in winter, you can still go for a swim even if it’s a bit chilly…
The VisitSaimaa region has the highest concentration of forests and lakes in Finland.
You can experience Saimaa in countless ways, for example by fishing, sailing, cruising, rowing,
canoeing, diving, hiking, cycling, berry picking, skiing, ice skating, relaxing in a hot sauna or just
enjoying your cottage.
–
–
–
–
–
25% of the total area is pure, clean water
80% of the land area is forest
4782 km2 covered by water
7000 lakes, countless ponds
5000 km of streams and rivers
With 13 000 islands, the region has a total shoreline almost 30 000 kilometres long – even longer than
the shoreline of France. There’s a secret cove for everyone, and if you are very quiet and very very lucky,
you might catch a glimpse of a hydrodynamic yet friendly-looking head with whiskers. It belongs to one
of the most endangered seal species in the world – the Saimaa Ringed Seal, which was separated from
the ringed seal population when the land rose after the last Ice Age. Most of the population of just 260
seals lives in the Kolovesi and Linnansaari national parks. Another exciting national park in the area,
Repovesi, presents hikers with abundant wildlife, rugged back-woods and dozens of lakes.
10
Photographer: Jorma Jämsen / Comma
4:37 AM
JUNE 13
S E C R E T C OV E
10 11
With 13,000 islands, the VisitSaimaa region has a total shoreline almost 30,000 kilometres long – even longer than the shoreline
of France. There’s a secret cove for everyone, and if you are very quiet and very very lucky, you might catch a glimpse of a hydrodynamic yet friendly looking head with whiskers. It belongs to one of the most endangered seal species in the world – the Saimaa
Nature observation: the Saimaa ringed seal
Ringed Seal, which was separated from the ringed seal population when the land rose after the last ice age. Most of the population of just 260 seals lives in the Kolovesi and Linnansaari national parks. Another exciting national park in the area, Repovesi,
presents hikers with abundant wildlife, rugged back-woods and dozens of lakes.
1.4 The region’s hub: Savonlinna
Founded in 1639 around the medieval Olavinlinna Castle, Savonlinna was once a border town between
Sweden and Russia. The castle still stands tall on a small island in Kyrönsalmi strait – you can take a
cruise on an old steamer to admire the castle from the water or you can view the interior of the castle
while attending the world-famous opera festival. Afterwards you can enjoy the inimitable small town
atmosphere in the picturesque market place.
Photographer: Jouko Kuosmanen / Kuvaliiteri
10:23 PM
JUNE 22
SUNSET IN THE
S AV O N L I N N A H A R B O U R
12 13
Founded in 1639 around the medieval Olavinlinna Castle, Savonlinna was once a border town between Sweden and Russia. The castle
still stands tall on a small island in Kyrönsalmi strait – you can take a cruise on an old steamer to admire the castle from the water or you
can view the interior of the castle while attending the world-famous opera festival. Afterwards you can enjoy the inimitable small town
atmosphere in the picturesque market place. Another of the region’s vibrant centres, Mikkeli was a meeting point for Vikings and trappers for
more than 6,000 years and today the market place in Mikkeli is a popular meeting point for locals and visitors alike. Mikkeli has been an
important centre throughout the history of Finland. For example, Marshal Mannerheim and his
staff were headqurtered there during the Second World War.
There’s room for everyone in the VisitSaimaa region: even though the area is almost as
big as Belgium, there are only 12 inhabitants per square kilometre. Half of the region’s 160,000
inhabitants live in urban areas, the other half in the countryside.
Mikkeli
49,000
inhabitants
Savonlinna
28,000
inhabitants
11
There’s room for everyone in the region: even though the area is almost as big as Belgium, there are
only 12 inhabitants per square kilometre. Half of the region’s 160 000 inhabitants live in urban areas,
the other half in the countryside.
1.5 Activities on the lakes (fishing, swimming, forest walks, wildlife observation
1.5.1 Enjoying navigation on the lakes
One of the unique attractions of the Saimaa cruise will be that the navigation itself, despite the size of
the ship, will be an adventure, with a constantly changing landscape and countless features to see in the
foreground, in the middle distance or on the horizon.
