Guest of Honour 
Guest Speaker 
Christmas offer 
Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3
15% Ponant Bonus
19 m²
2
Historic Cities of the Baltic Sea
Stockholm - Copenhagen
Dates:
02/07/2024
to
10/07/2024
days
nights on board
With featured guest Giuliano da Empoli, Italian writer and journalist.
PONANT invites you to discover the historical cities along the Baltic Sea. You will embark on Le Dumont-d’Urville for a 9-day cruise about the cultural wonders of the Hanseatic League.
Departing from Stockholm, your ship will first 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.
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.
Le Dumont-d’Urville 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. UNESCO Heritage Site, this once opulent city still has remarkably well-preserved ramparts, public buildings, merchant houses and warehouses.
You will return to Sweden in 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.
You will set a course for the charming fishing village of Gudhjem. Located on the small Danish island of Bornholm, it is very popular among the Danes for its gentle way of life and its beautiful landscapes of rock formations.
Your ship will finally reach Copenhagen, where you can explore its canals and historic districts.
Ref : EU020724
Your itinerary
With featured guest Giuliano da Empoli, Italian writer and journalist. A cruise on the Baltic Sea, to discover important cities of the Hanseatic League, through seven northern European countries: Sweden,...
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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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*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
Giuliano da Empoli
Giuliano da Empoli is an Italian writer and journalist. He graduated in law from Rome’s La Sapienza University and in political science from the Sciences Po Paris. A former Deputy Mayor in charge of Culture in Florence (2009-2012), he was senior advisor to the Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi. From 2006 to 2008, he was advisor to the Italian Culture Minister Francesco Rutelli. He was also a member of the Board of Directors of the Venice Biennale (2007) and President of the Vieusseux cabinet in Florence (2012-2016). In 2016, he founded the think-tank Volta, a member of the Global Progress network.
Since 2016, his articles and editorials have been regularly published in the main Italian publications including Il Corriere della Sera, La Repubblica, Il Sole 24 Ore and Il Riformista. As an author and political commentator, he regularly appears on television and radio in Italy and France. In 2019 his first book was published in France, Les ingénieurs du chaos by JC Lattès. His novel, Le mage du Kremlin (Gallimard, 2022) won the Novel Grand Prix, Académie Française 2022; the Prix Coup de Cœur CIC Ouest 2022 and the Honoré de Balzac Prize 2022.
Languages spoken: French and Italian
Photo Credit: Francesca Mantovani - Editions Gallimard
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
Giuliano da Empoli
Giuliano da Empoli is an Italian writer and journalist. He graduated in law from Rome’s La Sapienza University and in political science from the Sciences Po Paris. A former Deputy Mayor in charge of Culture in Florence (2009-2012), he was senior advisor to the Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi. From 2006 to 2008, he was advisor to the Italian Culture Minister Francesco Rutelli. He was also a member of the Board of Directors of the Venice Biennale (2007) and President of the Vieusseux cabinet in Florence (2012-2016). In 2016, he founded the think-tank Volta, a member of the Global Progress network.
Since 2016, his articles and editorials have been regularly published in the main Italian publications including Il Corriere della Sera, La Repubblica, Il Sole 24 Ore and Il Riformista. As an author and political commentator, he regularly appears on television and radio in Italy and France. In 2019 his first book was published in France, Les ingénieurs du chaos by JC Lattès. His novel, Le mage du Kremlin (Gallimard, 2022) won the Novel Grand Prix, Académie Française 2022; the Prix Coup de Cœur CIC Ouest 2022 and the Honoré de Balzac Prize 2022.
Languages spoken: French and Italian
Photo Credit: Francesca Mantovani - Editions Gallimard
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
Highlights
- With featured guest Giuliano da Empoli, Italian writer and journalist.
- A cruise on the Baltic Sea, to discover important cities of the Hanseatic League, through seven northern European countries: Sweden, Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland and Denmark.
