Northern Europe Cruises

Embark on an Unforgettable Voyage Through Northern Europe

Welcome to Northern Europe, a captivating region brimming with stunning landscapes, rich histories, and vibrant cultures. This fascinating area encompasses breathtaking destinations, from the Scandinavian fjords to the picturesque capitals of the Baltic states. Fun fact: Northern Europe is home to the Northern Lights, one of nature’s most spectacular phenomena, visible during the winter months! Cruising through Northern Europe not only allows you to explore these enchanting locations but also provides the chance to unwind and enjoy luxury amenities aboard your ship.

Top Major Cruise Lines to Northern Europe

• MSC Cruises: With a fleet size of 24, MSC Cruises offers 5 vessels—MSC Lirica, MSC Magnifica, MSC Opera, and MSC Preziosa—on itineraries that include Northern Europe. Known for their family-friendly atmosphere and engaging activities, MSC ensures there's something for everyone onboard. Departures typically occur from major international ports like Southampton and Copenhagen, creating a convenient journey to explore the picturesque landscapes of Northern Europe.
• Holland America Line: Sporting a fleet of 11 ships, Holland America has 4 vessels—Koningsdam, Eurodam, Nieuw Amsterdam, and Maasdam—frequently sailing to Northern Europe. The cruise line is renowned for its elegant onboard experience, cultural enrichment programs, and culinary delights. Common departure points include Southampton and Amsterdam, allowing for easy access to the stunning destinations awaiting you.
• Cunard: With a fleet of 4 royal ships, Cunard features 3 vessels—Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth, and Queen Victoria—offering itineraries to Northern Europe. Known for their luxurious ambiance and traditional afternoon tea service, Cunard provides an experience that's truly unique. Most itineraries depart from prominent ports like Southampton, making for seamless travel to this enchanting region.
• Princess Cruises: Featuring a fleet size of 17, Princess Cruises has 6 ships—Royal Princess, Regal Princess, Crown Princess, Emerald Princess, Sky Princess, and Caribbean Princess—offering itineraries to Northern Europe. Renowned for their exceptional onboard service and a diverse selection of dining options, Princess is committed to providing a memorable experience. Departures frequently occur from major international ports, such as Southampton or Amsterdam, enabling smooth travel to explore incredible venues.
• Ambassador Cruise Line: A unique addition with a fleet of just 2 ships, Ambassador offers 2—Ambience and Ambition—that both visit Northern Europe. This cruise line focuses on providing an authentic cruising experience and exploring the culture of each destination visited. Departures often occur from London or other UK ports, ensuring a familiar departure point for cruisers heading to majestic Northern Europe.

Top Luxury and Small Ship Cruise Lines to Northern Europe

• Viking Ocean Cruises: With a fleet of 11 ships, Viking Ocean Cruises features 7 vessels—Viking Saturn, Viking Neptune, Viking Sky, Viking Star, Viking Sea, Viking Orion, and Viking Jupiter—offering itineraries to Northern Europe. Known for their immersive cultural experiences and destination-focused travel, Viking delivers a unique on-board experience that allows guests to fully engage with every port of call. Most cruises depart from ports like Bergen and Greenwich, providing a seamless journey into Northern Europe.
• Silversea: Operating a fleet size of 12, Silversea features 6 ships—Silver Dawn, Silver Spirit, and others—that visit Northern Europe. Renowned for their luxurious service and classy dining options, Silversea focuses on exclusivity and destination immersion. Departures typically happen from international ports like Copenhagen and Southampton, allowing for easy access to stunning Northern European destinations.
• Oceania Cruises: With a fleet size of 8, Oceania has 4 vessels—Marina, Riviera, Regatta, and Sirena—offering itineraries that explore Northern Europe. Famous for their culinary excellence and destination-rich voyages, Oceania allows guests to engage with local cultures while enjoying luxurious accommodations. Departures usually take place from popular ports like Southampton or Reykjavik, ensuring convenient access to captivating locations.
• Azamara Cruises: Sailing with a fleet of 4, Azamara has 3 ships—Azamara Quest, Azamara Journey, and Azamara Onward—that offer itineraries showcasing Northern Europe. Known for their immersive experiences and extended port stays, Azamara provides travellers the opportunity to fully engage with local life and culture. Most departures occur from Reykjavik or Copenhagen, allowing for smooth connections to this stunning region.
• Seabourn: Operating a fleet of 6, Seabourn features 2 ships—Seabourn Ovation and Seabourn Venture—offering many Northern European itineraries. Renowned for their all-inclusive service and luxury-focused experiences, Seabourn provides guests with the ultimate in cruising sophistication. Departures typically occur from ports like London and Dublin, ensuring seamless travel to explore alluring Northern Europe.

