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A World Affairs Cruise in the Baltic

5.0/5 Based on 2 Reviews No Booking FeesDedicated Cruise Advisor
Balcony
$19,711
Suite
$37,881
* Port charges, taxes and fees included
 Cruise Length
10 Days
 Cruise Starts
Stockholm
 Cruise Finishes
Oslo
10 Day A World Affairs Cruise in the Baltic Itinerary (Ponant)
Countries Explored: Sweden, Finland, Estonia, Poland, Denmark, Norway
Cruise Line
Ponant
Ship
Ship Class
Ponant Explorers
Departures
Passengers
184
Crew
118
Launched
2018
Cruise Code
STOFRK9

Overview

The Baltic Sea has been a thoroughfare of trade since the days of the Vikings. And for nearly as long, it has been a crucial arena of struggles for dominance in Europe—an important element in the strategic thinking of great powers from the Reformation and the Thirty Years War to World War II and the Cold War. Today, it is once again at the center of current events as Sweden and Finland join NATO after decades of neutrality and as the Baltic States are newly anxious about their independence.

As we visit the great cities that ring the shores of the Baltic, we will explore this history...read more in a series of lectures and discussions with a decorated career foreign service officer and an award-winning journalist, and we will have the privilege of a specially arranged, exclusive presentation and discussion with former President of Poland and Nobel Peace Prize-laureate Lech Wałęsa while in Gdansk.

But these historic cities of the Baltic, of course, offer so much more. They are great cosmopolitan centers with vibrant cultures and a legacy of art and architecture that reflects a history rich in tradition. Sailing from Stockholm, whose lively old town showcases cobblestone streets lined with 17th- and 18th-century buildings, Le Lapérouse calls first in Helsinki. Internationally recognized for its striking Art Nouveau architecture, Finland's capital is also home to the UNESCO Heritage Site of Suomenlinna, a massive military installation that protected the city during the 18th and 19th centuries.

During the next two days of the voyage, you encounter two more UNESCO designated sites. Tallinn's Old Town, a prominent trading center in the 13th century, retains remarkably well-preserved ramparts, public buildings, merchant houses, and warehouses. And on Gotland—the largest island in the Baltic Sea and the site of Viking treasure—the beautifully preserved medieval town of Visby, also once a stronghold for the Hanseatic League, invites exploration of both of these legacies.

Gdansk, whose shipyard served as the birthplace of the Solidarity Trade Union in 1980, is where we meet with former President Lech Wałęsa and hear the story of the wave of dissent that arose from the Solidarity movement and led to Polish independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. The Old Town, lovingly restored after the ravages of WWII, is a reminder of the town's proud 1000-year-old history of ship-building.

The Danish Island of Bornholm is known throughout the Baltic region for its lush farmland and rich herring fisheries and for the ruins of the medieval fortress of Hammershus and four well-preserved Nordic round churches. And the Danish capital of Copenhagen, a thoroughly modern and sophisticated city, is also proud to display its 800 years of royal history in Christiansborg Palace, which houses the Danish Parliament, and Amalienborg Palace, the winter residence of the Queen.

Le Lapérouse's last port of call is the lively Swedish harbor town of Gothenburg, whose stunning Museum of Fine Arts includes works by Carl Larsson, Edvard Munch, Anders Zorn, Van Gogh, Picasso, Chagall, and Monet. Your voyage comes to an end in Fredrikstad, a port city near the mouth of Oslo’s Oslofjord.

Cruise Itinerary

Stockholm, Sweden's charming capital, spans 14 islands connected by picturesque bridges. Begin your exploration in Gamla Stan, the city's historic old town, where cobblestone streets lead to the majestic Royal Palace and the medieval Storkyrkan Cathedral.

For a dose of modern culture, visit the ABBA Museum on Djurgården Island, celebrating Sweden's iconic pop group. Nearby, the Vasa Museum showcases a remarkably preserved 17th-century warship. Stroll along the waterfront promenade of Strandvägen for stunning views and vibrant cafes. Don't miss the Stockholm City Hall, renowned for its striking architecture and the annual Nobel Prize banquet. Enjoy Swedish cuisine at a local bistro, featuring dishes like meatballs and herring.

Departs: 13:00

Stockholm, Sweden's charming capital, spans 14 islands connected by picturesque bridges. Begin your exploration in Gamla Stan, the city's historic old town, where cobblestone streets lead to the majestic Royal Palace and the medieval Storkyrkan Cathedral.

For a dose of modern culture, visit the ABBA Museum on Djurgården Island, celebrating Sweden's iconic pop group. Nearby, the Vasa Museum showcases a remarkably preserved 17th-century warship. Stroll along the waterfront promenade of Strandvägen for stunning views and vibrant cafes. Don't miss the Stockholm City Hall, renowned for its striking architecture and the annual Nobel Prize banquet. Enjoy Swedish cuisine at a local bistro, featuring dishes like meatballs and herring.

Arrives: 13:00 Departs: 21:30

Finland's capital is a laid-back but vibrant seaside city, surrounded on three sides by sea and tiny islands. Helsinki is a city of graceful neoclassical buildings, striking modern architecture and spacious boulevards dotted with squares and parks. Ships will dock in either South Harbour or West Harbour.

