Central Europeans are rediscovering the Kvarken-region

Wasaline cruises through frozen waters captivate winter travelers from Germany

What was once seen merely as a means of crossing the Kvarken Strait is now becoming a sought-after travel experience: the Wasaline ferry between Vaasa (Finland) and Umeå (Sweden) is gaining popularity—especially among German tourists. The highlight: sailing through the icy waters of the Gulf of Bothnia in the heart of winter.

Coolcation instead of heatwaves

Finland has long been a summer destination for German travelers. But recently, more are discovering the charm of the colder months—not only in Lapland but also in lesser-known coastal regions. The global “coolcation” trend, where travelers seek out cooler destinations as a reprieve from southern heatwaves, is playing a major role. – “This shift is also reflected in the growing number of international guests during winter,” says Niina Jansson, Head of Sales & Business Development at Wasaline.

Winter becomes the main attraction

Where themed cruises once defined the winter season, winter itself is now the experience. Visitors are captivated by the sight and sound of ice forming around the vessel and breaking beneath it. The thicker the ice, the greater the fascination. With the Aurora Botnia—a vessel with an ice class of 1A Super—Wasaline can operate the Vaasa–Umeå route all year long, even in heavy ice. It’s the northernmost year-round passenger ferry route in the world.

Group travelers receive insights on board into the region’s unique geological features, such as post-glacial land uplift, which helped earn the Kvarken Archipelago UNESCO World Heritage status. German guests have also praised the regional specialties served in the Archipelago Buffet. The Vaasa region benefits from a shared focus on sustainability and increasing international visibility. Finland’s status as the happiest country in the world further enhances its appeal. – “Many visitors want to discover the secret behind our sense of well-being,” says Jansson.

Boosting off-season tourism

Group tours bring valuable business during the quieter months. Guests typically stay two nights in Vaasa, supporting local hotels and restaurants. According to Jansson, the region's growing popularity is not just due to a global preference for cooler climates. It’s also the result of years of strategic collaboration with Visit Finland, Visit Vaasa, and the Bothnian Coastal Route project.

Rising interest proves that the Kvarken region is solidifying its place as a year-round destination with a unique winter appeal.

More on the Kvarken region and Wasaline.

Header: © Wasaline Christoffer Bjorklund