- A port of call, Gudhjem, a charming fishing village on the Danish island of Bornholm.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: from Helsinki, the sea fortress of Suomenlinna, the old town of Tallinn,the Naval Port of Karlskrona, the Hanseatic town of Visby.
- Discover five European capitals on the same cruise: Stockholm (Sweden), Helsinki (Finland), Tallinn (Estonia), Riga (Latvia) and Copenhagen (Denmark).
- Before your cruise: possibility to visit Stockholm.
Ports of Call & Excursions
2 July 2024 - Stockholm
Embarkation 02/07/2024 from 15:00 to 16:00
Departure 02/07/2024 at 17:00
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.
3 July 2024 - Helsinki
Arrival 03/07/2024 early afternoon
Departure 03/07/2024 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.
4 July 2024 - Tallinn
Arrival 04/07/2024 early morning
Departure 04/07/2024 midday
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.
5 July 2024 - Riga
Arrival 05/07/2024 midday
Departure 05/07/2024 late afternoon
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.
6 July 2024 - Visby, Gotland
Arrival 06/07/2024 midday
Departure 06/07/2024 early evening
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.
7 July 2024 - Karlskrona
Arrival 07/07/2024 early morning
Departure 07/07/2024 late 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.
8 July 2024 - Gdansk
Arrival 08/07/2024 early morning
Departure 08/07/2024 early evening
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.
9 July 2024 - Gudhjem, Bornholm
Arrival 09/07/2024 early morning
Departure 09/07/2024 evening
Lying in the south-west of the Baltic Sea, the medieval village of Gudhjem, on the island of Bornholm, is one of the most visited and most popular villages in Denmark. As you stroll along its picturesque streets, you will fall under the spell of its varied landscapes, its easy way of life, and the authenticity of this charming town with half-timbered houses topped with red roofs, in the Danish tradition. It is here, along these charming streets, that the first herring smokehouses were built in the mid-19th century, attracting all the region’s fishermen. Tucked away in a gorgeous natural setting composed of rocky cliffs, dense forests and beaches of white sand, Gudhjem will provide an unforgettable interlude where time will seem to stand still.
10 July 2024 - Copenhagen
Arrival 10/07/2024 early morning
Disembarkation 10/07/2024 at 08:00
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Historic sights of Tallinn and Kadriorg Palace
This tour will give you an insight into the iconic, historic and cultural sites of Tallinn's Old Town, including the Kadriorg Palace.
You will board your bus from the quay, with your guide, for a trip to the Upper Town.
You will stop at the foot of Dome Hill to walk to Palace Square. From here, you can see the towers of the medieval wall, as well as the Parliament building and Nevsky Cathedral.
You will continue to Kadriorg Park, Estonia's largest urban park. Kadriorg Park and Palace were founded by order of Peter the Great, who named the park in honour of his wife Catherine. You will start your visit at the park's edge, and walk to the palace, a remarkable symbol of Tallinn's Baroque architecture. The palace displays a small but valuable collection of foreign art in Estonia.
After admiring the art treasures, you will walk back to the parking lot to reboard your coach. Before returning to the Old Town, you will pass the Song Festival grounds, an important Estonian cultural landmark.
Upon reaching the Lower Town, you will begin your guided walking tour of this compact, well-preserved Hanseatic merchant town. You will have an impressive view of the castle, the towers of the city wall and numerous medieval houses before reaching the town hall square with its 15th-century pharmacy and the Gothic town hall. Walk through the Sainte-Catherine's Passage and enjoy some free time.
Finally, your bus will take you back to the quay and your ship.
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This tour includes 2.5km (1.6 miles) of walking on uneven, sometimes steep surfaces. There are around 30 steps to negotiate. We recommend that you wear comfortable clothes and shoes.
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.
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 2.5 km (1.55 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.
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.
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.
Charming cottages of Karlskrona
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.
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.
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.
