ARCHIPELAGO SEA AWARD
The Archipelago Sea Award is an annual recognition presented during the Naantali Boat Show. It is awarded to an individual or organization that has significantly contributed to improving conditions in the Archipelago Sea region, particularly in the areas of boating, tourism, or environmental protection.
The award reflects the diversity of the Archipelago Sea and highlights the role of various stakeholders in its development and preservation.
Award Criteria
The award is granted to those who have:
- Improved conditions in the archipelago: This may include infrastructure development, service enhancement, or environmental improvements.
- Advanced boating culture and services: Those who have created new opportunities for boating or made it more accessible to a wider audience.
- Promoted sustainable tourism and environmental protectionPanostaneet kestävään matkailuun ja ympäristönsuojeluun: Individuals or organizations that have implemented eco-friendly practices and helped preserve the unique nature of the archipelago.
Recipients of the Archipelago Sea Award
- 2025 Member of Parliament Pauli Aalto-Setälä
- Recognized for his long-term practical efforts to improve the condition of the Archipelago Sea.
- 2024 Archipelago Sea National Park
- The park and Metsähallitus were awarded for their sustained work to protect the region’s nature, enabling boaters and hikers to enjoy the archipelago.
- 2023 Skipperi
- Honored for creating a new way to access the water without owning a boat through their boat rental service.
- 2022 Archipelago Ring Road
- The municipalities responsible for marketing the route were recognized for their long-term development and promotion efforts, making it a popular travel destination.
- 2019 Saariston Satamat Facebook Group
- Awarded for its significant contribution to boating culture and community in the archipelago. The group’s active sharing of harbor experiences, boating tips, and current topics has created a valuable source of information and discussion for boaters, increasing awareness and accessibility of archipelago harbors.
- 2018 Metsähallitus
- Recognized for its long-term work in developing and maintaining harbors and island destinations open to boaters in the Archipelago Sea. The award highlighted Metsähallitus’s role in improving accessibility and boating opportunities in the region.
- 2017 Suomen Purjehdus ja Veneily ry (Finnish Sailing and Boating Federation)
- Awarded for its sustained advocacy for boaters, especially its active role in the boat tax debate, which ultimately prevented the implementation of the proposed tax.
- 2016 Baltic Sea Action Group
- Honored for its significant efforts to improve boating conditions in the Archipelago Sea.
