New automatic ferry secures emergency access to Savonlinna’s Kongonsaari

A new 35-ton automatic ferry, capable of carrying six cars at once, will begin operating before Midsummer on Kongonsaari island in Savonlinna, more than doubling the capacity of the old vessel and ensuring emergency vehicles can reach the island, reports Finnish broadcaster Yle.

The electric-powered ferry replaces a manually operated model and will improve safety for the island’s three permanent residents and over 30 seasonal cottage owners. Ari Levänen, a member of the local forest road association, stated that fire trucks, ambulances, waste collection, timber lorries, and gravel transports—previously moved by tractor—can now cross reliably. “A few fires have occurred, but fortunately none were serious,” he noted, adding that rescue services previously reached the island only by boat.

The ferry, developed by Saarijärvi-based Neilos, operates via a coded system accessible to users aged 15 or older, with authentication handled through online banking credentials. Janne Rutanen, the company’s managing director, described the project as a half-decade endeavor delayed by the pandemic, legal changes, and his previous firm’s bankruptcy in 2025. Despite setbacks, Neilos continues operations, with solar-powered ferry projects elsewhere in Finland’s archipelago.

Kongonsaari’s ferry is owned by Kongonsaaren Lossi Oy and leased by the forest road association under a 10-year agreement costing roughly €70,000 annually, plus electricity and fuel expenses. Levänen noted state subsidies previously covered 80–85% of operational costs, with Savonlinna municipality funding the remainder. The automatic ferry’s expenses are about one-third those of a crewed vessel.

Nationwide, Finland has 21 private road ferries or cable ferries, seven of them in Savonlinna. The city’s business services director, Juha Turtiainen, emphasized their role in sustaining island life and traditional livelihoods. State subsidies for private road maintenance—including ferry operations—totaled €5.5 million this year, down €1.3 million from 2025, with €3 million allocated specifically for ferries and cable ferries. The national Liikenne 12 transport plan mandates at least 80% state funding for private ferry costs.

Savonlinna will host a private road ferry seminar on May 27 to discuss funding challenges and legislative changes.