Northern Europe offers exceptional diversity for travellers looking for an unforgettable cruise experience. Sailing between coastal cities, islands and fjords is particularly impressive. A cruise in Northern Europe can be made via different itineraries and sailing programmes. We offer practical advice and tips to help you plan your next adventure.
A cruise in Norway to discover the fjords
Norway is an incredibly beautiful and diverse country that offers a unique and unforgettable cruise experience to beautiful destinations and spectacular scenery. A cruise in Norway means exploring fjords, glaciers, waterfalls and coastal towns. You can call at small port towns like Bergen and travel to the city of Tromsø, Geiranger Fjord, Svartisen Glacier and Jotunheimen National Park. You can also enjoy spectacular scenery such as the Inland Sea, the Lofoten Islands and the North Cape.
In addition, you will have the opportunity to sail through the beautiful Norwegian fjords and see marine life such as seals, whales and eagles. Many companies offer cruises in Norway. Itineraries can vary depending on the company you choose but generally they include the following ports:
- Bergen, which we have seen above to start your journey,
- Tromsø to see the spectacular Arctic landscape,
- Ålesund to visit the volcanic region of the Sunnmøre Alps
- and Geiranger to explore the famous Norwegian fjord.
Most itineraries also extend to the Lofoten Islands and parts of the North Cape. On a Norway cruise itinerary you will also find activities such as shore excursions, guided tours, hiking and kayaking. Many companies also offer all-inclusive packages that include accommodation on board the ship as well as all the activities mentioned above.
Croisière en Mer Baltique
The Baltic Sea is considered one of the most beautiful bodies of water in Europe. A Baltic Sea cruise is a trip to an often overlooked part of Europe, with its beautiful scenery and peaceful atmosphere. Depending on the length of your trip and the places you wish to explore, there are a variety of options for finding the best itinerary for your cruise.
One of the most popular itineraries is one that starts in Copenhagen, Denmark. From there, you can sail to Stockholm in Sweden, then to Tallinn in Estonia and Helsingfors (Helsinki) in Finland before returning to Copenhagen. This itinerary allows travellers to discover four different countries while enjoying the luxury of a cruise in one trip.
You’ll visit museums, restaurants and even historic buildings in Copenhagen, while enjoying the must-see sights that Stockholm has to offer. In Tallinn, you’ll explore the medieval quarter and its many quaint cafes, and in Helsinki you’ll visit national parks and spectacular architectural monuments.
Another popular option is the cruise that starts in Gdansk in Poland and ends in Rostock in Germany. This trip offers passengers the unique chance to visit Polish ports such as Gdynia and Sopot before continuing to the German port of Warnemünde where you can enjoy the good weather and swim in its pristine beaches. The cruise ends in Rostock where you can visit the historic city centre and explore its large, bustling market. Finally, a third option is to opt for a Northern European cruise that starts in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, and ends in St Petersburg, Russia.
Itineraries also vary depending on the size of the ship you are travelling on and its final destination. Larger ships generally offer a longer journey that includes several European countries, while smaller ships can offer a more personalised experience with fewer destinations. Finally, it is important to note that a number of activities can be organised during your cruise: visits to port cities, various excursions as well as land-based activities such as hiking or kayaking to explore the area.
A cruise in Sweden to discover the southern islands
Sweden is a country rich in cultural features, spectacular natural landscapes and historical monuments. All these attractions make Sweden a popular destination for cruises in Northern Europe. Tourists who choose to take a cruise to Sweden can enjoy the many cultural features of the country. Sweden is known for its Viking heritage and folk culture, as well as for its historical monuments. Travellers can visit Viking archaeological sites in Gamla Uppsala and Birka. The country is also home to deep forests and icy lakes that offer a variety of opportunities for exploration and adventure.
Travellers can also enjoy the spectacular sights of Sweden’s west coast, such as Skuleskogen National Park or Åre-Vemdalen National Park. Birdwatchers can also stop off at the island of Öland to see thousands of migratory birds. Finally, cruises in Sweden also offer visitors the chance to see some of the country’s most remarkable historical monuments. Travellers can visit the Royal Palace in Stockholm, which dates back to the 17th century, walk through the impressive Drottningholm Fortress or admire the Gothic architecture of Strängnäs Cathedral. In addition, those interested in modern architecture will have the chance to see the Abba Museum in Gothenburg and the Mall of Scandinavia shopping centre in Stockholm.
