Cruise Saimaa Concept

Investors’ Handbook

2011 Savonlinna Region – Cruise Saimaa Concept – Investors’ Handbook - October 2011 2

Contents

Introduction ...... 3 Part 1 - The cruises 1 .1 Map of system showing mooring locations ...... 4 1 .2 Tourist info on Saimaa region ...... 5 1 .3 Tourist information on each location ...... 7 1 .4 Activities on the lakes (fishing, swimming, sauna, wildlife observation) . . . . 10 1 .5 Unique island locations ...... 11 1 .6 Other suggestions on themed cruises ...... 12 1 .7 Low season possibilities ...... 13 1 .8 Winter possibilities ...... 13 1 .9 The northern hub - Kuopio ...... 14 1 .10 Sample Saimaa cruise itinerary : 7 days ...... 15 Part 2 - Technical feasibility 2 .1 The ship ...... 20 2 .2 Navigation ...... 20 2 .3 Ice specification ...... 21 2 .4 Authorisations ...... 21 2 .5 Moorings ...... 22

Cover photo Savonlinna, the natural hub of cruising itineraries in Saimaa Lakeland Savonlinna Region – Cruise Saimaa Concept – Investors’ Handbook - October 2011 3

Introduction

This Handbook is an initiative by the Savonlinna Region Federation of Municipalities, acting on behalf of the four regions in Eastern Finland which are united by the Lake Saimaa network of waterways . After a preliminary investigation by the well-known consultants Euromapping with the collaboration of specialist consultant Brian Kirton, formerly CEO of Kingdom Tours, the authors are convinced that the Saimaa Lakeland offers unique and practically untapped potential for innovative and inspiring river cruises . Finland could become the next ‘must-do’ destination for the growing international clientele of river cruise enthusiasts . No need to fly to China or Vietnam for a completely new and refreshing experience, made up of a blend of culture, nature and Nordic wellness .

Ready for fish soup on Linnansaari

This Investors’ Handbook has been prepared for presentation at the seminar organised by VNF in Paris on October 12-13, 2011 . It is designed to be delivered in a ring-binder for convenience, to allow the operator to insert new or updated pages, new cruise itineraries, etc, as they are co-produced with the regional players in the field of tourism, business and economic development .

Section I analyses the potential cruises, and Section II the feasibility of the operation .

The report is concluded with suggestions on the way forward for the Saimaa cruise product, in the light of the experience gained . Savonlinna Region – Cruise Saimaa Concept – Investors’ Handbook - October 2011 4

1. THE CRUISES

1.1 Saimaa and Vuoksi river basin The cruise ship operating basin is shown on the simple map below . The Finnish Transport Agency and commercial users distinguish the 4 .2 m deep system from extensions where the draught is limited to 2 .4m . Since the latter draught is more than sufficient for large cruise ships, the more important criterion is the capacity of the locks, which throughout most of the system to Iisalmi and Nurmes are minimum 82 .5 m by 12 .60 m (from Joensuu to Nurmes: 80 by 11 80. m) . This map distinguishes the genuinely ‘high-capacity’ waterways from the waterways which have small locks only (Class I) . These are the thin blue lines on the map . However, some routes shown here as thin lines, where there are no locks, would be accessible to large cruise ships . Such diversions need to be checked individually .

Map of system, showing the principal airports at Helsinki-Vaanta and Saint Petersburg Pulkovo, and the four main regional airports Vaala

Oulujärvi Nuasjärvi Kajaani Sotkamo

Nurmes Iisalmi

93 106 Pielavesi 2 Tahko P ie lin Lökkö Nilsiä en Pielavesi Viitasaari 39 Juankoski Luikonlahti Uimaharju Tervo 22 Kuopio 78 3 Pielisjoki Keitele 83 2 Juojärvi 38 S u va Joensuu sv esi 67 Äänekoski Suolahti Heinävesi Liedenpohja Keitele kan. Haukivesi Pyhäselkä Varkaus 44 50 5 Oravi 37 Virrat 30 Jyväskylä Puhos 78 37 Vilppula 116 Rantasalmi Tarjanne Kesälahti 33 Pihlajavesi 33 Savonlinna Kuru Jämsä e Punkaharju 128 n Mikkeli 2 Länkipohja n ä

j i 44

P 63 Näsijärvi Puumala 78 Ristiina Tampere ju Canal har 74 Saimaa Kangasala ty än M MManty-änty- 120 Imatra 65 46 harju 41 36 Heinola Joutseno Valkeakoski Hauho 35 47 Lappeenranta 54 Hämeenlinna 8 Lahti Saimaan Turenki kanava Kuusankoski (Saimaa C.) 0 50 100 km Vuok K si y m Vyborg i

Turku Kotka

Sankt Peterburg Helsinki

Tallinn Narva Savonlinna Region – Cruise Saimaa Concept – Investors’ Handbook - October 2011 5

The Saimaa Canal, which is the gateway to the system, offers limited dimensions, so that any ship to be operated on the system would be limited to 82m in length . Considering the opportunities for taking tourists to a great variety of remote locations in the lakes, in some cases through winding channels, there are arguments for adopting a shorter ship for the system as a whole, to give improved manœuvrability . As the map shows, the system is extensive and offers potential for a series of week-long cruises with completely different programmes . The map shows the airports which offer good conditions of access to the main ports on the system: Lappeenranta, Savonlinna, Varkaus, Kuopio and Joensuu . In addition, there is a fast Pendolino train service from Helsinki to St Petersburg which all stop at the border station of Vainikkala . This may also be used to transfer clients to and from Lappeenranta (at a distance of 30km) .

1.2 Tourist information on Saimaa region The following extracts from the Saimaa tourist brochure are useful in describing the atmosphere and unique character of the destination . This is publicity copywriting, but it conveys the messages which the future operator would naturally wish to convey in his own material, in his own style . We reproduce them here for your information, and convenience .

SAIMAA MOMENTS. When they are put into a timeline, they form a charming entity that is called YOUR VACATION ‘The moments that are extraordinary and happy are the ones you’ll remember. And cherish. The largest lake district in Finland and one of the country’s premier travel destinations, Saimaa welcomes you to share its moments.’

Photographer: Tiu Kaitala / Comma

SAIMAA MOMENTS. When they are put into a timeline, they form a charming entity that is called YOUR VACATION. The moments that are extraordinary and happy are the ones you’ll remember. And cherish. The largest lake district in Finland and one of the country’s premier travel destinations, Saimaa welcomes you to share its moments.

