Thursday, May 15, 2008

Baltic Cruising: The Land of Enchantment

Enjoy the multitude of enchanting fascinations that encompass the Baltic region of Europe. Whether you are looking for majestic landscapes,, the contrasts of ancient and modern culture, world-class gastronomy, outdoor activities, or simply want to experience life in another part of the world, you will find it all on a Northern European cruise.
The beautiful Baltic Sea extends from the British Isles to St. Petersburg, Russia and offers a number of distinct ports in England, Scotland, Denmark, Norway, Ireland, Lithuania, Russia, Estonia, Finland, Amsterdam, Holland, Germany and Sweden.

Discover an unseen variety of destinations, sights and adventures. The region’s exciting history, rich traditions and spectacular nature invites an extraordinary experience.

Explore the medieval as well as modern cities with vibrant nightlife. Encounter the amazing culture of the Vikings in an area rich in folklore and fairy tales. Let yourself be transported back in time to the land of the original oceangoing explorers.

Shore excursions typically visit fascinating museums, palaces, castles and cathedrals. The close proximity of the Baltic landmarks makes it easy to see a lot in a small amount of time. Be one of the few to transit the Kiel Canal or discover the majestic beauty of the Norwegian Fjords. Sail to the polar ice cap, get back to nature with a hike in the mountains, delve into Celtic history or discover a grand winter palace filled with Masterpieces. The options are endless on a Baltic cruise.

Several cruise lines will sail the Baltic this summer. The season typically runs from May through August and you will find a variety of cruise ships in the area. Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Jade and the Norwegian Jewel will be sailing on 12- and 13- night voyages from Southampton and Dover. Carnival will introduce the brand new Carnival Splendor to the Baltic region along with the Carnival Liberty, both sailing 12- night voyages from Dover. Royal Caribbean takes to the seas with 12- night sailings from Harwich on the Jewel of the Seas and MSC Cruises will sail seven, 10- and 11- night voyages on the MSC Opera, MSC Lirica and MSC Armonia from Copenhagen and Dover. Princess Cruises’ offer Crown Princess from Copenhagen and Southampton, and the Sea Princess and the Grand Princess from Southampton.

A number of premium lines will sail Northern Europe this summer. Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Century will sail from Amsterdam and Celebrity Constellation from Harwich. Holland America will have three ships in the region including the brand new ms Eurodam along with the ms Prinsendam and the ms Rotterdam. Sailings on these lines range from 5 nights to 16 nights.

If you are looking for a deluxe or luxury ship sailing in the Baltic look no further than the Azamara Journey, sailing 12- and 14- night voyages from Copenhagen. Oceania will sail Regatta all season long alternating between Stockholm and London on 14- night voyages while Cunard sails the Queen Mary 2 and the Queen Victoria from Southampton on voyages ranging from 7- to 14- nights. Regent Seven Seas will sail the luxurious Seven Seas Voyager on 7- to 15- night voyages from Dover, Stockholm, Copenhagen, Southampton and Reykjavik.

Like brilliant pearls on a string lie the countries surrounding the Baltic Sea. In every port and in every city, there are countless precious gems just waiting for you to enjoy. Set sail on a Baltic cruise and begin a journey to the land of enchantment.

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