Taking to the water in a church boat, for example at Järvisydän, would enhance the quality of the
lakeland experience, while establishing a direct link to the region’s cultural heritage.
1.5.2 Unique island locations
Exploration of unique island locations will typically form part of the cruise experience. There are sites
where the cruise ship could moor for the night (or part of the day) despite the size of the ship, giving
passengers the ‘little island’ experience. For example, this would be feasible in the Linnansaari National
Park.
Even a large cruise ship could moor here
directly in the forest, with a couple of timber
box stays suspended on the rocks from a few
sturdy trees, allowing passengers to disembark and walk to the unique viewpoint at
the northern tip of Linnansaari.
Nowhere else in the world (except perhaps
in China) could passengers enjoy, from
the ship, such total immersion in unspoilt
nature.
The course followed from Oravi to
Järvisydän via Linnansaari
12
1.6 Suggestions on themed cruises
The themes are derived naturally from the quality and the characteristics of the region.
The return to nature, forest walks, discovering creeks and bays in church boats or canoes, discovering the
healthy foods, starting with the fish from the lakes and the berries from the forest.
The arts, music, opera, architecture, design and a relaxed urban lifestyle; there is an extremely varied
pallet from which operators will be free to assemble programmes to suit the tastes of all client groups.
8:37 AM
18 19
J U LY 1 1
T R A F F I C JA M
I N S U L K AVA
aari
One
ofbiggest
therowing
biggest
events
in the
world,
Sulkava
Rowing
Festival
One
of the
events inrowing
the world, the
Sulkava Rowing
Festival
attractsthe
annually
some 10,000
rowers wanting
to measure
their
strength against
a 60-kilometre
route around
the island
of Partalansaari.
The labyrinth
of Saimaa istheir
easily explored
by canoe,
attracts
annually
some
10 000
rowers
wanting
to measure
strength
sail boat, motor boat or even bike.
against a 60-kilometre route around the island of Partalansaari. The labyrinth
of Saimaa is easily explored by canoe, sail boat, motor boat or even bike.
13
1.7 Low season possibilities
Low season cruises could focus more on urban tourism and visits to galleries, museums and other built
heritage.
Dawn and dusk will also be moments to savour, with fascinating changes in landscape, especially while
the ship is under way. Dawn and dusk moments on the deck will offer landscapes of great charm.
1.8 Winter possibilities
After examination of the charts and local conditions, it appears that a large cruise ship could be moored
in ice-free flowing waters in the old channel at Oravi in the Linnansaari National Park. Subject to
providing sufficient comfort on board in extreme cold conditions, this would be an ideal base for winter
holidays and long-distance skating. The ship could potentially be chartered to other cities for the winter
season for specific events, if technically feasible.
The Savonlinna shipyard in the western channel is also ice-free and was envisaged, but appears to be a
little too remote (too far from town centre), and the immediate environment is too industrial to make it
a choice location for low-season and winter accommodation.
Photography: Saimaa Holiday
11:05 AM
F E B R UA R Y 2 8
T O U R S K AT I N G
IN LINNANSAARI
N AT I O N A L PA R K
16 17
The ever-changing face of Saimaa freezes when the frost comes, inviting you to explore its shores. Linnansaari National Park boasts
season spans from mid-January to the end of March. But if skating is not your thing, you can also enjoy the stunning scenery on crossThe
face
ofof Saimaa
freezes
when
the frost
inviting
to
explore
shores.
50 kilometresever-changing
of well-tended tour skating routes over the ice
– but a number
shorter routes are also within
your reach, for example
in
country skis orcomes,
with snowshoes. Ice fishing
is another great wayyou
to experience
the frozen
lakes. Simply drill aits
small hole
in the ice, sit on
Punkaharju, Kerimäki, Mikkeli and Mäntyharju. The thickness of the ice on the track is normally 20-80 centimetres and the skating
your stool and catch your own fish for your day’s meal.
Linnansaari National Park boasts 50 kilometres of well-tended tour skating routes over the ice – but
a number of shorter routes are also within your reach, for example in Punkaharju, Kerimäki, Mikkeli
and Mäntyharju. The thickness of the ice on the track is normally 20-80 centimetres and the skating
season spans from mid-January to the end of March. But if skating is not your thing, you can also
enjoy the stunning scenery on cross-country skis or with snowshoes. Ice fishing is another great way
to experience the frozen lakes. Simply drill a small hole in the ice, sit on your stool and catch your
own fish for your day’s meal.
