The Coastal Route and Bengtskär lighthouse
The Coastal Route in south-west of Finland is a great way to experience the archipelago, whether you travel by bike or on foot. You can visit Bengtskär lighthouse when you travel from Kemiönsaari to Hanko.
Bengtskär is the tallest lighthouse in Scandinavia, and its massive stone walls have witnessed some of the most dramatic events in Finland’s history. On climbing the tower and reaching the top, you’re awarded with a stunning view of the sea. You can explore the lighthouse keeper’s life in bygone days, the battle of Bengtskär and for example archipelago nature at the exhibitions on the lower floors.
Guiding and cafe
The lighthouse is easy to get acquainted with on your own, but we recommend also taking part in the free introduction during your visit. Bengtskär's brief guiding of the lighthouse's history is held - weather permitting - outdoors.
Bengtskär lighthouse's cosy cafe is open during the visit. You can enjoy coffee specially roasted for Bengtskär, and with it a good sweet bun baked in the lighthouse, or a fresh jelly donut delivered from the bakery in Rosala.
Briefly
Boat trip duration about 50 minutes
Departure at 12.50
Departure port Rosala village harbor, Kimitoön
Weather reservation, strong wind and/or rough waves can cause changes in timetable, travel times, or prevent landing on Bengtskär altogether. We reserve right to all changes
The price includes one way boat trip Rosala-Bengtskär and entrance fee
Good to know
The cafe in Bengtskär accepts Visa, Master and EuroCard, Visa Electron and cash. The lighthouse's cafe prepares meals only for groups that have ordered in advance, so we recommend having lunch already before the trip.
The departure harbour is located very near Rosala Viking Centre on the beautiful island of Rosala. The island can be reached by free-of-charge ferry from Kasnäs in about 30 minutes. The departure pier for Bengtskär's boat is about 5 km from Rosala island’s ferry harbour. Please check the ferry schedule before booking a trip to Bengtskär. The boats cannot wait for passangers, and being late for a boat does not entitle to a refund.
Another option is to arrive by taxi boat. Taxi boats can dock at the same harbour from which the boats to Bengtskär depart.
We recommend arriving at the pier in Rosala village harbour 15 minutes before departure.
Trips to Bengtskär are always weather dependent. The weather at sea can cause changes to the timetable and itinerary. Heavy seas caused by strong wind can prevent landing on the island. We try to inform our guests about cancellation in advance, but sometimes this is not possible as the weather may not always be consistent with forecasts. If we cancel the trip, you will get a refund.
Boats can be fully booked, so we warmly recommend making a reservation. The places for bicycles must be booked in advance.
You can reserve your return journey to Hanko for same day from Marine Lines, email myynti@marinelines.fi. Also the boat to Hanko has limited capacity.
Please, read also terms before making a reservation.
Sometimes asked
Clothing. We recommend clothing according to weather, and comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain. It can be windy and humid at sea, but just as well warm and very sunny. The weather can change quickly.
Equipment. Consider bringing sunscreen, and perhaps even a flashlight for exploring the bunker in Bengtskär. Don't forget your camera, if you wish to take photos!
Boats. The boats are water-bus type and covered, and don't have a café aboard. Some boats have a toilet, others don't.
Wind limit for landing on Bengtskär. Depending on wind and wave direction around 10 m/s wind and/or 1.5 m significant wave height on Northern Baltic Proper. The limits on the more open route to Hanko can differ. Forecasts: for example fmi.fi, yr.no.
Timetable
12.50 Rosala-Bengtskär, ca 50 min
Bengtskär, independent touring of the island, lighthouse and exhibitions, cafe open
The reservation entitles you to travel only on the booked time. The weather may cause changes to the timetable.