Sailing to the Heart of the Baltic

Southampton, United Kingdom

Board the ship in the late afternoon. After settling into your cabin, enjoy a welcome drink and dinner. Overnight cruising towards Kiel Canal Transit, Germany.

Kiel Canal Transit, Germany

<pฬConnecting the North Sea, at the mouth of the Elbe River, to the Baltic Sea at Holtenau, the Kiel Canal is one of the world’s busiest and most important shipping routes. Slicing a man-made path through the German countryside, this 61-mile-long marvel of engineering allows vessels to avoid 250 nautical miles of sea sailing on average, ensuring a faster and safer passage through Europe.

Riga, Latvia

Eight hundred years have shaped the unique appearance and rich traditions of Latvia’s capital, Riga. The Gothic spires that dominate its skyline imply a sombre heart, but the rich Art Nouveau spirit of this diverse city, the largest of all three Baltic capitals, is a delight to discover.

Mariehamn, Finland

The port of Mariehamn is situated in the heart of the Baltic Sea, halfway between Finland and Sweden. It is the capital of the Åland Islands, a breath-taking amalgam of nearly 7000 islands which boasts a unique archipelago culture, maritime heritage and natural beauty.

Helsinki, Finland

Finland’s capital since 1812, built on a peninsula amid a cluster of islands, stately Helsinki is The Daughter of the Baltic.This striking seaside port is surrounded by uplifting natural landscapes that are easily accessible from each area of the city. The opportunities to get out and about includes boating around the archipelago islands, hiking Helsinki’s forests or strolling its beaches, smart parks and gardens. The port also boasts a UNESCO-listed sea fortress just a short distance from the shore, which is worth the short ferry journey to explore its historic walls and gates.

St. Petersburg, Russia

The jewel in the Baltic crown and Russia’s most European city, elegant St Petersburg was the imperial capital for two centuries, and Tsar Peter the Great’s ‘Window on the West’. The sheer grandeur of the city, and its revolutionary spirit, never fail to impress.

Stockholm Archipelago, Sweden

A cruise through the mesmerising Stockholm Archipelago is always a memorable experience. En route to Stockholm you’ll pass by and between some 30,000 beautiful islands and islets, taking in unforgettable views from the decks of your smaller cruise ship. Each rocky isle is unique; some are inhabited and feature ancient villages and colourful wooden houses, others are untouched and boast rugged woodland, craggy cliffs and sandy beaches. This ensures that there’s always something new to see, whichever way you look.

Visby, Sweden

Located on the Swedish island of Gotland, the UNESCO World Heritage Town of Visby is one of the most remarkable in Scandinavia. Known for its incredible scenic beauty and stunning historic sites, this former Hanseatic City has to be seen to be truly appreciated. The “City of Roses and Ruins” is like a living museum, and is renowned for its well-preserved medieval wall and defensive towers. Uncovering the 12th century Gunpowder Tower, Love Gate and Långa Lisa – the wall’s tallest tower, is highly recommended. Visby’s wonderful Old Town is home to 15 of Visby’s 17 medieval churches, and the Burmeister House – the town’s oldest merchant house – St. Mary’s Cathedral, and a beautiful botanical garden can also be found within its ancient walls. The main square, Stora Torget, has cobblestone streets lined with charming cafés and restaurants.

Copenhagen, Denmark

With its vibrant atmosphere, modern culture and beautiful architecture, Copenhagen is the essence of Scandinavian cool. One of Europe’s oldest and most popular cities, Copenhagen is also one of the cleanest and most cosmopolitan.

Kiel Canal Transit, Germany

Connecting the North Sea, at the mouth of the Elbe River, to the Baltic Sea at Holtenau, the Kiel Canal is one of the world’s busiest and most important shipping routes. Slicing a man-made path through the German countryside, this 61-mile-long marvel of engineering allows vessels to avoid 250 nautical miles of sea sailing on average, ensuring a faster and safer passage through Europe.

Southampton, United Kingdom

Late morning arrival in Southampton, UK. Disembark and prepare for your onward journey.