Walking tour in Karlskrona World Heritage
Karlskrona has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998. On this walk, you will discover the highlights of this naval city and learn more about its intriguing history.
A few steps from the quay is Stortorget, one of Europe's largest and most beautiful squares, with two churches, the Church of the Holy Trinity and Fredrik Church, designed by Nicodemus Tessin after a Roman prototype. In the middle of the square, you will also find the statue of King Karl XI, the city's founder, and an impressive view of the Admiralty Clock Tower, a well-known landmark and dominant feature of the cityscape.
Passing the main entrance to the still-active naval base, you will see the magnificent Shed of Wasa and the Ropewalk en route to Admiralty Church, which dates back to 1685. Outside the church stands a well-known Karlskrona figure, the old man Rosenbom, as well as the statue of little Nils Holgersson from the Swedish saga by Selma Lagerlöf.
The King's Bridge, with the Aurora Bastion and the regional governor's residence, and the island of Stumholmen, with the former Crown bakery and the prison are just some of the historic sites that can be seen on the way to the Naval Museum.
The museum, with its intriguing exhibits, provides a good understanding of Sweden's military history. You will see unique models of ships and constructions dating back to the 18th century. Admire the majestic figureheads, stroll through the underwater tunnel, where you can see the remains of an 18th century warship, and visit the Cold War submarine "Neptune".
Finally, you will walk back to your ship.
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The tour involves a 2 km walk on a relatively flat surface with cobblestones. We recommend that you wear comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Kashubian Region
The inhabitants of the Kashubian region say that God forgot about the people of Kashubian when the world was created. Having noticed this, God was so embarrassed that he gave this piece of land all that was left: golden sand, round stones, green forests, blue lakes and rolling hills. Who knows, maybe it really did happen.
You will meet your guide on the pier and board your bus for the hour-long drive to Kashubia.
This is a popular region throughout Poland, for many reasons. In addition to the region's interesting history and culture, visitors are attracted by "kaszëbsczé jezora et kaszëbsczi las", which means nature that combines forest and water in a special way. With an area of over 32,000 hectares, the Krajobrazowy Park (Kashubian Landscape Park) covers the highest and most diverse part of the Kashubian Lake District, often referred to as "Szwajcaria Kaszubska" (Kashubian Switzerland). For nature lovers, there are a multitude of hiking trails of different types and lengths. During your visit to Kashubia, you will enjoy a 9 km hike through the forest of this magnificent region.
Next, you will head to the top of a commanding hill (221.3 m above sea level) above Reboszewo has stood a replica of a wooden windmill - kozlak - since 2012. From the top floor, you can admire the panorama of the surrounding hills and lakes. You will also see the original mechanism transported from Sokólka in Podlasie.
After this visit, which will teach you more about Kashubian culture, you will enjoy a well-deserved coffee break, while taking in the surroundings.
Finally, you will catch your bus back to your ship in Gdansk.
• This tour involves 9 km of walking on forest paths, uneven, earthy and pebbly. We recommend you wear hiking clothes, with a windbreaker or waterproof jacket, and hiking boots. This hike is recommended for people in good physical condition.
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.
Nature and villages of Bornholm
From the pier, board your bus for a 30-minute drive and start your adventure around the island and through the lush Danish countryside. Drive along the northern coast of this little island situated far from the rest of Denmark in the Baltic Sea. Enjoy the unspoiled landscape and cliffs along the coast and drive through the little village of Allinge before reaching your first stop, the ruins of Hammershus.
Hammershus is the largest ruined castle in Northern Europe. The oldest part of the ruin dates back to the early 12th century and was erected to consolidate control of the island by Archbishop of Lund in the south of Sweden, which also used to be a part of Denmark. Enjoy the magnificent view of the ruin from the viewing point and explore the visitor center where you can learn more about the ruin and the kings who ruled the island.
