Gulf of Finland, Baltic Sea bay between Finland, Estonia, and Russia
This bay of the Baltic Sea stretches between Finland to the north, Estonia to the south, and Russia to the east. The water here is shallow and reaches depths of less than 328 feet (100 meters) in most places, while numerous small islands dot the Finnish coastline.
In the 18th century, Russia's access to open waters shifted to this bay after the tsar founded a new capital at its eastern end. Later, the waterway became a contested frontier between several nations fighting for control of the coasts.
Finns call this bay by a name derived from the ancient trade route to Novgorod, reflecting centuries of economic importance along these waters. Small boats still follow the coasts today, bringing fish to harbors where local markets keep the tradition alive.
Large passenger ferries connect the capitals on both sides, with the crossing taking several hours across open water. In winter, travelers should check if ice affects routes, especially during the coldest months between January and March.
The low salt content of the water slows biological decay and makes this bay an extraordinary archive of sunken ships from several centuries. Divers regularly discover wrecks in nearly complete condition, with rigging and wooden structures still intact.
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