Top Things to Do in Helsinki:

  • take the ferry to the fortress of Suomenlinna
  • visit the Kiasma Modern Art Museum
  • see the rock church, Temppeliaukio
  • shop at Market Square
  • stroll through Sibelius Park

Arrives: 06:30 Departs: 12:30

Tallinn's fairy-tale castles, cobbled streets and warm hospitality remain one of Europe's best-kept secrets. Ancient convents, steepled churches and handsome guild houses are all preserved as they were in Tallinn’s Old Town area, which was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ships will dock at the Old City Harbour.

Top Things to Do in Tallinn:

  • admire the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
  • take in the city views from Toompea Hill
  • visit the Open Air Museum
  • stroll the gardens of Kadriorg Park

Arrives: 08:30 Departs: 13:30

A small town on the island of Gotland, Visby was a popular trading spot during the Viking Age. Today, this pretty medieval city is Sweden's sunniest vacation destination and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Ships will dock at the Visby Cruise Quay.

Top Things to Do in Visby:

  • visit the Gotlands Museum
  • walk along the medieval Visby Ring Wall
  • take in the view from Gallows Hill
  • stroll through the Botanic Gardens
  • pass through Dalmansporten's gate to explore the medieval city

Arrives: 08:00 Departs: 19:00

Lying on the Baltic coast of Poland, the port city of Gdansk is known for its beautiful Hanseatic architecture and colourful Old Town. The city was left in ruins after World War II and has been masterfully restored. Most ships will dock in the neighbouring town of Gydnia, while some small ships will dock at the Oliwskie Pier in Gdansk.

Top Things to Do in Gdansk:

  • visit the Malbork Castle and museum
  • stroll along Long Street
  • shop for Amber on Mariacka Street
  • tour Stutthof Camp
  • visit the Oliwa Cathedral

Arrives: 13:00 Departs: 19:00

Bornholm boasts a wealth of scenic beauty ranging from bucolic farms to one of Denmark's largest forests. The island also features sandy beaches, quaint fishing ports and a rugged coast crowned by the ruins of the largest medieval fortress in Northern Europe. Ships will dock at the Port of Ronne.

Top Things to Do on Bornholm:

  • explore the medieval Hammershus fortress
  • sample the local beer in Svaneke
  • tour the Baltic Sea Glass studios
  • cycle in and around the city of Ronne
  • visit the islands famed round churches

Arrives: 07:00 Departs: 19:00

Copenhagen captivates with its blend of royal history and modern Scandinavian cool. Visit the 17th-century Rosenborg Castle, home to Denmark’s crown jewels, or stroll through the picturesque Nyhavn harbor with its colorful townhouses and lively cafés.

The iconic Little Mermaid statue sits serenely by the waterfront, while Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest amusement parks, offers charming rides and lush gardens in the heart of the city. Your ship will dock at the Port of Copenhagen, which is a 30 minute drive to Copenhagen Airport and a 15 minute drive into the city centre.

Arrives: 08:00 Departs: 18:00

Sweden's second largest city and the largest port in Scandinavia is laced with a network of gracious canals lined with elegant buildings. Gothenburg is a cosmopolitan city with a wealth of cultural attractions, from its ancient University to its beloved pleasure garden at Liseberg Amusement Park. Ships will dock at the Port of Gothenburg.

Top Things to Do in Gothenburg:

  • visit Tjolöholm Castle
  • island hop in the Bohuslän archipelago
  • cruise the canals
  • stroll down Aveneyn boulevard

Arrives: 07:00

Located at the head of the gorgeous Oslofjord, Norway's capital is encircled by wooded hills and snow capped peaks. Explore the striking Oslo Opera House, where you can walk on the rooftop for harbor views. The Viking Ship Museum showcases remarkably preserved ships from the Viking era, while Vigeland Park features over 200 sculptures by Gustav Vigeland. Visit the Akershus Fortress for a glimpse into medieval history, or stroll along the waterfront Aker Brygge, filled with restaurants and shops.

Port:Fredrikstad

Fredrikstad, founded in 1567 by King Frederick II, boasts one of Northern Europe’s best-preserved fortress towns, Gamlebyen (Old Town). Stroll through cobblestone streets lined with quaint shops, galleries, and cafés, all within the ancient city walls. Discover the Fredrikstad Museum, which delves into the city's rich history or take a scenic ferry ride across the Glomma River.

Note: Ship ports may not be located in the starting & ending cities listed. Port and transfer details will be provided in your travel documentation. The provided itinerary is for informational purposes only. Activities and sightseeing attractions listed may not be available or achievable within the time in port.

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Le Laperouse Reviews (2) Most Recent 'Le Laperouse' Reviews

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Australia's Iconic Kimberley 1 , VIC, Australia, Apr 2024
All of the trip was good, using Ponant the first time was good, food, good and variety, all the trips that were arranged were as expected. Hannah our travel advisor at Global Journeys was excellent, always ready to help with anything .
Fantastic Kimberley   3 , QLD, Australia, Aug 2023
One of the best holidays we have ever done Expensive, yes but you get what you pay for in the end This was 6* cruising at its best. The daily and at times twice daily zodiac excursions were special and led by well informed guides all of whom had professional qualifications in a relevant field.

Food was of the highest standard an the open bar well ...read more stocked to meet all tastes. Don't worry too much about formal gear, a sports coat and a colourful dress are all that is required on the two gala nights. On the other nights, slacks and polo are fine.

We helicoptered to Mitchell Falls which again was expensive but well worth it. Forget about the Horizontal Falls boat ride. Those that went were very dissatisfied as the most exciting of the two Falls is now closed due to a boating accident. I've seen more challenging wave sets in Moreton Bay. Overall 11/10 from us and very highly recommended

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