Next, enjoy the journey to the south of Bornholm, arriving at its biggest town Rønne. Rønne is the largest town on the Danish island of Bornholm. Owing to its natural harbour and its strategic position in the Baltic Sea, Rønne has an interesting history, falling under both German and Swedish influence during its development as a herring fishing port. You will take a stroll along the cobbled streets and enjoy the coloured timbered and half-timbered houses. Rønne is now one of the most visited and popular villages in Denmark. Enjoy time exploring the capital on your own.
Along the northern coast, you will travel into the countryside passing the famous round church of Østerlars , where a uick photo stop will be made (outside visit), which dates back to 1150. It was used both as a place of worship and as protection against enemies from the sea.
Taking the coastal road, you will then travel back to Gudhjem, where you will have the opportunity to walk from the top of the village down the winding narrow streets with your guide before your journey ends where it began.
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This tour involves approximately 400 meters (0.3 mile) of walking on flat terrain. Please note the order of the visits may be reversed.
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.
The best of Bornholm
From Gudhjem, you will board your coach and begin your scenic tour through the picturesque farmlands of the small Baltic island of Bornholm belonging to Denmark. On the way, you will enjoy the coastal landscape, heading to the Baltic Sea Glass workshop, located a few kilometers from Gudhjem. Baltic Sea Glass is Denmark's largest glass blowing studio, for which the island is famous. The studio and gallery are set in a converted chicken coop. Today, Baltic Sea Glass welcomes between 100,000 and 120,000 visitors every year. Although they mainly design and produce functional tabletop glassware, the workshop also creates unique pieces for galleries and museum exhibitions.
At the end of the tour, you will continue to Almindingen, on the other side of the island. In one of Denmark's largest forest areas, you will discover Oesterlars round church, one of the four round churches located on Bornholm (representing half of all round churches in Denmark). A visit inside the church is planned, provided that no religious services are scheduled.
The next stop is at Hammershus, an ancient fortress built on the northern tip of Bornholm. These are the largest castle ruins in Northern Europe. The oldest part was built in the early 12th century to consolidate the power held by the Archbishop of Lund (then part of Denmark) over the island and obtained through an agreement with the Danish king, Svend Grathe. For the next 500 years Hammershus was home to various rulers of the island. Hammershus has been rebuilt and expanded several times. In 1743, Hammershus was finally abandoned as a fortress.
You visit will end with a stop in the charming village of Allinge where you will visit one of the smokehouses for that the island is also renowned. During this visit, you can taste smoked herring and an icecold beer before making the short return trip to the village of Gudhjem to board your ship.
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Approx 2 km - gravel, concrete, mostly flat - but there are stairs at Hammershus. The stairs to go on the roof of the church are narrow and dark. Guests are advised to wear comfortable walking shoes. Please note, there is no guarantee that the glassblowers will be working at the time of the visit.
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.
Le Dumont-d'Urville
Le Dumont-d’Urville belongs to a new generation of ships fitted with innovative equipment and designed to be environmentally friendly, and which come equipped with lounges that are largely open to the exterior, an outdoor swimming pool and a Blue Eye, an underwater lounge. Everything is in place for an extraordinary cruise experience. It's now possible to depart for adventure to the most remote places on the planet onboard a ship offering luxury services.
Decks
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.
Christmas offer
Choosing your destination, dreaming of your departure, preparing to experience exclusive moments... Because travel brings its share of magic, we design them as true enchanted interludes. And what better occasion than the end of year celebrations to treat yourself to some sweet moments? Book your next cruise between November 16, 2023 and January 2, 2024, and take advantage of our Christmas offer: a 10% discount on a large number of departures in 2023, 2024 and 2025.
To benefit from the offer and all your advantages, we invite you to contact PONANT travel advisors or your travel agency by telephone or e-mail, indicating the code XMAS10 when making your reservation.
Offer is non-retroactive and subject to availability. Offer cannot be combined with the Single Supplement offer or any other specific offer. In case of cancellation by the guest, fees will be applied according to the T&Cs at time of booking and offer would not be applicable to any new booking in case of postponement of original date.
