Suur Tõll, Steam-powered icebreaker at Lennusadam, Estonia
Suur Tõll is a steam-powered icebreaker measuring 74.4 meters in length, now part of the Estonian Maritime Museum at Lennusadam in Tallinn. The vessel features three propellers arranged with two at the stern and one at the bow, showcasing the engineering of early steam navigation.
Built in 1914 by AG Vulcan in Germany, the vessel served under different names for Russian, Finnish, Estonian, and Soviet naval forces until 1988. It was preserved as a museum ship, documenting the maritime history of the Baltic region.
The name Suur Tõll comes from Estonian mythology, referring to a powerful giant who protected the island of Saaremaa. The vessel carries this name to honor this legendary figure in Estonian culture.
The Suur Tõll is displayed at Lennusadam Museum, where visitors can board the vessel and explore the engine rooms and crew quarters firsthand. The ship sits in Tallinn's harbor, making it easily accessible and walkable for most visitors.
The vessel contains three triple-expansion steam engines generating 2,300 horsepower combined, representing the engineering marvels of early naval technology. It remains the largest surviving pre-war icebreaker of its kind, offering a rare glimpse into the power and complexity of steam-driven ships.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
