Considering a 2015 Baltic Cruise? Signature Travel asked cruise expert Ralph Grizzle for his tips on making the most of your time in the Baltic ports. We share his 5 tips for making the most of your Baltic cruise, along with some added tips and information on the region.
Where are the Baltics?
The Baltic cruising region revers to the Baltic Sea in Northern Europe. The Baltics stretch from southern Denmark to near the Arctic Circle and cover almost 150,000 square miles. Along its shores are some of the world’s most fabled cities – Copenhagen, Stockholm, Helsinki and St. Petersburg to name a few. The region is becoming one of Europe’s most popular cruising destinations with its unmatched blend of culture, history and stunning scenery.
When is the best time to cruise the Baltics?
Since most Baltic cruises sail between the months of May and September, you’ll experience Northern Europe’s mild, pleasant weather, endless summer days (thanks to the northerly latitude,) white nights and the phenomenon of the Midnight Sun.
What should I expect on a Baltic cruise?
A leisurely sail through regions of breathtaking natural beauty to ports rich with history. A chance to visit renowned museums, castles and cultural sites. Spectacular arts, tempting cuisine and friendly people. One of a kind shops, majestic cities and charming locals. With days that seem to last forever (in high summer daylights lasts until around 11 pm,) you can take full advantage of a truly original and memorable cruise experience.
Signature Travel asked cruise expert Ralph Grizzle for his tips on making the most of your time in the Baltic ports. We share his 5 tips for making the most of your Baltic cruise, along with a few added tips.
#1. Prepare yourself for a rigorous pace.
This holds true for any cruise port. To get the most out of your time in port, you normally have very long days (8 to 13 hours).
#2. Book Tours in Advance.
Whether you book the cruise line’s shore excursions, or arrange your own, it is a good idea to have everything booked in advance and to enjoy the benefits of a local guide that knows the region well.
#3. Stay up Late.
#4. Stay for lunch.
One of the ways to get to know the local culture is to taste the foods of each region you visit.
#5. Linger Longer!
We always recommend at the very least a pre-night. You never now what could happen with a flight delay, and more importantly a day or two in advance gives you a change to catch up a bit with the local time zone you are visiting. Also take a close look at your cruise itinerary. You may begin in a city, but not even have time to explore. Copenhagen and Stockholm are the Batlci’s primary home ports. Many Baltic cruises either being or end their sailings in one of these two cosmopolitan cities, and we strongly suggest you add 2 days at the beginning or end of your cruise. There is a lot to see and explore in these Scandinavian capitals, from Stockholm’s beautiful old churches, large green parks and historic museums, to Copenhagen’s winding streets, gorgeous architecture and picturesque canals.