2 3 VisitSaimaa.com

Contents Saimaa moments 2 Lake district 4 Cottage holiday 6 Sauna 8 Nature 10 Culture 12 Flavours 14 Ice and snow 16 Facts and figures 18 Map and places of interest 20 Savonlinna Region –FACTS Cruise Saimaa Concept –AND Investors’ Handbook FIGURES - October 2011 6 VisitSaimaa.com

Accommodation Select from a wide range of high-quality accommodation, including cottages, holiday centres and city hotels. Many of the region´s manor houses and farmhouses have also been renovated for guests so that you can experience the Saimaa way of life at its best. Whether you are looking to enjoy NORWAY the peace of nature by yourself or whether you prefer the convenience of having services close at hand, the region’s pristine nature and crystal clear lakes are always nearby.

Getting around After you have reached Helsinki, you can fly conveniently SWEDEN RUSSIA to Savonlinna or take train or bus to either Mikkeli or Savonlinna. Being an ecological traveler is easy thanks to the abundance of daily bus and train connections to the region. In July, there`s a daily, yet inexpensive Savonlinna FINLAND express bus connection from Helsinki via Mikkeli (further information: Savonlinna Travel). Probably the most flex- ible way to discover the labyrinth of lakes and forests is, however, with your own or rental car. The driving culture in Finland is safe. Of course, you can also explore the region by canoe, rowing boat, motor boat or sail boat. You can also take a cruise from one city to another to enjoy the scenery and the traditional, peaceful way of travelling across the lakes.

Weather Distances Mikkeli Savonlinna Belonging to the temperate weather zone with cold winters, Helsinki 232 335 Finland has four distinctive seasons. The mean tempera- Tampere 258 360 ture during the warmest month is no lower than 10°C and Lappeenranta 109 158 the mean temperature will not rise above -3°C during the Mikkeli 100 coldest month. Typically, the highest temperatures in July Savonlinna 100 are around 30°C and the lowest in February around -30°C. St. Petersburg 306 344 Rainfall is moderate in all seasons. Being on such a high latitude means that sunlight prevails in summer – the nature is awake around the clock Mean air temperatures and the sun just dips below the horizon before rising again mean highest lowest to meet the new, exciting day. January - 8.3°C - 5.5°C - 11.5°C February - 8.3°C - 5.1°C - 11.6°C 8 : 3 7 A M 18 19 March - 3.3°C 0.3°C - 6.9°C April 2.0°C 6.2°C - 2.0°C May 9.3°C 14.7°C 3.9°C J ULY 1 1 The VisitSaimaa region can be reached easily by June 14.3°C 19.3°C 9.3°C plane, train or car July 16.3°C 21.3°C 11.6°C August 14.1°C 18.8°C 10.0°C T R A F F I C JA M Air timetables: Finncomm www.fc.fi September 8.7°C 12.6°C 5.3°C Train timetables: VR www.vr.fi October 3.5°C 6.1°C 1.1°C Bus timetables: Matkahuolto www.matkahuolto.fi November - 1.9°C 0.3°C - 4.1°C IN S ULKAVA December - 6.1°C - 3.5°C - 9.2°C Source: Mikkeli Suonsaari Travel times Longest and shortest days hours by car Mikkeli Savonlinna by train Mikkeli Savonlinna One of the biggest rowing events in the world, the Sulkava Rowing Festival attracts annually some 10,000 rowers wanting to measure Helsinki 2:43 4:18 2:38 4:27 June 21: 19 hours 30 minutes their strength against a 60-kilometre route around the island of Partalansaari. The labyrinth of Saimaa is easily explored by canoe, Mikkeli 1:39 December 21: 5 hours 16 minutes sail boat, motor boat or even bike. Savonlinna Region – Cruise Saimaa Concept – Investors’ Handbook - October 2011 7

Photographer: Ingrid Schindler VisitSaimaa.com

8 : 5 7 A M SEPTEMBER 2 6 7 ART & DESIGN VILLAS, ANTTOLA

The VisitSaimaa region offers more than 43,000 cottages that are frequently used by 172,000 visitors. Many of the cottages are cottages are situated by the lakeside, and they all come with a sauna – and usually a rowing boat too. designed for year-round use. The cottages range from simple hideaways to unique design villas with all the modern conveniences you To appreciate Finnish culture and the way of life here, you should really experience the charm of a cottage holiday. Thewould ever wishVisit for. Whatever Saimaa your wishes may be,region you can rest assured offers that just the rightmore cottage will thanbe waiting for 43,000you. All the cottagesAfter all, thatif you ask a areFinn what frequently he is going to do on vacation, usedhe will answer: by “I’m going172,000 to my cottage, of course!”visitors . Many of the cottages are designed for year-round use . The cottages range from simple hideaways to unique design villas with all the modern conveniences you would ever wish for . Whatever your wishes may be, you can rest assured that just the right cottage will be waiting for you . All the cottages are situated by the lakeside, and they all come with a sauna – and usually a rowing boat too . To appreciate Finnish culture and the way of life here, you should really experience the charm of a cottage holiday . After all, if you ask a Finn what he is going to do on vacation, he will answer: ‘I’m going to my cottage, of course!’

1.3 Key features of the region (at all locations)

1.3.1 Saunas

There are over two million saunas in Finland, and there’s certainly no shortage of them along the Saimaa shores . In fact, it would be hard to imagine a cottage without a sauna . Or a hotel without one . For Finns, the sauna is a place for physical and mental relaxation: throw some water on the stove and treat yourself to a good whipping with a “vasta”, a bunch of fresh birch branches . Afterwards cool down either by sitting on the porch or by taking a dip in the lake – when it’s frozen, just cut out a hole! Seasoned sauna enthusiasts repeat this ritual many times . The sauna is an integral part of the Finnish identity, so in order to say that you’ve really been to Finland, you’ll have to take a sauna . The most traditional version is a smoke sauna without a chimney, but you can enjoy a unique sauna experience just as well in an electrically heated sauna . Savonlinna Region – Cruise Saimaa Concept – Investors’ Handbook - October 2011 8

Photography: Saimaa Holiday

8 : 3 3 P M J u l y 1 S a u n a 8 2 ° C

8 9 VisitSaimaa.com

There are over two million saunas in Finland, and there’s certainly no shortage of them along the Saimaa shores. In fact, it would be enthusiasts repeat this ritual many times. The sauna is an integral part of the Finnish identity, so in order to say that you’ve really hard to imagine a cottage without a sauna. Or a hotel without one. For Finns, the sauna is a place for physical and mental relaxa- been to Finland, you’ll have to take a sauna. The most traditional version is a smoke sauna without a chimney, but you can enjoy a tion: throw some water on the stove and treat yourself to a good whipping with a “vasta”, a bunch of fresh birch branches. After- unique sauna experience just as well in an electrically heated sauna. wards cool down either by sitting on the porch or by taking a dip in the lake – when it’s frozen, just cut out a hole! Seasoned sauna 1.3.2 Gastronomy

