Music 
Guest Speaker 
Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3
19 m²
2
- Last staterooms
A musical journey on the Baltic Sea
Copenhagen - Stockholm
Dates:
20/4/2024
to
29/4/2024
days
nights on board
In partnership with RADIO CLASSIQUE, with featured guests Alain Duault and an exceptional musical line-up.
PONANT invites you to discover the historical cities along the Baltic Sea. You will embark on Le Bellot for an 10-day cruise about the cultural wonders of the Hanseatic League.
From Copenhagen, you will first set a course for Karlskrona. This city, whose history is intrinsically linked to the Swedish Navy, boasts exceptional UNESCO-listed architecture that is characteristic of late-17th-century European naval cities.
Your ship will then call at Gdansk, famous for its amber stone and its shipyards. The former Hanseatic city will reveal some of its architectural treasures, in Gothic and Baroque styles, restored or rebuilt.
Further north, Klaipeda, formerly known as Memel, the main port town in Lithuania, is separated only by a narrow channel from the Curonian Spit, a UNESCO Heritage.
Le Bellot will then sail to the Swedish island of Gotland and call at Visby, a site that was important for the Hanseatic League in the Baltic Sea around the 13th century. A UNESCO Heritage Site, this once-opulent city still has remarkably well-preserved ramparts, public buildings, merchant houses and warehouses.
You will also discover Riga, capital of Latvia. A unique blend of different architectural styles, the old town will open itself up to you like the pages of a history book.
You will then head to Helsinki. Located on a peninsula surrounded by almost 300 islands, the verdant capital of Finland will charm you with its Art Nouveau architecture.
You will visit Tallinn, emblematic city of the Hanseatic League, the large trading network that dominated the Baltic Sea for several centuries. Listed as UNESCO Heritage Site, this once opulent city still have remarkably well-preserved public buildings, merchant houses and warehouses.
Your ship will finally head for Stockholm, your disembarkation port.
Ref : EE200424
Your itinerary
A musical cruise in partnership with RADIO CLASSIQUE, with featured guests Alain Duault and an exceptional musical line-up. A cruise on the Baltic Sea, to discover important cities of the Hanseatic League,...
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Additional services
For more peace of mind, PONANT selects stays and flights then takes care of your transfers for your trip as well as shore visits before and after the cruise.
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LE SOLÉAL
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21/8/2024 to the 28/8/2024
- New
LE LYRIAL
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LE LYRIAL
8/9/2024 to the 19/9/2024
*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
Services provided
- 24-hour room service
- Inclusive Wifi internet access (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Dyptique Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- Electronic safe
- Direct line telephone
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
- 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- Two ADA staterooms
Select your stateroom category
Elena Galitskaya
Originally from Russia and of dual French-Russian nationality, Elena Galitskaya trained at the Moscow Academy of Choral Arts, graduating in 2007. She now divides her time between France and Italy.
Since her operatic début at the Opéra National de Lyon in the Shostakovich operetta Moscow, Cheryomushki in 2009, she is regularly invited to perform there, notably at the 2011 Mozart Festival where she alternated the roles of Despina, Zerlina and Barbarina. She also played Frasquita in Carmen (2012), directed by Olivier Py, Ilia in Mozart’s Idomeneo and Eurydice in Gluck’s Orfeo ed Euridice.
Notable roles from 2015 to 2018 included Fiorilla in Il Turco in Italia at the Dijon Opéra, Sophie (Werther), Pamina at the Teatro Verdi in Trieste and the Italian singer in Capriccio at the Theater an der Wien. In 2017, she made her début at the Théâtre du Capitole of Toulouse as Lisette in Puccini’s La Rondine, then at the Graz Opera where she sang the Contessa di Folleville role in Rossini’s Il Viaggio a Reims, and finally at the Aix en Provence Festival Echo in Ariadne auf Naxos.
During the 2018-2019 season, she played Papagena at the La Monnaie Théâtre Royal in a production by Roméo Castelluci. She then sang Pamina at the Teatro Bellini in Catania, then Micaela in Carmen at the Dijon Opéra.
More recently, she played Pauline in a production of La Vie Parisienne at the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées, directed by Christian Lacroix, then Amour, still at the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées, in Orfeo ed Euridice. Her performance as Fiorilla in Il Turco in Italia at the Wallonia Royal Theatre was a triumph.
Named an HSBC Laureate of the Académie Européenne de Musique of the Festival International d’Art Lyrique d’Aix en Provence in 2010, the following year she won third prize and the public prize at the Queen Elisabeth Competition in Brussels.
Languages spoken: French, English and Russian
Photo credit: ARR
Magdalena Geka
Violinist Magdalēna Geka (1992) enjoys a busy and eclectic career and has performed in many prestigious European venues: Wigmore Hall and Southbank Centre in London, UK; Auditorium du Louvre in Paris, France; Verbier Festival, Switzerland or Kuhmo Festival in Finland. She is the winner of the Parkhouse Award in London, the International Marschner Competition in Germany, and is a sought-after soloist and concertmaster. She was a founding member of the Trio Sōra, until 2019, and since 2022 is the 1st Violin of the Quatuor Akilone.
She has been nominated twice for the Latvian Grand Music Award (Lielā Mūzikas balva), and recently received nominations for the prestigious German music prize Opus Klassik in three categories, including Young Artist of the Year.
Magdalena Geka holds a Master’s degree in both Violin and Chamber Music from the Paris National Conservatoire, as well as Artist Diplomas from both CNSM de Paris and the Queen Elisabeth Music Chapel in Belgium. She also enjoys performing contemporary music, having collaborated with such composers as Peteris Vasks, Eric Tanguy, Camille Pépin, Santa Buss and Gabriel Sivak, and has to-date premiered around forty works for violin solo or in ensemble. Magdalena Geka plays an Alessandro Gagliano 1734 violin generously loaned through the Anima Music Foundation.
Spoken languages: French, English and Latvian.
Photo credit: Sandra Jasherica
Natalia Morozova
Russian pianist Natalia Morozova was born in Moscow, where she began her piano studies at the age of six. She graduated with highest honors from the Tchaikovsky State Conservatory, where her teachers had included Tigran Alikhanov, Victor Mergianov, Alexander Mdoyantz, and undertook further chamber music studies in Italy.
For her achievements as a soloist and with her piano duo partner Vitaly Younitsky she won a series of prizes at international competitions in Russia, Italy and Switzerland. As a soloist with orchestra Natalia performed across Europe and produced recordings with the Basel Sinfonietta, the Ekaterinburg Philharmonic, the Moscow Symphony Orchestra, and the Moscow Soloists conducted by Yuri Bashmet. Moreover, she could be heard in solo and chamber music recitals across Russia, in Italy (at the Quirinal Palace in Rome for Rai 3 television), Austria (Mozarteum Salzburg), France, Great Britain, Lebanon (Al Bustan Festival), Slovenia, Croatia, Lettonia, Bulgaria and Switzerland, where she featured in Classeek’s Winter Festival Live Stream Concerts and many others.
Chamber music partners include Renaud Capuçon, Maxim Vengerov, Nikita Boriso-Glebsky, Michael Guttman, Yuri Bashmet, Anton Martynov, Julian Rachlin, Gautier Capuçon, François Salque, Nadezda Tokareva, Carlo Colombara, Anna Serova, Emmanuele Baldini, Laurence Guillod and Alexandra Conunova.
Constantly seeking new forms of expression and knowledge, Natalia Morozova’s repertoire has recently increased in the fields of baroque and contemporary music.
Languages spoken: Russian, Italian, English and French
Photo credit: ARR
Polina Streltsova
Born into a family of musicians, Polina Streltsova grew up inside the inspiring atmosphere of the Bolshoi theater in Moscow where her parents are both artists.
After finishing Moscow State Conservatory she continued her studies in the class of Jérôme Pernoo at CNSM of Paris,then with Henri Demarquette at Ecole Normale Alfred Cortot. In the season 2018-2019 Polina was a part of Philippe Jaroussky Academy for young soloists.
Polina is supported by Fondation Safran pour la musique, Fondation Meyer and Mécénat Musical Société Générale.
Her stage partners are, among others, Philippe Jaroussky, Michel Beroff, François Chaplin, Ludmila Berlinskaya, Sonia Wieder-Atherton. Polina has taken part in numerous international festivals and academies, such as Kronberg Academy Masterclasses, Amsterdamse Cello Biënnale, Encuentro de Santander, Rutesheim Cello Academy...
She performs on Russian and European stages: Paris Philharmony Grande Salle, Auditorium of La Seine Musicale in Paris, concert halls of Moscow State Tchaikovsky Conservatory, New Stage of Bolshoi Theater, Moscow International House of Music, Moscow Kremlin halls; in France, Germany, Poland, Greece and Spain.
Languages spoken: French, English and Russian
Photo credit: ARR
Alain Duault
The novelist, poet, journalist, musicologist and radio and television presenter Alain Duault has been sharing his passion for and knowledge of classical music for more than 30 years. Considered to be one of the greatest opera specialists in France he is now President of the Prix Pelléas jury, and has been made an Officier de la Légion d’Honneur and Commandeur des Arts et Lettres.
Alain Duault studied literature, philosophy and psycho-analysis in Paris, then musicology and piano. His first TV appearance was as a guest of Bernard Pivot for his book of poems, Colorature. This led to a number of radio programmes dedicated to classical music, notably on RTL, the radio station where Alain Duault would be “Mr Classical Music” for 22 years, before joining Radio Classique with daily slots until 2018. A role that he also took on for the France 3 television channel, presenting a number of exceptional programmes (masterclasses with Ruggero Raimondi in the Salle Gaveau, Musiques en fête at the Chorégies d’Orange festival…).
In 1999, he conceived and presented Intégrale Chopin (225 works, 60 pianists), broadcast on France 3. Then in 2001, he wrote and performed an ambitious and very popular show, Verdi, une passion, un destin (with Jean Piat and 250 musicians). In the wake of this success, he wrote and performed two other shows: Victor Hugo, la légende d’un siècle in 2002 and Rencontre avec George Sand (with Marie-Christine Barrault) in 2004 and 2005.
Alain Duault also puts his writing skills to the service of classical music. The author of a number of books, including Dans la peau de Maria Callas, (Le Passeur Éditeur, 2014, pocket edition, 2017), Dictionnaire amoureux illustré de l’Opéra (Plon Gründ, 2016), Ce léger rien des choses qui ont fui, poetry (Gallimard, 2017), he also writes editorials for Classica.
Language spoken: French
Photo credit: Laurent Rouvrais @Radio Classique
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.
For women:
- Simple dress
- Skirt or trousers
- Blouse
- Polo
For men:
- Pleated trousers or chinos
- Sports jacket
- Shirt
- Polo
Officer’s evening:
For all cruises longer than 8 nights, an Officer’s Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).
Gala evening:
During the cruise, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits.
For women:
- Cocktail attire
- Evening dress (if you wish to)
For men:
- Dark suit
- Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)
SHOP:
A small shop is available on board offering a wide range of outfits, jewellery, leather goods and many accessories.
A laundry service (washing/ironing) is available on board, but unfortunately there are no dry cleaning services. For safety reasons, your cabin is not equipped with an iron.
ACCESSORIES:
- Polarized sunglasses
- Swimsuit (for the Spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
- Hat/cap
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
- Medications and prescriptions
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
- Casual outfits for the day
- Smarter outfits for dinners
- Elegant outfits for Gala evenings
- White or black and white outfit
PRECAUTIONS:
In your hand luggage, remember to bring any medicines that you need, and possibly a small spare bag of toiletries (in case of delay in the delivery of your baggage by the airline). Remember to always have your travel documents with you in case you need them: hotel vouchers, cruise vouchers, return flight tickets... Never leave them in your hold luggage.
