Karelia is well-known among fans of water tourism for its rich water resources, which give tourists a great opportunity for fishing and rafting.
The rivers of north-west territories of Russia are connected into one water network and are a part of world waterways. A natural waterway including the largest lakes in Europe, Onego and Ladoga, lies in the south of Karelia. Lake Ladoga was formed by a detachment as a result of earth raising, which is proved by existance of Ladoga seal and salmon. The watershed between Baltic and White seas lies to the north-west of Lake Onego and has always been playing an important role in the life of Vepps and Karelians.
Waterways connect the region not only with Baltic and White seas but also with the southern Caspian, Black, Mediterranean seas and sea of Azov. Starting from 11-12th centuries that was the main point of fierce resistance between Russia and Sweden in their strategic fight for predominance in the north of Europe. Peter the Great put an end to that battle by creating the Russian navy. His victorious procession went along the Sovereign’s road - old waterways from the shore of White Sea to Onego, Ladoga and Baltic Sea. On his way in 1703 he laid the foundation of Petrozavodsk and Saint-Petersburg.
Thoughout the centuries cities and culture centers were formed along the water routes of the Russian North. There is a unique network of cultural monuments from ancient rock carvings to modern works of art on the shores of the rivers. Historical cities and settlements with traditional way of life and outstanding architectural ensembles were formed here.
Today Petrozavodsk is a port of 5 seas. During 30 years enthusiasts of sea club "Polar Odysseus" restore sea heritage of Russian North, develop water tourism, organize international sea expiditions. Shipbuilding, trade and passenger shipping operations and sea fishery are traditional and most significant spheres of the region’s economy.
