Baltic and Scandinavia Cruises

Experience the Enchantment of the Baltic Sea with CruiseAway

Set sail for the **Baltic Sea**, a breathtaking region where unique cultures meet stunning landscapes. A cruise to this picturesque area is an exceptional way to explore historic cities, charming archipelagos, and natural wonders. Whether you’re wandering through the cobbled streets of Tallinn or soaking up the views of Stockholm‘s waterfront, each stop on your journey has its own special charm. Fun fact: The Baltic Sea is one of the world’s largest brackish water bodies, which means its water is a mix of saltwater and freshwater! This unique ecosystem supports a diverse range of marine life. Choosing a cruise through the Baltic Sea allows you to explore vibrant cities and picturesque shorelines all in one unforgettable journey.

Top Harbours to Discover in the Baltic Sea

As you embark on an exploration of the **Baltic Sea**, you’ll encounter several captivating harbours. Here are five ports you won’t want to miss:

• Copenhagen, Denmark: The Danish capital blends history with modern innovation. Visit the iconic **Tivoli Gardens** for a fun-filled day of rides and entertainment, or take a stroll through **Nyhavn** to admire the colourful waterfront. Enjoy some Danish pastries at a local café while soaking in the stunning architecture. Insider tip: Rent a bike and tour the city like a local; it’s one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world!
• Stockholm, Sweden: Known as the “Venice of the North,” Stockholm is comprised of 14 islands, connected by bridges. While in port, explore the historic **Gamla Stan** (Old Town) with its narrow streets and royal palaces. Be sure to visit the **Vasa Museum**, which houses a nearly 400-year-old ship. For a unique experience, hop on a ferry to one of the nearby islands for a day trip. Pro tip: Use your limited time wisely; plan your route in advance to see all the highlights!
• Tallinn, Estonia: Tallinn’s enchanting medieval old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through the cobblestone streets, visit the **Alexander Nevsky Cathedral**, and enjoy panoramic views from **Toompea Hill**. For a taste of local cuisine, try some **Kohuke**, a sweet curd snack, at a nearby café. Insider tip: The old town is compact enough to explore on foot, so wear comfortable shoes!
• Helsinki, Finland: This stunning capital is known for its beautiful architecture and coastal charm. When you dock, visit the impressive **Helsinki Cathedral** and the **Sibelius Monument** for photo opportunities. Take a stroll through the lovely **Esplanadi Park**, and don’t forget to try the local delicacy **Karjalanpiirakka** – a rice pie! Pro tip: Don’t miss the chance to hop on a ferry to the nearby **Suomenlinna Sea Fortress**, a UNESCO World Heritage site that’s just a short ride away!
• Riga, Latvia: Riga is a city brimming with Art Nouveau architecture and vibrant markets. While visiting, make sure to explore the colourful **Central Market** and marvel at the beautifully preserved medieval architecture in the **Old Town**. Climb to the top of **St. Peter’s Church** for stunning panoramic views of the city. Insider tip: Try a local beer at one of the city’s many craft breweries—it’s a tasty way to experience Latvian culture!

Best Times to Cruise the Baltic Sea

The ideal cruising season for the **Baltic Sea** typically spans from **May to September**. Temperatures during this period generally range from **15°C to 25°C**, making it perfect for outdoor exploration. The summer months, particularly June through August, offer the warmest weather and extended daylight hours, allowing for plenty of sightseeing. However, these months also tend to be the busiest. If you prefer fewer crowds and milder temperatures, consider cruising in late spring or early autumn, when you can enjoy pleasant weather without the summer rush.

Cost of Cruising in the Baltic Sea

When it comes to estimating the cost, expect a one-week cruise in the Baltic Sea to range between **$1,800 to $3,500**, while cruises lasting two weeks generally fall between **$3,500 to $6,500**. For those leaning toward a luxurious experience, prices could start around **$5,000** for a one-week cruise. The most affordable times to book a cruise are during the shoulder seasons of late spring and early autumn, while the peak summer months often yield the highest prices. Dining expenses in the region average about **$25 to $60** per meal, with local eateries usually offering tasty budget-friendly options as well.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Baltic Sea Adventures

