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Connect with locals, improve the environment, have a lasting experience

For kayaking lovers, there’s no place quite like the Baltic Sea. It has everything: breathtaking natural landscapes, historic waterways, and vibrant coastal cities with fascinating heritage, renowned food scenes, and gorgeous architecture. Whether it’s the canals of Copenhagen, the serene waters of Finland, or the archipelago of Sweden, the Baltic Sea has so much adventure to offer. And if that weren’t enough, you can explore it for free in exchange for a good deed: helping to clean it up. Meet Green Kayak, an organization that will give you access to everything you need to explore the stunning northern waters and the satisfaction of having done something good. Since being launched, more than eighty thousand Green Kayak volunteers have removed one hundred and thirty-four tons of waste from the ocean. Joining in offers something special: the chance to explore more than a dozen amazing Baltic water spots for free, connect with locals who will be there alongside, all while making a positive impact. It’s truly an unexpected upgrade to your travels and way to connect authentically with local life. Below are three places to consider.

Copenhagen’s city canals

Paddle your way through Copenhagen’s canals while also helping to keep them clean. This gets you backstage access to one of Europe’s greatest cities and the chance for the locals around you to share fascinating bits of history about their home. Known for its cobblestone streets and rich cultural heritage, Copenhagen is a place that draws visitors. If you’re on a kayak, though, you’ll have a perfect view, allowing you to glide by historical landmarks and picturesque neighborhoods. With your good deed done, make sure to try some of the city’s restaurants, which are some of the best in the world.

Stockholm from the water

The Djurgårdsbrunnskanalen, a canal in the heart of Stockholm, is the perfect place for serene paddling through the old-world charm of the Swedish capital while also improving its environment. Built in 1834 to foster trade and imports, the canal is now the ideal way to see the city from a unique perspective. Connect with Stockholm’s maritime legacy, escape into an unparalleled urban and natural setting, get the best views of the city’s most important landmarks. And since you’ll be doing it alongside a dozen local Stockholmers, you just might get the chance to sip steaming black coffee and taste a baked cinnamon or cardamom bun at the end of the trip. It’s a Swedish tradition!

The Finnish coast for a perfect mix of nature and city life

The best view of Finland is from the water. Like its neighboring capital Stockholm, Helsinki is an archipelago city, which means there are countless canals, small waterways, and lakes to explore. Luckily, Green Kayak operates here, so as with Stockholm and Copenhagen, you get to indulge in a unique experience at no cost, plus you receive the unexpected upgrade of bonding with locals and doing something good for their environment. What you’ll discover is a breathtaking combination of nature in a city environment. From your seat on a kayak, you’ll glide over these waters, marveling at the great architecture of the capital perched along the rugged coastline while helping to keep it beautiful for the future. Perhaps you’ll spot a rare bird. Perhaps the great canopy of trees will inspire you. In any case, with experiences like these, you’ll understand why Finland has repeatedly been named the happiest country in the world.

Things to consider before traveling

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Some tips to consider while traveling

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