Cruise passengers enjoy views of Sweden’s Stockholm archipelago from Royal Caribbean … [+]
If you have ever desired to immerse yourself in Viking culture or discover what makes the people of the Nordic region the so-called happiest people on this planet, you could possibly do lots worse than booking a Scandinavia cruise.
Scandinavia – and Norway particularly – is an expensive country to travel to, so a cruise could make financial sense for individuals who need to experience the region. Travel, accommodation, meals and entertainment are covered for one price.
Such a visit offers the chance to experience various Scandinavian travel highlights, whether you favor the Scandinavian capitals, the breathtaking Norwegian fjords or the atmosphere of gorgeous islands and historic ports within the Baltic Sea.
Popular cruise routes in Scandinavia
Many several types of itineraries will be advertised as Scandinavia cruises. Typically they’re concentrated within the Nordic capitals. Some may additionally include highlights of the Baltic Sea region, including the Baltic countries and ports in northern Germany and Poland.
With popular Norwegian fjord cruises and midnight sun and northern lights tours also available within the north of Norway, there may be loads of variety on the subject of Scandinavia cruises.
Scandinavian capitals: Cruise itineraries that start within the UK or Germany and visit two and even all three locations in Oslo, Stockholm and Copenhagen have long been popular.
The Nyhavn district in Copenhagen, Denmark, is a well-liked destination for cruise passengers … [+]
Helsinki is commonly included on such itineraries. If you should explore modern Scandinavia while getting access to a few of the region’s best museums, an itinerary like that is the right alternative.
Such itineraries are typically shorter and are an incredible introduction to cruising and Scandinavia as days at sea are limited and there may be plenty to see and do in port.
Baltic Sea: Longer Scandinavian itineraries often include stops at Baltic Sea islands and ports. Particular highlights include the attractive Estonian capital Tallinn or the Latvian capital Riga in addition to ports on the northern coast of Germany and Poland.
For those occupied with Viking history, look out for smaller ship routes with Visby on the attractive island of Gotland.
This is one such trip 12 night itinerary from Celebrity Cruises, which incorporates a visit to Visby and Tallinn. Other highlights include a visit to Stockholm and Copenhagen, including an overnight stay in Copenhagen.
The old town partitions of Visby on the island of Gotland, a well-liked cruise port.
Norwegian fjords: By far the best diversity will be present in the Norwegian fjord region, where just about all major cruise ships offer at the very least some routes here. Although port calls in Flåm and Geiranger will soon be severely restricted, many various ports will still have the ability to accommodate a few of the world’s largest cruise ships.
Whether you favor the action-packed ships of Royal Caribbean or MSC, or the smaller ships that may navigate narrower fjords, there may be a Norwegian fjords itinerary for you.
Due to the region’s recent increase in popularity as a cruise destination, the fjord season has prolonged, with travel possible as early as April and as late as September.
British line P&O Cruises operates his relatively latest megaship Iona We spent most of our time traveling within the fjord region, with regular departures from Southampton on a well-liked 7-day itinerary.
Midnight sun: Although all summer cruises within the region feature long summer days, certain routes sail under the midnight sun to the far north of Norway, giving guests the fun of being outside at midnight and seeing the sun within the sky. Many of those trips result in Honningsvåg, where guests can travel by bus to the North Cape.
Northern lights: In recent years, Scandinavia – or more specifically Norway – has change into a year-round cruise destination due to the increasing popularity of Northern Lights cruises.
Aurora Borealis within the sky, seen from a cruise ship in Arctic Norway.
These itineraries happen north of the Arctic Circle between October and early April.
Planning suggestions for Scandinavia cruises
Cruising Northern Europe offers a unbelievable number of excursions and experiences, from historic city tours to adrenaline-pumping outdoor adventures.
The region’s love of the outdoor lifestyle means energetic experiences are easy to search out, each on cruise excursions and with independent operators.
Due to the high level of English proficiency throughout the region, it is far easier to book your personal activities and explore ports on your personal than in lots of other parts of the world. Still, search for independent tours that happen earlier within the day to cut back time risk.
No matter if you visit Scandinavia, pack for any weather. Midsummer will be affected by heavy rains, while snowy conditions in February and March could cause sunburns.
Pack a flexible wardrobe. Layered clothing adapts to the region’s changing weather, while specific excursions may require specialized equipment.
Cruise and sustainability
Potential travelers should concentrate on the environmental concerns related to cruising on this pristine region. The industry is moving towards sustainability, with initiatives to introduce zero-emission ships in sensitive areas, particularly within the US The Norwegian fjords, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Some local initiatives protesting cruise travel have also gained momentum. Therefore, cruisers should concentrate on these issues before setting foot on land.
