
BALTIC QUEEN © Søren Lund Hviid
Stockholm–Tallinn Passenger Route Celebrates 35 Years
Ferry17th of June 2025 marked 35 years since the ferry connection between Stockholm and Tallinn was re-established—a historic milestone that coincided with Estonia’s journey towards independence. Since then, over 20 million passengers have travelled between the two capitals, and the route has become a vital link for tourism, trade, and cultural exchange.
Since its reinstatement, the Stockholm–Tallinn route has played a significant role in the region’s development. The connection between the two capitals has helped strengthen tourism as well as the economic and cultural ties between Sweden and Estonia. Tallink, Estonia’s largest shipping company, began operating the route at the turn of the millennium, and today, the vessel BALTIC QUEEN serves the route. Under the Tallink Silja Line brand, departures are offered every other day from both Stockholm and Tallinn.
“We are continuously working to enhance our travel experiences and create even more reasons for Swedes and Estonians to visit each other’s capitals. Sweden and Estonia are close partners, and the direct route across the Baltic Sea remains a strategically important connection for Tallink Silja Line. We hope that awareness of and interest in travel between the two countries will only continue to grow,” says Piret Mürk-Dubout, CEO of Tallink Silja AB.
“We are delighted with our collaboration with Tallink Silja Line and proud to help facilitate this important connection between Sweden and Estonia. The ferries and ports form a bridge across the Baltic Sea, enabling vital trade and travel between our neighbouring countries,” says Magdalena Bosson, CEO of Ports of Stockholm.
The reopening of the route was spearheaded by the Swedish shipping company Nordström & Thulin, with one of the driving forces behind the project being Hans Laidwa, an Estonian emigrant and head of the company’s local subsidiary. Preparations began as early as 1989, and in June 1990, the route was finally relaunched.
To mark the 35th anniversary, Ports of Stockholm and Tallink Silja Line wish to pay tribute to everyone who has contributed to building and sustaining this important connection—from shipping companies and their staff to passengers, partners, and decision-makers. The Stockholm–Tallinn route is not merely a transport link but also a key part of regional cooperation in tourism, trade, and culture.
Jun 19 2025
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