The Finnish Yachting Association Merikarhut – Sjöbjörnarna ry is known for its boating traditions and harbour network

What makes Merikarhut special?

Our harbour network spans 30 different islands – and many of them have several mooring points. Thanks to the principle “a harbour is never full,” members can sail flexibly and enjoy long cruising days. 

With 36 saunas across our harbours, even latecomers arriving at 8 PM during peak season can enjoy a proper sauna thanks to our shared sauna policy. 

The comfort and safety of our harbours are built on shared rules and mutual respect. 
In our harbours, everybody and everything is well cared for — and it shows. 
The facilities are maintained by members through a long-standing spirit of volunteering and good company during seasonal work parties held each spring and autumn. 

Being a Merikarhu means more than access to harbours – it means belonging to a community where we nurture the Merikarhu spirit and offer year-round activities that also include the whole sailing family.

The Merikarhu Spirit means:

Good seamanship 
– care, safety, and fairness on the water. 

Responsibility 
– respect for others, care for the environment, and adherence to shared guidelines. 

Active participation and volunteering 
– maintaining our harbours, helping others, and doing things together.

Annual Rhythm of the Merikarhut Community 

During sailing season: 
• Member gatherings and flotilla sailing 
• Volunteer work events in harbours 
• Summer celebration and other harbour events 

During the off-season: 
• Evenings and member meetups 
• Excursions and visits 
• Sharing travel experiences and knowledge