All our cabins have a safe. We recommend not to go ashore with valuable jewellery.
PONANT activities
Radio Classique
Every day RADIO CLASSIQUE attracts over a million listeners with a promise to celebrate the best works in the classical repertoire by top performers, and bring classical music into the hearts of the greatest number of people in a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere. Radio Classique achieves this by employing well-known personalities with a passion for music, offering a varied play list from symphonies to film music, as well as interactive programmes and numerous live concert broadcasts.
It is these values which set Radio Classique apart, as an accessible, elegant radio station which is much appreciated by epicurean and discerning listeners ; values that are perfectly in tune with what PONANT’s musical cruises have to offer, under the artistic direction of Alain Duault. A truly unforgettable musical experience awaits passengers in the company of outstanding artists in an intimate and privileged setting.
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
Highlights
- A musical cruise in partnership with RADIO CLASSIQUE, with featured guests Alain Duault and an exceptional musical line-up.
- A cruise on the Baltic Sea, to discover important cities of the Hanseatic League, through eight northern European countries: Denmark, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Finland, Estonia and Sweden.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the naval port of Karlskrona, the Curonian Spit from Klaipeda, the Hanseatic Town of Visby, the historical centre of Riga, the sea fortress of Suomenlinna from Helsinki, the old town of Tallinn.
- Discover five European capitals on the same cruise: Copenhagen (Denmark), Riga (Latvia), Helsinki (Finland), Tallinn (Estonia), Stockholm (Sweden).
- The Swedish city of Karlskrona, whose naval port is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Before your cruise: possibility to visit Copenhagen.
Ports of Call & Excursions
20 April 2024 - Copenhagen
Embarkation 20/4/2024 from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Departure 20/4/2024 at 6:00 pm
Connected to the far eastern side of Sealand island, a few kilometres away from the Swedish coasts, Copenhagen offers you the high colour of Scandinavian capitals. You can discover the city's riches that weaves through the canal networks through the historical districts of Christiansborg and Nyhavn. Many palaces provide an apercu of Danish history. For eating, you can try out the smorrebrod, traditional danish sandwiches made with ham, cheese or smoked fish.
21 April 2024 - Karlskrona
Arrival 21/4/2024 early morning
Departure 21/4/2024 early afternoon
Discover Karlskrona on the southern coast of Sweden, between land and sea, spread over the small islands of the Blekinge archipelago. Its strategic position on the Baltic Sea made it the headquarters of the Swedish Royal Navy and its naval dockyard on the orders of King Karl XI of Sweden, in 1680. Constructed from nothing, the citadel has kept its architecture, whose coherence and conservation have today earned its listing as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its authentic colourful wooden houses facing the sea - which is never too far away - and its rich naval history give it an exquisite and unique charm. Do not miss this visit.
22 April 2024 - Gdansk
Arrival 22/4/2024 early morning
Departure 22/4/2024 late afternoon
This ravishing city on the Baltic sea is nicknamed “the golden door of Poland”, and you’ll understand why when you see its beautiful Hanseatic architecture. You’ll be charmed by the mouldings and gables that enhance the colourful façades of the houses. Along the Vistula Quays, you can take a pleasant stroll among the crafts shops. In elegant Mariacka street, the amber jewellers will most certainly tempt you into their boutiques. You can visit the church of Saint-Mary and its astronomic clock. Not far, the majestic Long Market square offers the famous Artus Court and the rich Gdansk History Museum.
23 April 2024 - Klaipeda
Arrival 23/4/2024 midday
Departure 23/4/2024 late afternoon
Klaipeda was founded in the 13th century by Christian crusaders from the German Order of Teutonic Knights. Its strategic location on the edge of the Baltic Sea has made it a source of conflict between Germans, Poles, Lithuanians and even the French since its creation. Today, the legacy of Klaipeda’s rich history is a great multiculturalism. This is the main port of Lithuania and the country’s third largest city. The beautiful landscapes of the surrounding Baltic coast make it a popular tourist destination. The city centre is very pleasant to visit due to its architecture blending German and Scandinavian influences.
24 April 2024 - Visby, Gotland
Arrival 24/4/2024 early morning
Departure 24/4/2024 midday
This old Hanseatic city lies to the west coast of Gotland, a Swedish island in the Baltic sea. Pass through the spectacular Visby fortifications and visit the old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. You’ll discover the grand Visby homes of rich merchants as well as the lovely low wooden houses in the little cobbled streets. Don’t miss Saint Mary’s cathedral with its octagonal steeples, as well as Powder tower along the fortifications. Make sure you stop over in one of the rose-adorned cafés; indeed roses abound in this town where you can taste one of the island’s specialities, namely saffron pancakes with red fruit.
25 April 2024 - Riga
Arrival 25/4/2024 midday
Departure 25/4/2024 late evening
At the place where East meets West on the edge of the Baltic Sea, Riga, the capital of Latvia, will charm you with its contrasts. Although it is one of the oldest cities in the Baltic states, with a unique atmosphere that is imbued with the memory of its medieval past, Riga is also tangibly dynamic and modern. As you stroll through its old town, you will enjoy its exceptional architecture, its cathedrals, the remains of old walls and the typical narrow streets. Nicknamed “the Paris of the North” in the 1930s, this cosmopolitan city boasts a rich heritage.
26 April 2024 - At sea
Arrival 26/4/2024
Departure 26/4/2024
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
27 April 2024 - Helsinki
Arrival 27/4/2024 early morning
Departure 27/4/2024 evening
Seated in the southern peninsula of Finland, Helsinki offers the buzz of a cosmopolitan city that has opted for both elegance and beauty. Explore its historical centre where the soft hues of neoclassical buildings are juxtaposed with spectacular modern constructions. The bustling Kallio district is teeming with boutiques and restaurants where you can taste some local specialities like graavilohi - a sweet, marinated, aromatic salmon dish. Keskuspuisto park, a stone’s throw from the centre, is a good place to sit and unwind.
28 April 2024 - Tallinn
Arrival 28/4/2024 at night
Departure 28/4/2024 early afternoon
Opening onto the Baltic sea, to the far north of Estonia, the town of Tallin will win you over with the picturesque charm of its architecture. You can meander through its little streets in the heart of the medieval centre where its gothic town hall has been standing since 1404. The Kiek in de Kök tower, the Orthodox Alexander Nevski cathedral, or Toompea castle give visitors a taste of this town’s rich past. The city was particularly active during the medieval period, as is demonstrated by the very beautiful monuments from this period that are still visible. Don't hesitate to lose yourself in the heart of Tallinn, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
29 April 2024 - Stockholm
Arrival 29/4/2024 early morning
Disembarkation 29/4/2024 at 8:00 am
The capital of Sweden occupies an archipelago in the east of the country at the junction of Mälar Lake and the Baltic sea. In Gamla stan, meaning “old town” in Swedish, you can stroll at your leisure in picturesque medieval streets until you reach the majestic Royal Palace. On the green island of Djurgården, you can visit several very different kinds of cultural centres: the Vasa museum is dedicated to a 17th century three-mast, the ecomuseum of Skansen presents traditional customs, and the ABBA museum is dedicated to the legendary pop group. For a fantastic, all-encompassing view of Stockholm, you can take a ride in SkyView, a glass-encased sphere gondola that takes you to the top of the world’s largest building, the Ericsson Globe, a Stockholm landmark.
Meet the locals
You will meet your guide and board your coach for a panoramic 30-minutes tour of the UNESCO World Heritage listed part of the city, which is full of historical splendours reflecting its maritime heritage before heading to Brändaholm, and where you will be immersed in a typical Swedich neighbourhood.
Brändaholm is considered to be Sweden's most picturesque and beautiful community garden. It is a picture-postcard example of Sweden's idylic way of life. It is located on a small promontory of the Dragsö island, and is characterized by its 1920s-style houses and picturesque streets. An ideal destination for simply taking a stroll. There are 45 small houses with gardens, adorned with the Sewedish flag floating in the wind. None of the cabins may be larger than 32 square meters and the rule in Brändaholm states that all houses in size, shape and style must be similar.
To own a cottage you need to be in an inhabitant of Karlskrona. The local owners are very proud of their houses, and, of course, their gardens. The houses have historically passed from owner to owner through inheritance of other direct and personal means and they are rarely traded in the open market.
Stops will be made at a couple of the gardens where you will be able to have a look inside.
Then, head to a typical Swedish “fika” where you will enjoy a coffee with Swedish cake in the company of your local guide, who will be happy to ask all your questions about the area.
After this nice break, you will head to nearby Björkholmen, the old quarter of Karlskrona, with narrow streets and old wooden houses. A sharp contrast with the buildings of the city centre, you will enjoy a unique visit of one of the cottages before reboarding your coach and drive back to your ship.
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The tour includes approximately 1km of walking over mostly flat surfaces. It is recommended you wear comfortable walking shoes. This tour is limited to 35 participants.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Kungsholm's Fortress
Meet your guide and board your coach, for a short drive to the old Fish Market area.
There, you will embark aboard one of the local tour boats which will take you on a scenic cruise through Karlskrona’s urban archipelago to an island fortress that has safeguarded the city's main sea entrance for over 300 years. During the cruise to Kungsholms Fortress, you will be able to enjoy great views of the city, as well as some of Karlskronas major landmarks that you will passed along the way, including the Naval Shipyard that has fueled the city’s economy and reputation for centuries. The city centre of Karlskrona is uniquely situated in the middle of the archipelago, 6 km from the mainland.
Built at the time of Karlskrona’s founding as a naval community in 1680, Kungsholms Fortress was essential to the defence of the city – and remains actively manned by the Swedish navy to this day. The bastion’s signature feature, a vast round harbor surrounded by imposing walls and towers, is an impressive sight.
While it’s never been attacked, Kungsholm is fully ready – sporting a 3-story cannon tower and storage magazines fortified with double-brick shells and hefty iron doors. While here, you will also have a chance to stroll the fort’s gardens, flourishing with exotic plants brought back by sailors from their voyages. If you’re up for a climb, the tower stairs lead to phenomenal panoramic views of the archipelago.
You will then cruise back to the pier of Fisktorget before driving back to the ship.
-
This tour includes approximately 1km of walking over mostly flat and sometimes uneven surfaces. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Cold war experience
You will join your guide at the pier for a short walk to the city centre to experience Karlskrona's military history.
Once in the centre, you will visit Karlskrona's “underground” . During the Cold War a concept of ”total defence” was developed in preparation of an invasion by the Soviet Union – only 35 km across the Baltic - that was a preoccupying concern at the time.
You will visit one of the many civil defence shelters from the 1950s, in the middle of Karlskrona's city centre. One of the interesting underground facilities you can visit from the Second World War and the Cold War is a civilian bunker, 30 metres below ground, dating from 1959, which can accommodate over 6,000 people.
Then, you will headthrough the railway tunnel which the military used as a starting point for the underground facilities. You will continue your adventure at the impressive Submarine Hall, a part of the Naval Museum. Here, you will experience a close encounter with an actual Cold War submarine. Filled with the latest technology, HSwMS Neptun was commissioned in 1980 by the Swedish Navy to patrol the Baltic Sea during the Cold War.
You will have the chance to visit the Cold War exhibition before walking back to the ship.
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The tour includes approximately 3 km (1.86 miles) of walking on mostly flat and some uneven surfaces. Some steps need to be negotiated. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. This tour is limited to 20 persons.
Price range:
Find out more
€€€: the excursion price is between €100 and €150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Kayak tour in the World Heritage
The best way to explore Karlskrona, a listed UNESCO World Heritage Site, is from the seaside. Indeed, Karlskrona extends over 30 islands and countless smaller ones.
