Experience the Suursoudut, Finland's premier long-distance rowing event, where the quiet waters and rugged shorelines outside Loviisa test your endurance and connection with nature. Spanning approximately 60 kilometers through the intricate Finnish archipelago, this event challenges every participant with a raw encounter against shifting currents and wind-pressed waves. The route snakes between islands and skerries, each bend inviting both reflection and a focus on paddling technique, as the water seemingly dares you forward, relentless and alive.

Preparation is key. Expect variable weather: sun, wind, and sudden cold spell the experience differently. A well-fitted rowing boat adapted for long distances and layered clothing tailored for moisture and wind resistance form the backbone of your gear. Hydration systems within easy reach are essential; the exertion, coupled with the Finnish air, pulls moisture faster than you imagine. Footwear should offer grip but also comfort for hours inside the boat—waterproof yet breathable.

The thrill intensifies as you row past steep granite shores and through narrow channels where the current seems to push harder, inviting not just physical strength but tactical awareness. Along the way, the environment is fiercely itself: cormorants dive with precise intent, while the pine trees lining the coast sway and signal changes in wind. Silence and sound mingle—the splash of oars, the calls of distant birds, the water breaking rhythmically against the hull.

This is not a race against nature but an engagement; the water respects no shortcuts, rewards steady effort, and punishes complacency. Each stroke is a dialogue with the elements, the endurance of your body, and the vibrant wilderness around you. For those prepared, Suursoudut offers more than a challenge—it brings a deep, practical adventure where mental focus meets the unpredictable beauty of the Finnish archipelago.

Loviisa itself provides an ideal base—a town where tradition and maritime culture pulse in unison. Local inns and guesthouses offer warmth and rest post-rowing, essential for recovery and reflection. Beyond the event, exploring Loviisa’s harbor and coastal paths rounds out the experience with practical access to Finnish coastal life and hospitality.

Whether you're an experienced rower or adventurous beginner, Suursoudut invites you to measure yourself against currents that do not yield and nature that rewards respect. This journey requires planning, strength, and adaptability—but delivers unparalleled insight into the rhythm and reach of Finnish outdoor adventure.