Memorable boat trips in Saaremaa

Trips

Pappissaare harbor - Panga cliff on Vilsandi - Jaagarahu harbor

Boat trip to Vilsandi

Journey behind the shallows to the base of the Vilsandi lighthouse

Atla harbor and village

Boat trip to see the seals at the shipwreck

Amore II crystal trips - special package

Small boat Amore II

Our ship was born from the craftsmanship of the masters at Nasva Boat Building Ltd. The company was founded in 2014, and its leader and boat builders have nearly half a century of maritime experience. It took one autumn-winter to build Amore II, and it was launched in the spring of 2017. The Oju Ship Association is the vessel’s 2nd owner.

Ship captains:

Peeter Metsik (certificate number)

Aivar Kallas (certificate number 020799)

Amore II technical specifications:

Brand: historical

Type: motorboat

Construction category: C

Length (LH) m: 9.30

Width (BH) m: 3.30

Draft, m: 1.00

Hull primary material: wood

Carrying capacity, kg: 1200

Authorized to organize leisure trips with up to 12 people on board.

The ship is equipped with modern navigation devices, modern control technology, and radio communication. For the pleasure of the passengers, there is a refrigerator (soft drinks and snacks at the expense of the ship), a toilet, and a sink, and life jackets of all necessary sizes are available. Tired sailors can enjoy restful sleep in the captain’s cabin.

For travelers, it should be noted that the length and duration of all trips should be taken as approximations. Adjustments are made by the weather, the size of the travel group, and additional services. SAILING SETS YOU FREE!

Papissaare Harbor – Panga Cliff on Vilsandi - Jaagarahu Harbor

First, we sail around Mootorirahu towards Papissaare Harbor. For centuries, both small and large ships were built there. Unfortunately, shipbuilding ceased before World War II. The hangars visible today, however, date from the early last century when the Russian Tsar’s army initially planned to establish a submarine base in Papissaare, which was abandoned due to shallow waters, later deciding in favor of a reconnaissance aircraft base. Hence, we have these semi-ruined facilities. The harbor’s hydraulic structures and parking area belong to AS Saarte Liinid and are in very good condition.

Having seen the harbor buildings from the sea, we set course towards the northeasternmost tip of Vilsandi Island. A miniature cliff coast with a natural docking spot allows boats to land and sailors to step ashore dry-footed. We admire this place from our ship, knowing that this cliff has the most beautiful sunsets, in the glow of the setting sun, we can see the autumn-colored coast of Saaremaa.

We turn the ship’s bow west and “almost dock” at Jaagarahu Harbor. Built about 100 years ago for the export of local limestone, the harbor is now unusable, having been destroyed in the storm of 1969. Limestone quarried from a quarry a few kilometers from the harbor was burned for lime and exported abroad, including the stone itself due to its high calcite content. World War II ended the quarry operations, and a fuel terminal was established in the harbor for Saaremaa’s two military airfields, Sõmera and Koguva. In the 1960s, it was used as a fishing harbor. A few hundred meters from the harbor quay lies the motor schooner Oskar at the bottom of the sea. The ship was built in Papissaare, launched in 1937, and sank in 1941 due to a hit from a German aircraft. The harbor’s sad history is compounded by the deportation of Saaremaa’s residents to Siberia in 1941 and 1949. We cover about 10 nautical miles or 20 km at sea, taking at least an hour and a half for the trip.

Boat trip map

Sea Voyage to Vilsandi

Today’s explorer doesn’t open a wise book when planning a trip, but rather types the destination into a phone or computer. And they find plenty of material on Vilsandi, although the facts presented can sometimes be misleading. However, we can’t be fooled by the emotions that overwhelm us on the sea journey and during a walk on Vilsandi. Enjoy the summer scents of the sun-burnt limestone, the curious eyes of Estonian breed horses peeking through the junipers, and as you approach the western shore, the silhouette of the lighthouse that appears out of nowhere! On the island, you can rent bicycles, drink coffee in the lighthouse, and buy Vilsandi souvenirs. Naturally, you’ll meet wonderful people along your hike, whether they are familiar or strangers, famous or less known. You’ll surely receive a “hello” from them. Here are some numbers: The sea journey from Abaja to Vilsandi takes 1.30 hours, covering 7 nmi or 13 km.