Meet your guide on the pier, and enjoy a small guided walk through the beautiful city centre, to the kayak base.
There, you will meet your local kayak guide, who will give you a short security briefing before launching into the sea. Your kayak guide will take you on a picturesque paddle tour around some of the islands that forms the World Heritage site.
Enjoy gliding over the sea as its mirror-like water reflects the sunlight and be amazed by the coast and its kilometres of protected waters. You will pass by Brändaholm, the most famous allotment garden areas of Sweden, with its famous little wooden houses. See the gunpowder-house on Ljungskär as well as the Old Fish Market.
This active tour combines nature, history and culture.
After paddling along the coast, you will head back to the kayak base to wrap up. As a reward for the effort spent paddling, you can enjoy a fika (hot beverage with Swedish pastry).
You guide will walk you back to the pier.
-
This tour includes approximately 3 km of walking on mostly flat but uneven surfaces. Some steps need to be negotiated. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. There is 1h30 of paddling. This tour is limited to 14 participant.
Price range:
Find out more
€€€: the excursion price is between €100 and €150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Gdansk city tour
From the pier in Gdansk, you will board your coach for a drive through the suburban and commercial sections of Gdansk on your way to the Old Town.
The city’s 1,000 years of history have left a collection of buildings and monuments designed in Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles. Your guided walk will bring you to the heart of the city - the Old Town. You will see buildings decorated with elaborate façades crowded by ornate gables. You will pass by the Town Hall, Long Market and the beautiful 15th century merchant’s Palace of Artus Court. Pause at Neptune’s Fountain to admire this monumental symbol of Gdansk’s Hanseatic past and its connection with the sea before walking down to the waterfront canal. Then take Mariacka or St. Mary’s Street, which delight its visitors with its lively atmosphere, quaint shops and lovely terraced buildings.
Continue to St. Mary’s Church, the pride of Gdansk. Gothic St. Mary’s is the world’s largest brick church, accommodating some 25,000 worshippers. Situated in the centre of the Old Town, this medieval church took 159 years to build, and its deceivingly plain exterior belies a bright, spacious interior with large windows and more than 30 beautifully decorated chapels. The floor is covered with ancient tombstones, and the northern transept holds an amazing 15th-century astronomical clock, complete with the zodiac cycle and a calendar of the saints.
You will enjoy time at leisure to shop for amber jewellery, artwork and souvenirs in the Old Town of Gdansk.
- This tour involves approximately 2.5 km (1.6 mile) of walking, some over cobblestone streets. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes. Appropriate dress is recommended to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered).
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Gdansk city tour & Chopin concert
From the pier in Gdansk, you will board your coach for a drive through the suburban and commercial sections of Gdansk on your way to the Old Town.
The city’s 1,000 years of history have left a collection of buildings and monuments designed in Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles. Your guided walk will bring you to the heart of the city - the Old Town. You will see buildings decorated with elaborate facades crowded by ornate gables. You will pass by the Town Hall, Long Market and the beautiful 15th century merchant’s Palace of Artus Court. Pause at Neptune’s Fountain to admire this monumental symbol of Gdansk’s Hanseatic past and its connection with the sea before walking down to the waterfront canal. Then take Mariacka or St. Mary’s Street, which delight its visitors with its lively atmosphere, quaint shops and lovely terraced buildings.
Continue to St. Mary’s Church, the pride of Gdansk. Gothic St. Mary’s is the world’s largest brick church, accommodating some 25,000 worshippers. Situated in the centre of Old Town, this medieval church took 159 years to build, and its deceivingly plain exterior belies a bright, spacious interior with large windows and more than 30 beautifully decorated chapels. The floor is covered with ancient tombstones, and the northern transept holds an amazing 15th-century astronomical clock, complete with the zodiac cycle and a calendar of the saints. Enjoy some time at leisure to shop for amber jewellery, artwork and souvenirs in the Old Town of Gdansk.
Next, drive to the Polish Baltic Philharmonic and enjoy an exlusive concert of Polish classical music, which presents the most famous pieces of classical music written by Frédéric Chopin, as well as other great masters that continued his tradition: Edward Grieg, Fritz Kreisler, Wojciech Kilar (a contemporary film music composer) and Henryk Wieniawski. The entire programme will be performed by a renowned Polish pianist Rafal Lewandowski.
After the concert, re-board your coach for the return drive to the pier and your ship.
- This tour involves approximately 2.5 km (1.24 mile) of walking, some over cobblestone streets. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes. Appropriate dress is recommended to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered). A welcome drink before the concert will be offered.
Price range:
Find out more
€€€€: the excursion price is more than €150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Polish culinary traditions in Gdansk
Discover one of the most popular specialties of Poland: pierogi. This tour will allow you to taste the local food and enjoy a guided tour of Gdansk.
Meet your guide and board your coach for a short 30-minute drive to downtown Gdansk.
Together with your guide, you will arrive at a local workshop where you can make and taste pierogi. Indeed, as far as cuisine is concerned, Poland is the most famous country for its pierogi, also called dumplings. They are made by wrapping pockets of unleavened dough around a savoury or sweet filling and cooking them in boiling water. During this workshop, your local chef will explain all the subtleties of this dish. He will guide you in the preparation of your pierogi. You will have the opportunity to get your hands dirty by following the Polish recipe with local ingredients and your chef's instructions, and prepare your own Polish dumplings. Your chefs know the recipes inside out, so you will not only prepare and taste these delicious dishes, but you will also learn about the true Polish traditions. After the workshop, you will taste your preparations accompanied by a glass of a typical Polish drink, namely kompot. It is a national drink, that is non-alcoholic, which and accompanies the meals in Poland. Very different from the traditional compote, the Polish kompot is prepared with stewed fruits and water.
After this workshop and tastings, you will head to a local restaurant for another tasting: the Goldwasser. This is a strong liquor made from roots and herbs that has been produced since at least 1598 in Gdansk. The most striking feature of this drink is the presence of small gold flakes of 22 or 23 carats suspended in the drink. You will learn more about its history from your guide and taste the liquor.
Finally, your guide will take you to the heart of Gdansk for a guided tour of the Old Town. - tThe city's 1,000-year history has left a rich collection of buildings and monuments designed in a splendid mix of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles. Although Gdansk's Old Town is not as old as it looks, as over 80% of the buildings were rebuilt after the devastation of World War II, it has been thoroughly and lovingly restored to its former glory.
Enjoy some free time before re-joining your guide and coach to return to your ship.
- This tour includes 2.5 km of walking over flat and partially cobblestoned streets. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes
Price range:
Find out more
€€€: the excursion price is between €100 and €150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Charms of Franciscan Kretinga
Kretinga is a quaint little town situated just a 30-minute drive north to Klaipeda. From the pier board your coach and drive to this city with its special charm.
You will first visit the Church of the Annunciation which dates back to the 17th century. On the grounds surrounding the church you will view the stations of the cross. See the 400-year-old main altar restored to its authentic glory and go down to the crypts.
The adjoining Franciscan monastery combines Renaissance and Baroque elements. The Franciscan brothers, who lived in the monastery, have made a great contribution to education in Lithuania. They opened the first school and later began publishing books and newspapers. The Franciscan monastery was closed by the tsarist government and again later in Soviet times. In 1992, after the independence, the Franciscans returned. They look after the church and hold warm and welcoming services. The church is invariably full when services are held. One of the brothers or sisters will guide you around the church if they are not at prayer.
Continue by coach through the center of Kretinga to Count Tiskevicius’ 19th century estate. This historic mansions is also widely known for its special home made chocolate, which is known since 19th century. You will be offered a cup of tea or coffe, special Count's chocolate and a piece of Lithunian cake in a former Kretinga's Water Mill, which now houses a cosy family owned cafe.
Return by bus to Klaipeda and drive through the central streets. Pass the Neo-Gothic Post Office building, the Clock and Watches museum before making a stop in the Old Town of Klaipeda to view the sculpture of Annchen von Tharau in the Theatre Square.
Re-board your coach for the 10-minute return drive to the pier and your ship.
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Total walking distance for this tour is 2 km (1.24 mile) on uneven surfaces (cobblestones at the monastery and in the old town); some steps are involved. We recommend you wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Cycling to the end of the Dunes
Depart from the pier by bicycle to the pedestrian ferry and cross the lagoon to the Curonian spit, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is also known as Neringa. The old legend says that the giant Neringa gathered an apron full of sand and poured a ribbon of sand to divide the sea from the lagoon and thus make fishermen safer from sea storms.
The short 10-minute trip by ferry across the lagoon to the Curonian spit is an enjoyable experience. Once you are on the Curonian Spit, bike along the lagoon passing Klaipeda yacht club on the way. Reach the Hagen Dune and make a stop to view the panorama of Klaipeda. Continue through the picturesque Curonian Spit and stop by the dunes. You will find out how the Curonian Spit forests were planted by human hands and saved the Spit from disappearance.
Continue on the forest trail and cycle out to see one of the most beautiful beaches in Klaipeda, also considered one of the best on the coast of the Baltic Sea. Take a break and enjoy light Lithuanian snacks and local beer at a local cafe near the beach.
On the way back to the ferry, ride along the breakwater. Pass 19th century Prussian military fort, which is now the Sea and Maritime Museum. Pass old fishing vessels and a typical 19th century fishermen's farmstead before taking the ferry back to Klaipeda and bike to the heart of the Old town of Klaipeda. Browse through the local craftsmen market before returning to the pier.
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Total biking distance for this tour is 16 km (10 miles). Participants should be in excellent physical condition. E-bikes are available for guests older than 16 years.
Price range:
Find out more
€€€: the excursion price is between €100 and €150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Legends of the Witches Hill
You will meet your guide and board your coach for a short drive through Klaipeda. From, there, you will embark on a 10-minute ferry ride across the Curonian Lagoon to the Curonian Spit, famous for its unique and unspoilt nature. Curonian Spit is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You guide will lead you through Juodkrante (Blackshore), the oldest fishermen’s village on the Spit. Today, it is a seaside resort, which has retained its old charm. On the way to Juodkrante you will pass by Amber Bay, where amber was mined in the 19th century. In Juodkrante, you will be able to admire the decorated and ornamented traditional fishermen's houses.
Opened in 1979, the Hill of Witches is a collection of sculptures of witches, devils and fairy tale monsters, all carved from oak. Here, you can whisper to the witch who, it is said, will fulfil your wishes. Or sit on a bench, which is said to cure all diseases. See legends come to live such as the giant Neringa, Egle the Queen of Grass-Snakes, the Thunder, the Poacher and many witches performing their devilry. This is a special place somewhere between the mystical and the real world, where your imagination and creative powers come alive.
In Juodkrante, you will walk along the Lagoon quay, which is decorated with modern sculptures. You will stop to see the Evangelical Lutheran church and the Gallery of Weathervanes. In the 19th century, weathervanes were used as a special marking system on the top of Kurenas. Later, fishing boats. Later, the weathervanes became an original artistic phenomenon. In the gallery, you will have the opportunity to meet the owner, see amber artefacts, unique pieces containing inclusions and jewellery made by local amber artists.
Take the ferry back to Klaipeda and make a photo stop in the heart of the Old Town, at the Theatre Square before driving back to the ship.
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The tour includes a walking distance of approximately 2,5 kilometres (1.55 miles). The Hill of Witches - hard gravel forest path going uphill and downhill. Roots of the trees are crossing the path. Lutheran church - even surface, 2 steps at the entrance to the church. No ramp. The Weathervane gallery - a flat surface, 2 steps at the entrance to the gallery. No ramp. Klaipeda Old Town - cobblestones, 10-15 steps total. Please wear comfortable walking shoes. It is advisable to wear waterproof clothing or/and carry an umbrella during a rainy day.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Lithuania from the eyes of a local
Today you are invited to visit Emas and his family’s home.
