Submarine Vesikko

Overview

Tucked away on the historic sea fortress of Suomenlinna in Helsinki, Finland, lies the Submarine Vesikko, a remarkable piece of naval history. This compact yet historically significant vessel serves today as a captivating museum ship, offering visitors a unique glimpse into submarine warfare and life during the mid-20th century. As the only surviving Finnish submarine from World War II, Vesikko holds a special place in the nation's heritage and stands as a poignant memorial to naval history. Its presence in the UNESCO World Heritage site of Suomenlinna adds another layer of historical context, making it a must-see for those exploring Finland's rich past.

History & Cultural Background

The story of Submarine Vesikko begins not in Finland, but as a secret German project. Launched on May 10, 1933, at the Crichton-Vulcan dock in Turku, it was initially known by its yard number, CV 707. This vessel was ordered by Ingenieurskantoor voor Scheepsbouw, a Dutch engineering company that was, in fact, a German front company established to circumvent the post-World War I Treaty of Versailles, which prohibited Germany from building submarines. CV 707 served as a prototype for what would become Germany's formidable Type II U-boats.

Finland purchased the submarine in 1936, renaming it Vesikko, which translates to 'European mink'. It then became an integral part of the Finnish Navy, playing a crucial role in both the Winter War (1939-1940) and the Continuation War (1941-1944). During these conflicts, Vesikko operated in the Gulf of Finland, undertaking convoy protection, safety, and patrol duties. Its most notable wartime achievement was the sinking of the Soviet merchant ship Vyborg in July 1941, marking its only victory.

Following the cease-fire with the Allies in 1944 and the subsequent Paris Peace Treaty of 1947, Finland was prohibited from possessing submarines. Consequently, four of Finland's five submarines were scrapped. However, Vesikko was spared from this fate, held in storage with the hope that Finland might regain permission to operate submarines for training purposes. This hope, though unfulfilled, ultimately led to its preservation. After a decade-long restoration process, the Military Museum moved Vesikko to Suomenlinna, opening it to the public as a museum ship on July 9, 1973.

What Makes It Special

What truly sets Submarine Vesikko apart is its unique dual heritage and its role as a surviving relic of a clandestine military development. It is not merely a Finnish warship, but also the direct ancestor of the German Type II U-boats, a design that saw extensive service in the early years of World War II. Its construction incorporated advanced features for its time, such as an electrically welded hull, which offered increased resistance to water pressure and reduced oil leakages, allowing for greater diving depths than earlier designs.

Stepping inside Vesikko is an immersive experience that transports visitors back to a different era. The cramped quarters, intricate machinery, and the palpable sense of a vessel designed for stealth and combat provide a stark realization of the challenging conditions faced by its twenty-member crew. It is a powerful educational tool, showcasing the engineering prowess and the human stories behind these underwater machines. Its preservation ensures that the legacy of Finnish naval defense and its unexpected connection to broader European military history continues to be told.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

The name 'Vesikko' itself is a charming detail; it's the Finnish word for 'European mink', a small, agile carnivore, fitting for a submarine designed for stealth and speed. Its secret origins as part of Germany's 'Lilliput Project' to clandestinely rebuild its submarine fleet after World War I is a fascinating historical footnote, highlighting the political complexities and covert operations of the interwar period.

The journey to becoming a museum was not straightforward. After being stored and nearly sold for scrap in the late 1950s, it was the efforts of the Institute of Military History and former submarine officers that saved Vesikko. Its restoration in Suomenlinna, on Susisaari island by Artillery Bay, was a challenging endeavor, as much of its original equipment had been repurposed or lost. Yet, through dedication and voluntary work, this significant vessel was meticulously brought back to life, allowing countless visitors each year to explore its interior. It has since become one of the Military Museum's most popular attractions.

Visitor Perspective

Visiting Submarine Vesikko is an intimate encounter with history. Travelers are invited to navigate the narrow corridors and tight compartments, exploring the engine room, torpedo tubes, and the periscope. This firsthand experience vividly illustrates the confined living and working conditions endured by the submariners. The museum often enhances this experience with soundscapes, recreating the noises of the engines, crew commands, and even a torpedo attack, adding an emotional layer to the visit.

Vesikko is open to the public primarily during the summer months, typically from May to September, aligning with Suomenlinna's peak tourist season. It is advisable to check the Military Museum's website or other local tourism resources for the most current opening hours and any potential seasonal changes. Located on the Susisaari island within Suomenlinna, it is easily accessible as part of a wider exploration of the sea fortress.