Boat trip map

Journey Behind the Shoals to the Vilsandi Lighthouse

The history of the first Vilsandi lighthouse dates back to the 19th century when a basket raised by a winch containing burning wood or coal was used to signal light. In 1809, a stone lighthouse was completed, which is open to visitors today. Interestingly, to differentiate it from the Kõpu lighthouse, another, wooden lighthouse was built on the shore, but due to amortization, it was demolished in 1842. In its place, there was an attempt to construct a stone tower, but it collapsed during construction, and the work was abandoned. Thus, the stories of lighthouses on Vilsandi are complex and fascinating. Facts: the light is visible up to 25 km, 165 steps lead up to the balcony, and the light’s height above ground is 42 m.

The conservation movement in Estonia began on the Vaika islands in 1910, largely led by Artur Toom. Bird species there attracted visitors from both near and far, including, reportedly, President Päts. The archipelago is about 5 hectares in size and is located west of Vilsandi, consisting of six small islands. On this trip, we won’t set foot on land and will enjoy the islands and the lighthouse from a bit of a distance. The round trip is 21 nmi or 40 km, lasting from 3 hours onwards.

Boat trip map

Atla Harbor and Village

A harbor with a long history, which was almost completely closed to local residents during the Russian occupation, was reopened in 2013 after reconstruction. The harbor manager, Atla Sadam MTÜ, organizes outdoor concerts in the summer with the best Estonian performers. We have enjoyed performances by Ivo Linna, Marko Matvere, and other musicians who cherish maritime culture. You can travel to the concerts or simply to explore the harbor and village either by land or by our Amore from Abaja Harbor. Naturally, we will bring you back if you wish. The trip to Atla is 16 nmi or 30 km, taking about 2.30 hours. The return trip is the same length. Approximately.

Boat trip map

Boat Trip to Watch Seals at the Shipwreck

The Laevarahu nature reserve in Vilsandi National Park is a fantastic spot for observing magnificent marine animals, gray seals. The calmer the sea, the greater the chance of spotting these creatures with dog-like heads and thick fish bodies. The latter half of summer is the best time. Male gray seals can be up to 3 meters long and weigh nearly 300 kg, while females are slightly smaller (2 meters, 250 kg). There are over 2,000 animals living in Estonian waters, mainly feeding on fish, but they can also eat invertebrates and plants when they are very hungry. They are excellent divers, reaching depths of up to 100 meters. If you wish, you can swim around a bit with them, but the water there is always quite cold! Laevarahu and Innarahu are the best places for seals to give birth, which they do in February-March. Seal milk is very high in fat and protein. On our trip, we will also see the famous Harilaid lighthouse, built in 1933, which now, due to the continuous change of the coastline, is located in the sea. This is also a fascinating sight. The round trip length is 22 nmi or 40 km.

Boat trip map

Amore II Crystal Trips - Special Package

Those with ideas and joyful thoughts can plan their own sea voyage. Just wait for nice weather, ensure there’s ample time, and gather a good company. Naturally, one can also embark on the journey alone, but regardless of the weather, there should indeed be more than just a little time available.

Abaja

The harbor is located in the safe cove of Abaja bay, 1.5 km away from the village, within the Kihelkonna bay. It is believed that a harbor has existed in this area since the 12th-13th centuries. The harbor has played a significant role in shaping the life and economy of Saaremaa, especially in fostering trade relations with Europe. The construction of the Kihelkonna church in the 13th century is closely linked with the old harbor, which was initially used as a harbor barn. Unfortunately, it is not known where the harbor was located; land uplift has changed the coastline beyond recognition, and thus the modern harbor has been built in a canal designed decades ago for irrigating fields. The harbor has 12 berths, and the fairway is marked. Safe entry during daylight hours. Amenities include a grill, swings, and a sandbox for children, a DC, nearby sandy beach, and a swimming spot.

EXPERIENCED SEA WOLVES

Captains Aivar and Peeter

Captain Aivar

I have never been a seaman by profession. I never dreamed of big iron ships and sailing them. In an iron ship, the sea stays far from you. I like the smell of tar oil and the softness of wood. A real steering wheel and an authentic compass. By education, I am a physical education teacher, connected to sports all my life.