Meet your guide and host for the day, boardyour coach, and drive through the Lithuanian countryside to the small town of Kretingale.
There, you will head to Emas' house where you will meet his wife Irma as well as their 5 children and get the chance to have a lovely visit of their property and to learn more about life in Lithuania.
You will hear the story of how a modern young family can change their lives, return to their roots and live in harmony with nature. This was a decision made by Emas, a young lecturer at the International University and father of a large family. In 1997, when everyone was moving from the village to the town, Emas bought an old house on the edge of the forest and moved there with his young family. At that time, he had no idea what village life would involve. But today, you can find Emas milking his goats and feeding chickens, which happily roam free in the yard. Very often, Emas and his children can see roe deer and hares in the forest.
Emas not only wants to create an enjoyable life for his family, but also to share his new life experiences and dreams with his visitors, young and old. Now Emas's house is not just a home for his family, it is also a summer camp for teenagers who want to be closer to nature. Relax and chat with Emas and his family over a cup of hot beverage and some light Lithuanian snacks.
After seeing how a young family has created its life in the village, you will reboard the bus for a panoramic drive back to Klaipeda and head back to your ship.
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We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes. This tour takes place at real village and there are risks of mosquitos and other wild insects. Please be aware and prepared with insect repellent.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Charming Riga & organ recital
Start your tour by coach and enjoy a short driving along the boulevards, parks and charming green spots of Riga. During this part of the tour, see various examples of Art Nouveau buildings, as well as the Latvian National Museum of Art, the Freedom Monument erected in 1935 on the donations of citizens of Latvia, the Latvian University and the National Opera. A stop will be made at the Art Nouveau district for a short walk through the Alberta street.
Next, reboard your coach for a drive through the modern part of the city, before you discover historical Old Riga on foot and acquaint yourself with the churches, the renovated buildings and the magnificent Dome Cathedral a masterpiece of architecture. The Dome is renowned for its prestigious organ, constructed in 1883, with more than 6,700 pipes. The highlight of your visit will be a short organ recital, demonstrating the power and beauty of its impressive sound.
Your tour continues to the Town Hall Square, where you will see the House of Blackheads, the Roland Monument and St. Peter's Church. A stop will be made at Livu Square to see the Cat House and the guild houses.
After your walking tour in Old Riga, reboard your coach for the 10-minute return drive to the pier and your ship.
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This moderate tour involves some steps and approximately 2 km (1.2 mile) of walking on cobblestone streets. We recommend you wear comfortable clothing and comfortable walking shoes. Appropriate dress is recommended to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered).
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Old Riga & wooden boat cruise
Riga is the capital of Latvia, the largest city of the country and the most cosmopolitan town of the Baltic capitals. It is a well-known and highly appreciated industrial, commercial, cultural and financial center of the Baltic States as well as one of the most important seaports of the region.
You will get beautiful trip by boat and will enjoy Riga’s and charming city canal.
From the pier, your coach will take you to the river pier located 10 minutes away. You will board a charming wooden boat for a commented cruise on the charming Riga's canal to discover the city marvelous layout, its buildings, its parks and its boulevards.
After an hour's ride along the water, you will leave your boat and board your coach for a 20-minute panoramic tour through the modern part of the city. You will pass by the National Opera, the Music Academy, the Central Railway Station, the Council of Ministers and Brivibas Street, the main shopping street of Riga. You will see other iconic places such as the Park Esplanada and its monument to the famous Latvian poet Janis Rainis, the Academy of Arts and the State Museum of Fine Arts.
You will continue with a guided walking tour of the historic center of Riga, which will take you to churches, renovated buildings and the magnificent Dome Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece. The cathedral is famous for its prestigious organ, built in 1883, with over 6,700 pipes. You will continue your walk to the Town Hall Squaree, where you will be able to admire the House of Blackheads, the statue of Roland and the Saint Peter's church. On the Livu Square, you will stop to see the Black Cat House and the small and large guild houses.
After your stroll through Old Riga, you will re-board your coach for the 10-minute ride back to your ship.
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This moderate tour involves about 2 km of walking on cobblestone streets, with some steps. We recommend that you bring comfortable clothing and walking shoes. Participants must be able to get on and off the river boat without assistance. This tour is limited to 35 participants.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Art & architecture of Riga
Riga is one of the most exciting cities in the Baltic States and one of the most popular tourist destinations. The historical significance of authentic Old Riga, with its charming medieval atmosphere, and the ongoing renaissance of old buildings, thanks to successful restoration projects, reveal Riga's true beauty.
Riga is believed to have the largest collection of Art Nouveau architecture in Europe.
Meet your guide on the quay, board your bus and, after a short ride from the port, you will arrive in the centre of Riga.
With your guide, you will enjoy a guided tour of the main Art Nouveau Street, Alberta Street. During this tour, you will have the opportunity to admire the exceptional architectural heritage with several unforgettable examples of Art Nouveau buildings. This style is unique to Latvia and is known as "national romanticism". You will also discover the Freedom Monument, erected in 1935 thanks to donations from the citizens of Latvia, the Latvian University and the National Opera.
After extensive restoration and reconstruction, the Latvian National Art Museum opened to visitors on May 4, 2016. Around 500 works of art from the museum's collection are on display.
Finally, your guide will take you on a walking tour of historic Old Riga. Familiarize yourself with the churches and renovated buildings. Take a look at the House of Blackheads, followed by St. Peter's Church, St. George's Church and St. John's Church. You will walk with your guide to Livu Square, where you will have the chance to admire buildings such as the Russian Theatre, and large and small guild houses.
Then, it will be time to catch your bus back to your ship.
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This tour involves a 2 km walk on relatively flat, cobbled surfaces. We advise you to wear comfortable walking shoes and a jacket.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Helsinki highlights
From the pier, drive towards Sibelius Park. It was named after Finland's greatest composer Jean Sibelius on his 80th birthday in 1945. Here you can view the Sibelius Monument designed by Eila Hiltunen.
Then proceed to Temppeliaukio Church. Built from the natural bedrock, it is one of Helsinki's most popular tourist attractions. The interior walls are created naturally by the rock, hence its nickname the Rock Church. The church was opened in 1969. Due to its excellent acoustics, the church is a popular venue for concerts.
After the visit, drive to Senate Square; it is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful urban squares in the world. The square is dominated by four buildings designed by Carl Ludvig Engel between 1822 and 1852: Helsinki Cathedral, the Government Palace, the main building of the University of Helsinki and the National Library of Finland.
Next, walk down from Senate Square to the very lively Market Place. Here, discover the real heart of Helsinki and enjoy free time walking around and tasting local foods. Re-board the coach for the return drive to the pier and ship.
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This tour involves 1 mile (1,5 km) of walking on flat but uneven terrain and cobblestone streets. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Suomenlinna Fortress
From the Market Square, board a local ferry to reach Suomenlinna Island. The island is a major monument of military architecture. The construction of the sea fortress on the islands just off Helsinki in the middle of the 18th century was the most extensive building project during Swedish rule. When it was complete, its military shipyard was one of the biggest dry docks in the world and centres of know-how at that time. At the end of Swedish rule, the fortress was being compared with the maritime fortifications of Gibraltar. The 250-year-old fortress, which has been preserved intact because of its military use, is today part of UNESCO’s World Heritage List.
Join your guide for a walking tour of the island.
From the fortress, head back to the mainland by ferry, where you will pass through the Market Square and enjoy free time before walking back to the ship.
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This tour involves approximately 1.5 miles (2 km) of walking on uneven ground and sand paths. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes. There are no inside visits included. The use of the local ferry is nonexclusive.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Porvoo Old Town and Malmgård manor
Enjoy a delightful drive through the Finnish countryside to the medieval town of Porvoo for a walking tour and a visit of Malmgård manor.
Board your motorcoach for a one hour drive to Porvoo.
The second oldest town in Finland, Porvoo is one of Finland's six medieval towns. It is famous for its wooden buildings in the old town and cobbled streets with charming shops and cafes. Celebrated as a national treasure, its old town has remained unchanged since the Middle Ages. With your guide, you will admire the red warehouses on the riverbank that once formed the medieval port. Today, these old buildings have become the symbol of Porvoo and are among the most photographed attractions in Finland. After a short orientation walk, you will enjoy some free time before heading to Malmgård Castle.
The manor house is of renaissance inspiration and is one of the most beautiful in Finland. Malmgård is now a private estate.
Your host will welcome you and invite you to visit this magnificent building which has belonged to the Creutz family since the early 1600s. Count Henrik Creutz still resides in the manor and has modernised the property by creating an organic farm and an ecological brewery. After the tour, you will be served a light lunch before heading to the farm's eco-brewery. The brew master will show you the secrets of his products. You will taste 3 types of beer and have a chance to share your opinion with the brewer ! And of course, the history of the farm and how it became involved in ecological farming is also a very interesting topic.
The estate also has a shop selling produce from the farm, local specialities and beers.
Back on the bus, you will return to Helsinki after this pleasant day in the Finnish countryside.
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This tour includes approximately 2km of walking over uneven surfaces, cobblestoned streets and wooden floors. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes.
Price range:
Find out more
€€€: the excursion price is between €100 and €150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Foraging in a Finnish forest
This tour takes you on a journey through Mother Nature's kitchen, right in the heart of the Finnish forest.
Board your coach for a 45 minute drive through the Finnish landscapes towards Nuuksio National Park.
Here, you will meet your local Finnish forest guide, who has studied all the edible herbs, berries and mushrooms. He will guide you through the national park and will explain all the secrets of the forest, which is a kind of open-air market garden and kitchen. Indeed, Finland's ever-changing and organic forests provide families with a wide variety of ingredients that change with each season.
During your tour in the middle of the forest the guide will tell you about the Finnish culture, and the importance of the open spaces for the locals.
Every story is unique when it starts in nature. The story of the day will be directed by the season and the wild foods you can find in the heart of it. From spring to autumn, you will be on the hunt for wild herbs like ground elder and nettle, wild berries like blueberries, raspberries and lingonberries, and some of nature's finest fungi (depending on the season), such as the golden chanterelle and the picturesque porcini.
Accompanied by your guide, you will stop for a delicious Finnish-style lunch by a lake. This perfect moment will allow you to enjoy the serene beauty of the Finnish wilderness in your own way.
After this journey in the forest, you will reboard your coach and drive back to the ship.
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This tour includes approximately 3km of walking in the forest. A raincoat in case of rain is included in the tour. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and outdoor clothing in accordance with the weather. Guests must be well fit for a nature walk. The picking depends on the season and the product of the forest mentionned cannot be guaranteed at the time of the call.
Price range:
Find out more
€€€€: the excursion price is more than €150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Tallinn & folklore
Tallinn is a wonderfully preserved city of the Hanseatic League with its old town entered in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Departing from the pier, your coach will circle around the Old town, offering magnificent views of the medieval city wall.
You will start your guided walking tour in the Upper Town with its watch-towers, graceful spires and winding, cobbled streets. Visit the Russian Orthodox Church, inaugurated in 1900 and filled with a stunning array of superb icons. You will view the exterior of the castle which is now the seat of Estonia's parliament. Built on a cliff top the Upper Town provides superb vantage point from which to view the red gabled roofs and spires of the Lower Town.
Your tour will continue as you follow your guide down Long and Short Leg Streets to the Lower Town. The first visit here will be to a historical building in the city centre where you will be treated to a delightful Estonian folk show.