14
The ship could moor in the old channel at Oravi, accessed either the north via a 2.40m deep channel,
although this approach (see simple chart below) winds between a long series of stakes barely 7-8m apart.
It may be preferable to squeeze through the equally narrow entrance channel from the main lake, gently
pushing aside the stakes.
1.9 - The northern hub - Kuopio
Iisalmi
Pielavesi
Nurmes
106
93
2
Savonlinna
Region – Cruise Saimaa Concept – Investors’ Handbook - October 2011
Tahko
Viitasaari
ne
n
Nilsiä
Pielavesi
39
Tervo
22
Keitele
Juankoski
Luikonlahti
Kuopio
Uimaharju
78
3
83
v
Su
Äänekoski
as
ve
si
Suolahti
Varkaus
50
5
44
Day/time
Jyväskylä
78
Pä i j ä n n e
Pihlajavesi
Vaala
Mikkeli
Optional programmes
Puhos
Savonlinna
33
Kesälahti
33
Punkaharju
44
Puumala
63
Risti
Oulujärv
i ina
Nuasjärvi
u Canal
j
r
a
Kajaani
tyh
74
Saimaa
än
Sotkamo
MantyMän
120
harju
Imatra
Heinola
SATURDAY
DAY 1
41
47
Iisalmi
Kuusankoski
Pielavesi
Kymi
106
2
Viitasaari
16:30
Kotk
a si
Pielave
39
Tervo
22
Keitele
93
Charter flight arrives
Vuok
si
SavonlinnaVyborg
airport
ne
n
Embark Lappeenranta
harbour
Juankoski
Nilsiä
21:00
83
2
v
Su
on board
harju
UimaDinner
78 Sankt
Arrival Ruuhonsaaret Island
Get-together
evening in lake
E ‘Church’ boats for excursion
Pielisjoki
3
Peterbu
rg
(50 km)Juojärvi
nature with music programmes round the island and access to the
shore, fires on the beach
as
ve
si
Suolahti
Keitele
kan.
Pyhäselkä
44
Jyväskylä
78
Pä i j ä n n e
Pihlajavesi
Mikkeli
47
74
Kesälahti
33
44
63
SUNDAY
DAY 2
Ruuhonsaaret Island - Punkaharju
Saimaa
Imatra
41
07:00
08:00
Kuusankoski
Savonlinna
33
120
Lappeenranta
hti
Puhos
Punkaharju
Puumala
Ristiina
ana
arju C l
h
y
t
än
MantyMän
harju
Heinola
30
37
Narva Rantasalmi
Joutseno
Depart from island mooring
54
on board
Viewing Puumala strait, the
‘Gibraltar of Saimaa’
8
Breakfast
Saimaan
kanava
(Saimaa C.)
Kymi
Kotka
37
Oravi
116
Joensuu
67
Heinävesi
Haukivesi
Varkaus
50
5
Coach transfer to Lappeenranta Walking tour in Lappeenranta,
old fort, museum
Introduction programme
Luikonlahti
20:00
Kuopio
38
Nurmes
li
Pie
ökkö
54
8
Saimaan
kanava
(Saimaa C.)
12:00
Tahko
Lappeenranta - Ruuhonsaaret island
Joutseno
Lappeenranta
Lahti
M
Programmes
30
37
Rantasalmi
M
Pyhäselkä
Itinerary
37
Oravi
116
36
Joensuu
67
Heinävesi
Option A Haukivesi
- Lappeenranta-Kuopio-Savonlinna
Keitele
kan.