The region boasts a rich food culture . Naturally, fish is a key ingredient, and it is served in many ways: baked, grilled, fried, smoked and even raw . An absolute must is vendace (known locally as ‘muikku’), a small but delicious whitefish . Try for example ‘paistetut muikut’, fried vendace served with mashed potatoes . Here, the Nordic influences of Finnish cuisine are combined with Russian flavours . The tastes are simple yet rich, and there’s always a lot of bread, root vegetables, meat and fish on offer . Whatever the season, freshness is always an integral part of the region’s culinary culture . The flavours of the forest are also to be savoured: arctic berries and mushrooms can be picked throughout the late summer and autumn . Naturally, they are at their best when fresh, but they can be given a new lease of life conserved, or even as a wine .

Photographer: Elina Enho VisitSaimaa.com

1 : 4 4 P M AU G U S T 9 ENJOYING T H E F L AVO U R S 14 15 O F S A I M A A

The VisitSaimaa region boasts a rich food culture. Naturally, fish is a key ingredient, and it is served in many ways: baked, grilled, yet rich, and there’s always a lot of bread, root vegetables, meat and fish on offer. Whatever the season, freshness is always an integral part fried, smoked and even raw. An absolute must is vendace (known locally as “muikku”), a small but delicious whitefish. Try for example of the region’s culinary culture. ”paistetut muikut”, fried vendace served with mashed potatoes. The flavours of the forest are also to be savoured: arctic berries and mushrooms can be picked throughout the late summer and In the VisitSaimaa region, the Nordic influences of Finnish cuisine are combined with Russian flavours. The tastes are simple autumn. Naturally, they are at their best when fresh, but they can be given a new lease of life conserved, or even as a wine. Savonlinna Region – Cruise Saimaa Concept – Investors’ Handbook - October 2011 9

1.3.3 The lakes and their unique environment

Photographer: Kari Palsila / Comma VisitSaimaa.com

4 : 1 1 P M J U LY 2 7 4 5 YO U R V E RY OW N S P OT IN THE SAIMAA LAKELAND

During the warm summer days, kids easily spend more time in the lake than on solid ground. Who can blame them? With such pure 25% of the total 80% of the 4,782 km2 7,000 lakes, 5,000 km of area is pure, clean land area is covered by countless streams and water, the lake is the place to be. And if you happen to visit Saimaa in winter, you can still go for a swim even if it’s a bit chilly… water forest water ponds rivers DuringYou can experience Saimaa the in countless warm ways, for example summer by fishing, sailing, days,cruising, rowing, kids canoeing, diving, easily hiking, cycling, spend berry more time in the lake than on solid ground. Who canpicking, skiing, blame ice skating, relaxing them? in a hot sauna Withor just enjoying suchyour cottage. pure water, the lake is the place to be.The VisitSaimaaAnd if region you has the happen highest concentration to ofvisit forests and Saimaa lakes in Finland. in winter, you can still go for a swim even if it’s a bit chilly… You can experience Saimaa in countless ways, for example by fishing, sailing, cruising, rowing, canoeing, diving, hiking, cycling, berry picking, skiing, ice skating, relaxing in a hot sauna or just enjoying your cottage.

– 25% of the total area is pure, clean water – 80% of the land area is forest – 4782 km2 covered by water – 7000 lakes, countless ponds – 5000 km of streams and rivers

With 13 000 islands, the region has a total shoreline almost 30 000 kilometres long – even longer than the shoreline of France . There’s a secret cove for everyone, and if you are very quiet and very very lucky, you might catch a glimpse of a hydrodynamic yet friendly-looking head with whiskers . It belongs to one of the most endangered seal species in the world – the Saimaa Ringed Seal, which was separated from the ringed seal population when the land rose after the last Ice Age . Most of the population of just 260 seals lives in the Kolovesi and Linnansaari national parks . Another exciting national park in the area, Repovesi, presents hikers with abundant wildlife, rugged back-woods and dozens of lakes . Savonlinna Region – Cruise Saimaa Concept – Investors’ Handbook - October 2011 10

Photographer: Jorma Jämsen / Comma

4 : 3 7 A M J U N E 1 3 SECRET COVE

10 11 VisitSaimaa.com

With 13,000 islands, the VisitSaimaa region has a total shoreline almost 30,000 kilometres long – even longer than the shoreline Ringed Seal, which was separated from the ringedNature seal population observation: when the land rose after the the lastSaimaa ice age. Most ringed of the popula seal- of France. There’s a secret cove for everyone, and if you are very quiet and very very lucky, you might catch a glimpse of a hydro- tion of just 260 seals lives in the Kolovesi and Linnansaari national parks. Another exciting national park in the area, Repovesi, dynamic yet friendly looking head with whiskers. It belongs to one of the most endangered seal species in the world – the Saimaa presents hikers with abundant wildlife, rugged back-woods and dozens of lakes. 1.4 The region’s hub: Savonlinna Founded in 1639 around the medieval Olavinlinna Castle, Savonlinna was once a border town between Sweden and Russia . The castle still stands tall on a small island in Kyrönsalmi strait – you can take a cruise on an old steamer to admire the castle from the water or you can view the interior of the castle while attending the world-famous opera festival . Afterwards you can enjoy the inimitable small town atmosphere in the picturesque market place . Photographer: Jouko Kuosmanen / Kuvaliiteri

10:23 PM J U N E 2 2 S U N S E T I N T H E SAVONLINNA HARBOUR

12 13 VisitSaimaa.com

Founded in 1639 around the medieval Olavinlinna Castle, Savonlinna was once a border town between Sweden and Russia. The castle important centre throughout the history of Finland. For example, Marshal Mannerheim and his Mikkeli Savonlinna still stands tall on a small island in Kyrönsalmi strait – you can take a cruise on an old steamer to admire the castle from the water or you staff were headqurtered there during the Second World War. 49,000 28,000 can view the interior of the castle while attending the world-famous opera festival. Afterwards you can enjoy the inimitable small town There’s room for everyone in the VisitSaimaa region: even though the area is almost as inhabitants inhabitants atmosphere in the picturesque market place. Another of the region’s vibrant centres, Mikkeli was a meeting point for Vikings and trappers for big as Belgium, there are only 12 inhabitants per square kilometre. Half of the region’s 160,000 more than 6,000 years and today the market place in Mikkeli is a popular meeting point for locals and visitors alike. Mikkeli has been an inhabitants live in urban areas, the other half in the countryside. Savonlinna Region – Cruise Saimaa Concept – Investors’ Handbook - October 2011 11

There’s room for everyone in the region: even though the area is almost as big as Belgium, there are only 12 inhabitants per square kilometre . Half of the region’s 160 000 inhabitants live in urban areas, the other half in the countryside .