Non-retroactive offer, subject to availability and cannot be combined with the Flight Credit, Free Single Supplement, On-board Sale, Webinar or Ponant event offers. The price displayed opposite does not take into account the -10% CHRISTMAS offer.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
30/06/2024 - STOCKHOLM, AN ARCHIPELAGO OF CONTRASTS (2 NIGHTS)
2.800 €
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Helsinki highlights
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Suomenlinna Fortress
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Tallinn & folklore
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Gothic treasures of Tallinn
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Discover the Estonian cuisine
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Tallinn and surrondings by bike
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Historic sights of Tallinn and Kadriorg Palace
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Charming Riga & organ recital
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Old Riga & wooden boat cruise
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Art & architecture of Riga
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Charming cottages of Karlskrona
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Cold war experience
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Kayak tour in the World Heritage
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Walking tour in Karlskrona World Heritage
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Gdansk city tour
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Gdansk city tour & Chopin concert
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Polish culinary traditions in Gdansk
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Kashubian Region
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Nature and villages of Bornholm
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The best of Bornholm
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30/06/2024 - FLIGHTS FROM/TO PARIS + STOCKHOLM AN ARCHIPELAGO OF CONTRASTS (2 NIGHTS) (PRE) + PANORAMIC TRANSFER FROM PIER TO AIRPORT (POST)
3.355 €
Find out more30/06/2024 - FLIGHTS FROM/TO PARIS + STOCKHOLM AN ARCHIPELAGO OF CONTRASTS (2 NIGHTS) (PRE) + DANISH ART DE VIVRE (2 NIGHTS) (POST)
5.160 €
Find out more02/07/2024 - FLIGHTS FROM/TO PARIS + STOCKHOLM, VENICE OF THE NORTH (PRE) + PANORAMIC TRANSFER FROM PIER TO AIRPORT (POST)
635 €
Find out more02/07/2024 - FLIGHTS FROM/TO PARIS + STOCKHOLM, VENICE OF THE NORTH (PRE) + DANISH ART DE VIVRE (2 NIGHTS) (POST)
2.430 €
Find out moreSTOCKHOLM, AN ARCHIPELAGO OF CONTRASTS (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
Meet and greet at the airport arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the PONANT selected flight or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
Then, you will be transferred to the Nobis Hotel in the city centre.
Check-in in your room.
Evening and dinner are at leisure.
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 quick 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, you will leave your hotel 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.
Then, you will be transferred to the port to embark on board your ship.
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.
- Artipelag opening times and the boat times can vary.
- City Hall can close on short notice for private functions.
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 €
STOCKHOLM, VENICE OF THE NORTH
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your transfer day time between the airport and your port of embarkation.
Stockholm
Meet at Stockholm Arlanda Airport. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative selected by PONANT in tha arrival hall after luggage delivery.
You will board your coach for a bus sightseeing tour of the beautiful capital city of Sweden. Stockholm is dramatically situated at a point where Lake Mälaren meets with the Baltic Sea. It is built on 14 islands connected by 57 bridges. Stockholm offers a wonderful archipelago with 30,000 islands, islet rocks and skerries. Founded as a fortress, in the mid-13th century the site became a town, spread to nearby islands, became a city and later the capital of Sweden. Covering the city districts of Gamla Stan, Norrmalm, Östermalm and Djurgården, each with its own special character, your tour begins with a short panoramic drive of the city.
You will proceed past the Royal Dramatic Theatre along Strandvägen to the island of Djurgården. Drive along the island, regarded as Stockholm's outdoor recreation centre, with Gröna Lund Tivoli, Skansen the world's oldest open-air museum and extensive parklands beyond.