nekoski
Pielisjoki
1.10 2 Sample Saimaa
Juojärvi cruise itinerary, 7 days
38
ä
15
li
Pie
Lökkö
Vyborg
Vuok
si
10:00
12:00
15:30
Introduction to Lake Saimaa
area, lecture/multimedia
presentation
Sankt
Lunch on board
Peterburg
Arrival Punkaharju,
Tuunaansaari (103 km)
17:30
19:00
20:30
Narva
Possibility of stop at Puumala for
service in old wooden church ;
alternative walking tour or visit to
bridge-top panoramic café
Visit to Retretti Art Centre
Interpretation: Pihlajavesi lake
archipelago, way of life in the
archipelago, summer houses,…
Dinner
Free evening
Local music group (folk/classical)
E Optional sauna evening in the
holiday centre
Tahko
li
Pie
39
Tervo
ne
n
Nilsiä
Pielavesi
aari
koski
Savonlinna Juan
Region
Cruise
hti Saimaa Concept – Investors’ Handbook - October 2011
Luik–onla
Kuopio
78
3
83
2
v
Su
as
v
esi
Day/time
30
Puhos
37
Rantasalmi
Pihlajavesi
Heinola
33
Punkaharju
Vaala 44
Puumala
MONDAY
DAY 3
Punkaharju - Savonlinna
63
Oulujärvi74
Saimaa
08:00
09:00
120
Kesälahti
Savonlinna
33
Mikkeli
Nuasjärvi
Breakfast
Kajaani
Imatra Sotkamo
Visit to Lusto Forest museum
E Watersports opportunities:
swimming, diving, snorkling,
fishing
Fitness programme: Nordic
walking/hiking/biking with
guide, picnic dinner in nature
Alternative afternoon programme:
demonstration of drag netting
Fresh fish dinner. Finnish
summer evening at lakeshore,
local food
Other activities at Tuunaansaari
holiday village; socialising
41
Joutseno
Lappeenranta
12:30
Lunch on board
54
8
14:00
Saimaan
oski
kanava
Iisalmi
(Saimaa C.)
Kymi
Pielavesi
ka
Viitasaari
18:30
Tervo
Keitele
Luikonlahti
83
2
78
3
Keitele
kan.
Oravi
116
78
Rantasalmi
Pä i j ä n n e
Mikkeli
Ristiina
u Canal
j
r
a
08:00
tyh
än
MantyMän
har09:00
ju
Heinola
37
30
33
Savonlinna
hti
Kuusankoski
Kesälahti
33
Savonlinna - Linnansaari - Varkaus (Taipale)
Punkaharju
Puumala
44
63
Breakfast
74
Savonlinna market place and lively
Saimaa passenger harbour
Saimaa
120
Imatra
Depart for Linnansaari
11:30
Arrival in Linnansaari
41
Joutseno
national park
(mooring on
Lappeenranta
island landing
54 stage)
8
Saimaan
12:00
Lunch
kanava
(Saimaa C.)
13:00
47
TUESDAY
DAY 4
Puhos
37
Pihlajavesi
Kymi
Kotka
Pyhäselkä
44
Jyväskylä
Narva
Pielisjoki
Joensuu
67
Heinävesi
Haukivesi
Varkaus
50
5
Programme, music. Group on
board between Punkaharju and
Savonlinna
Juojärvi
Savonlinna quay
(55 km)
as
ve
si
Suolahti
M
Uimaharju
Sankt
Arrive mooring onPeterburg
v
Su
nekoski
Departure
fori Savonlinna
Juankosk
Kuopio
23:30
38
93
ne
n
Nilsiä
19:30
39
Vuok
si
Vyborg
Tahko
Pielavesi
22
Nurmes
li
Pie
ökköKot
106
2
Optional programmes
37
Oravi
78
Programmes
Pyhäselkä
44
kylä
MantyMä
harju
Joensuu
67
Itinerary
Heinävesi
Haukivesi
Varkaus
Ristiina
anal
C
u
j
r
ha
Pielisjoki
Juojärvi
hti
itele
an.
16
Uimaharju
Short walk to centre of island
Open air hot fish soup lunch
Guided tour of Louhimaa archifarm museum
Vuopelago
ksi
15:30
15:45
Vyborg
Depart
Moor at tip of island
17:00
20:00
20:00
Sankt
Depart for Varkaus (Taipale)Peterb
urg
Arr Taipale Lock
Mooring downstream of lock
Dinner
Walk to viewpoint (guests may E Guided nature observation tour.
walk through to the viewpoint E Seal watching tour with small
boat
to join the main group at the
island’s northern rock mooring)
Walking tour of old canal and locks
Kajaani
Sotkamo
Iisalmi
Pielavesi
93
Tahko
Day/time
Itinerary
39
Tervo
22
Keitele
Juankoski
Luikonlahti
Kuopio
as
ve
si
Suolahti
Keitele
kan.
