Originally built in Hamburg, Germany, the ship was named 'Laeisz' and served as a nitrate carrier before being purchased by the Finnish government in 1930.
The ship sailed around the world in 1933–1934 during its time as a school ship for the Finnish Navy.
During the Second World War, the vessel served as a stationary depot ship for the Finnish Navy.
The name 'Suomen Joutsen' translates to 'The Swan of Finland'.
It is the only remaining large full-rigged ship in Finland.
The ship was permanently moored in the Aura River in 1961 to serve as a school for the merchant navy before becoming a museum.
Suomen Joutsen is a steel-hulled full-rigged sailing ship permanently docked in the Aura River at Turku's Forum Marinum Maritime Centre. Originally launched in 1902 as the Laeisz-line freighter Laeisz, it later served as a Finnish Navy sail training ship and a floating merchant marine school. The vessel features a distinctive three-masted rig and remains the most iconic landmark of the Finnish maritime heritage. It underwent extensive restoration to preserve its original structure, including its teak decks and rigging components. Today, it functions as a museum ship showcasing the life of sailors during the early 20th century. Visitors can explore the interior decks and officer quarters which have been maintained to reflect historical authenticity. The ship is an integral part of the Forum Marinum museum complex, which connects local maritime history with the regional development of the harbor. Its location on the riverbank places it at the center of Turku's historic maritime district.
From the opposite bank of the Aura River to capture the entire silhouette of the three masts against the sky.
Explore the lower decks to see the narrow bunks and original crew quarters.
Check the Forum Marinum main building first to ensure you have access to the ship's current interior exhibitions.
Walk the entire length of the deck to appreciate the complexity of the 1902 rigging.
Attempting to climb or touch the original ropes and rigging lines to prevent damage to historical artifacts.
Open primarily during the summer season; closed during winter months.
Wear flat, non-slip footwear as the decks can be uneven; be prepared for narrow staircases.
