Port of Helsinki

Helsinki’s central harbours combine passenger ferry travel with the movement of lorries and trailers across the Baltic. West Harbour, South Harbour and Katajanokka place shipping activity close to the city, with different terminals serving the passenger and vehicle flows.

Freight carried aboard these ferries uses roll-on/roll-off handling, allowing road vehicles and trailers to move between the ship and shore on ramps. The same crossings can therefore support both personal travel and commercial deliveries, with freight forming part of the central waterfront’s everyday activity.

The wider port system also includes Vuosaari, a separate cargo harbour farther east with container and other freight facilities. This division distinguishes the city-centre ferry terminals from the more extensive cargo handling areas elsewhere along the coast.