Joensuu
Varkaus (Taipale) - Kuopio
Pyhäselkä
44
Vaala
Jyväskylä
116
WED
DAY 567
Heinävesi
Haukivesi
Varkaus
50
5
Pielisjoki
Juojärvi
v
Su
Äänekoski
Oravi
37
30
78
Breakfast
37
Puhos
Rantasalmi
Visit Taipale Canal Museum
Kesälahti
Nuasjärvi
Depart
for Pihlajavesi
Kuopio
Engineer 33
on board gives presenSavonlinna
33
Kajaani
Mikkeli
tation on navigation, Finnish
Sotkamo
Punkaharju
waterways,
locks and lock
44
operation, timber industry,…
Puumala
63
12:00Ristiina Lunch on board
n
a a
arju C l
Moor after passage through Walk through to view the rapids
tyh 12:30
Saimaa Nurmes
än
Iisalmi
Konnus
lock74(34 km)
by-passed by Konnus lock
MantyMä
120
15:00 harju Depart from Konnus
Imatra
106
Piel
sia
Heiave
nol
93
2
18:30
Moor at Kuopio quay 41
Tahko
(44
km)
Joutseno
47
Lappeenranta
Nilsiä
ne
19:00
Dinner
Pielavesi
n
08:00
09:00
Oulujärvi
10:00
M
Pä i j ä n n e
ämsä
36
ki
Lahti
Viitasaari
Kuusankoski
Tervo
Kymi
Keitele
38
Kuopio
83
2
Varkaus
50
5
i
Vyborg
Juojärvi
as
ve
si
Suolahti
Keitele
kan.
Oravi
116
78
Rantasalmi
37
37
Sankt
Pyhäselkä
Kuopio
- Järvisydän
Peterb
urg
30
Puhos
Pä i j ä n n e
Kesälahti
Breakfast
Pihlajavesi 33
Savonlinna 33
Guided tour to ‘Korttelimuseo’
Mikkeli(Boat proceeds without
passengers to Konnus Lock, – Punkaharju
Old Kuopio Museum:
44
44 km)
Presentation of lifestyle in
Puumala
63
Ristiina
Finnish town built of wood in
n
a
a
l
C
u
rj
the 19th century
a
h
Narva
ty
74
Saimaa
än
11:00
Visit to Orthodox Church
MantyMän
120
harju
Imatra Museum. Presenting life of
Heinola
orthodox church in Finland
41
12:00
Departure
by
coach
Joutseno
47
Lappeenranta
12:30
Reembark at Konnus
lock
54
Lunch Saimaan 8
Kuusankoski
kanava
15:30
Arrival in(Saimaa
Järvisydän
(34 km)
C.)
16:30
Holiday Centre activities
Finnish
experience,
VuoSauna
ksi
swimming
Vyborg
M
08:00
09:00
36
Lahti
Kymi
ki
THUR
DAY 6
44
VuoPielisjoki
ksi
Joensuu
67
Heinävesi
Haukivesi
Jyväskylä
nki
Uimaharju
78
3
v
Su
Kotka
Äänekoski
o
Hiking, biking & nature watching
programmes
54
8
Saimaan
Juankoski
kanava Luikonlahti
(Saimaa C.)
39
22
Jämsä
Exceptional visit to lock control
cabin, rejoining ship while moored
in Taipale lock
li
Pie
Lökkö
Optional programmes
Uimaharju
78
3
83
2
38
Programmes
ne
n
Nilsiä
Pielavesi
Viitasaari
Nurmes
li
Pie
Lökkö
106
2
17
Kotka
20:00
Dinner
Wine festival in wine cellar,
live music
Overnight in natural harbour
Sankt
Peterburg
N.B. Kuopio DMO will present
comprehensive programme options
Alternative programme to be
developed for those not taking
sauna; church boat excursion
Iisalmi
Pielavesi
Lökkö
106
2
Nurmes
93
Tahko
Savonlinna Region
– Cruise Saimaa Concept – Investors’ Handbook - October 2011
Nilsiä
li
Pie
Viitasaari
39
Tervo
22
Keitele
Juankoski
Luikonlahti
Kuopio
Day/time
as
ve
si
Suolahti
Keitele
kan.