Must-Visit Harbours in Northern Europe

• Lisbon, Portugal: This vibrant capital city offers stunning architecture, tasty cuisine, and a rich history. Enjoy a tram ride through the city, explore the historic neighbourhoods of Alfama and Bairro Alto, or visit the spectacular Jerónimos Monastery. Don't forget to sample the famous pastéis de nata (custard tarts) at a local café!
• La Coruña, Spain: A charming coastal city known for its beautiful beaches and rich maritime history, La Coruña is home to the iconic Tower of Hercules, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the picturesque promenade, take a stroll through the historic Old Town, or enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many local restaurants.
• Barcelona, Spain: Renowned for its architectural wonders by Antoni Gaudí, Barcelona offers a wealth of experiences. Visit the famous Sagrada Familia, wander through the enchanting Park Güell, or enjoy tapas at a classic bar in the Gothic Quarter. The city's lively atmosphere ensures that every visitor will have a fantastic time!
• Leixões, Portugal: As the main port for Porto, Leixões serves as a gateway to this beautiful region. Visitors can explore the historic centre of Porto, home to its famous wine cellars, stunning bridges, and vibrant riverside atmosphere. Be sure to try a glass of port wine while enjoying the spectacular views of the Douro River!
• Bilbao, Spain: Known for its modern architecture and vibrant art scene, Bilbao is a city that melds the old with the new. Visit the famous Guggenheim Museum, explore the charming streets of the Old Town, or sample local Basque cuisine at a pintxos bar for an authentic culinary experience.

Top Harbours Typically Visited by Cruises Going to Northern Europe

• Sydney, Australia: A major cruise port, Sydney is well known for its iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Visitors can take a ferry ride around the harbour, stroll along Bondi Beach, or enjoy the buzzing atmosphere of the Rocks District before embarking on a cruise to Northern Europe.
• Papeete, Tahiti: Often a stopover for cruises, Papeete offers visitors a taste of French Polynesian culture and cuisine. Explore local markets for souvenirs, savour the traditional poisson cru (raw fish marinated in coconut), or relax on the beaches during your time in this tropical paradise.
• Miami, Florida: As a bustling cruise hub, Miami sets the stage for many Northern European voyages. Enjoy the vibrant art scene in Wynwood, relax on the stunning beaches, or explore the rich cultural diversity of Little Havana before setting sail.
• Fort Lauderdale, Florida: Known for its picturesque waterways, Fort Lauderdale is often chosen as a departure port. Spend your time exploring the beaches, shops, and dining options along the beachfront promenade, or visit nearby attractions like the Bonnet House Museum and Gardens.

Best Times to Cruise to Northern Europe

The best time to cruise to Northern Europe typically falls between May and September, when temperatures are pleasantly warm and range from 15°C to 25°C, ideal for exploring this stunning region. The summer months offer the longest daylight hours, allowing for more time to enjoy outdoor activities and sightseeing. For those seeking calm weather and fewer tourists, consider cruising in the shoulder months of April and October, when temperatures are still mild, ranging from 10°C to 20°C.

Costs of Cruising to Northern Europe

A typical one-week cruise to Northern Europe usually starts at around $1,900, while a two-week journey can set you back approximately $3,800. If you're after a luxury cruise experience, prices typically begin around $5,500 for a week. Dining in Northern Europe can vary widely in price; meals usually range from $20 to $50, while drinks generally average about $6 to $15, allowing you to enjoy the best local flavours without breaking the bank!

Alternative Regions Worth Considering for Your Next Cruise

If the allure of Northern Europe intrigues you, consider these alternative regions for your next cruising adventure:

• Scandinavia: This stunning region offers beautiful fjords, rich history, and vibrant cities like Stockholm and Copenhagen, perfect for those captivated by Nordic culture.
• Western Europe: Exploring countries like France and Belgium provides visitors with rich art, exceptional cuisine, and the excitement of iconic cities like Paris and Brussels.
• Baltic Sea: With charming cities like Tallinn and Helsinki, the Baltic Sea provides cruises filled with fascinating history and stunning coastal landscapes.
• British Isles: Experience the captivating charm of the British Isles, with opportunities to explore iconic sites and beautiful landscapes across England, Scotland, and Ireland.
• Adriatic Sea: Offering breathtaking coastlines and enchanting cities like Dubrovnik and Venice, the Adriatic is ideal for travellers seeking a unique blend of culture, history, and coastal relaxation.

Are you ready to set sail toward the breathtaking wonders of Northern Europe? Book your cruise with Cruise1st today, and get ready for an unforgettable journey through captivating landscapes and rich cultures!