Utö by boat – a lighthouse island at the edge of the open sea

Utö has had pilots and lighthouse keepers since the 16th century and permanent settlement since the mid-18th century. The first lighthouse was built in 1753, and the current 27-metre lighthouse was completed in 1814. It is Finland's oldest lighthouse still in operation, and it has a small church inside. Throughout its history the island has been important for both seafaring and defence: there was a fortress on the island, and conscript training ended in 2005. The fortress's former barracks have since been turned into a hotel.

Utö's fortress, lighthouse and pilot community together form a nationally significant built cultural environment. The island is one of the few outer archipelago islands inhabited all year round, with a few dozen permanent residents. The rugged rocky nature, the open sea views and the island's birdlife make Utö a completely different destination from the islands of the inner archipelago.

Off Utö there is also a well-known wreck: the steamship S/S Park Victory sank in 1947 while carrying coal from Virginia to Turku, and ten sailors died in the accident. The wreck lies at a depth of 27–36 metres and is a popular dive site.

The trip suits an experienced skipper who is used to long journeys on more open waters, and a group who want to spend the whole day on the crossing and the island's history. Only go when the forecast promises light winds for the whole day, and allow plenty of time for the return.

Utö is also an interesting destination for birdwatchers, as many different species can be seen on the island during the migration seasons. With your own boat you can reach Utö on a day trip, whereas by ferry the journey from Pärnäinen in Nauvo takes about four and a half hours each way.

The Hannas Horisont café operates in the fortress's former office building and serves homemade savoury and sweet café treats. The same building has a small souvenir shop with sea-themed textiles, books and cards.

Utö Havshotel, Finland's southernmost seaside hotel, operates in the fortress's former barracks. The hotel has a restaurant and saunas, and in summer the beach restaurant Meriklaari is also open.

The grocery shop Utö Handel is open all year round and also serves as the island's post office.

Hannas Horisont organises lighthouse tours, which cover the lighthouse, the island's history and present day, and stories of shipwrecks. Tours are held daily in summer and mostly on Saturdays in winter, and they can be given in Finnish, Swedish or English. You can also explore the chapel, the cemetery and the island's nature on your own.

Parts of the island are Finnish Defence Forces areas where access is prohibited, so follow the signs. Do not disturb nesting birds, and avoid the shores during the nesting season.

There is no fuel on Utö. Refuel along the route, for example at the Seapoint station in Nauvo guest harbour or the Seapoint station in Korpoström. The Buster Magnum runs on 98E5.

Opening hours of services and tours as well as jetty fees may change, so check the latest information before you set off.

Utö also works as a place to stay overnight: you can stay at Utö Havshotel, and Hannas Horisont rents out accommodation in the village. The journey to Utö is long, so staying the night gives you time to explore the island and return the next day.

When you rent the Buster Magnum from us for several days or even a week, you can stay the night and continue your trip the next day. Book accommodation directly with the provider.