Saimaa Canal, Transportation canal between Lappeenranta, Finland and Vyborg, Russia
The Saimaa Canal connects Lake Saimaa to the Gulf of Finland across 43 kilometers, passing through both Finnish and Russian territory. Eight locks manage a 76-meter elevation change, allowing vessels to move between inland waters and the open sea.
Initial construction of the canal took place from 1845 to 1856, establishing a vital waterway between Lake Saimaa and the Gulf of Finland.
The canal holds national significance status in Finland and represents a long-standing connection between Finnish and Russian maritime communities.
Commercial vessels measuring up to 82.5 meters in length and 12.6 meters in width can navigate through the canal system throughout the year.
Finland maintains operational control of the Russian section through a 50-year lease agreement, allowing seamless passage without requiring Russian visas.
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