You will then reach Gamla Stan, the enchanting medieval Old Town passing the Royal Palace (Kungliga Slottet) over-looking Stockholm's inner harbour. Gamla Stan is one of the best preserved medieval city centres in the world. You will appreciate some free time in Gamla Stan to have lunch on your own and to walk through the small winding streets lined with stores full of handicrafts, antiques, art galleries and cafés.
You will then be transferred to the pier to embark on your ship.
Your programme includes:
- Transfers and exterior visits as mentioned in the programme.
- Services of a local English speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
- Lunch.
- Tips for the driver and local guide.
- Personal expenses.
- 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 : 120 €
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Historic sights of Tallinn and Kadriorg Palace
This tour will give you an insight into the iconic, historic and cultural sites of Tallinn's Old Town, including the Kadriorg Palace.
You will board your bus from the quay, with your guide, for a trip to the Upper Town.
You will stop at the foot of Dome Hill to walk to Palace Square. From here, you can see the towers of the medieval wall, as well as the Parliament building and Nevsky Cathedral.
You will continue to Kadriorg Park, Estonia's largest urban park. Kadriorg Park and Palace were founded by order of Peter the Great, who named the park in honour of his wife Catherine. You will start your visit at the park's edge, and walk to the palace, a remarkable symbol of Tallinn's Baroque architecture. The palace displays a small but valuable collection of foreign art in Estonia.
After admiring the art treasures, you will walk back to the parking lot to reboard your coach. Before returning to the Old Town, you will pass the Song Festival grounds, an important Estonian cultural landmark.
Upon reaching the Lower Town, you will begin your guided walking tour of this compact, well-preserved Hanseatic merchant town. You will have an impressive view of the castle, the towers of the city wall and numerous medieval houses before reaching the town hall square with its 15th-century pharmacy and the Gothic town hall. Walk through the Sainte-Catherine's Passage and enjoy some free time.
Finally, your bus will take you back to the quay and your ship.
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This tour includes 2.5km (1.6 miles) of walking on uneven, sometimes steep surfaces. There are around 30 steps to negotiate. We recommend that you wear comfortable clothes and shoes.
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.
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 2.5 km (1.55 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.
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.
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.
Charming cottages of Karlskrona
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.
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.
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.
Walking tour in Karlskrona World Heritage
Karlskrona has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998. On this walk, you will discover the highlights of this naval city and learn more about its intriguing history.
A few steps from the quay is Stortorget, one of Europe's largest and most beautiful squares, with two churches, the Church of the Holy Trinity and Fredrik Church, designed by Nicodemus Tessin after a Roman prototype. In the middle of the square, you will also find the statue of King Karl XI, the city's founder, and an impressive view of the Admiralty Clock Tower, a well-known landmark and dominant feature of the cityscape.
Passing the main entrance to the still-active naval base, you will see the magnificent Shed of Wasa and the Ropewalk en route to Admiralty Church, which dates back to 1685. Outside the church stands a well-known Karlskrona figure, the old man Rosenbom, as well as the statue of little Nils Holgersson from the Swedish saga by Selma Lagerlöf.
The King's Bridge, with the Aurora Bastion and the regional governor's residence, and the island of Stumholmen, with the former Crown bakery and the prison are just some of the historic sites that can be seen on the way to the Naval Museum.
The museum, with its intriguing exhibits, provides a good understanding of Sweden's military history. You will see unique models of ships and constructions dating back to the 18th century. Admire the majestic figureheads, stroll through the underwater tunnel, where you can see the remains of an 18th century warship, and visit the Cold War submarine "Neptune".
Finally, you will walk back to your ship.
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The tour involves a 2 km walk on a relatively flat surface with cobblestones. We recommend that you wear comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Kashubian Region
The inhabitants of the Kashubian region say that God forgot about the people of Kashubian when the world was created. Having noticed this, God was so embarrassed that he gave this piece of land all that was left: golden sand, round stones, green forests, blue lakes and rolling hills. Who knows, maybe it really did happen.
