Latvia Cruises

Explore the Enchantment of Latvia with Cruise1st

Latvia, nestled on the eastern shore of the Baltic Sea, is a captivating destination waiting to be discovered. This beautiful country is known for its diverse landscapes, medieval towns, and rich cultural heritage. Fun fact: Did you know that Latvia boasts over 500 kilometers of pristine coastline and has more than 12,000 rivers? A cruise to Latvia allows you to seamlessly travel through its charming cities, lush forests, and breathtaking coastline, all while enjoying the comfort of your floating hotel. Whether you're exploring the bustling capital of Riga or soaking in the sun on a scenic beach, a cruise offers the perfect combination of relaxation and adventure!

Major Cruise Lines Offering Latvia Itineraries

• MSC Cruises: MSC has a fleet of 23 ships, and one ship, MSC Poesia, explores Latvia. Known for its family-friendly approach, MSC Poesia offers an array of onboard activities, from thrilling water slides to engaging kids' clubs. Most itineraries depart from Copenhagen or Warnemünde, making it convenient for cruisers looking to immerse themselves in the charm of Latvia's capital, Riga!
• Norwegian Cruise Line: This cruise line operates 20 ships, with 2—Norwegian Dawn and Norwegian Sun—offering itineraries that include Latvia. These ships are particularly favoured for their vibrant nightlife and an extensive array of dining options to make every meal a culinary experience. These cruises commonly set sail from Stockholm or Copenhagen, allowing guests to explore Latvia while also soaking up the mainland charm.
• Princess Cruises: With a fleet size of 17, Princess operates 1 ship that visits Latvia—Sapphire Princess. This ship is cherished for its first-rate entertainment options and exceptional service, ensuring a memorable voyage. Most journeys to Latvia depart from Civitavecchia (Rome) or Copenhagen, making it easy to combine a Mediterranean adventure with the beauty of the Baltics.
• Holland America Line: With a total of 11 ships, Holland America has 1 ship offering itineraries to Latvia, the Rotterdam. Known for its cultural enrichment programs and luxurious onboard experiences, the Rotterdam helps travellers connect with local culture. Departing mainly from Rotterdam, these cruises let you indulge in the captivating beauty of Latvia's coastline.
• P&O Cruises: This cruise line features 7 ships, and 1 ship, Arcadia, travels to Latvia. Known for its refined ambience and adults-only focus, Arcadia offers a relaxing cruise experience. Most cruises depart from Southampton, providing a smooth journey to the beauty of Latvia!

Luxury and Small Ship Cruises to Latvia

• Azamara Cruises: Azamara has a fleet of 4, with 1 ship—Azamara Journey—visiting Latvia. Azamara is noted for its focus on immersive destination experiences, allowing you to connect deeply with the local culture while enjoying comfortable accommodations. Most voyages depart from Copenhagen or Stockholm, setting the stage for an enriching adventure through Latvia and beyond.
• Silversea: With a fleet of 12, Silversea has 2 ships—Silver Shadow and Silver Spirit—offering itineraries to Latvia. These luxurious vessels are renowned for their all-inclusive experiences and impeccable service, catering to discerning cruisers. Departures commonly occur from Belfast or Stockholm, making for an elegant and intimate journey through the Baltic.
• Oceania Cruises: Oceania has 8 ships, with 2—Sirena and Vista—making stops in Latvia. Known for its focus on culinary excellence and destination immersion, Oceania ensures you enjoy exceptional dining matched with genuine local experiences. Most voyages set sail from Stockholm or Copenhagen, providing an excellent starting point for exploring the beauty of Latvia.

Harbours to Experience in Latvia

• Riga: The capital city of Latvia and a UNESCO World Heritage site, Riga is known for its stunning architecture, including the famous House of Blackheads and the beautiful Freedom Monument. When docked, cruise passengers can explore the well-preserved medieval Old Town, visit the vibrant Central Market for local delicacies, or take a leisurely walk along the picturesque Daugava River. Be sure to try traditional Latvian dishes such as gray peas with speck and homemade rye bread!

