Try the Scandinavian capitals, discover the Norwegian fjords or soak up the atmosphere of the historic ports of the Baltic Sea.April 23, 2024 3:50 p.m.If you’ve ever wanted to immerse yourself in the culture of the Vikings or explore what makes the inhabitants of the Nordic region the so-called happiest on earth, you could do a lot worse than book a Scandinavian cruise. Scandinavia – and Norway in particular – is an expensive place to travel, so a cruise can make financial sense for those looking for an introduction to the region. For one price, you’ll have your travel, lodging, meals and entertainment covered.
Such a trip offers you the opportunity to try out various highlights of Scandinavian travel, whether you prefer the Scandinavian capitals, the stunning Norwegian fjords or soaking up the atmosphere of beautiful islands and historic ports on the Baltic Sea.
Popular Scandinavia Cruise Itineraries
Many different types of itineraries can be advertised as Scandinavian cruises. Typically, they focus on the Nordic capitals. Some may also highlight the Baltic Sea region, including the Baltic countries and the northern ports of Germany and Poland.
With popular Norwegian Fjord cruises, along with Midnight Sun and Northern Lights tours in Northern Norway also available, there is plenty of diversity in Scandinavian cruising.
Scandinavian capitals : Cruise itineraries that depart from the United Kingdom or Germany and call in two or even all three capitals, Oslo, Stockholm and Copenhagen, have long been popular.
Helsinki is frequently included in these types of itineraries. If you want to explore modern Scandinavia while visiting some of the best museums in the region, such an itinerary is a perfect option.
These types of itineraries are usually shorter and are a great introduction to both cruising and Scandinavia, with limited sea days and plenty to see and do while in port.
Baltic Sea : Longer Scandinavian itineraries frequently include stops at Baltic Sea islands and ports. The beautiful Estonian capital, Tallinn, or the Latvian capital, Riga, stand out especially, as do the ports on the northern coast of Germany and Poland.For those interested in Viking history, look for smaller ship itineraries that include Visby, on the wonderful island of Gotland.One of them is this 12-night itinerary from Celebrity Cruises, which includes a visit to both Visby and Tallinn. Other highlights include a visit to Stockholm and Copenhagen, including an overnight stop in the latter.
Norwegian Fjords : The Norwegian Fjords region is by far the most varied, with almost all major cruise companies operating at least some itineraries here. Although performances in Flåm and Geiranger will soon be severely limited, many alternative ports will still be able to welcome some of the world’s largest cruise ships.Whether you prefer the action-packed ships of Royal Caribbean or MSC, or choose the smaller ships that can navigate narrower fjords, there will be a Norwegian fjords itinerary for you.
Following the region’s recent rise in popularity as a cruise destination, the fjord season has been extended, with voyages available from April to September.British line P&O Cruises operates its relatively new megaship Iona in the fjord region for much of that period, with regular departures from Southampton on a popular 7-day itinerary.
Midnight Sun : While all summer cruises in the region will experience long summer days, specific Midnight Sun itineraries set sail to the far north of Norway for guests to experience the thrill of being outdoors with the sun in the sky. at midnight. Many of these trips visit Honningsvåg, allowing guests to travel by coach to the North Cape.
Northern Lights : In recent years, Scandinavia – or more specifically Norway – has become a year-round cruise destination thanks to the growth in popularity of Northern Lights cruises.These itineraries can be found heading north of the Arctic Circle between October and early April.
Northern Europe cruises offer a fantastic range of excursions and experiences, from historic city tours to adrenaline-filled outdoor adventures.The region’s love of the outdoor lifestyle means it’s easy to find active experiences, both through cruise line excursions and independent operators.High levels of English comprehension across the region mean that booking your own activities and exploring ports independently is much easier than in many other parts of the world. Still, look for independent tours that take place earlier in the day to reduce any weather-related risks.No matter when you visit Scandinavia, pack your bag for any weather. The peak of summer can be marred by heavy rain, while sunburn is possible in snowfall in February and March.Pack a versatile wardrobe. Layered clothing suits the region’s variable climate, while specialized equipment may be necessary for specific excursions.Cruises and sustainabilityPotential travelers should be aware of the environmental concerns associated with cruising in this pristine region. The sector is moving towards sustainability, with initiatives to introduce zero-emission ships in sensitive areas, especially in the UNESCO-listed Norwegian fjords .Some local protest initiatives against cruise travel have also gained momentum, so cruise passengers should be aware of these issues before setting foot on land.
Tips for Planning Scandinavia Cruises
Northern Europe cruises offer a fantastic range of excursions and experiences, from historic city tours to adrenaline-filled outdoor adventures.
The region’s love of the outdoor lifestyle means it’s easy to find active experiences, both through cruise line excursions and independent operators.
High levels of English comprehension across the region mean that booking your own activities and exploring ports independently is much easier than in many other parts of the world. Still, look for independent tours that take place earlier in the day to reduce any weather-related risks.
No matter when you visit Scandinavia, pack your bag for any weather. The peak of summer can be marred by heavy rain, while sunburn is possible in snowfall in February and March.
Pack a versatile wardrobe. Layered clothing suits the region’s variable climate, while specialized equipment may be necessary for specific excursions.
Cruises and sustainability
Potential travelers should be aware of the environmental concerns associated with cruising in this pristine region. The sector is moving towards sustainability, with initiatives to introduce zero-emission ships in sensitive areas, especially in the UNESCO-listed Norwegian fjords .
Some local protest initiatives against cruise travel have also gained momentum, so cruise passengers should be aware of these issues before setting foot on land.