Pyhäselkä
44
Oravi
116
78
Rantasalmi
Pä i j ä n n e
Pihlajavesi
Mikkeli
Ristiina
rju Canal
a
h
07:00
ty
än
08:00
Man
Män
tyhar10:00
ju
Heinola
Puumala
37
30
Puhos
37
33
Kesälahti
FRIDAY
DAY 7
Punkaharju
Savonlinna
44
63
33
Järvisydän-Savonlinna
Departure from Järvisydän Theme day in Savonlinna
74
Saimaa
Breakfast
120
Arrive at quay inImatra
Savonlinna
(43 km) 41
Joutseno
10:30Lappeenranta
Guided walk to Olavinlinna
castle, visit to castle and
54
8
Saimaan
Riihisaari provincial museum &
kanava
(Saimaa C.)
museum ships Lappeenranta
47
hti
Kuusankoski
Optional programmes
Joensuu
67
Jyväskylä
M
Programmes
Heinävesi
Haukivesi
Varkaus
50
5
Pielisjoki
Juojärvi
Itinerary
v
Su
änekoski
Uimaharju
78
3
83
2
38
18
ne
n
Pielavesi
Kymi
Vyborg
Vuok
si
Kotka
Sankt
Peterburg
Possible to develop re-enactment
of historical events – ’role play’ –
period costumes for guides and
visitors.
Optional shopping time in
Savonlinna, market place &
boutiques, Taito Crafts Shop
Local produce market: fish foods,
handicrafts
E B1 Guided cycling programme
to the countryside with electric
bikes. Route developed in IlottulaJänhiälä area
E B2 Theme. Island hopping with
pontoon to see islands of Greater
Saimaa Lake.
E Optional programme (extra charge).
Narva
General notes
– This provisional programme is a public document and has been developed for Cruise Saimaa project.
It presupposes success by Savonlinna Travel in opening summer charter flights to Savonlinna. If
these flights could be used for bringing customers to Savonlinna, Savonlinna could be the base for
the cruise ship. From Savonlinna most destinations in the Saimaa area can be reached within 1 day,
North Karelia/Pielinen in two days.
– Itr also presupposes acceptance by the operator of the constraints of a coach transfer an alternate
Saturdays. Weeks A would start in Savonlinna, requiring only a short local coach transfer from and
back to the airport (assuming charter flights to/from Savonlinna). Weeks B would need a transfer
from Lappeenranta to Savonlinna for the outgoing guests, then back to Lappeenranta with the
incoming guests.
– All schedules based on the speed of 8 knots (15.5 km/h) for the vessel.
– Routes from Lappeenranta to Savonlinna and Savonlinna to Kuopio consist mostly of open lakes
(selkä, fjards) with less constant interest in the immediate landscape than in the narrower, winding
sections of the route. Therefore in this draft itinerary we have tried to limit continuous daytime
cruising to ca. 4 hours. Some sections will be navigated during the evening or early morning hours.
One segment will be a bus transfer while the ship makes ground; this allows time to visit Kuopio.
19
Alternative configurations
– Lappeenranta to Kuopio one-way, 7-days. Change passengers alternately in Lappeenranta and Kuopio,
allowing a full day of visits at each end. Kuopio is 4 hours by high speed train from Helsinki or 5 hours
by charter bus. Lappeenranta is 21/2 hours by train from Helsinki or 3 hours by charter bus.
– Savonlinna - Pielinen and return, 7 days. Lake Pielinen north of Joensuu in North Karelia is a beautiful
wilderness lake 94m above sea level and 18m above Lake Saimaa level. The scenery is characterised
by the hill ridge running parallel to the lake on the western side. Possible itinerary: Savonlinna 1 day,
Punkaharju 1 day, Savonlinna-Joensuu 1 day, Joensuu 1 day Joensuu-Pielinen 1 day (and 1 day back).
