Sapokka is Finland's most celebrated urban water garden — a cascade of illuminated waterfalls, sculpted bridges, and lush plantings beside a luminous harbour. Paired with the adjacent Katariina Seaside Park, it forms an unmissable coastal promenade.
What to expect
Begin at the dramatic waterfall centrepiece of Sapokka, where the garden descends in terraces to a serene harbour inlet. Your guide explains the remarkable story of how this former industrial wasteland became a European garden design award-winner. Moving along the coast to Katariina, rocky shoreline gives way to manicured lawns and sea vistas across the Gulf of Finland archipelago. The pace is leisurely, the scenery constantly changing, and the air is pure Baltic freshness.
Good to know
Both parks are a short, flat walk from the cruise terminal. Best experienced in morning light. A private Kymenmatkat guide can be booked for small groups. The gardens are at their peak from late May through August. Easily completed in 2–3 hours.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Kotka — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.
More to do in Kotka
- Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge: Tsar's Private River Retreat
- Maritime Centre Vellamo: Finland's Sea & River Story, Expertly Guided
- Varissaari Island & Fort Elisabeth: Archipelago Fortress by Private Boat
- Maretarium: Finland's Freshwater & Baltic Sea Aquatic Wonder
- Private Full-Day Helsinki Shore Excursion from Kotka Cruise Port