• MSC Cruises: With a fleet of **23 ships** and **two** focusing on Baltic itineraries, the **MSC Poesia** and **MSC Euribia** are popular choices. Departing from ports like **Copenhagen** or **Warnemünde**, MSC Cruises provides modern ships equipped with pools, kids’ activities, and diverse dining options—perfect for families and fun-seekers alike.
• Princess Cruises: With **17 ships** in total and **five** set to explore the Baltic, the **Sky Princess** and **Sapphire Princess** regularly depart from **Copenhagen** or **Southampton**. Known for high-quality service and unique onboard experiences, Princess focuses on immersing cruisers in local culture through enriching shore excursions.
• Holland America Line: This line operates **11 ships**, with **three** sailing to the Baltic. The **Rotterdam** and **Nieuw Statendam** often depart from **Rotterdam** or **Dover**. Holland America is noted for its exceptional service, cultural enrichment programs, and immersive local experiences, ensuring that every port visit is truly memorable.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: With a fleet of **20 ships**, **five** include sailings to the Baltic, such as **Norwegian Dawn** and **Norwegian Sun**. Typically departing from **Copenhagen** or **Helsinki**, Norwegian is recognised for its “freestyle cruising,” which allows greater flexibility in dining and entertainment options.
• P&O Cruises: This cruise line features **seven ships**, with **three** making their way to the Baltic, including **Britannia** and **Arcadia**. Cruises primarily depart from **Southampton**, offering uniquely British experiences onboard and a focus on high-quality hospitality that keeps guests returning for more.

Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Silversea: With **13 ships** in its fleet, **four** offer cruises to the Baltic, including the **Silver Dawn** and **Silver Spirit**. Departures often take place from **Copenhagen** or **Stockholm**. Silversea is renowned for its all-inclusive luxury experience, boasting elite service and gourmet dining, making every cruise intimate and personalised.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises: This luxury line comprises **six ships**, with **four** cruising the Baltic Sea, including the **Seven Seas Navigator** and **Seven Seas Mariner**. Common ports of departure include **Stockholm** or **Southampton**. Regent offers an unparalleled all-inclusive experience, ensuring that every guest enjoys lavish accommodations, fine dining, and exclusive shore excursions without any extra cost.
• Oceania Cruises: With a fleet size of **eight ships**, **two** head for the Baltic, notably the **Sirena** and **Vista**. Departing from **Copenhagen** or **Southampton**, Oceania is famous for its culinary excellence onboard, with menus crafted by renowned chefs utilizing local ingredients found in the destinations visited.
• Viking Ocean Cruises: With **11 ships**, **six** offer itineraries that include the Baltic Sea. The **Viking Saturn** and **Viking Sky** depart mainly from **Stockholm** or **Bergen**. Viking focuses on offering culturally enriching experiences, providing its guests with insights into local traditions and practices, with an emphasis on immersive shore excursions.
• Ponant: This line operates **11 ships** with **three** heading to the Baltic, including **Le Laperouse** and **Le Champlain**. Departing primarily from **Greenock** or **Copenhagen**, Ponant is known for its luxurious small ship experiences that blend adventure with elegant comfort.

Explore Alternative Regions

If the allure of the Baltic Sea has piqued your interest, but you’re also looking for other stunning destinations, consider these alternative regions:

• Norwegian Fjords: Nature lovers will adore the breathtaking landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and tranquil fjords that offer unparalleled beauty and a sense of adventure.
• Scandinavia: The cultural richness and history of the Scandinavian countries provide an enriching experience, combined with stunning coastal beauty and iconic cities.
• British Isles: With its rich history and charming towns, the British Isles offer a captivating blend of culture, picturesque landscapes, and local cuisines to explore.
• Eastern Europe: An exotic experience awaits, filled with stunning cities, rich traditions, and historical landmarks, whether exploring the charming charm of **Budapest** or the vibrant culture of **Prague**.
• Western Europe: With beautiful cities like **Amsterdam** and **Berlin**, Western Europe offers a delightful mixture of historic charm and modern sophistication for every traveller.

The Baltic Sea beckons with adventure, culture, and breathtaking sights. Join **CruiseAway** today for an unforgettable experience that navigates through this enchanting waterway and captures the wonders of the destinations along its shores!