– Joensuu - Savonlinna and return, 7 days, using North Karelia’s chartered flights to Joensuu, which could
perhaps be used/expanded to serve cruise passengers (cf. above remarks on Savonlinna charter flights).
– Cultural programmes could be relatively easily organised in cooperation with festival organisers in July.
This would include classical music concert/dance performance every day with Finnish or foreign world
class musicians and/or dancers + 1 or 2 visit to Savonlinna Opera Festival (www.operafestival.fi).
– Very attractive Nordic wellness programmes could also be developed where the main elements are
clean nature, air, water, fitness activities, sauna and high-quality biological food, rye bread etc. Also
natural cosmetics from the northern nature, functional foods (Finland is world leader in functional foods
development) can be included. There are fitness institutes and wellness hotels who could cooperate in
developing the programme. Fitness activities would include rowing, Nordic walking, jogging in forest,
swimming (in the lake), biking, canoeing etc.
Options not accommodated in the above programme
Lappeenranta or Imatra golfing
Lappeenranta region historical/cultural theme excursion: fortresses and fortifications, and life at the Russian
border, including sightseeing in Lappeenranta
Puumala Liehtalanniemi traditional archipelago farm museum – Rokansaari recreational area
Maasteensaari welcoming evening (alternative island and beach closer to Lappeenranta)
18th century military canals in Kukonharju and Telataipale (but difficult access)
Sulkava rowing with traditional long boats
Lake Puruvesi visit
Kerimäki the largest wooden church in the world (bus transfer ca. 15 km).
Varkaus pulp and paper industry town. Industrial visit. Museum of mechanical music
Puijo observation tower
Kuopio market place, dance festival in June
Rauhalahti spa
Alatalo winery (berry wines)
Valamo and Lintula orthodox monasteries of in Heinävesi (60km bus transfer Konnuslahti to Valamo))
Heinävesi route (Kuopio-Savonlinna) – old navigation canals with early 20th c. locks
20
2. TECHNICAL FEASIBILITY
Basic information is taken from the FTA web site (removing information irrelevant to cruise ships, e.g. on
log tows).
2.1 The ship
Vessels with the following maximum dimensions are allowed to navigate in the canal without special
permission:
Length: 82.50 m
Beam: 12.60 m
Draught: 4.35 m
Mast height above water level: 24.50 m
The draught of a towed vessel may be 4.50 m.
Special permission to vessels exceeding the maximum dimensions
Vessels marginally exceeding the above-mentioned dimensions may, on application, be granted special
permission to pass through the canal, if the vessel is suitable for canal navigation in terms of construction
and properties. In addition, special permission for one passage can be granted an oversized vessel or device
carrying exceptional cargo. The permissions are granted by the Finnish Transport Agency’s Lappeenranta
Waterways Unit.
2.2 Navigation
Lake Saimaa and Saimaa Canal Information about navigation in the Saimaa Canal and
Lake Saimaa is provided by the Finnish Transport Agency’s Lappeenranta Waterways Unit. Regulations,
instructions and announcements regarding the canal and navigation in the canal are also published in the
booklet Notices to Mariners.
Cruising speed and passage time The maximum permitted speed in the canal is 9km/h for
vessels, with a draught exceeding 3.9m. A stepwise speed limit between 9 and 18 km/h is set for vessels
with less draught, depending on the vessel draught and channel dimensions. It takes about 5-8 hours to
pass through the canal section with locks (Mälkiä-Brusnitchnoe) depending on the rest of the traffic and
the vessel size.
Channel buoyage The buoyage systems in the entrance to and in the Saimaa Canal as well as in
the channels in Lake Saimaa are sufficient to ensure safe navigation for vessels 24 hours a day.
Entrances The entrances are marked with lights, light buoys and spar buoys using lateral marks
according to the international System A. Russian authorities are responsible for the buoyage in the
entrances.
Saimaa Canal In Saimaa Canal the aids to navigations are signal lights, which are orange on the
west side and green on the east side of the canal, as well as spar buoys, leading beacons, lights and radar
reflectors in accordance with the international system.
21
Channels in Lake Saimaa Buoyage used in the channels follows the combined cardinal and
lateral system in international system A.
