Northern Europe Cruises

Discover the Wonders of Northern Europe on a Cruise

Northern Europe is a captivating region that boasts rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cultures waiting to be explored. A cruise through Northern Europe offers an easy way to visit multiple countries such as Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and Finland, all while enjoying the comforts of a ship. With charming cities, majestic fjords, and renowned landmarks, cruising in this diverse area provides endless opportunities for unforgettable experiences. Fun fact: Northern Europe has some of the happiest people in the world, as evidenced by consistently high rankings in global happiness reports!

Top Harbours in Northern Europe

When your cruise ship docks in Northern Europe, be sure to explore these five essential harbours that highlight the region’s unique beauty:

Popular Ports Before or After Your Northern Europe Cruise

While your cruise will highlight the beauty of Northern Europe, several key ports are commonly visited before or after your journey:

Best Times to Experience Northern Europe

The prime time for cruising in Northern Europe typically spans from May to September when you can expect temperatures between 10°C and 24°C. These months highlight the beauty of the region’s stunning landscapes under long daylight hours and generally mild weather. If you’d prefer being away from the peak tourist season, consider sailing during the shoulder months of late April or late September. During these times, temperatures are a comfortable 8°C to 20°C, and you might find fewer crowds!

Cruise Costs Overview for Northern Europe

Interested in pricing for a cruise to Northern Europe? A 1-week cruise generally ranges from $1,500 to $3,500 for standard options and $4,500 to $8,000 for luxury experiences. For those contemplating a 2-week cruise, you might expect to pay around $2,500 to $6,000 for regular cruising packages and from $9,000 and up for luxury options. Typically, the best times for savings are during the shoulder seasons, making your cruise more affordable. Expect dining costs to range from $20 to $60 for a meal, while drinks may run between $5 and $10 at local eateries.

Major Cruise Lines Featuring Northern Europe

• Cunard
  Cunard’s fleet includes 4 ships, with Queen Mary 2 and Queen Anne being the most prominent for Northern Europe itineraries. Departures often occur from Sydney, Southampton, or New York. Cunard epitomises luxury cruising, offering elegant dining, world-class entertainment, and enriching experiences onboard.
• Holland America Line
  Holland America, with a fleet of 11 ships, has Nieuw Statendam and Rotterdam sailing frequently to Northern Europe. Common departure points include Sydney, Rotterdam, or Dover. Known for its immersive travel experiences, Holland America provides deep cultural insights and fine dining aboard its vessels.
• P&O Cruises
  P&O operates 7 ships, with Aurora and Ventura itineraries featuring Northern Europe cruises. These typically depart from Southampton or Bridgetown. With classic British hospitality, P&O Cruises offers numerous onboard activities and entertainment, ensuring a delightful time at sea.
• MSC Cruises
  With a fleet of 23 ships, MSC offers 4 vessels heading to Northern Europe, including MSC Poesia and MSC Preziosa. The most common departure points are Southampton or Copenhagen. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, MSC also prioritises exciting onboard activities and amenities.
• Princess Cruises
  With a fleet size of 17 ships, Princess Cruises features 7 sailing to Northern Europe, most notably Sky Princess and Crown Princess. Departures regularly occur from Sydney or Brisbane, as well as international ports like Southampton and Dover. Prioritising family connections, Princess Cruises offers various entertainment and dining options suited for guests of all ages.

Luxurious and Small Ship Options

• Viking Ocean Cruises
  Viking, with 11 ships in its fleet, has 6 offering Northern Europe itineraries, including Viking Neptune and Viking Sky. Departures typically are from Bergen or Greenwich. Viking is known for its all-inclusive luxury cruises and fostering deep cultural connections with its engaging onshore experiences.
• Silversea
  Silversea’s fleet of 13 ships includes 5 that journey to Northern Europe, with Silver Dawn and Silver Spirit being the most popular. These cruises often depart from Copenhagen or Southampton. Silversea emphasises ultra-luxury experiences onboard, with an intimate atmosphere and tailored itineraries that elevate every voyage.
• Oceania Cruises
  With a fleet of 8 ships, Oceania offers 4 that navigate to Northern Europe, including Sirena and Vista. Common departures occur from Southampton or Reykjavik, and Oceania is celebrated for its gourmet dining options and destination-focused experiences that create a rich and engaging travel journey.
• Ponant
  Ponant has a fleet of 11 ships, with 7 dedicated to Northern Europe programming. Notable vessels include Le Laperouse and Le Bellot, departing from Greenock or Reykjavik. Ponant focuses on luxury expedition cruising, blending comfort with intimate experiences that allow travellers to explore unique destinations.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises
  Regent boasts a fleet of 6 ships, 4 of which travel to Northern Europe. Key vessels like Seven Seas Grandeur and Seven Seas Voyager typically depart from Southampton or Reykjavik. Regent is known for its all-inclusive service, ensuring luxurious accommodations and exceptional dining options at every turn.

Alternative Regions for Your Cruise Consideration

If Northern Europe has sparked your interest, consider these alternative regions for your next cruise adventure:

• British Isles: With stunning coastlines and rich cultural heritage, visiting the British Isles offers the chance to explore historic castles, vibrant cities, and picturesque fishing villages, showcasing the charm of this unique region.
• Adriatic Sea: With its stunning coastline, crystal-clear waters, and historic towns, the Adriatic Sea is an excellent alternative for those seeking a mix of beach relaxation and rich culture, particularly in coastal gems like Dubrovnik.
• Baltic Sea: The breathtaking landscapes and fascinating history of the Baltic Sea region, including cities like Helsinki and Tallin, provide cruisers with a unique blend of modern and old-world charm.
• Arctic: For the true adventurer, the Arctic offers incredible wildlife encounters and stunning landscapes, with the opportunity to explore rarely visited destinations and connect with indigenous cultures.
• Norwegian Fjords: Known for their stunning natural beauty, cruising through the Norwegian Fjords presents breathtaking scenery, charming villages, and incredible outdoor activities, making it ideal for nature lovers.

Get ready to embark on a remarkable journey through Northern Europe with CruiseAway! With captivating harbours, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences awaiting you, now is the perfect time to book your cruise adventure!