Seafaring with small boats and ships is also somewhat like a sport – whether I can handle it or not. With a small Kasse 430, I have sailed around Saaremaa and Hiiumaa, Vilsandi, and Kesselaid. I’ve roamed the Finnish waters and beyond on the Hiiumaa schooners Lisette and HiiuIngel, and reached Bornholm on the Finnish galleass Ihana. These are my sailing experiences. I suppose there’s no need to mention local fishing trips.

I’ve also built a few wooden boats, either by myself or as a helping hand, and in the winters, I do maintenance work on motorboats and yachts. In addition to the opportunity to welcome you aboard Amore II, you are cordially invited to Sülla farm, where the sailor hostess, a warm sauna, and friendly horses await you.

Make Your Trip Even More Special

BASE FEE FOR SAILING 80€ / hour, plus additional services upon request:

Birthdays

It’s probably rare for someone to have celebrated their birthday on a small boat, and likewise for those who have been invited to such a celebration. This gives you a chance to make this important day special for both yourself and your friends. You can bring your own food and drinks or order them from us. The base price for the trip is 80 euros per hour, with food and drinks agreed upon separately.

Weddings

We offer you the opportunity to get married on Amore II (you’ll need to bring your own notary, pastor, best man, bridesmaid, and any other necessities, such as the bride and groom, of course). If the sea is calm, we can make a longer trip; if it’s rough, we’ll keep it shorter. The ship will be decorated for the occasion, and if desired, we can provide appropriate music for the ceremonial moment. The basic fee for the trip is 80 euros per hour.

Children's Birthdays

On this festive day, we welcome the birthday child aboard along with their best friends. All guests will definitely have a chance to steer the boat, listen to a little lesson on maritime safety, and hear some amusing sea stories from the captain. The boat can accommodate 9 little sailors along with at least two parents. After the trip, the birthday table can be set up in the marina’s picnic area. Price by agreement.

Photography

Taking photos has become incredibly easy these days – everyone has a phone in their pocket, and there’s no shortage of beautiful moments and views on a trip. However, if you have specific requests, whether it’s nature photography or capturing moments with your models, let us know. We can plan the trip according to the photographer’s wishes.

Snacks and Drinks

The ship offers you non-alcoholic soft drinks and something pleasing for the children to snack on. Seasickness can be prevented with a slice of lemon or ginger drink. If the sea voyage is longer, we recommend packing your own favorite picnic basket. Red berries and red wine are not recommended.

Fishing

If you have a spinning rod, skills, and a strong will, you might even catch a fish. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee this throughout the season, but we do guarantee a maritime experience. A suitable number of spinning anglers on board would be up to four, with more space for onlookers and moral supporters

Romance Package

The most beautiful moments can be experienced in the latter part of summer, enjoying the sunset. The golden sphere of the sun dips into the sea between Vilsandi and Harilaid in just a few minutes. It’s a wonderfully colorful spectacle that must be seen! You take care of the good company and food and drinks yourselves or order them from us. If you’re still wary of the sea, you can simply sit on the boat by the quay and enjoy champagne in the company of the captain (we’ll agree on purchasing the wine).

Ask for availability

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Additional info

Broneeritud

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80€ tund

Feedback from travelers

Oma reisi Amore II-ga ei unusta ma kunagi! Meri, päike ja meeldiv seltskond tegid sellest päevast tõeliselt erilise. Kapten ja meeskond olid suurepärased, muutes meie merereisi Saaremaale meeldejäävaks. Kindlasti soovitan Ojukristalli laevareise kõigile, kes otsivad unustamatuid elamusi!

Võtsime ette reisi Vilsandi tuletorni alla ja see oli lihtsalt võrratu! Merelt avanevad vaated olid hingematvad ja tuletorni külastus lisas reisile ajaloolist sügavust. Amore II peal on kõik mõeldud mugavuse ja naudingute jaoks – alates maitsvatest suupistetest kuni sõbraliku meeskonnani. Ojukristall pakkus meile tõeliselt kvaliteetset teenust.

Hülgeid vaatamas käimine Amore II-ga oli üks mu elu eredamaid kogemusi! Me nägime hülgeid oma loomulikus keskkonnas ja see oli lihtsalt imeline. Laev on mugav ja meeskond teeb kõik, et tunneksid end teretulnuna. Suurepärane viis nautida Eesti looduse ilu! Ojukristalli reisid on midagi, mida soovitan südamest.