Water Responsibility, Seal-Friendly Travel & Outdoor Ethics

Clean water and a diverse lake nature are essential to us. We hope that all those who travel on the water or live along the shores respect nature and act responsibly.

We’ve created a Responsible Paddler’s Guide to promote sustainable water-based adventures. In addition, Metsähallitus (Parks & Wildlife Finland) has published a concise Outdoor Etiquette, which includes important guidelines on respecting nature, moving in protected areas, camping, making fires, and leaving no trace.

Read the Responsible Paddler’s Guide and Outdoor Etiquette below.

Our seal-friendly lake nature tours

Our guided tours take place in Saimaa ringed seal habitats, so it is crucial that all our activities follow seal-friendly practices—strictly and respectfully.

1. In Summer

• We fish only with active gear (trolling, casting, and angling).
• On seal-watching tours, we observe seals from a distance with binoculars, ensuring they remain relaxed on their resting rocks even after we leave.
• We always use quiet idle speed near seal areas to preserve the peace of nature and allow time for observation.
• We do not land in areas known as seal resting spots.

2. In Winter

• All movement on the ice (skating, skiing, snowmobiling) follows marked routes to ensure undisturbed breeding conditions for the seals.
• Snowmobiling in seal areas is always guided.
• We prefer sled transports (snowmobile + 8-person sled).
• Snowmobiles are not rented out for use in seal habitats.

3. Machines & Equipment

• All machines used in our safaris and rentals, both in summer and winter, are quiet and low-emission four-stroke engines.

4. Commitment to Seal-Friendly Travel

We are fully committed to the principles of seal-friendly tourism and always operate with the wellbeing of the Saimaa ringed seal in mind.