VHF channels in the Saimaa watercourse In the Saimaa watercourse there is a VHF
radio network for water-borne traffic. VTS radio traffic, call: Saimaa VTS, VHF channel 9. All vessels
and passenger vessels with a length over 20 metres are required to maintain a listening watch on VHF
channel 9 in the Saimaa Canal area and in the Saimaa deep channel network. Vessels are required to
maintain a listening watch on VHF channels 9 and 11 in Saimaa Canal and channels 9 and 16 in the
Saimaa lake district.
Saimaa Canal remote use services at Taipale lock (Varkaus) and Konnus lock (Leppävirta), call: “Name
of lock”, VHF channel 11.
Nautical charts of the Saimaa channels In the nautical charts published for the
Saimaa channels and the Saimaa Canal there is, in addition to the necessary charts, further information which improves maritime safety. The chart folios of the inland waterways in Lake Saimaa are at
scale 1:40 000 and the scale of the Saimaa Canal charts between Vyborg and Saimaa is 1:10 000. The
canal charts are in Finnish and in English.
2.2 Ice specification in relation to navigation season
The natural open water season in southern Lake Saimaa and in the Saimaa Canal is on average 211
days. Since many of the vessels navigating in the canal and in Lake Saimaa have been surveyed for
winter traffic, the navigation season has lately been as long as 9.5-10 months; from the beginning of
April to the end of January. During the navigation season Saimaa Canal, as well as the rest of the canals
in the deep channels, are open 24 hours a day.
For the future cruise ship, Finnish ice class II or better is recommended.
2.3 Authorisations
Passage is permitted for merchant vessels of all nationalities. Merchant shipping follows normal international maritime regulations, and no other than normal documents is required from the vessels or
their crews.
The inspections when entering or leaving the country are carried out by the Russian border authorities
at the Pälli Lock in the Saimaa Canal. The corresponding inspection when entering the country is
carried out at the customs quay in Nuijamaa.
Conditions applicable to ships operated on the lakes
We have already had discussions with the Maritime Safety Agency Trafi in Helsinki regarding the
conditions applicable to river/lake cruise ships. Although a number of issues remain to be clarified, the
expectation is that solutions will be found.
Providing for a non-SOLAS inland cruising vessel built and operated to the demanding Rhine standards
is new for Finland. Moreover, the possible start of river/lake cruise operations is likely to coincide with
the possible change in regs applicable to domestic waters, because Finland finds that its classification of
its own inland waters into zones 1, 2 and 3 is not in harmony with the regulations applicable elsewhere.
22
A study has been ordered from the Meterological Institute to determine significant wave height on the
Saimaa system.
However, it is clearly expected that the maximum significant wave height will be well below the 60cm
of UNECE Zone 3 waters (all Rhine, Main and Danube are zone 3).
They expect that the result will be less than 50 cm. They are contemplating the assimilation of all inland
waters into SOLAS zone E, and then defining processes and regs for non-SOLAS ships.
The fact remains that Saimaa is not river cruising, so even if Rhine specs were to be sufficient, the actual
Rhine certificate will not be accepted. A separate certification process will be necessary in Finland. It
should be possible. The issue is not : ‘will the ship be safe?’. It is more a question of ‘by what process do
we prove that it is’.
Only ships with SOLAS specification can be allowed to operate with passengers through the canal,
although an exemption from this rule has been granted to a national operator until 2014.
It remains to determine :
a) conditions for one-way passage without passengers through the Saimaa Canal,
b) conditions for authorisation to operate on the Saimaa system, with a sister ship of the attached,
a Rhine river cruising vessel which has the Rhine certificates (EC Certificate) for Zone 2 waters.
Dimensions 80 x 9,5 x 1,4 x 6m; capacity for 100 passengers and 20 crew.
2.5 Moorings
Arrangements would be made to ensure privileged mooring positions at all towns visited in the
programme. Where investment is required to accommodate the ship at more remote and rural
locations, prospective operators may consider that there is every likelihood that these investments will
be made, in order to welcome the new tourists which would not otherwise come to these locations.
Some privileged quay moorings may not be available at all times, however, depending on the cruising
programmes of the other passenger vessels operating on the system.

Cruise Saimaa Concept

Transcription

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