You will meet your guide on the pier and board your bus for the hour-long drive to Kashubia.
This is a popular region throughout Poland, for many reasons. In addition to the region's interesting history and culture, visitors are attracted by "kaszëbsczé jezora et kaszëbsczi las", which means nature that combines forest and water in a special way. With an area of over 32,000 hectares, the Krajobrazowy Park (Kashubian Landscape Park) covers the highest and most diverse part of the Kashubian Lake District, often referred to as "Szwajcaria Kaszubska" (Kashubian Switzerland). For nature lovers, there are a multitude of hiking trails of different types and lengths. During your visit to Kashubia, you will enjoy a 9 km hike through the forest of this magnificent region.
Next, you will head to the top of a commanding hill (221.3 m above sea level) above Reboszewo has stood a replica of a wooden windmill - kozlak - since 2012. From the top floor, you can admire the panorama of the surrounding hills and lakes. You will also see the original mechanism transported from Sokólka in Podlasie.
After this visit, which will teach you more about Kashubian culture, you will enjoy a well-deserved coffee break, while taking in the surroundings.
Finally, you will catch your bus back to your ship in Gdansk.
• This tour involves 9 km of walking on forest paths, uneven, earthy and pebbly. We recommend you wear hiking clothes, with a windbreaker or waterproof jacket, and hiking boots. This hike is recommended for people in good physical condition.
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.
Nature and villages of Bornholm
From the pier, board your bus for a 30-minute drive and start your adventure around the island and through the lush Danish countryside. Drive along the northern coast of this little island situated far from the rest of Denmark in the Baltic Sea. Enjoy the unspoiled landscape and cliffs along the coast and drive through the little village of Allinge before reaching your first stop, the ruins of Hammershus.
Hammershus is the largest ruined castle in Northern Europe. The oldest part of the ruin dates back to the early 12th century and was erected to consolidate control of the island by Archbishop of Lund in the south of Sweden, which also used to be a part of Denmark. Enjoy the magnificent view of the ruin from the viewing point and explore the visitor center where you can learn more about the ruin and the kings who ruled the island.
Next, enjoy the journey to the south of Bornholm, arriving at its biggest town Rønne. Rønne is the largest town on the Danish island of Bornholm. Owing to its natural harbour and its strategic position in the Baltic Sea, Rønne has an interesting history, falling under both German and Swedish influence during its development as a herring fishing port. You will take a stroll along the cobbled streets and enjoy the coloured timbered and half-timbered houses. Rønne is now one of the most visited and popular villages in Denmark. Enjoy time exploring the capital on your own.
Along the northern coast, you will travel into the countryside passing the famous round church of Østerlars , where a uick photo stop will be made (outside visit), which dates back to 1150. It was used both as a place of worship and as protection against enemies from the sea.
Taking the coastal road, you will then travel back to Gudhjem, where you will have the opportunity to walk from the top of the village down the winding narrow streets with your guide before your journey ends where it began.
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This tour involves approximately 400 meters (0.3 mile) of walking on flat terrain. Please note the order of the visits may be reversed.
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.
The best of Bornholm
From Gudhjem, you will board your coach and begin your scenic tour through the picturesque farmlands of the small Baltic island of Bornholm belonging to Denmark. On the way, you will enjoy the coastal landscape, heading to the Baltic Sea Glass workshop, located a few kilometers from Gudhjem. Baltic Sea Glass is Denmark's largest glass blowing studio, for which the island is famous. The studio and gallery are set in a converted chicken coop. Today, Baltic Sea Glass welcomes between 100,000 and 120,000 visitors every year. Although they mainly design and produce functional tabletop glassware, the workshop also creates unique pieces for galleries and museum exhibitions.
At the end of the tour, you will continue to Almindingen, on the other side of the island. In one of Denmark's largest forest areas, you will discover Oesterlars round church, one of the four round churches located on Bornholm (representing half of all round churches in Denmark). A visit inside the church is planned, provided that no religious services are scheduled.
