Saaristomeri

Definition

The Archipelago Sea, the island-rich sea area off the southwestern coast of Finland, which continues westward into Åland. Closer to the mainland the islands are larger and wooded, and further out they become bare granite and low juniper. The land is still rising after the last ice age, so shorelines slowly shift. Use nautical charts for boating, and expect ferries, bridges and seasonal services. See also: saari, luoto, and the guide The Finnish Archipelago and Aland: An Island Guide.