Postcards from the Baltic

Dover, England

Embark Spirit of Adventure.

Depart 1800.

Spend the day at sea.

Gothenburg, Sweden

Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.

Step ashore in southern Sweden and the cosmopolitan city of Gothenburg. With its canals, fascinating architecture, trams and art, this is one of Sweden’s trendiest cities. Join an included sightseeing tour, then soak up the Scandi atmosphere as you stroll along the waterfront or through the ‘Haga’ – the city’s old quarter.

The city of course has a choice of museums and galleries to visit, from the Gothenburg Museum of Art with its fine collections and the cutting edge Roda Sten Art Centre, to the niche Radiomuseet (Radio Museum) – dedicated to all things radio! Perhaps take a tour to the Volvo Museum and discover more about Sweden’s most iconic brand.

Spend the day at sea.

Stockholm, Sweden

Arrive 0900 on September 2. Depart 1300 on September 3.

Sweden’s capital extends across 14 islands strung together by a series of canals and bridges. Spirit of Adventure will spend the night in port this evening, so you’ll have plenty of time to see all of Stockholm’s top attractions, starting with an included guided tour.

Next, explore the beautifully preserved medieval quarter – Gamla Stan, home to the royal palace – or visit some of the numerous museums and art galleries. Abba enthusiasts will want to head for their dedicated museum to see the flamboyant costumes, gold records and memorabilia. Meanwhile, those with a head for heights might like to take a bird’s-eye-view tour of the island of Riddarhilmen on a guided rooftop hiking tour – a combination of climbing and sightseeing.

Helsinki, Finland

Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.

Today you'll cruise into what is arguably one of the world’s most beautiful harbours, with the UNESCO-listed sea fortress of Suomenlinna sitting at its entrance. This graceful capital brims with delightful neoclassical buildings, galleries and museums. After an included sightseeing tour, you may like to seek out some of Helsinki’s other highlights such as the neo-Classical Senate Square, Market Hall and the Rock Church which is hewn from solid rock and crowned with a copper ceiling.

During your visit you could choose to go on the trail of the city's most famous son, composer Jean Sibelius, on an optional tour, or you can don a life jacket to enjoy a high speed RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) adventure to see more of the archipelago.

St Petersburg, Russia

Arrive 0800 on September 5. Depart 1700 on September 6.

A showcase of art, architecture and culture, two full days in St Petersburg gives you time to discover its greatest treasures. The dream of Peter the Great and Russia’s capital for two centuries – before Moscow reclaimed the title following the revolution a century ago – a sense of grandeur and history resonates throughout the squares and grand canal-front buildings.

Look forward to an included panoramic tour, and then our collection of excursions allows you to seek out such must-see sights and attractions. The fascinating Hermitage State Museum with its world-class collection is a must-see, and the ornate Catherine Palace in Pushkin delights visitors with its richly decorated interiors. For a memorable evening ashore, you may also like to see a ballet performance in one of the city’s great theatres.

Tallinn, Estonia

Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.

Tallinn city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and as you explore its ancient streets, taking in early buildings, squares and stunning city walls, it’s not hard to see why. Gothic spires and medieval market squares confined within watchtower studded walls mean Tallinn is often touted for its fairy-tale kerb appeal. Then there’s the city’s secretive Cold War history which you can uncover at the KGB Museum on the 23rd floor of the Soviet era Hotel Viru.

Perhaps venture outside the old city limits to visit Kadriorg Park, which was founded by Peter the Great and is the setting for the baroque palace he dedicated to his wife, Catherine. Daredevils might enjoy an optional excursion to the 22nd floor of the TV Tower to walk along the edge of the roof – in a harness – for stupendous views.

Spend the day at sea.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Arrive 0800. Depart 1700.

On your approach to Copenhagen you will be treated to amazing views of the eight-kilometre bridge that spans the Øresund Straits between Denmark and Sweden. Exploring on foot is an easy way to immerse yourself in the cosmopolitan bustle of Denmark’s historic capital. From the grand palaces of Christianborg and Amelienborg, to the trendy boutiques of the pedestrianised Strøget district and amusements of Tivoli Gardens, there’s much to discover.

You can also spot monuments to Hans Christian Andersen, from two statues of the author on the avenue named after him, to the haunting Little Mermaid statue in the harbour. Perhaps stroll out to the Haga area of the city with its period houses and independent shops where you can relax in one of the many cafes as you enjoy a little ‘fika’ – coffee, cake and some ‘downtime’ before you say ‘adjö’ to Sweden and set sail for Norway this evening.

Oslo, Norway

Arrive 1200 on September 10. Depart 1300 on September 11.

Oslo was established in the 11th century and with its location at the head of the Oslofjord quickly became a major trading port. Today the city lives and breathes art and design, from the solidity of the medieval Akershus fortress to the iceberg-like Opera House that seems to be sliding into the city’s fjord. An overnight stay in port ensure plenty of time to take in the city’s multitude of attractions, and an included sightseeing tour is the perfect way to get your bearings.

Treat yourself to a fun ride at the TusenFryd Amusement Park, stroll along Aker Brygge wharf with its shops, restaurants and waterfront, or seek out some of Oslo’s state-of-the-art architecture. A must visit is the collection of Edvard Munch’s work in the National Museum and Munch Museum and the temple of architecture and design that is DogA.

Spend the day at sea.

Dover, England

Arrive 0800.

Disembark Spirit of Adventure after breakfast.

Please note: Some of the highlights detailed may only be seen on optional excursions, at an additional cost, or by exploring independently.