Vip Cruise plans to sell steamships and cease operations in Savonlinna

A surprising development has emerged regarding the steamship operations in Savonlinna. Local company Vip Cruise announced late yesterday that it plans to sell its steamships after the current summer season and cease cruise activities in Savonlinna. The company operates four steamships built in the early 20th century, which have provided city and scenic cruises.

However, Markku Kankaala, chairman of the company’s board and owner of 45 percent of the parent company LP Management, stated that the announcement made by CEO Janne Leinonen is incorrect. Kankaala learned about the announcement through media channels rather than through direct communication with Leinonen. The statement released on Monday night cited tourism realities and shifting market conditions as reasons for seeking new owners for the vessels, but Kankaala expressed confidence that operations will continue next summer.

On the other hand, Leinonen indicated that the decision to sell has been considered for a long time, and discussions regarding the transfer of the Paul Wahl ship for private cruises to Tammisaari began last winter. Kankaala confirmed that one or two ships are intended to be moved to Tammisaari, but plans are on hold until they can be transported through the Saimaa Canal to the Baltic Sea.

In July, two of the steamships were briefly out of service due to technical issues, but they continued operations despite the restrictions. The police launched an investigation into this matter. Meanwhile, Leinonen mentioned interest from foreign buyers in Sweden, although it remains unclear whether they will continue operations in Finland or export the ships abroad. Additionally, LP Management is collaborating with Meriankkuri, owned by the Kankaala family, to develop future strategies. For now, Vip Cruise will maintain full operations in Savonlinna at least until the end of the summer season.