1.5 Activities on the lakes (fishing, swimming, forest walks, wildlife observation

1.5.1 Enjoying navigation on the lakes

One of the unique attractions of the Saimaa cruise will be that the navigation itself, despite the size of the ship, will be an adventure, with a constantly changing landscape and countless features to see in the foreground, in the middle distance or on the horizon . Taking to the water in a church boat, for example at Järvisydän, would enhance the quality of the lakeland experience, while establishing a direct link to the region’s cultural heritage .

1.5.2 Unique island locations

Exploration of unique island locations will typically form part of the cruise experience . There are sites where the cruise ship could moor for the night (or part of the day) despite the size of the ship, giving passengers the ‘little island’ experience . For example, this would be feasible in the Linnansaari National Park .

Even a large cruise ship could moor here directly in the forest, with a couple of timber box stays suspended on the rocks from a few sturdy trees, allowing passengers to disem- bark and walk to the unique viewpoint at the northern tip of Linnansaari. Nowhere else in the world (except perhaps in China) could passengers enjoy, from the ship, such total immersion in unspoilt nature.

The course followed from Oravi to Järvisydän via Linnansaari Savonlinna Region – Cruise Saimaa Concept – Investors’ Handbook - October 2011 12

1.6 Suggestions on themed cruises The themes are derived naturally from the quality and the characteristics of the region . The return to nature, forest walks, discovering creeks and bays in church boats or canoes, discovering the healthy foods, starting with the fish from the lakes and the berries from the forest . The arts, music, opera, architecture, design and a relaxed urban lifestyle; there is an extremely varied pallet from which operators will be free to assemble programmes to suit the tastes of all client groups . FACTS AND FIGURES VisitSaimaa.com

Weather Distances Mikkeli Savonlinna Belonging to the temperate weather zone with cold winters, Helsinki 232 335 Finland has four distinctive seasons. The mean tempera- Tampere 258 360 ture during the warmest month is no lower than 10°C and Lappeenranta 109 158 the mean temperature will not rise above -3°C during the Mikkeli 100 coldest month. Typically, the highest temperatures in July Savonlinna 100 are around 30°C and the lowest in February around -30°C. St. Petersburg 306 344 Rainfall is moderate in all seasons. Being on such a high latitude means that sunlight prevails in summer – the nature is awake around the clock Mean air temperatures and the sun just dips below the horizon before rising again mean highest lowest to meet the new, exciting day. January - 8.3°C - 5.5°C - 11.5°C February - 8.3°C - 5.1°C - 11.6°C 8 : 3 7 A M 18 19 March - 3.3°C 0.3°C - 6.9°C April 2.0°C 6.2°C - 2.0°C May 9.3°C 14.7°C 3.9°C J ULY 1 1 The VisitSaimaa region can be reached easily by June 14.3°C 19.3°C 9.3°C plane, train or car July 16.3°C 21.3°C 11.6°C August 14.1°C 18.8°C 10.0°C T R A F F I C JA M Air timetables: Finncomm www.fc.fi September 8.7°C 12.6°C 5.3°C Train timetables: VR www.vr.fi October 3.5°C 6.1°C 1.1°C Bus timetables: Matkahuolto www.matkahuolto.fi November - 1.9°C 0.3°C - 4.1°C IN S ULKAVA December - 6.1°C - 3.5°C - 9.2°C Source: Mikkeli Suonsaari Travel times Longest and shortest days hours by car Mikkeli Savonlinna by train Mikkeli Savonlinna OneOne of the of biggest the rowing biggest events in rowing the world, theevents Sulkava Rowingin the Festival world, attracts the annually Sulkava some 10,000 Rowing rowers wanting Festival to measure Helsinki 2:43 4:18 2:38 4:27 June 21: 19 hours 30 minutes theirattracts strength against annually a 60-kilometre some route around 10 000 the island rowers of Partalansaari. wanting The labyrinth to measure of Saimaa is their easily explored strength by canoe, Mikkeli 1:39 December 21: 5 hours 16 minutes sailagainst boat, motor a boat60-kilometre or even bike. route around the island of Partalansaari. The labyrinth of Saimaa is easily explored by canoe, sail boat, motor boat or even bike. Savonlinna Region – Cruise Saimaa Concept – Investors’ Handbook - October 2011 13

1.7 Low season possibilities Low season cruises could focus more on urban tourism and visits to galleries, museums and other built heritage . Dawn and dusk will also be moments to savour, with fascinating changes in landscape, especially while the ship is under way . Dawn and dusk moments on the deck will offer landscapes of great charm .

1.8 Winter possibilities After examination of the charts and local conditions, it appears that a large cruise ship could be moored in ice-free flowing waters in the old channel at Oravi in the Linnansaari National Park . Subject to providing sufficient comfort on board in extreme cold conditions, this would be an ideal base for winter holidays and long-distance skating . The ship could potentially be chartered to other cities for the winter season for specific events, if technically feasible . The Savonlinna shipyard in the western channel is also ice-free and was envisaged, but appears to be a little too remote (too far from town centre), and the immediate environment is too industrial to make it a choice location for low-season and winter accommodation .

Photography: Saimaa Holiday

1 1 : 0 5 A M FEBRUARY 28 TOUR SKATING I N L INNANSAARI N ATIONAL PARK

16 17 VisitSaimaa.com

The ever-changing face of Saimaa freezes when the frost comes, inviting you to explore its shores. Linnansaari National Park boasts season spans from mid-January to the end of March. But if skating is not your thing, you can also enjoy the stunning scenery on cross- The50 kilometres ever-changing of well-tended tour skating routes over the iceface – but a number of of Saimaashorter routes are also withinfreezes your reach, for example when in the frostcountry skis or comes,with snowshoes. Ice fishinginviting is another great wayyou to experience to the frozenexplore lakes. Simply drill itsa small shores.hole in the ice, sit on Punkaharju, Kerimäki, Mikkeli and Mäntyharju. The thickness of the ice on the track is normally 20-80 centimetres and the skating your stool and catch your own fish for your day’s meal. Linnansaari National Park boasts 50 kilometres of well-tended tour skating routes over the ice – but a number of shorter routes are also within your reach, for example in Punkaharju, Kerimäki, Mikkeli and Mäntyharju. The thickness of the ice on the track is normally 20-80 centimetres and the skating season spans from mid-January to the end of March. But if skating is not your thing, you can also enjoy the stunning scenery on cross-country skis or with snowshoes. Ice fishing is another great way to experience the frozen lakes. Simply drill a small hole in the ice, sit on your stool and catch your own fish for your day’s meal. Savonlinna Region – Cruise Saimaa Concept – Investors’ Handbook - October 2011 14

The ship could moor in the old channel at Oravi, accessed either the north via a 2 .40m deep channel, although this approach (see simple chart below) winds between a long series of stakes barely 7-8m apart . It may be preferable to squeeze through the equally narrow entrance channel from the main lake, gently pushing aside the stakes .

