Eastern Europe Cruises

Eastern Europe is a treasure trove of rich history, stunning landscapes, and diverse cultures, making it a fantastic destination for cruisers seeking something a little different. From the majestic architecture of St. Petersburg to the charming canals of Prague, the region is teeming with hidden gems just waiting to be explored. Did you know that the Danube River runs through ten countries, including Germany, Austria, and Hungary, offering breathtaking views along its banks? Choosing a cruise in Eastern Europe allows you to seamlessly navigate through this enchanting area, hopping from one fascinating destination to another while enjoying the comfort and luxury of your floating hotel!

Major Cruise Lines Offering Eastern European Adventures

• Princess Cruises: With a fleet of 17 ships, 4 specifically sail to Eastern Europe. Sky Princess and Sapphire Princess lead the pack, known for their impressive onboard amenities and entertainment options. Departures typically take place from domestic ports like Sydney and Brisbane, as well as international ports such as Southampton and Copenhagen, providing a plethora of options for cruisers eager to embark on their journey.
• MSC Cruises: This popular line has 23 vessels, with 1 sailing to Eastern Europe. The MSC Poesia offers guests a rich cruise experience with its comfortable lounges and various dining options. Most journeys start from international ports like Warnemünde or Copenhagen, making it a lovely gateway to explore Eastern Europe.
• Holland America Line: This esteemed cruise line features a fleet of 11 ships, with 2 that navigate to Eastern Europe. Rotterdam and Nieuw Statendam are recognised for their elegant culinary offerings and plethora of entertainment choices. Departures often occur from Rotterdam or Dover, creating convenient access for cruisers keen on traversing Eastern Europe.
• A-ROSA: With a focus on river cruising, A-ROSA has 5 of its 13 ships that visit Eastern Europe. Notable ships like A-ROSA DONNA and A-ROSA BELLA provide intimate experiences with spacious cabins and a relaxed atmosphere. Typically departing from ports such as Engelhartszell or Vienna, these cruises offer a blend of comfort and cultural immersion.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: With a fleet of 20, Norwegian has 3 ships that venture to Eastern Europe. The Norwegian Dawn and Norwegian Prima are perfect for those looking for a lively onboard experience and diverse dining options. Most trips kick off from international ports like Stockholm or Oslo, allowing easy access to the beauty of Eastern Europe.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruise Lines in Eastern Europe

• Oceania Cruises: This line features 8 ships, with 2 such as Sirena and Vista that visit Eastern Europe. Oceania is known for its gourmet dining and upscale amenities. Departures most commonly occur from Southampton or Stockholm, providing a sophisticated start to your journey through the enchanting landscapes.
• Silversea: With a fleet of 12 ships, Silversea has 3 vessels, including Silver Spirit and Silver Dawn, offering itineraries in Eastern Europe. Silversea vessels are known for their luxurious all-suite accommodations and exceptional service. Most departures happen from ports such as Copenhagen or Stockholm, ensuring a plush experience right from the beginning.
• Azamara Cruises: Though it has a smaller fleet of 4 ships, Azamara includes Azamara Journey, which offers itineraries to Eastern Europe. Recognised for its immersive experiences, Azamara provides extended stays in port, allowing cruisers to truly explore the destinations they visit. Departures commonly take place from Copenhagen, connecting cruisers with an exciting journey.

Top Harbours to Explore in Eastern Europe

• Copenhagen, Denmark: This dynamic city is a feast for the senses, highlighted by the iconic Nyhavn Harbour with its colourful buildings and lively atmosphere. Don’t miss out on visiting the famous Little Mermaid statue, or take a stroll through the beautiful Tivoli Gardens. Enjoy tasting local pastries, such as a flaky Danish pastry, while soaking in the city’s charm.
• Stockholm, Sweden: Known for its stunning archipelago, Stockholm is both beautiful and culturally rich. When in port, visit the historic Gamla Stan (Old Town) for cobblestone streets and shops, or head to the Vasa Museum to see the well-preserved ship from the 17th century. A boat tour through the waterways provides a unique perspective of this charming city!
• Tallinn, Estonia: This tech-savvy city boasts a remarkable medieval Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through the picturesque streets filled with cafes and artisan shops, or visit the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. Don’t forget to stop by the Tallinn City Walls, providing a glimpse into the city’s fortified history.
• Helsinki, Finland: Known for its design and architecture, Helsinki is an inviting city packed with attractions. While in port, explore the iconic Helsinki Cathedral or take a stroll through the vibrant Market Square. For a unique experience, consider hopping on a ferry to visit one of the nearby islands for a taste of Finland’s natural beauty.
• Riga, Latvia: The capital of Latvia, Riga is famous for its beautiful Art Nouveau architecture. While visiting, be sure to check out the spectacular House of Blackheads and stroll along the charming streets of the Old City. Enjoy the local cuisine at one of the many restaurants, where you can try regional delicacies like grey peas and ham!

Optimal Times to Cruise Eastern Europe

When planning your cruise to Eastern Europe, consider the region’s distinct seasons. From January to March, temperatures can be chilly, averaging between -2°C and 5°C, which may offer pristine winter scenery but may not be ideal for outdoor activities. April to June is delightful, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 21°C, perfect for city exploration and enjoying outdoor cafes. July and August bring warmer weather, averaging 18°C to 25°C, though it can be quite crowded during the peak tourism season. Finally, September to November brings cooler temperatures between 5°C and 15°C, as well as beautiful autumn colours, making it an enchanting time to sail through this captivating region.

The Cost of Cruising in Eastern Europe

A typical one-week cruise to Eastern Europe can range from $1,500 to $2,800 AUD, depending on the cruise line and level of accommodation. A 2-week adventure usually costs around $3,000 to $5,500 AUD, providing you with ample time to soak in many beautiful spots.

If luxury is what you’re after, be prepared to spend between $4,500 to $8,000 AUD for a similar itinerary, replete with upscale amenities and a more intimate atmosphere. Dining expenses in Eastern Europe can average around $14 to $30 AUD per meal at local restaurants. Enjoying a drink, such as a beer or local wine, typically costs between $4 to $10 AUD, allowing you to explore the local culinary delights without breaking the bank!

Alternative Regions to Consider for Your Next Cruise

If you’re thinking of expanding your cruise horizons, here are five alternative regions that offer the same charm as Eastern Europe:

• Norwegian Fjords – Known for their stunning natural beauty and majestic landscapes, cruising through the fjords allows you to experience cascading waterfalls, vibrant flora and fauna, and charming coastal towns.
• Baltic Sea – Home to charming cities like St. Petersburg, Oslo, and Gdansk, this region offers a vibrant mix of rich history and stunning architecture.
• Benelux – Incorporating the Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg, this region features a blend of picturesque canals, historic cities, and vibrant cultures just waiting to be uncovered.
• Turkey – A unique blend of cultures and stunning landscapes awaits in Turkey, with destinations like Istanbul offering rich history, incredible cuisine, and awe-inspiring architecture.
• Croatia – Known for its stunning coastline and beautiful national parks, cruising along the Adriatic Sea reveals charming coastal towns and unforgettable scenery.

With so many adventures calling your name, it’s time to plan your cruise to Eastern Europe with Cruise1st! Enjoy the breathtaking beauty, rich history, and diverse experiences that await you. Book your unforgettable journey today!