All in all, a cruise to Sweden is an excellent way to explore this country rich in cultural features, nature and historical monuments while enjoying the benefits of a cruise itinerary: luxury, comfort and rest between each stop. Tourists visiting Sweden can expect to enjoy a variety of enriching activities and see some of the most beautiful sights in northern Europe.
A cruise to explore the British Isles
A cruise around the British Isles is one of the most popular cruise itineraries in Northern Europe and a wonderful experience for those looking to discover the culture and history of the UK. With a British Isles cruise itinerary, travellers can explore Great Britain, from Cornwall to Scotland, and its neighbouring islands. Key destinations include
- England,
- Scotland,
- Wales
- and the Western Isles.
The ports of call offer different types of activities to suit all tastes, from historic beaches, national parks and archaeological sites, to more modern activities such as shopping and night-time entertainment. A cruise around the British Isles usually begins at the port of Southampton in England, where travellers board the cruise ship. The first destination is often Dublin in Ireland, which offers a rich history and a variety of entertainment for all tastes. Next, you will visit Edinburgh in Scotland where you can explore its picturesque city centre and the famous Edinburgh Castle. The journey then continues to Cardiff in Wales where you will find a variety of interesting museums and some of the UK’s most beautiful beaches.
Finally, your cruise will conclude with a visit to the Western British Isles such as the Isle of Man and Jersey. A cruise around the British Isles can offer travellers a unique cultural experience with its charming ports and rich history. Most ships also offer shore excursions to explore each destination in more depth. Shore excursions can include a visit to St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Dublin, a scenic walk around Edinburgh Castle or a guided tour through the Welsh countryside. Itineraries may also include the opportunity to see some of the historic sites such as Stonehenge or Hadrian’s Wall in England or the Callanish Stones megalithic monument on the Isle of Lewis in the Western British Isles. Choosing a cruise itinerary around the British Isles is a great way for travellers to experience what the UK has to offer. Passengers can take in the beautiful scenery while enjoying the local culture and taking advantage of the many opportunities offered by each port of call. Whatever type of adventure you are looking for, a cruise around the British Isles is without doubt one of the most interesting and exciting European itineraries you can choose.
A cruise to Greenland, to the far north
Greenland is one of the most beautiful cruise destinations in Northern Europe. The islands, fjords and glaciers offer spectacular views and beautiful scenery. A cruise to Greenland is a unique experience that allows visitors to experience the spectacular wilderness and Inuit culture. It is the ideal way to discover the unique nature of this unique country.
Travellers will have the opportunity to sail on calm waters and admire the picturesque scenery, while visiting traditional Inuit villages. Most itineraries start in the capital city of Nuuk, located in the south-east of the country, and include a stopover in Ilulissat, where visitors can enjoy the incredible spectacle of the Ilulissat glacier.
Itineraries can also include visits to notable archaeological sites such as Qassiarsuk and Narsaq, as well as excursions to see local wildlife, including humpback whales and walruses. Greenland cruises are available all year round, but it is advisable to plan your trip between June and September to make the most of the pleasant weather conditions.
In addition, during this period, visitors have the opportunity to observe a spectacular natural phenomenon: the midnight sun. The summer season is also the best time to take part in activities offered by local expeditions such as hiking, kayaking and water skiing. For those wishing to cruise this fascinating part of the world, there are different types of cruise itineraries available depending on the desired duration and budget.
Trips around the Greenland Peninsula are generally longer (10-15 days) as they include several stops at different ports. Other itineraries include a combination of Norwegian and Icelandic ports and a stopover in Greenland.
A Northern European cruise can therefore be an unforgettable experience, no matter which route is chosen. Travellers will have the opportunity to discover many spectacular sites and historic cities, while enjoying quality activities and services on board the ship. This adventure is an opportunity to discover natural wonders, unique cultures and unforgettable places. In order to find the most interesting cruise itinerary, it is advisable to consider the different possibilities and choose the one that best meets your expectations.