1.9 - The northern hub - Kuopio Vaala

Oulujärvi Nuasjärvi Kajaani Sotkamo

Iisalmi Nurmes

Pielavesi 106 2 93 SavonlinnaTahko Region – Cruise Saimaa Concept – Investors’ Handbook - October 2011 15 Lökkö P ie Nilsiä lin Pielavesi en Viitasaari 39 Juankoski 22 Tervo Luikonlahti Kuopio Uimaharju Keitele 78 83 3 Pielisjoki 38 2 1.10 Sample SaimaaJuojärvi cruise itinerary, 7 days S u va Äänekoski sv Suolahti es Joensuu Liedenpohja i 67 Keitele kan. Option A Heinävesi- Lappeenranta-Kuopio-Savonlinna Haukivesi 50 Varkaus Virrat 5 44 Pyhäselkä Jyväskylä Day/time OraviItinerary37 Programmes Optional programmes 30 Vilppula 116 Tarjanne 78 37 Puhos Rantasalmi Kuru Kesälahti 128 Jämsä Pihlajavesi 2 Länkipohja e 33 Savonlinna 33 n Vaala n Mikkeli ä

j Näsijärvi i Punkaharju ä Tampere 78 P 44 OulujärviRistiina Puumala 63 Kangasala anal arju C Nuasjärvi tyh Kajaani 65 än 74 Saimaa 46 M Sotkamo MManty-änty- 120 SATURDAY Valkeakoski harju Imatra 36 Heinola DAY 1 35 Hauho 41 Hämeenlinna Joutseno 47 Lappeenranta Lappeenranta - Ruuhonsaaret island Turenki Lahti Iisalmi 54 Nurmes Kuusankoski Saimaan 8 kanava (Saimaa C.) 106 Pielavesi K 93 2 y m 12:00 Charter flight arrives V Coach transfer to Lappeenranta Walking tour in Lappeenranta, Tahko uoks i i Turku Lökkö P SavonlinnaVyborg airportie old fort, museum Nilsiä lin KotkaPielavesi en Viitasaari 16:30 Embark Lappeenranta Introduction programme 39 harbourJuankoski 22 Tervo Luikonlahti Kuopio20:00 UimaharjuDinner on board Keitele Helsinki 78 21:0083 Arrival Ruuhonsaaret Island3 SanktPielisjoki Get-together evening in lake E ‘Church’ boats for excursion 38 2 Peterburg (50 km)Juojärvi nature with music programmes round the island and access to the S u va shore, fires on the beach Äänekoski sv Suolahti es Joensuu Liedenpohja i 67 Keitele kan. Heinävesi Haukivesi 50 Varkaus Virrat 5 44 Pyhäselkä Jyväskylä Oravi 37 30 TallinnVilppula 116 Tarjanne 78 37 Puhos Narva Rantasalmi Kuru Kesälahti 128 Jämsä Pihlajavesi 2 Länkipohja e 33 Savonlinna 33 n n Mikkeli ä

j Näsijärvi i Punkaharju ä Tampere 78 P 44 SUNDAY Ristiina Puumala 63 DAY 2 Kangasala anal arju C tyh 65 än 74 Saimaa 46 M Ruuhonsaaret Island - Punkaharju MManty-änty- 120 Valkeakoski harju Imatra 36 Heinola 35 Hauho 41 Hämeenlinna Joutseno 47 Lappeenranta Lahti 07:00 Depart from island mooring Turenki 54 Kuusankoski 08:00 SaimaanBreakfast8 on board Viewing Puumala strait, the Possibility of stop at Puumala for kanava (Saimaa C.) ‘Gibraltar of Saimaa’ service in old wooden church ;

m V uoks alternative walking tour or visit to i i Turku Vyborg bridge-top panoramic café Kotka 10:00 Introduction to Lake Saimaa area, lecture/multimedia presentation Helsinki 12:00 Lunch on board Sankt Peterburg 15:30 Arrival Punkaharju, Visit to Retretti Art Centre Tuunaansaari (103 km) 17:30 Interpretation: Pihlajavesi lake archipelago, way of life in the archipelago, summer houses,… 19:00 Dinner Local music group (folk/classical) Tallinn 20:30 Free evening E Optional sauna evening in the Narva holiday centre Vaala

Oulujärvi Nuasjärvi Kajaani Sotkamo

Iisalmi Nurmes

Pielavesi 106 2 93 Tahko Lökkö P ie Nilsiä lin Pielavesi en Viitasaari 39 Juankoski 22 Tervo Savonlinna RegionLuikonlahti – Cruise Saimaa Concept – Investors’ Handbook - October 2011 16 Kuopio Uimaharju Keitele 78 83 3 Pielisjoki 38 2 Juojärvi S u va Äänekoski sv Suolahti es Joensuu Liedenpohja Day/timei Itinerary67 Programmes Optional programmes Keitele kan. Heinävesi Haukivesi 50 Varkaus Virrat 5 44 Pyhäselkä Jyväskylä Oravi 37 30 Vilppula 116 Tarjanne 78 37 Puhos Rantasalmi Kuru Kesälahti 128 Jämsä Pihlajavesi 2 Länkipohja e 33 Savonlinna 33 MONDAY n n Mikkeli ä DAY 3 j Näsijärvi i Punkaharju ä