Popular Harbours Typically Visited Before or After Latvia

• Copenhagen, Denmark: The charming capital city boasts colourful canals and a vibrant atmosphere. Visitors can explore Nyhavn for iconic waterfront views, take a stroll in Tivoli Gardens, or visit the historic Rosenborg Castle. Don't miss trying traditional Danish pastries while walking through the historic streets!
• Warnemünde, Germany: This popular seaside resort features quaint streets and sandy beaches perfect for sun-seekers. Passengers can explore the picturesque promenade, visit the historic lighthouse, or take excursions to nearby cities like Rostock or Berlin for a taste of German culture.
• Stockholm, Sweden: Known as the "Venice of the North," Stockholm consists of numerous islands and boasts stunning waterfront views. While docked, explore the medieval charm of Gamla Stan (Old Town), visit the Vasa Museum to see the famous sunken ship, or take a boat tour through the archipelago.
• Klaipeda, Lithuania: Visitors to Klaipeda can explore the charming cobblestoned streets of the old town, filled with 18th-century architecture. The famous Curonian Spit—a UNESCO site—offers beautiful dunes and is a must-see for nature lovers.
• Oslo, Norway: The capital city of Norway is filled with impressive museums, including the Viking Ship Museum and the Munch Museum. Cruise passengers can take a stroll through the scenic Frogner Park, home to the famous Vigeland sculptures, or explore Akershus Fortress for incomparable views of the fjord.

The Best Times to Cruise to Latvia

When planning your cruise to Latvia, consider the seasons. From June to August, expect warmer temperatures ranging from 20-28°C, making it ideal for exploring the outdoors and enjoying the city's vibrant festivals. Late spring—April to May—is a lovely time, with temperatures around 10-20°C and blooming landscapes perfect for hiking. Autumn (September to October) features mild temperatures of around 10-15°C, offering a beautiful backdrop for sightseeing without the summer crowds. Winter (November to March) can be chilly, with temperatures dropping to below 0°C, perfect for those who enjoy winter activities and unique experiences.

Cost Overview for Cruises to Latvia

A week-long cruise to Latvia generally ranges from $1,200 to $2,000 AUD, while two-week cruises can cost between $2,500 and $4,000 AUD. Luxury cruises typically start at around $4,000 AUD for a week and go up to $8,000 AUD for two weeks. Meals are often included onboard, but dining ashore could range from $15-$50 AUD per meal, depending on your culinary choices. Expect to pay about $5-$15 AUD for local drinks or snacks if you venture out to experience Latvia's food scene.

Alternative Regions to Consider

If you’re considering a cruise to Latvia, here are some alternative regions worth exploring:

• Adriatic Sea: With its spectacular coastlines and rich history, this region offers unique destinations such as Croatia's Dubrovnik and beautiful ports like Kotor in Montenegro.
• Baltic Sea: A fantastic alternative that explores other countries on the Baltic, offering a blend of culture and natural beauty—with iconic cities such as Stockholm and Helsinki on its routes.
• Northern Europe: This diverse region showcases stunning landscapes and vibrant cities, ideal for those seeking a mix of freshness and the great outdoors across nations like Sweden, Norway, and Denmark.
• Scandinavia: With its rich history and breathtaking fjords, Scandinavia offers an incredible cruise experience filled with greenery, mountains, and coastal beauty to savour.
• Eastern Mediterranean: Open your senses to the culture and beautiful landscapes of the Eastern Mediterranean. From Greece to Turkey, it’s an enticing region for cruise-passengers looking for more sun and cuisine.

Ready to set sail for an unforgettable adventure in Latvia? Let Cruise1st guide you in planning your perfect cruise experience filled with enchanting sights and cultural discoveries!