The Maritime Centre Vellamo is a striking cultural landmark located in the historic Kantasatama port in Kotka, Finland. Designed by Lahdelma & Mahlamäki Architects and opened in 2008, the building is famed for its spectacular modern architecture that resembles a giant, breaking ocean wave. It serves as a vibrant hub housing several independent museums and attractions under one roof.
Merikeskus Vellamo
Tornatorintie 99
48100 Kotka
+358 40 3500497
During the summer season 1 June-16 Aug 2026
Monday – Tuesday, Thursday – Sunday 10:00 – 18:00
Wednesday 10:00 -20:00
During the winter season
Tuesday, Thursday – Sunday 10:00 – 17:00
Wednesday 10:00 -20:00
Monday closed
Admission fee
| OH-MVM LK1 | de Havilland Canada DHC-2 Beaver VL Sääski II |
The Maritime Museum of Finland: A national museum that details the rich history of Finnish seafaring, shipwreck stories, and winter shipping. Note that its long-running main exhibition, North Star, Southern Cross.
VL Sääski II (Mosquito) — Serial: LK-1
- The Pioneer of Finnish Aviation: The Sääski II was the first series-produced aircraft designed and built entirely in Finland (by the State Aircraft Factory / Valtion lentokonetehdas).
- Smuggler Patrol Duties: Built out of wood with an open cockpit, this two-seat biplane was handed over to the Finnish Coast Guard in August 1930 during the country’s Prohibition era. Equipped with floats in the summer and skis in the winter, it was primarily used to spot international moonshine smugglers transporting alcohol across the frozen or open Gulf of Finland.
- Historic Artifact: Because the crew lacked functional radio equipment on board, they had to drop written reconnaissance observations to ground units using waterproof, weighted message funnels. This aircraft is one of only two preserved Sääski IIs left in the world.
de Havilland Canada DHC-2 Beaver Mk.1 — Registration: OH-MVM
- The Ultimate Bush Plane: The DHC-2 Beaver is a legendary Canadian-designed all-metal, high-wing, short takeoff and landing (STOL) utility aircraft.
- Border Guard Workhorse: This specific plane was previously operated by the Finnish Border/Frontier Guard for coastal patrols, maritime surveillance, and search and rescue operations.
- On Display: After being exhibited in various aviation collections across Finland over the years, the plane was moved to its permanent static-display home suspended in the main hall of the Maritime Centre Vellamo.