P Vaala Tampere 78 44 Ristiina Puumala 63 Punkaharju - Savonlinna Kangasala ju Canal har ty Oulujärvi 65 än 74 Saimaa 46 M 08:00 BreakfastNuasjärvi MManty-änty- 120 Kajaani Valkeakoski harju 09:00 Imatra Visit to Lusto Forest museum E Watersports opportunities: 36 Heinola Sotkamo 35 Hauho 41 swimming, diving, snorkling, Hämeenlinna Joutseno fishing 47 Lappeenranta Lahti 12:30 Lunch on board Turenki 54 Kuusankoski 14:00Saimaan 8 Fitness programme: Nordic Alternative afternoon programme: kanavaIisalmi Nurmes (Saimaa C.) walking/hiking/biking with demonstration of drag netting K guide, picnic dinner in nature y

m V Pielavesi 106 uoks 93 Turku i 2 i 18:30 Tahko Vyborg Fresh fish dinner. Finnish Other activities at Tuunaansaari Lökkö P Kotka ie summer evening at lakeshore, holiday village; socialising Nilsiä lin Pielavesi en local food Viitasaari 39 19:30 DepartureJuankoski for Savonlinna Programme, music. Group on 22 Tervo Luikonlahti board between Punkaharju and Kuopio Uimaharju Helsinki Keitele Savonlinna Sankt 78 23:30 83 Arrive mooring on Peterburg 3 Pielisjoki 38 2 Savonlinna quayJuojärvi (55 km) S u va Äänekoski sv Suolahti es Joensuu Liedenpohja i 67 Keitele kan. Heinävesi Haukivesi 50 Varkaus Virrat 5 44 Pyhäselkä Jyväskylä Oravi 37 30 Vilppula 116 Tallinn Tarjanne 78 TUESDAY 37 Puhos Narva Rantasalmi DAY 4 Kuru Kesälahti 128 Jämsä Pihlajavesi 2 Länkipohja e 33 Savonlinna 33 Savonlinna - Linnansaari - Varkaus (Taipale) n n Mikkeli ä

j Näsijärvi i Punkaharju ä Tampere 78 P 44 Ristiina Puumala 63 Kangasala anal arju C tyh 08:00 Breakfast Savonlinna market place and lively 65 än 74 Saimaa 46 M Saimaa passenger harbour MManty-änty- 120 Valkeakoski harju09:00 Depart for LinnansaariImatra 36 Heinola 35 Hauho 11:30 Arrival in Linnansaari41 Short walk to centre of island Hämeenlinna Joutseno 47 Lappeenrantanational park (mooring on Lahti Turenki island landing54 stage) Kuusankoski 12:00 LunchSaimaan 8 Open air hot fish soup lunch kanava 13:00 (Saimaa C.) Guided tour of Louhimaa archi- K

m V uopelagoks farm museum i i Turku 15:30 Depart Vyborg Kotka 15:45 Moor at tip of island Walk to viewpoint (guests may E Guided nature observation tour. walk through to the viewpoint E Seal watching tour with small to join the main group at the boat island’s northern rock mooring) Helsinki Sankt 17:00 Depart for Varkaus (Taipale) Peterburg 20:00 Arr Taipale Lock Mooring downstream of lock Walking tour of old canal and locks 20:00 Dinner

Tallinn Narva Vaala

Oulujärvi Nuasjärvi Kajaani Sotkamo

Savonlinna Region – Cruise Saimaa Concept – Investors’ Handbook - October 2011 17

Iisalmi Nurmes

Pielavesi 106 2 93 Tahko Lökkö P Day/time Itinerary ie Programmes Optional programmes Nilsiä lin Pielavesi en Viitasaari 39 Juankoski 22 Tervo Luikonlahti Kuopio Uimaharju Keitele 78 83 3 Pielisjoki 38 2 Juojärvi S u va Äänekoski sv Suolahti es WED Joensuu Liedenpohja i DAY 567 Keitele kan. Heinävesi Haukivesi Varkaus (Taipale) - Kuopio 50 Varkaus Virrat 5 44 Pyhäselkä Jyväskylä Vaala Oravi 37 30 Vilppula 116 Tarjanne 78 08:00 Breakfast 37 Puhos Rantasalmi Kuru 09:00 Visit Taipale Canal Museum Oulujärvi Kesälahti 128 Jämsä PihlajavesiNuasjärvi 2 Länkipohja e 10:00 DepartKajaani for Kuopio 33 SavonlinnaEngineer 33on board gives presen- Exceptional visit to lock control n n Mikkeli Sotkamo tation on navigation, Finnish cabin, rejoining ship while moored ä

j Näsijärvi i Punkaharju ä waterways, locks and lock in Taipale lock Tampere 78 P 44 operation, timber industry,… Puumala 63 12:00Ristiina Lunch on board Kangasala anal arju C tyh 12:30 Moor after passage through Walk through to view the rapids Hiking, biking & nature watching 65 än Iisalmi 74 Saimaa Nurmes 46 M Konnus lock (34 km) by-passed by Konnus lock programmes MManty-änty- 120 Valkeakoski 15:00 harju Depart from Konnus Imatra 36 PielavesiHeinola 106 Hauho 18:30 2 Moor at Kuopio quay 93 35 Tahko 41 Hämeenlinna Lökkö 47 (44 km) JoutsenoP Lappeenranta ie Nilsiä lin Lahti 19:00Pielavesi Dinner en Turenki Viitasaari 54 39 8 Kuusankoski SaimaanJuankoski 22 Tervo kanava (Saimaa C.)Luikonlahti Kuopio Uimaharju K

Keitele y m V 78 uoPielisjokiks i 83 3 i Turku 38 2 JuojärviVyborg S Kotka u va Äänekoski sv Suolahti es Joensuu Liedenpohja i 67 Keitele THUR kan. Heinävesi Haukivesi DAY 6 50 Varkaus Virrat Helsinki 5 44 PyhäselkäSankt Kuopio Peterburg - Järvisydän Jyväskylä Oravi 37 30 Vilppula 116 Tarjanne 78 37 Puhos Rantasalmi Kuru 08:00 Breakfast Kesälahti 128 Jämsä Pihlajavesi 2 Länkipohja e 33 Savonlinna 33 n 09:00 (Boat proceeds without Guided tour to ‘Korttelimuseo’ n Mikkeli ä

j Näsijärvi i passengers to Konnus Lock, – PunkaharjuOld Kuopio Museum: ä Tampere 78 P 44 km) 44 Presentation of lifestyle in Ristiina Puumala 63 Tallinn Finnish town built of wood in Kangasala anal arju C the 19th century tyh Narva 65 än 74 Saimaa 46 M 11:00 Visit to Orthodox Church N.B. Kuopio DMO will present MManty-änty- 120 Valkeakoski harju Imatra Museum. Presenting life of comprehensive programme options 36 Heinola orthodox church in Finland 35 Hauho 41 Hämeenlinna 12:00 Departure by coachJoutseno 47 Lappeenranta Lahti 12:30 Reembark at Konnus lock Turenki 54 Kuusankoski Lunch Saimaan 8 kanava 15:30 Arrival in(Saimaa Järvisydän C.) (34 km)

