Discussions intensify over steamship sales in Savonlinna as owner seeks international buyers

In July, discussions surrounding steamships have intensified, as they may depart from Savonlinna for the last time after summer. Owner Janne Leinonen announced last week that he is seeking new buyers for the historical vessels, ideally from abroad. The steamships will continue to operate cruises until the end of the summer season.

The cessation of steamship cruises would be a significant blow for Savonlinna, which promotes itself internationally as the “Steamship Capital of Europe.” The cruise company, Vip Cruise, has recently posted listings on its website for the steamships inspected by the commercial vessel registry. The prices for two of the vessels have also been disclosed. Vip Cruise is asking for €325,000 for the steamship Saaristo, which was built in 1911 and has recently passed inspection. The vessel’s previous operating license expired on July 28.

Ownership of the steamship Punkaharju is changing hands for €225,000. Punkaharju, which can carry 75 passengers, has origins dating back to 1905. Both Saaristo and Punkaharju are currently involved in an ongoing police investigation, having been operated in early July despite Traficom’s ban on the vessels.

Vip Cruise also owns two other steamships: the tugboat Rauha and a privately designed cruise ship, Paul Wahl, which are not currently up for sale. Plans are in place to transfer Paul Wahl to Tammisaari once navigational conditions through the Saimaa Canal permit.

Leinonen, who also leads Vip Cruise’s parent company LP Management, indicated differing opinions within the board regarding the vessels’ futures. While board chairman Markku Kankaala believes the ships will continue to cruise in Savonlinna next year, discussions are set to take place in the fall.