Once you are rested and ready to resume your touring, you will continue with a walking tour of the Lower Town. Among the highlights is the apothecary, which opened in 1422, the Great Guild House, Holy Ghost Church and the 15th century Gothic Town Hall (all from outside). Here in the heart of Tallinn, you will enjoy some free time before rejoining your coach and returning to the pier.
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This tour involves 4 km (2.48 miles) of walking, mostly on cobblestone streets, and about 100 steps to climb. We recommend that you wear comfortable shoes. Appropriate dress is recommended to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered). Please note that the church may be closed on Sundays due to religious service. It is not recommended for persons with walking difficulties.
Price range:
Find out more
€: the excursion price is less than €50.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Gothic treasures of Tallinn
Departing from the pier by coach, you will pass the modern city centre with its hotels, banks and shopping centres. Reaching the Old Town, a stop is made at the Tall Hermann Tower to get an outside view of the imposing castle. You can walk to the Kiek in de Kök Tower to get a view of the towers and steeples of the Upper Town.
Continue your guided visit on foot to the old Hanseatic town viewing the Transfiguration church, Nun's Gate and numerous merchants' homes on your way. You can admire Gothic facades of the guild houses and the Holy Ghost church with the oldest street clock in Tallinn till you reach the Town Hall Square.
In the centre of the square is the 15th century Town Hall, one of the very few well-survived Gothic town halls in Europe. You will be treated a guided tour of this magnificent building visiting the citizens' hall which is now often used for VIP receptions and concerts as well as the councillors' hall where part of the unique 15th century furniture has been exhibited.
After the Town Hall inside visit, you can admire other old buildings that line the square paying a special attention to the facade of the Town Hall apothecary shop, probably the oldest pharmacy in Europe that has been functioning since 1422. You will also enjoy some free time there.
On the way back to your coach, pass the Viru gate, one of the three gates that has survived in the city wall.
Reboard your coach for the 15-minute return drive to your ship.
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This tour includes approximately 4 km (2.48 mile) of walking on uneven ground and cobblestone streets and involves approximately 20 rather steeps stairs at the Town Hall. We recommend that you wear comfortable shoes. It is not recommended for persons with walking difficulties.
Price range:
Find out more
€: the excursion price is less than €50.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Discover the Estonian cuisine
This tour offers a unique opportunity to familiarize yourself with the most popular Estonian hors d'oeuvres of yesterday and today.
You will meet your guide on the pier and board your bus for a short trip to Tallinn's medieaval castle on the bank of the old moat.
You will cross the Nuns' Gate to City Hall Square, the liveliest part of town, filled with restaurants and cafés, many of which are open-air. Across the square, in a charming Jugendstil building, you will find the day's restaurant serving an assortment of typical Estonian hors d'oeuvres. The restaurant's chef will explain the preparation process for the various appetizers and their ingredients and will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
The dishes are accompanied by different types of apple cider. Estonia's climate is highly conducive to growing apples.
At the end of the tasting, you will be served a delicious cup of coffee and dessert.
Before heading back to your ship, you will have some free time in one of the city's most popular districts.
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This tour includes 1.5 km of walking on relatively flat surfaces with cobblestones. We recommend that you wear good walking shoes.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Tallinn and surrondings by bike
Discover the best Tallinn has to offer. This tour takes you to Tallinn's seaside, Peter the Great's summer palace, the romantic Kadriorg Park and the site of the Song Festival. The seaside promenade leads to Tallinn's Old Town, where you will cycle along the ancient walls.
You will meet your guide/instructor on the quay, where you will be given your equipment and a safety briefing before starting your tour. You will head for Kadriorg Park, a green oasis in the centre of Tallinn. Here, you can admire the Baroque palace of Peter and Catherine (now a museum of foreign art) and the presidential palace.
Continue on to Pirita with a stop at the Song Festival Grounds, home of the major Estonian song festivals, which have been held here for over 150 years.
On the way back, you will drive along Seaside Avenue, enjoying a magnificent view of the Tallinn skyline. You will pass the Rotermann district, a fine example of the symbiosis between unique modern architecture and a collection of renovated 19th-century industrial buildings. Before reaching Tallinn's well-preserved Hanseatic Old Town, you will enjoy a refreshment break in a local café.
After passing St. Margaret's Tower and St. Olav's Church, you will make a longer stop at Town Hall Square.
Here, you can spend some free time before cycling back to the pier or stay longer in the city and take a shuttle back to the pier.
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The tour includes 10 km of cycling on fairly flat roads with occasional climbs. This tour is offered in English. All cycling equipment is provided. We advise you to wear comfortable cycling clothes and shoes.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Le Bellot
Like the other ships in the PONANT EXPLORERS series, Le Bellot has been designed to provide absolute comfort for its passengers, even at the heart of the world's most remote and isolated regions.
Racy lines, state-of-the-art equipment, a refined design, a softly muted and at the same time convivial ambiance together with a deliberately restricted number of cabins all contribute to the modernity of Le Bellot, a unique ship in the world of cruising.
Up to 184 Guests
92 staterooms & suites
118 crew members
Spa
2 restaurants
Decks
Music
Set sail on a musical journey! If you have a passion for classical instrumental music or opera, if you love Celtic melodies or jazz, treat yourself to a different and exclusive experience aboard a PONANT ship. On board or ashore, our guests of honour, including renowned artists, talented musicians and brilliant virtuosos, share their knowledge and their passion in an intimate and accessible manner during concerts or talks.
Guest Speaker
Aboard your ship, an English-speaking lecturer will enlighten you about the culture and history of your destination to deepen your knowledge of the origins of local traditions, the history of emblematic sites, and stories involving famous personalities and those of major historical significance. During on-board lectures or on your shore visits, this expert will be there to share their precious knowledge with you throughout your PONANT cruise.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
20/4/2024 - FLIGHTS FROM/ TO PARIS + COPENHAGEN, A ROYAL CITY (PRE) + ART TOUR AND TRANSFER TO ARLANDA AIRPORT COPENHAGEN (POST)
€670
Find out more 20/4/2024 - FLIGHTS FROM/ TO PARIS + COPENHAGEN, A ROYAL CITY (PRE) + STOCKHOLM AN ARCHIPELAGO OF CONTRAST 2N (POST)
€3,280
Find out more 18/4/2024 - FLIGHTS FROM/ TO PARIS + COPENHAGEN CITY OF ART AND HISTORY 2N (PRE) + ART TOUR AND TRANSFER TO ARLANDA AIRPORT (POST)
€2,200
Find out more 18/4/2024 - FLIGHTS FROM/ TO PARIS + COPENHAGEN CITY OF ART AND HISTORY 2N (PRE) + STOCKHOLM AN ARCHIPELAGO OF CONTRAST 2N (POST)
€4,820
Find out moreCOPENHAGEN CITY OF ART AND HISTORY (2 NIGHTS)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 – Copenhague
Meet at Copenhague airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
Transfer of around 30 minutes, from the airport to the Nobis Hotel 5*, not far from the Tivoli Gardens, in the very heart of the historic center of Copenhagen.
Dinner in a local restaurant.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 – Copenhague
Breakfast.
Your morning will be spent visiting the National Museum of Denmark, where you will be able to learn more about the history of Denmark and its rich heritage, particularly through the Viking age, which is especially well represented.
After lunch in a local restaurant, in the afternoon you will go to visit the famous Frederiksborg Castle, around 30 kilometres (19 miles) north of Copenhagen, which was built by King Christian IV at the beginning of the 17th century on three islets surrounded by a lake.
You will be able to admire its Baroque Park and its romantic landscaped gardens, as well as a remarkable collection of portraits, historic paintings, tapestries and decorative arts.
You will then return to your hotel for some free time before heading out again to dine in a local restaurant.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 3 – Copenhague
After breakfast and check-out, you will then head off to visit the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art, located half an hour away from Copenhagen. You will discover its very beautiful sculpture garden offering a magnificent panorama over the Baltic Sea as well as many masterpieces by Giacometti, Andy Warhol, Calder, Francis Bacon or Asger Jon, one of the prominent figures in the CoBrA avant-garde movement. This small architectural jewel is perfectly integrated into its environment and will delight art lovers.
After lunch in a local restaurant, drive to Ship for embarkation included photostop at the little mermaid.
You will then be transferred to the pier of Antalya to embark on board your ship.
Your hotel:
The Nobis, a member of Design hotels, is ideally located in the historic heart of Copenhagen. Its rooms are elegantly decorated with Scandinavian furniture in a sleek and contemporary spirit, with bathrooms in grey marble. You will be able to enjoy access to its fitness centre as well as its relaxation area, with a swimming pool, sauna and hammam.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
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2-nights accommodation in Deluxe room Nobis 5* hotel (local standard) or similar, breakfast included.
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Meals as mentioned in the programme.
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Beverage package during meals (bottled water + 1 soft drink or 1 local beer or 1 glass of wine and 1 coffee or tea).
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Transfers, visits, and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
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The services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
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Personal expenses.
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Tips for the driver and local guide.
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Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
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It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
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Denmark’s unit is Danish Krone.
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This programme is not suitable for people with reduced mobility.
Contact of your hotel:
NOBIS hotel
Niels Brocks Gade 1
1574 København, Danemark.
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : €1,700
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
Meet the locals
You will meet your guide and board your coach for a panoramic 30-minutes tour of the UNESCO World Heritage listed part of the city, which is full of historical splendours reflecting its maritime heritage before heading to Brändaholm, and where you will be immersed in a typical Swedich neighbourhood.
Brändaholm is considered to be Sweden's most picturesque and beautiful community garden. It is a picture-postcard example of Sweden's idylic way of life. It is located on a small promontory of the Dragsö island, and is characterized by its 1920s-style houses and picturesque streets. An ideal destination for simply taking a stroll. There are 45 small houses with gardens, adorned with the Sewedish flag floating in the wind. None of the cabins may be larger than 32 square meters and the rule in Brändaholm states that all houses in size, shape and style must be similar.
To own a cottage you need to be in an inhabitant of Karlskrona. The local owners are very proud of their houses, and, of course, their gardens. The houses have historically passed from owner to owner through inheritance of other direct and personal means and they are rarely traded in the open market.
Stops will be made at a couple of the gardens where you will be able to have a look inside.
Then, head to a typical Swedish “fika” where you will enjoy a coffee with Swedish cake in the company of your local guide, who will be happy to ask all your questions about the area.
After this nice break, you will head to nearby Björkholmen, the old quarter of Karlskrona, with narrow streets and old wooden houses. A sharp contrast with the buildings of the city centre, you will enjoy a unique visit of one of the cottages before reboarding your coach and drive back to your ship.
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The tour includes approximately 1km of walking over mostly flat surfaces. It is recommended you wear comfortable walking shoes. This tour is limited to 35 participants.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Kungsholm's Fortress
Meet your guide and board your coach, for a short drive to the old Fish Market area.
There, you will embark aboard one of the local tour boats which will take you on a scenic cruise through Karlskrona’s urban archipelago to an island fortress that has safeguarded the city's main sea entrance for over 300 years. During the cruise to Kungsholms Fortress, you will be able to enjoy great views of the city, as well as some of Karlskronas major landmarks that you will passed along the way, including the Naval Shipyard that has fueled the city’s economy and reputation for centuries. The city centre of Karlskrona is uniquely situated in the middle of the archipelago, 6 km from the mainland.
Built at the time of Karlskrona’s founding as a naval community in 1680, Kungsholms Fortress was essential to the defence of the city – and remains actively manned by the Swedish navy to this day. The bastion’s signature feature, a vast round harbor surrounded by imposing walls and towers, is an impressive sight.
While it’s never been attacked, Kungsholm is fully ready – sporting a 3-story cannon tower and storage magazines fortified with double-brick shells and hefty iron doors. While here, you will also have a chance to stroll the fort’s gardens, flourishing with exotic plants brought back by sailors from their voyages. If you’re up for a climb, the tower stairs lead to phenomenal panoramic views of the archipelago.