16:30 m Holiday Centre activities FinnishV Sauna experience, Alternative programme to be uoks i i Turku Vyborg swimming developed for those not taking Kotka sauna; church boat excursion 20:00 Dinner Wine festival in wine cellar, live music Overnight in natural harbour Helsinki Sankt Peterburg

Tallinn Narva Vaala

Oulujärvi Nuasjärvi Kajaani Sotkamo

Iisalmi Nurmes

Pielavesi 106 2 93 Tahko Lökkö P Savonlinna Region – Cruise Saimaaie Concept – Investors’ Handbook Nilsiä lin - October 2011 18 Pielavesi en Viitasaari 39 Juankoski 22 Tervo Luikonlahti Kuopio Uimaharju Keitele 78 83 3 Pielisjoki 38 2 Day/time ItineraryJuojärvi Programmes Optional programmes S u va Äänekoski sv Suolahti es Joensuu Liedenpohja i 67 Keitele kan. Heinävesi Haukivesi 50 Varkaus Virrat 5 44 Pyhäselkä Jyväskylä Oravi 37 30 Vilppula 116 Tarjanne 78 37 Puhos Rantasalmi Kuru Kesälahti 128 Jämsä Pihlajavesi 2 Länkipohja e 33 Savonlinna 33 FRIDAY n n Mikkeli ä j DAY 7 Näsijärvi i Punkaharju ä Tampere 78 P 44 Järvisydän-Savonlinna Ristiina Puumala 63 Kangasala anal arju C tyh 07:00 Departure from Järvisydän Theme day in Savonlinna 65 än 74 Saimaa 46 M 08:00 Breakfast MManty-änty- 120 Valkeakoski harju Imatra 36 Heinola 10:00 Arrive at quay in Savonlinna 35 Hauho (43 km) 41 Hämeenlinna Joutseno 47 10:30Lappeenranta Guided walk to Olavinlinna Possible to develop re-enactment Lahti Turenki 54 castle, visit to castle and of historical events – ’role play’ – Kuusankoski Saimaan 8 Riihisaari provincial museum & period costumes for guides and kanava (Saimaa C.) museum ships Lappeenranta visitors.

m V uoks Turku i i Optional shopping time in Vyborg Savonlinna, market place & Kotka boutiques, Taito Crafts Shop Local produce market: fish foods, handicrafts Helsinki Sankt E B1 Guided cycling programme Peterburg to the countryside with electric bikes. Route developed in Ilottula- Jänhiälä area E B2 Theme. Island hopping with pontoon to see islands of Greater Saimaa Lake. E Optional programme (extra charge). Tallinn Narva General notes – This provisional programme is a public document and has been developed for Cruise Saimaa project . It presupposes success by Savonlinna Travel in opening summer charter flights to Savonlinna . If these flights could be used for bringing customers to Savonlinna, Savonlinna could be the base for the cruise ship . From Savonlinna most destinations in the Saimaa area can be reached within 1 day, North Karelia/Pielinen in two days . – Itr also presupposes acceptance by the operator of the constraints of a coach transfer an alternate Saturdays . Weeks A would start in Savonlinna, requiring only a short local coach transfer from and back to the airport (assuming charter flights to/from Savonlinna) . Weeks B would need a transfer from Lappeenranta to Savonlinna for the outgoing guests, then back to Lappeenranta with the incoming guests . – All schedules based on the speed of 8 knots (15 .5 km/h) for the vessel . – Routes from Lappeenranta to Savonlinna and Savonlinna to Kuopio consist mostly of open lakes (selkä, fjards) with less constant interest in the immediate landscape than in the narrower, winding sections of the route . Therefore in this draft itinerary we have tried to limit continuous daytime cruising to ca . 4 hours . Some sections will be navigated during the evening or early morning hours . One segment will be a bus transfer while the ship makes ground; this allows time to visit Kuopio . Savonlinna Region – Cruise Saimaa Concept – Investors’ Handbook - October 2011 19

Alternative configurations

– Lappeenranta to Kuopio one-way, 7-days . Change passengers alternately in Lappeenranta and Kuopio, allowing a full day of visits at each end . Kuopio is 4 hours by high speed train from Helsinki or 5 hours by charter bus . Lappeenranta is 21/2 hours by train from Helsinki or 3 hours by charter bus . – Savonlinna - Pielinen and return, 7 days . Lake Pielinen north of Joensuu in North Karelia is a beautiful wilderness lake 94m above sea level and 18m above Lake Saimaa level . The scenery is characterised by the hill ridge running parallel to the lake on the western side . Possible itinerary: Savonlinna 1 day, Punkaharju 1 day, Savonlinna-Joensuu 1 day, Joensuu 1 day Joensuu-Pielinen 1 day (and 1 day back) . – Joensuu - Savonlinna and return, 7 days, using North Karelia’s chartered flights to Joensuu, which could perhaps be used/expanded to serve cruise passengers (cf . above remarks on Savonlinna charter flights) . – Cultural programmes could be relatively easily organised in cooperation with festival organisers in July . This would include classical music concert/dance performance every day with Finnish or foreign world class musicians and/or dancers + 1 or 2 visit to Savonlinna Opera Festival (www.operafestival.fi) . – Very attractive Nordic wellness programmes could also be developed where the main elements are clean nature, air, water, fitness activities, sauna and high-quality biological food, rye bread etc . Also natural cosmetics from the northern nature, functional foods (Finland is world leader in functional foods development) can be included . There are fitness institutes and wellness hotels who could cooperate in developing the programme . Fitness activities would include rowing, Nordic walking, jogging in forest, swimming (in the lake), biking, canoeing etc .

Options not accommodated in the above programme

Lappeenranta or Imatra golfing Lappeenranta region historical/cultural theme excursion: fortresses and fortifications, and life at the Russian border, including sightseeing in Lappeenranta Puumala Liehtalanniemi traditional archipelago farm museum – Rokansaari recreational area Maasteensaari welcoming evening (alternative island and beach closer to Lappeenranta) 18th century military canals in Kukonharju and Telataipale (but difficult access) Sulkava rowing with traditional long boats Lake Puruvesi visit Kerimäki the largest wooden church in the world (bus transfer ca. 15 km). Varkaus pulp and paper industry town. Industrial visit. Museum of mechanical music Puijo observation tower Kuopio market place, dance festival in June Rauhalahti spa Alatalo winery (berry wines) Valamo and Lintula orthodox monasteries of in Heinävesi (60km bus transfer Konnuslahti to Valamo)) Heinävesi route (Kuopio-Savonlinna) – old navigation canals with early 20th c. locks Savonlinna Region – Cruise Saimaa Concept – Investors’ Handbook - October 2011 20

2. TECHNICAL FEASIBILITY

Basic information is taken from the FTA web site (removing information irrelevant to cruise ships, e .g . on log tows) . 2.1 The ship Vessels with the following maximum dimensions are allowed to navigate in the canal without special permission: Length: 82 .50 m Beam: 12 .60 m Draught: 4 .35 m Mast height above water level: 24 50. m The draught of a towed vessel may be 4 .50 m .

