Väinameri

Väinameri, also known as the West Estonian Archipelago Sea, is a body of water within the Baltic Sea. It is located between the Estonian mainland and the islands of Saaremaa and Hiiumaa. This sea is characterized by its shallow depth and numerous islands and islets, collectively forming the West Estonian archipelago. The average depth of Väinameri is only around 6 meters, with its deepest point reaching approximately 24 meters. The seabed is largely sandy and rocky, with some areas of mud.

Väinameri connects to the Gulf of Riga to the south and the Baltic Proper to the west. It is a significant area for marine life, supporting various fish species and bird populations. The water salinity is lower than in the open Baltic Sea due to the inflow of freshwater from rivers and the semi-enclosed nature of the basin. Navigation within Väinameri can be challenging due to its shallow waters, numerous shoals, and variable weather conditions. The sea plays an important role in the local economy, particularly in fishing and tourism. The islands within Väinameri are popular destinations for both domestic and international visitors.