Bar Jan Mayen

There are bars in Helsinki where the evening begins in the usual way, by walking through the door. And then there are bars you reach by crossing the pier and stepping aboard via a gangway.

As the evening settles over the North Harbour and the masts rise proudly against the sky, Bar Jan Mayen feels more like a find than just another bar. The calming sound of the sea, the scent of old wood, and the serene atmosphere of the surrounding marina make it clear right away that this is not your average after-work spot.

Located by Uspenski Cathedral and Tervasaari, Bar Jan Mayen does not just look maritime — it quite literally is. The bar operates on a three-masted schooner built in 1914 and moored at Halkolaituri, with an unusually colourful history behind it. Over the years, the vessel has been used for smuggling, fishing, coast guard duties, and even as a home, and today it is the only one of its kind in Finland. Still, the atmosphere here is anything but dusty, stuffy, or museum-like. Instead, it feels relaxed, warm, and full of character.

Within the embrace of this century-old schooner, glasses are filled with carefully crafted cocktails, good wine, and ice-cold sparkling beers, with plenty of non-alcoholic options as well. There is also tapas-style savoury food on the side, and throughout the summer the programme includes live music and other changing events.

On Jan Mayen’s unique deck terrace, you can sip your drink like an old-time sailor while letting your eyes rest on the charming shoreline of Kruununhaka. Adding even more comfort and summer atmosphere is the terrace that extends onto the pier, while at the stern of the ship a wood-heated IKI sauna, built into the captain’s cabin, warms up for sauna lovers.

Bar Jan Mayen works just as well for a quick drink as it does for a longer stay. It is especially good when you want to discover something new and a little different in Helsinki — in a setting that is not easily matched. A perfect choice for a date night, a longer evening with friends, or a slightly more special private event.

Special note: All bar profits go directly towards restoring the ship, so a night here also helps support this historic vessel and its future.