Special permission to vessels exceeding the maximum dimensions

Vessels marginally exceeding the above-mentioned dimensions may, on application, be granted special permission to pass through the canal, if the vessel is suitable for canal navigation in terms of construction and properties . In addition, special permission for one passage can be granted an oversized vessel or device carrying exceptional cargo . The permissions are granted by the Finnish Transport Agency’s Lappeenranta Waterways Unit .

2.2 Navigation

Lake Saimaa and Saimaa Canal Information about navigation in the Saimaa Canal and Lake Saimaa is provided by the Finnish Transport Agency’s Lappeenranta Waterways Unit . Regulations, instructions and announcements regarding the canal and navigation in the canal are also published in the booklet Notices to Mariners .

Cruising speed and passage time The maximum permitted speed in the canal is 9km/h for vessels, with a draught exceeding 3 .9m . A stepwise speed limit between 9 and 18 km/h is set for vessels with less draught, depending on the vessel draught and channel dimensions . It takes about 5-8 hours to pass through the canal section with locks (Mälkiä-Brusnitchnoe) depending on the rest of the traffic and the vessel size .

Channel buoyage The buoyage systems in the entrance to and in the Saimaa Canal as well as in the channels in Lake Saimaa are sufficient to ensure safe navigation for vessels 24 hours a day .

Entrances The entrances are marked with lights, light buoys and spar buoys using lateral marks according to the international System A . Russian authorities are responsible for the buoyage in the entrances .

Saimaa Canal In Saimaa Canal the aids to navigations are signal lights, which are orange on the west side and green on the east side of the canal, as well as spar buoys, leading beacons, lights and radar reflectors in accordance with the international system . Savonlinna Region – Cruise Saimaa Concept – Investors’ Handbook - October 2011 21

Channels in Lake Saimaa Buoyage used in the channels follows the combined cardinal and lateral system in international system A .

VHF channels in the Saimaa watercourse In the Saimaa watercourse there is a VHF radio network for water-borne traffic . VTS radio traffic, call: Saimaa VTS, VHF channel 9 . All vessels and passenger vessels with a length over 20 metres are required to maintain a listening watch on VHF channel 9 in the Saimaa Canal area and in the Saimaa deep channel network . Vessels are required to maintain a listening watch on VHF channels 9 and 11 in Saimaa Canal and channels 9 and 16 in the Saimaa lake district . Saimaa Canal remote use services at Taipale lock (Varkaus) and Konnus lock (Leppävirta), call: “Name of lock”, VHF channel 11 .

Nautical charts of the Saimaa channels In the nautical charts published for the Saimaa channels and the Saimaa Canal there is, in addition to the necessary charts, further information which improves maritime safety . The chart folios of the inland waterways in Lake Saimaa are at scale 1:40 000 and the scale of the Saimaa Canal charts between Vyborg and Saimaa is 1:10 000 . The canal charts are in Finnish and in English .

2.2 Ice specification in relation to navigation season The natural open water season in southern Lake Saimaa and in the Saimaa Canal is on average 211 days . Since many of the vessels navigating in the canal and in Lake Saimaa have been surveyed for winter traffic, the navigation season has lately been as long as 9 .5-10 months; from the beginning of April to the end of January . During the navigation season Saimaa Canal, as well as the rest of the canals in the deep channels, are open 24 hours a day . For the future cruise ship, Finnish ice class II or better is recommended .

2.3 Authorisations Passage is permitted for merchant vessels of all nationalities . Merchant shipping follows normal international maritime regulations, and no other than normal documents is required from the vessels or their crews . The inspections when entering or leaving the country are carried out by the Russian border authorities at the Pälli Lock in the Saimaa Canal . The corresponding inspection when entering the country is carried out at the customs quay in Nuijamaa .

Conditions applicable to ships operated on the lakes

We have already had discussions with the Maritime Safety Agency Trafi in Helsinki regarding the conditions applicable to river/lake cruise ships . Although a number of issues remain to be clarified, the expectation is that solutions will be found . Providing for a non-SOLAS inland cruising vessel built and operated to the demanding Rhine standards is new for Finland . Moreover, the possible start of river/lake cruise operations is likely to coincide with the possible change in regs applicable to domestic waters, because Finland finds that its classification of its own inland waters into zones 1, 2 and 3 is not in harmony with the regulations applicable elsewhere . Savonlinna Region – Cruise Saimaa Concept – Investors’ Handbook - October 2011 22

A study has been ordered from the Meterological Institute to determine significant wave height on the Saimaa system . However, it is clearly expected that the maximum significant wave height will be well below the 60cm of UNECE Zone 3 waters (all Rhine, Main and Danube are zone 3) . They expect that the result will be less than 50 cm . They are contemplating the assimilation of all inland waters into SOLAS zone E, and then defining processes and regs for non-SOLAS ships .

The fact remains that Saimaa is not river cruising, so even if Rhine specs were to be sufficient, the actual Rhine certificate will not be accepted . A separate certification process will be necessary in Finland . It should be possible . The issue is not : ‘will the ship be safe?’ . It is more a question of ‘by what process do we prove that it is’ .

Only ships with SOLAS specification can be allowed to operate with passengers through the canal, although an exemption from this rule has been granted to a national operator until 2014 . It remains to determine : a) conditions for one-way passage without passengers through the Saimaa Canal, b) conditions for authorisation to operate on the Saimaa system, with a sister ship of the attached, a Rhine river cruising vessel which has the Rhine certificates (EC Certificate) for Zone 2 waters . Dimensions 80 x 9,5 x 1,4 x 6m; capacity for 100 passengers and 20 crew .

2.5 Moorings Arrangements would be made to ensure privileged mooring positions at all towns visited in the programme . Where investment is required to accommodate the ship at more remote and rural locations, prospective operators may consider that there is every likelihood that these investments will be made, in order to welcome the new tourists which would not otherwise come to these locations . Some privileged quay moorings may not be available at all times, however, depending on the cruising programmes of the other passenger vessels operating on the system .