Savonlinna Opera – without us…
Due to the ever shifting wind created by the wooded islands and narrow channels, it is often easier and more efficient, to cruise with the foresail only – and that is what we did on our way to Savonlinna. From looking into our Finnish information booklets, it became more and more difficult to identify the names of harbours and to cross reference them to the UK information. Undeterred, we decided to moor in the quiet Casino harbour, just behind two bridges, which needed to open for us. Threading our way past the impressive castle against some strong currents, we were opposite the 2 bridges. Thinking – one long loud blast will waken the bridge keeper and open it – far from it! We found out from the first telephone number we rang, that you have to arrange the opening best 12hours before by phoning and negotiating with two different companies and schedules.
With our pride dented we turned back and moored in Törninpyörä (61º51,8N,28º53.4E) with a view of the castle and a nice beach.
Unfortunately, the Opera season in the castle, which Savonlinna is famous for, only starts on the 3rd of July with ‘Carmen’. By that time we are however already heading for the exit of Lake Saimaa, which provided us with an unforgettable experience.