You will then cruise back to the pier of Fisktorget before driving back to the ship.
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This tour includes approximately 1km of walking over mostly flat and sometimes uneven surfaces. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Cold war experience
You will join your guide at the pier for a short walk to the city centre to experience Karlskrona's military history.
Once in the centre, you will visit Karlskrona's “underground” . During the Cold War a concept of ”total defence” was developed in preparation of an invasion by the Soviet Union – only 35 km across the Baltic - that was a preoccupying concern at the time.
You will visit one of the many civil defence shelters from the 1950s, in the middle of Karlskrona's city centre. One of the interesting underground facilities you can visit from the Second World War and the Cold War is a civilian bunker, 30 metres below ground, dating from 1959, which can accommodate over 6,000 people.
Then, you will headthrough the railway tunnel which the military used as a starting point for the underground facilities. You will continue your adventure at the impressive Submarine Hall, a part of the Naval Museum. Here, you will experience a close encounter with an actual Cold War submarine. Filled with the latest technology, HSwMS Neptun was commissioned in 1980 by the Swedish Navy to patrol the Baltic Sea during the Cold War.
You will have the chance to visit the Cold War exhibition before walking back to the ship.
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The tour includes approximately 3 km (1.86 miles) of walking on mostly flat and some uneven surfaces. Some steps need to be negotiated. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. This tour is limited to 20 persons.
Price range:
Find out more
€€€: the excursion price is between €100 and €150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Kayak tour in the World Heritage
The best way to explore Karlskrona, a listed UNESCO World Heritage Site, is from the seaside. Indeed, Karlskrona extends over 30 islands and countless smaller ones.
Meet your guide on the pier, and enjoy a small guided walk through the beautiful city centre, to the kayak base.
There, you will meet your local kayak guide, who will give you a short security briefing before launching into the sea. Your kayak guide will take you on a picturesque paddle tour around some of the islands that forms the World Heritage site.
Enjoy gliding over the sea as its mirror-like water reflects the sunlight and be amazed by the coast and its kilometres of protected waters. You will pass by Brändaholm, the most famous allotment garden areas of Sweden, with its famous little wooden houses. See the gunpowder-house on Ljungskär as well as the Old Fish Market.
This active tour combines nature, history and culture.
After paddling along the coast, you will head back to the kayak base to wrap up. As a reward for the effort spent paddling, you can enjoy a fika (hot beverage with Swedish pastry).
You guide will walk you back to the pier.
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This tour includes approximately 3 km of walking on mostly flat but uneven surfaces. Some steps need to be negotiated. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. There is 1h30 of paddling. This tour is limited to 14 participant.
Price range:
Find out more
€€€: the excursion price is between €100 and €150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Gdansk city tour
From the pier in Gdansk, you will board your coach for a drive through the suburban and commercial sections of Gdansk on your way to the Old Town.
The city’s 1,000 years of history have left a collection of buildings and monuments designed in Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles. Your guided walk will bring you to the heart of the city - the Old Town. You will see buildings decorated with elaborate façades crowded by ornate gables. You will pass by the Town Hall, Long Market and the beautiful 15th century merchant’s Palace of Artus Court. Pause at Neptune’s Fountain to admire this monumental symbol of Gdansk’s Hanseatic past and its connection with the sea before walking down to the waterfront canal. Then take Mariacka or St. Mary’s Street, which delight its visitors with its lively atmosphere, quaint shops and lovely terraced buildings.
Continue to St. Mary’s Church, the pride of Gdansk. Gothic St. Mary’s is the world’s largest brick church, accommodating some 25,000 worshippers. Situated in the centre of the Old Town, this medieval church took 159 years to build, and its deceivingly plain exterior belies a bright, spacious interior with large windows and more than 30 beautifully decorated chapels. The floor is covered with ancient tombstones, and the northern transept holds an amazing 15th-century astronomical clock, complete with the zodiac cycle and a calendar of the saints.
You will enjoy time at leisure to shop for amber jewellery, artwork and souvenirs in the Old Town of Gdansk.
- This tour involves approximately 2.5 km (1.6 mile) of walking, some over cobblestone streets. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes. Appropriate dress is recommended to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered).
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Gdansk city tour & Chopin concert
From the pier in Gdansk, you will board your coach for a drive through the suburban and commercial sections of Gdansk on your way to the Old Town.
The city’s 1,000 years of history have left a collection of buildings and monuments designed in Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles. Your guided walk will bring you to the heart of the city - the Old Town. You will see buildings decorated with elaborate facades crowded by ornate gables. You will pass by the Town Hall, Long Market and the beautiful 15th century merchant’s Palace of Artus Court. Pause at Neptune’s Fountain to admire this monumental symbol of Gdansk’s Hanseatic past and its connection with the sea before walking down to the waterfront canal. Then take Mariacka or St. Mary’s Street, which delight its visitors with its lively atmosphere, quaint shops and lovely terraced buildings.
Continue to St. Mary’s Church, the pride of Gdansk. Gothic St. Mary’s is the world’s largest brick church, accommodating some 25,000 worshippers. Situated in the centre of Old Town, this medieval church took 159 years to build, and its deceivingly plain exterior belies a bright, spacious interior with large windows and more than 30 beautifully decorated chapels. The floor is covered with ancient tombstones, and the northern transept holds an amazing 15th-century astronomical clock, complete with the zodiac cycle and a calendar of the saints. Enjoy some time at leisure to shop for amber jewellery, artwork and souvenirs in the Old Town of Gdansk.
Next, drive to the Polish Baltic Philharmonic and enjoy an exlusive concert of Polish classical music, which presents the most famous pieces of classical music written by Frédéric Chopin, as well as other great masters that continued his tradition: Edward Grieg, Fritz Kreisler, Wojciech Kilar (a contemporary film music composer) and Henryk Wieniawski. The entire programme will be performed by a renowned Polish pianist Rafal Lewandowski.
After the concert, re-board your coach for the return drive to the pier and your ship.
- This tour involves approximately 2.5 km (1.24 mile) of walking, some over cobblestone streets. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes. Appropriate dress is recommended to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered). A welcome drink before the concert will be offered.
Price range:
Find out more
€€€€: the excursion price is more than €150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Polish culinary traditions in Gdansk
Discover one of the most popular specialties of Poland: pierogi. This tour will allow you to taste the local food and enjoy a guided tour of Gdansk.
Meet your guide and board your coach for a short 30-minute drive to downtown Gdansk.
Together with your guide, you will arrive at a local workshop where you can make and taste pierogi. Indeed, as far as cuisine is concerned, Poland is the most famous country for its pierogi, also called dumplings. They are made by wrapping pockets of unleavened dough around a savoury or sweet filling and cooking them in boiling water. During this workshop, your local chef will explain all the subtleties of this dish. He will guide you in the preparation of your pierogi. You will have the opportunity to get your hands dirty by following the Polish recipe with local ingredients and your chef's instructions, and prepare your own Polish dumplings. Your chefs know the recipes inside out, so you will not only prepare and taste these delicious dishes, but you will also learn about the true Polish traditions. After the workshop, you will taste your preparations accompanied by a glass of a typical Polish drink, namely kompot. It is a national drink, that is non-alcoholic, which and accompanies the meals in Poland. Very different from the traditional compote, the Polish kompot is prepared with stewed fruits and water.
After this workshop and tastings, you will head to a local restaurant for another tasting: the Goldwasser. This is a strong liquor made from roots and herbs that has been produced since at least 1598 in Gdansk. The most striking feature of this drink is the presence of small gold flakes of 22 or 23 carats suspended in the drink. You will learn more about its history from your guide and taste the liquor.
Finally, your guide will take you to the heart of Gdansk for a guided tour of the Old Town. - tThe city's 1,000-year history has left a rich collection of buildings and monuments designed in a splendid mix of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles. Although Gdansk's Old Town is not as old as it looks, as over 80% of the buildings were rebuilt after the devastation of World War II, it has been thoroughly and lovingly restored to its former glory.
Enjoy some free time before re-joining your guide and coach to return to your ship.
- This tour includes 2.5 km of walking over flat and partially cobblestoned streets. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes
Price range:
Find out more
€€€: the excursion price is between €100 and €150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Charms of Franciscan Kretinga
Kretinga is a quaint little town situated just a 30-minute drive north to Klaipeda. From the pier board your coach and drive to this city with its special charm.
You will first visit the Church of the Annunciation which dates back to the 17th century. On the grounds surrounding the church you will view the stations of the cross. See the 400-year-old main altar restored to its authentic glory and go down to the crypts.
The adjoining Franciscan monastery combines Renaissance and Baroque elements. The Franciscan brothers, who lived in the monastery, have made a great contribution to education in Lithuania. They opened the first school and later began publishing books and newspapers. The Franciscan monastery was closed by the tsarist government and again later in Soviet times. In 1992, after the independence, the Franciscans returned. They look after the church and hold warm and welcoming services. The church is invariably full when services are held. One of the brothers or sisters will guide you around the church if they are not at prayer.
Continue by coach through the center of Kretinga to Count Tiskevicius’ 19th century estate. This historic mansions is also widely known for its special home made chocolate, which is known since 19th century. You will be offered a cup of tea or coffe, special Count's chocolate and a piece of Lithunian cake in a former Kretinga's Water Mill, which now houses a cosy family owned cafe.
Return by bus to Klaipeda and drive through the central streets. Pass the Neo-Gothic Post Office building, the Clock and Watches museum before making a stop in the Old Town of Klaipeda to view the sculpture of Annchen von Tharau in the Theatre Square.
Re-board your coach for the 10-minute return drive to the pier and your ship.
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Total walking distance for this tour is 2 km (1.24 mile) on uneven surfaces (cobblestones at the monastery and in the old town); some steps are involved. We recommend you wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Cycling to the end of the Dunes
Depart from the pier by bicycle to the pedestrian ferry and cross the lagoon to the Curonian spit, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is also known as Neringa. The old legend says that the giant Neringa gathered an apron full of sand and poured a ribbon of sand to divide the sea from the lagoon and thus make fishermen safer from sea storms.
The short 10-minute trip by ferry across the lagoon to the Curonian spit is an enjoyable experience. Once you are on the Curonian Spit, bike along the lagoon passing Klaipeda yacht club on the way. Reach the Hagen Dune and make a stop to view the panorama of Klaipeda. Continue through the picturesque Curonian Spit and stop by the dunes. You will find out how the Curonian Spit forests were planted by human hands and saved the Spit from disappearance.
Continue on the forest trail and cycle out to see one of the most beautiful beaches in Klaipeda, also considered one of the best on the coast of the Baltic Sea. Take a break and enjoy light Lithuanian snacks and local beer at a local cafe near the beach.
On the way back to the ferry, ride along the breakwater. Pass 19th century Prussian military fort, which is now the Sea and Maritime Museum. Pass old fishing vessels and a typical 19th century fishermen's farmstead before taking the ferry back to Klaipeda and bike to the heart of the Old town of Klaipeda. Browse through the local craftsmen market before returning to the pier.
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Total biking distance for this tour is 16 km (10 miles). Participants should be in excellent physical condition. E-bikes are available for guests older than 16 years.
Price range:
Find out more
€€€: the excursion price is between €100 and €150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Legends of the Witches Hill
You will meet your guide and board your coach for a short drive through Klaipeda. From, there, you will embark on a 10-minute ferry ride across the Curonian Lagoon to the Curonian Spit, famous for its unique and unspoilt nature. Curonian Spit is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You guide will lead you through Juodkrante (Blackshore), the oldest fishermen’s village on the Spit. Today, it is a seaside resort, which has retained its old charm. On the way to Juodkrante you will pass by Amber Bay, where amber was mined in the 19th century. In Juodkrante, you will be able to admire the decorated and ornamented traditional fishermen's houses.
