Captain’s Sauna

Captain's Sauna is a private wood-heated sauna experience located in the historic courtyard of Captain Himanka, beside Langin Kauppahuone in the heart of Old Raahe.

More than simply a place to wash, the Finnish sauna has always been a place to slow down, relax and spend time together. For generations, sauna has been part of everyday life as well as family celebrations and important moments.

At Captain's Sauna, guests experience this living tradition in an intimate historic setting.

The sauna is heated with wood, and its large stove holds approximately 400 kilograms of stones, creating the soft, gentle steam for which traditional Finnish saunas are known. Wide handcrafted aspen benches and the peaceful atmosphere invite guests to settle in and discover the unhurried rhythm of Finnish sauna bathing.

Captain's Sauna also preserves a traditional way of washing. There is no running water inside the sauna. Water is carried in and mixed to a comfortable temperature in a large washing tub, then poured over the body with a ladle.

It is wonderfully simple – and offers a rare opportunity to experience sauna much as generations of Finns did before modern bathrooms became part of everyday life.

Before the sauna, guests are introduced to Finnish sauna culture, customs and practical etiquette, making the experience equally welcoming for first-time visitors and experienced sauna-goers.

Between sauna sessions, guests can relax in the traditional lounge, enjoy refreshments and spend time together. The sauna benches accommodate approximately ten guests at a time, while the adjoining lounge provides space for up to twenty.

For larger groups, or when combining sauna with food and drinks, a three-hour reservation is recommended so that everyone can enjoy the experience without rushing.

Highlights

• Private traditional Finnish wood-heated sauna

• Historic courtyard of Captain Himanka

• Introduction to Finnish sauna culture and etiquette

• Gentle steam from a stove with approximately 400 kg of stones

• Handcrafted aspen sauna benches

• Traditional bucket-and-ladle washing

• Lounge for relaxation and refreshments

• Authentic living Finnish sauna tradition

Included

• Private sauna reservation

• Sauna host and introduction to Finnish sauna traditions

• Firewood and heating

• Towel and sauna seat cover

• Drinking water

• One soft drink per guest

• Use of dressing, washing and lounge areas

Practical information

Duration 2 hours

A 3-hour reservation is recommended for larger groups and guests wishing to enjoy food and refreshments as part of the sauna experience.

Group Size Maximum 20 guests

The sauna benches accommodate approximately 10 guests at a time. Larger groups can alternate between the sauna and lounge in the traditional Finnish way.

Availability Available year-round by reservation.

Weather permitting The sauna is not operated when the outdoor temperature falls below approximately -20°C / -4°F.