The next stop is at Hammershus, an ancient fortress built on the northern tip of Bornholm. These are the largest castle ruins in Northern Europe. The oldest part was built in the early 12th century to consolidate the power held by the Archbishop of Lund (then part of Denmark) over the island and obtained through an agreement with the Danish king, Svend Grathe. For the next 500 years Hammershus was home to various rulers of the island. Hammershus has been rebuilt and expanded several times. In 1743, Hammershus was finally abandoned as a fortress.
You visit will end with a stop in the charming village of Allinge where you will visit one of the smokehouses for that the island is also renowned. During this visit, you can taste smoked herring and an icecold beer before making the short return trip to the village of Gudhjem to board your ship.
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Approx 2 km - gravel, concrete, mostly flat - but there are stairs at Hammershus. The stairs to go on the roof of the church are narrow and dark. Guests are advised to wear comfortable walking shoes. Please note, there is no guarantee that the glassblowers will be working at the time of the visit.
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.
PANORAMIC TRANSFER FROM PIER TO AIRPORT
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your transfer between your port of disembarkation and the airport.
Copenhagen
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local English-speaking representative.
You will go for a panoramic transfer to the airport.
On the way, you will have a glimpse of some of the main points of interest of the Danish capital city.
You will then be transferred to the airport in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight.
Your programme includes:
- Panoramic transfer as mentioned in the programme.
- Services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
- Tips for the driver and local guide.
- Personal expenses
- Other services not mentioned in the programme.
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 : 85 €
DANISH ART DE VIVRE (2 NIGHTS)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme
Day 1 - Copenhagen
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local representative.
During this post-cruise stay, you will have the chance to discover hygge, the Scandinavian art of living that is based on well-being, slow life, and small everyday pleasures. There is even a hygge aesthetic, which expresses itself through design and decoration that tend to make Danish interiors as warm as possible.
Your day will begin with a panoramic tour of Copenhagen during which you will have the opportunity to capture the famous Little Mermaid on photo and gain an understanding of the soul of this charming and colourful city, which is criss-crossed with canals.
Lunch in a local restaurant
The afternoon will be dedicated to exploring Copenhagen's Design Museum Denmark, where you will be able to discover the work of the most famous Danish designers as well as the leading figures of 20th-century design and its main movements (Bauhaus, etc).
At the end of this day of visits, you will be driven to the Nobis Hotel, not far from the Tivoli Gardens in the very heart of the historic centre.
Check-in.
Dinner and overnight at the hotel
Day 2 - Copenhagen
After breakfast, you will go to a Danish cookery class given by a chef where you will be able to taste your creations afterwards.
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 the visit, back to the hotel to freshen up and enjoy a time at leisure to stroll around in the city.
Dinner in a local restaurant
Overnight at the hotel
Day 3 - Copenhagen
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 (if you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
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 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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Optionnal activity.
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Late check-out.
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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:
The 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 : 1.900 €
FLIGHTS FROM/TO PARIS + STOCKHOLM AN ARCHIPELAGO OF CONTRASTS (2 NIGHTS) (PRE) + PANORAMIC TRANSFER FROM PIER TO AIRPORT (POST)
Total : 3.355 €
FLIGHTS FROM/TO PARIS + STOCKHOLM AN ARCHIPELAGO OF CONTRASTS (2 NIGHTS) (PRE) + DANISH ART DE VIVRE (2 NIGHTS) (POST)
Total : 5.160 €
FLIGHTS FROM/TO PARIS + STOCKHOLM, VENICE OF THE NORTH (PRE) + PANORAMIC TRANSFER FROM PIER TO AIRPORT (POST)
Total : 635 €
FLIGHTS FROM/TO PARIS + STOCKHOLM, VENICE OF THE NORTH (PRE) + DANISH ART DE VIVRE (2 NIGHTS) (POST)
Total : 2.430 €