Opened in 1979, the Hill of Witches is a collection of sculptures of witches, devils and fairy tale monsters, all carved from oak. Here, you can whisper to the witch who, it is said, will fulfil your wishes. Or sit on a bench, which is said to cure all diseases. See legends come to live such as the giant Neringa, Egle the Queen of Grass-Snakes, the Thunder, the Poacher and many witches performing their devilry. This is a special place somewhere between the mystical and the real world, where your imagination and creative powers come alive.
In Juodkrante, you will walk along the Lagoon quay, which is decorated with modern sculptures. You will stop to see the Evangelical Lutheran church and the Gallery of Weathervanes. In the 19th century, weathervanes were used as a special marking system on the top of Kurenas. Later, fishing boats. Later, the weathervanes became an original artistic phenomenon. In the gallery, you will have the opportunity to meet the owner, see amber artefacts, unique pieces containing inclusions and jewellery made by local amber artists.
Take the ferry back to Klaipeda and make a photo stop in the heart of the Old Town, at the Theatre Square before driving back to the ship.
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The tour includes a walking distance of approximately 2,5 kilometres (1.55 miles). The Hill of Witches - hard gravel forest path going uphill and downhill. Roots of the trees are crossing the path. Lutheran church - even surface, 2 steps at the entrance to the church. No ramp. The Weathervane gallery - a flat surface, 2 steps at the entrance to the gallery. No ramp. Klaipeda Old Town - cobblestones, 10-15 steps total. Please wear comfortable walking shoes. It is advisable to wear waterproof clothing or/and carry an umbrella during a rainy day.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Lithuania from the eyes of a local
Today you are invited to visit Emas and his family’s home.
Meet your guide and host for the day, boardyour coach, and drive through the Lithuanian countryside to the small town of Kretingale.
There, you will head to Emas' house where you will meet his wife Irma as well as their 5 children and get the chance to have a lovely visit of their property and to learn more about life in Lithuania.
You will hear the story of how a modern young family can change their lives, return to their roots and live in harmony with nature. This was a decision made by Emas, a young lecturer at the International University and father of a large family. In 1997, when everyone was moving from the village to the town, Emas bought an old house on the edge of the forest and moved there with his young family. At that time, he had no idea what village life would involve. But today, you can find Emas milking his goats and feeding chickens, which happily roam free in the yard. Very often, Emas and his children can see roe deer and hares in the forest.
Emas not only wants to create an enjoyable life for his family, but also to share his new life experiences and dreams with his visitors, young and old. Now Emas's house is not just a home for his family, it is also a summer camp for teenagers who want to be closer to nature. Relax and chat with Emas and his family over a cup of hot beverage and some light Lithuanian snacks.
After seeing how a young family has created its life in the village, you will reboard the bus for a panoramic drive back to Klaipeda and head back to your ship.
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We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes. This tour takes place at real village and there are risks of mosquitos and other wild insects. Please be aware and prepared with insect repellent.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Charming Riga & organ recital
Start your tour by coach and enjoy a short driving along the boulevards, parks and charming green spots of Riga. During this part of the tour, see various examples of Art Nouveau buildings, as well as the Latvian National Museum of Art, the Freedom Monument erected in 1935 on the donations of citizens of Latvia, the Latvian University and the National Opera. A stop will be made at the Art Nouveau district for a short walk through the Alberta street.
Next, reboard your coach for a drive through the modern part of the city, before you discover historical Old Riga on foot and acquaint yourself with the churches, the renovated buildings and the magnificent Dome Cathedral a masterpiece of architecture. The Dome is renowned for its prestigious organ, constructed in 1883, with more than 6,700 pipes. The highlight of your visit will be a short organ recital, demonstrating the power and beauty of its impressive sound.
Your tour continues to the Town Hall Square, where you will see the House of Blackheads, the Roland Monument and St. Peter's Church. A stop will be made at Livu Square to see the Cat House and the guild houses.
After your walking tour in Old Riga, reboard your coach for the 10-minute return drive to the pier and your ship.
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This moderate tour involves some steps and approximately 2 km (1.2 mile) of walking on cobblestone streets. We recommend you wear comfortable clothing and comfortable walking shoes. Appropriate dress is recommended to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered).
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Old Riga & wooden boat cruise
Riga is the capital of Latvia, the largest city of the country and the most cosmopolitan town of the Baltic capitals. It is a well-known and highly appreciated industrial, commercial, cultural and financial center of the Baltic States as well as one of the most important seaports of the region.
You will get beautiful trip by boat and will enjoy Riga’s and charming city canal.
From the pier, your coach will take you to the river pier located 10 minutes away. You will board a charming wooden boat for a commented cruise on the charming Riga's canal to discover the city marvelous layout, its buildings, its parks and its boulevards.
After an hour's ride along the water, you will leave your boat and board your coach for a 20-minute panoramic tour through the modern part of the city. You will pass by the National Opera, the Music Academy, the Central Railway Station, the Council of Ministers and Brivibas Street, the main shopping street of Riga. You will see other iconic places such as the Park Esplanada and its monument to the famous Latvian poet Janis Rainis, the Academy of Arts and the State Museum of Fine Arts.
You will continue with a guided walking tour of the historic center of Riga, which will take you to churches, renovated buildings and the magnificent Dome Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece. The cathedral is famous for its prestigious organ, built in 1883, with over 6,700 pipes. You will continue your walk to the Town Hall Squaree, where you will be able to admire the House of Blackheads, the statue of Roland and the Saint Peter's church. On the Livu Square, you will stop to see the Black Cat House and the small and large guild houses.
After your stroll through Old Riga, you will re-board your coach for the 10-minute ride back to your ship.
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This moderate tour involves about 2 km of walking on cobblestone streets, with some steps. We recommend that you bring comfortable clothing and walking shoes. Participants must be able to get on and off the river boat without assistance. This tour is limited to 35 participants.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Art & architecture of Riga
Riga is one of the most exciting cities in the Baltic States and one of the most popular tourist destinations. The historical significance of authentic Old Riga, with its charming medieval atmosphere, and the ongoing renaissance of old buildings, thanks to successful restoration projects, reveal Riga's true beauty.
Riga is believed to have the largest collection of Art Nouveau architecture in Europe.
Meet your guide on the quay, board your bus and, after a short ride from the port, you will arrive in the centre of Riga.
With your guide, you will enjoy a guided tour of the main Art Nouveau Street, Alberta Street. During this tour, you will have the opportunity to admire the exceptional architectural heritage with several unforgettable examples of Art Nouveau buildings. This style is unique to Latvia and is known as "national romanticism". You will also discover the Freedom Monument, erected in 1935 thanks to donations from the citizens of Latvia, the Latvian University and the National Opera.
After extensive restoration and reconstruction, the Latvian National Art Museum opened to visitors on May 4, 2016. Around 500 works of art from the museum's collection are on display.
Finally, your guide will take you on a walking tour of historic Old Riga. Familiarize yourself with the churches and renovated buildings. Take a look at the House of Blackheads, followed by St. Peter's Church, St. George's Church and St. John's Church. You will walk with your guide to Livu Square, where you will have the chance to admire buildings such as the Russian Theatre, and large and small guild houses.
Then, it will be time to catch your bus back to your ship.
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This tour involves a 2 km walk on relatively flat, cobbled surfaces. We advise you to wear comfortable walking shoes and a jacket.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Helsinki highlights
From the pier, drive towards Sibelius Park. It was named after Finland's greatest composer Jean Sibelius on his 80th birthday in 1945. Here you can view the Sibelius Monument designed by Eila Hiltunen.
Then proceed to Temppeliaukio Church. Built from the natural bedrock, it is one of Helsinki's most popular tourist attractions. The interior walls are created naturally by the rock, hence its nickname the Rock Church. The church was opened in 1969. Due to its excellent acoustics, the church is a popular venue for concerts.
After the visit, drive to Senate Square; it is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful urban squares in the world. The square is dominated by four buildings designed by Carl Ludvig Engel between 1822 and 1852: Helsinki Cathedral, the Government Palace, the main building of the University of Helsinki and the National Library of Finland.
Next, walk down from Senate Square to the very lively Market Place. Here, discover the real heart of Helsinki and enjoy free time walking around and tasting local foods. Re-board the coach for the return drive to the pier and ship.
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This tour involves 1 mile (1,5 km) of walking on flat but uneven terrain and cobblestone streets. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Suomenlinna Fortress
From the Market Square, board a local ferry to reach Suomenlinna Island. The island is a major monument of military architecture. The construction of the sea fortress on the islands just off Helsinki in the middle of the 18th century was the most extensive building project during Swedish rule. When it was complete, its military shipyard was one of the biggest dry docks in the world and centres of know-how at that time. At the end of Swedish rule, the fortress was being compared with the maritime fortifications of Gibraltar. The 250-year-old fortress, which has been preserved intact because of its military use, is today part of UNESCO’s World Heritage List.
Join your guide for a walking tour of the island.
From the fortress, head back to the mainland by ferry, where you will pass through the Market Square and enjoy free time before walking back to the ship.
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This tour involves approximately 1.5 miles (2 km) of walking on uneven ground and sand paths. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes. There are no inside visits included. The use of the local ferry is nonexclusive.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Porvoo Old Town and Malmgård manor
Enjoy a delightful drive through the Finnish countryside to the medieval town of Porvoo for a walking tour and a visit of Malmgård manor.
Board your motorcoach for a one hour drive to Porvoo.
The second oldest town in Finland, Porvoo is one of Finland's six medieval towns. It is famous for its wooden buildings in the old town and cobbled streets with charming shops and cafes. Celebrated as a national treasure, its old town has remained unchanged since the Middle Ages. With your guide, you will admire the red warehouses on the riverbank that once formed the medieval port. Today, these old buildings have become the symbol of Porvoo and are among the most photographed attractions in Finland. After a short orientation walk, you will enjoy some free time before heading to Malmgård Castle.
The manor house is of renaissance inspiration and is one of the most beautiful in Finland. Malmgård is now a private estate.
Your host will welcome you and invite you to visit this magnificent building which has belonged to the Creutz family since the early 1600s. Count Henrik Creutz still resides in the manor and has modernised the property by creating an organic farm and an ecological brewery. After the tour, you will be served a light lunch before heading to the farm's eco-brewery. The brew master will show you the secrets of his products. You will taste 3 types of beer and have a chance to share your opinion with the brewer ! And of course, the history of the farm and how it became involved in ecological farming is also a very interesting topic.
The estate also has a shop selling produce from the farm, local specialities and beers.
Back on the bus, you will return to Helsinki after this pleasant day in the Finnish countryside.
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This tour includes approximately 2km of walking over uneven surfaces, cobblestoned streets and wooden floors. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes.
Price range:
Find out more
€€€: the excursion price is between €100 and €150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Foraging in a Finnish forest
This tour takes you on a journey through Mother Nature's kitchen, right in the heart of the Finnish forest.
Board your coach for a 45 minute drive through the Finnish landscapes towards Nuuksio National Park.
Here, you will meet your local Finnish forest guide, who has studied all the edible herbs, berries and mushrooms. He will guide you through the national park and will explain all the secrets of the forest, which is a kind of open-air market garden and kitchen. Indeed, Finland's ever-changing and organic forests provide families with a wide variety of ingredients that change with each season.
During your tour in the middle of the forest the guide will tell you about the Finnish culture, and the importance of the open spaces for the locals.
