Adventurer Veikka Gustafsson prepares to dock at renovated Kallbådan Lighthouse in Gulf of Finland

Navigating the open seas near Kallbådan Lighthouse can be challenging, even in mild winds. Adventurer Veikka Gustafsson, a former mountaineer turned entrepreneur, is preparing to dock at the wave-battered lighthouse located nine kilometers south of Porkkalanniemi in the Gulf of Finland. Known for his whistling to signal his arrival, he points out the seals resting on nearby rocks, who seem to recognize his boat and remain calm.

For nearly 25 years, Gustafsson has acted as the “lighthouse keeper,” having leased the lighthouse from the state. The waters surrounding Kallbådan are designated as a seal protection area, limiting visitor access to 30 groups per year, with helicopter use prohibited—requiring visitors to arrive by boat.

Recently, the lighthouse underwent a €800,000 renovation funded by the state. The work, which lasted 2.5 years, has left the structure in arguably its best condition since its completion in 1920. This renovation included updates to concrete facades, windows, and structural supports, ensuring the building’s preservation for years to come.

Kallbådan can accommodate around ten guests, providing a unique venue for business leaders at a starting rate of €3,500 for visits, with additional charges for luxury dining experiences. Despite the remoteness and poor phone service, Gustafsson embraces the tranquility and beauty of the area.

He humorously reflects on his experiences with curious wildlife, including seals venturing into the lighthouse’s basement and a pair of swans that have remained childless for a decade. For Gustafsson, Kallbådan serves as a peaceful retreat, enriched by nature’s continual changes, akin to a “natural 24/7 Netflix.”