Every story is unique when it starts in nature. The story of the day will be directed by the season and the wild foods you can find in the heart of it. From spring to autumn, you will be on the hunt for wild herbs like ground elder and nettle, wild berries like blueberries, raspberries and lingonberries, and some of nature's finest fungi (depending on the season), such as the golden chanterelle and the picturesque porcini.
Accompanied by your guide, you will stop for a delicious Finnish-style lunch by a lake. This perfect moment will allow you to enjoy the serene beauty of the Finnish wilderness in your own way.
After this journey in the forest, you will reboard your coach and drive back to the ship.
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This tour includes approximately 3km of walking in the forest. A raincoat in case of rain is included in the tour. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and outdoor clothing in accordance with the weather. Guests must be well fit for a nature walk. The picking depends on the season and the product of the forest mentionned cannot be guaranteed at the time of the call.
Price range:
Find out more
€€€€: the excursion price is more than €150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Tallinn & folklore
Tallinn is a wonderfully preserved city of the Hanseatic League with its old town entered in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Departing from the pier, your coach will circle around the Old town, offering magnificent views of the medieval city wall.
You will start your guided walking tour in the Upper Town with its watch-towers, graceful spires and winding, cobbled streets. Visit the Russian Orthodox Church, inaugurated in 1900 and filled with a stunning array of superb icons. You will view the exterior of the castle which is now the seat of Estonia's parliament. Built on a cliff top the Upper Town provides superb vantage point from which to view the red gabled roofs and spires of the Lower Town.
Your tour will continue as you follow your guide down Long and Short Leg Streets to the Lower Town. The first visit here will be to a historical building in the city centre where you will be treated to a delightful Estonian folk show.
Once you are rested and ready to resume your touring, you will continue with a walking tour of the Lower Town. Among the highlights is the apothecary, which opened in 1422, the Great Guild House, Holy Ghost Church and the 15th century Gothic Town Hall (all from outside). Here in the heart of Tallinn, you will enjoy some free time before rejoining your coach and returning to the pier.
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This tour involves 4 km (2.48 miles) of walking, mostly on cobblestone streets, and about 100 steps to climb. We recommend that you wear comfortable shoes. Appropriate dress is recommended to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered). Please note that the church may be closed on Sundays due to religious service. It is not recommended for persons with walking difficulties.
Price range:
Find out more
€: the excursion price is less than €50.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Gothic treasures of Tallinn
Departing from the pier by coach, you will pass the modern city centre with its hotels, banks and shopping centres. Reaching the Old Town, a stop is made at the Tall Hermann Tower to get an outside view of the imposing castle. You can walk to the Kiek in de Kök Tower to get a view of the towers and steeples of the Upper Town.
Continue your guided visit on foot to the old Hanseatic town viewing the Transfiguration church, Nun's Gate and numerous merchants' homes on your way. You can admire Gothic facades of the guild houses and the Holy Ghost church with the oldest street clock in Tallinn till you reach the Town Hall Square.
In the centre of the square is the 15th century Town Hall, one of the very few well-survived Gothic town halls in Europe. You will be treated a guided tour of this magnificent building visiting the citizens' hall which is now often used for VIP receptions and concerts as well as the councillors' hall where part of the unique 15th century furniture has been exhibited.
After the Town Hall inside visit, you can admire other old buildings that line the square paying a special attention to the facade of the Town Hall apothecary shop, probably the oldest pharmacy in Europe that has been functioning since 1422. You will also enjoy some free time there.
On the way back to your coach, pass the Viru gate, one of the three gates that has survived in the city wall.
Reboard your coach for the 15-minute return drive to your ship.
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This tour includes approximately 4 km (2.48 mile) of walking on uneven ground and cobblestone streets and involves approximately 20 rather steeps stairs at the Town Hall. We recommend that you wear comfortable shoes. It is not recommended for persons with walking difficulties.
Price range:
Find out more
€: the excursion price is less than €50.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Discover the Estonian cuisine
This tour offers a unique opportunity to familiarize yourself with the most popular Estonian hors d'oeuvres of yesterday and today.
You will meet your guide on the pier and board your bus for a short trip to Tallinn's medieaval castle on the bank of the old moat.
You will cross the Nuns' Gate to City Hall Square, the liveliest part of town, filled with restaurants and cafés, many of which are open-air. Across the square, in a charming Jugendstil building, you will find the day's restaurant serving an assortment of typical Estonian hors d'oeuvres. The restaurant's chef will explain the preparation process for the various appetizers and their ingredients and will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
The dishes are accompanied by different types of apple cider. Estonia's climate is highly conducive to growing apples.
At the end of the tasting, you will be served a delicious cup of coffee and dessert.
Before heading back to your ship, you will have some free time in one of the city's most popular districts.
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This tour includes 1.5 km of walking on relatively flat surfaces with cobblestones. We recommend that you wear good walking shoes.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Tallinn and surrondings by bike
Discover the best Tallinn has to offer. This tour takes you to Tallinn's seaside, Peter the Great's summer palace, the romantic Kadriorg Park and the site of the Song Festival. The seaside promenade leads to Tallinn's Old Town, where you will cycle along the ancient walls.
You will meet your guide/instructor on the quay, where you will be given your equipment and a safety briefing before starting your tour. You will head for Kadriorg Park, a green oasis in the centre of Tallinn. Here, you can admire the Baroque palace of Peter and Catherine (now a museum of foreign art) and the presidential palace.
Continue on to Pirita with a stop at the Song Festival Grounds, home of the major Estonian song festivals, which have been held here for over 150 years.
On the way back, you will drive along Seaside Avenue, enjoying a magnificent view of the Tallinn skyline. You will pass the Rotermann district, a fine example of the symbiosis between unique modern architecture and a collection of renovated 19th-century industrial buildings. Before reaching Tallinn's well-preserved Hanseatic Old Town, you will enjoy a refreshment break in a local café.
After passing St. Margaret's Tower and St. Olav's Church, you will make a longer stop at Town Hall Square.
Here, you can spend some free time before cycling back to the pier or stay longer in the city and take a shuttle back to the pier.
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The tour includes 10 km of cycling on fairly flat roads with occasional climbs. This tour is offered in English. All cycling equipment is provided. We advise you to wear comfortable cycling clothes and shoes.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
ART TOUR AND TRANSFER TO ARLANDA AIRPORT
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your day time between your port of disembarkation and the airport.
Stockholm
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local English-speaking representative.
You will depart the pier for a unique tour to discover Stockholm and the hidden art of this city.
Stockholm’s Metro system is 110 kilometer long and houses a unique collection of sculptures, artworks and exhibitions. More than 90 of the 100 stations are beautifully decorated by artists. Just as fascinating as the artworks themselves are the stories about the artists who created them, told by your guides.
You will then be transferred to the airport in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight.
Your programme includes:
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Transfer and visit as mentioned in the programme.
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Services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
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Lunch.
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Tips for the driver and local guide.
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Personal expenses.
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Other services not mentioned in the programme .
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
In the event of schedule changes of PONANT’s selected flight, your programme will be adapted to ensure the most seamless and enriching experience. The content of your revised programme will be updated on the PONANT website, in My Ponant space and on the PONANT app. The final programme will also be sent to you along with your cruise documents.
Total : €170
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
STOCKHOLM, AN ARCHIPELAGO OF CONTRAST (2 NIGHTS)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Stockholm is rich with contrasts thanks to a harmonious blend of tradition and new trends. It also combines a futuristic urban landscape and omnipresent nature. Discover the capital built on 14 islands, on foot by strolling through the old streets or by boat to taste the sea air as you visit the archipelago.
Day 1 - Stockholm
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local representative.
You will leave the port to take the boat through the archipelago to visit Sweden's newest and perhaps most beautiful art museum, Artipelag, beautifully situated in Stockholm's archipelago. The journey through Skurusundet and the very narrow strait Baggenstäket is an experience in itself. Artipelag is situated on Värmdö, in what might be Sweden's most spectacular surrounding in the middle of the archipelago. The building in itself is a work of art.
Lunch will be served in the museum restaurant facing the archipelago.
After a visit of the musuem on your own, you will go back to Stockholm city centre to check-in your hotel room, at the Nobis hotel.
The afternoon is at leisure.
Dinner will be served at the hotel.
Day 2 - Stockholm
You will depart the hotel in the morning for a unique tour to discover the hidden art of Stockholm.
Stockholm's Metro system is 110-kilometer-long and houses a unique collection of sculptures, artworks and exhibitions. More than 90 of the 100 stations are beautifully decorated by artists. Just as fascinating as the artworks themselves are the stories about the artists who created them, told by your guides.
Lunch will be served in a local restaurant.
After lunch, join your coach and continue to the Vasa Museum, built around the 17th century warship. Once considered to be one of the world's largest and most prestigious warships, the Vasa sank in Stockholm's inner harbour on her maiden voyage in 1628. Salvaged in 1961 and today restored to much or its former glory, the Vasa represents an authentic piece of living history.
You will then continue west along Söder Mälarstrand and across the Western Bridge spanning Riddarfjärden and offering extensive views of the city skyline.
In the distance, you will see the three crowns atop the imposing City Hall, beautifully situated by the shores of the Lake Mälaren. The building was inaugurated in 1923 after 12 years of work by the combined elite of Swedish construction workers, sculptors, artists and craftsmen. It is renowned for its architecture, murals, mosaics and for being the site for the annual Nobel Prize banquet. Experience the grandeur and spaciousness of the impressive Blue Hall and Golden Chamber and enjoy the beautiful view from the Garden.
The end of the afternoon and the dinner are at leisure.
Optionnal activity - Cruise dinner
From your hotel, have a 15-minutes walk to join a lovely dinner cruise along Stockholm's quays. During the boat tour, the ship passes Östermalm, Old Town and Södermalm.
Day 3 - Stockholm
After breakfast and check-out, time at leisure depending on your flight schedule.
You will then be transferred to the airport in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
Your hotel
The Nobis Hotel is a unique design hotel located in the heart of Stockholm. It has been designe and decorated in collaboration with the world-famous architecture and design studio Claesson Koivisto Rune. This harmonious, restful and relaxing environment is the perfect place to discover the Sweden capital city. The hotel has also received the Nordic Ecolabel Swan which is a proof for conscious travelers.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
- 2 nights' accommodation in Superior room at Nobis Hotel 5* local standards (or similar) breakfast included.
- Meals as mentioned in the programme.
- Beverages package during lunches and dinners.
- Transfers and visits as mentioned in the programme.
- The services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
- Personal expenses.
- The optionnal activity - cruise dinner
- Alcoholic drinks during the optionnal activity - cruise dinner.
- Other services not mentioned in the programme.
- Tips for the driver and local guide.
Please note:
It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
Contact of your hotel:
Nobis Hotel
Norrmalmstorg 2-4
111 86 Stockholm
Sweden
Telephone number: +46 8 614 10 00
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : €2,800
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
FLIGHTS FROM/ TO PARIS + COPENHAGEN, A ROYAL CITY (PRE) + ART TOUR AND TRANSFER TO ARLANDA AIRPORT COPENHAGEN (POST)
Total : €670
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
FLIGHTS FROM/ TO PARIS + COPENHAGEN, A ROYAL CITY (PRE) + STOCKHOLM AN ARCHIPELAGO OF CONTRAST 2N (POST)
Total : €3,280
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
FLIGHTS FROM/ TO PARIS + COPENHAGEN CITY OF ART AND HISTORY 2N (PRE) + ART TOUR AND TRANSFER TO ARLANDA AIRPORT (POST)
Total : €2,200
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
FLIGHTS FROM/ TO PARIS + COPENHAGEN CITY OF ART AND HISTORY 2N (PRE) + STOCKHOLM AN ARCHIPELAGO OF CONTRAST 2N (POST)
Total : €4,820
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.