Discover the Allure of Sweden on a Cruise
Sweden, with its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, is a captivating destination for cruisers seeking a unique experience. From the idyllic archipelagos and charming coastal towns to the cosmopolitan allure of cities like Stockholm, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Fun fact: Sweden boasts over 25,000 islands, with the Stockholm archipelago alone consisting of around 30,000 islands! Cruising through Sweden offers a delightful mix of natural beauty and cultural experiences that you won’t want to miss.
Top Harbours to Explore in Sweden
As you sail through Swedish waters, these five harbours should definitely be on your radar:
Stockholm
The vibrant capital city is a beautiful blend of modernity and history. Upon docking, you can explore Gamla Stan, the old town, where cobblestone streets and stunning architecture await. Don’t miss the Royal Palace and the captivating views from Fjällgatan, the scenic lookout. If you have a bit more time, consider visiting the Vasa Museum, which houses a well-preserved 17th-century ship—perfect for history buffs!
Visby
Visby is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases a beautiful medieval town aura combined with stunning coastal scenery. When your ship docks, take a walk along the ancient city walls or explore the picturesque streets filled with charming shops and cafés. If time allows, visit the nearby Gotland Museum to learn more about the island’s rich Viking history and cultural heritage.
Gothenburg
Known for its picturesque canals and lush gardens, Gothenburg has something for everyone. After your cruise arrives, stroll through the beautiful Botanical Garden or head to Liseberg Amusement Park for a bit of fun. Take a food tour to sample local delicacies, especially the fresh seafood that this coastal city is famous for, before heading back to your ship!
Karlskrona
As a naval city and UNESCO World Heritage Site, Karlskrona is full of charm. Once you dock, explore the beautiful archipelago by taking a boat tour. If you enjoy museums, be sure to check out the Naval Museum, which showcases Sweden’s maritime history. Don’t pass up the chance to sample delicious traditional Swedish pastries at a local café!
Nynäshamn
This charming coastal town is a gateway to exploring the Stockholm archipelago. When your cruise comes into port, enjoy the scenic beach views or take a local ferry ride to one of the surrounding islands. A visit to the town’s charming fishing harbour might just lead to finding a great seafood restaurant, where you can indulge in fresh catches before returning to your ship.
Popular Ports Before or After Your Swedish Cruise
Besides the stunning harbours in Sweden, here are some essential ports that are commonly visited on cruises heading to the country:
Copenhagen
The capital of Denmark, Copenhagen, invites cruisers to explore its rich history and vibrant culture. Take a leisurely bike ride through the beautiful parks, visit the iconic Little Mermaid statue, or indulge in delicious pastries at Nyhavn’s colourful waterfront cafés. With its charming canals and historic sites, Copenhagen provides the perfect beginning or end to your cruise!
Southampton
As one of the busiest cruise ports in the UK, Southampton serves as a gateway to many adventures. Within easy reach is the historical city of Winchester, known for its stunning cathedral and medieval architecture. Alternatively, head to the New Forest for a day of hiking and nature before setting off for Sweden.
Amsterdam
Known for its picturesque canals and vibrant cultural scene, Amsterdam welcomes cruisers to explore its many museums, including the Van Gogh Museum and the Anne Frank House. If you have limited time, take a leisurely bike ride through the city to soak up the unique atmosphere before continuing on your cruise!
Rotterdam
Famous for its modern architecture, Rotterdam offers a different vibe from the typical Dutch city experience. Explore the vibrant Markthal for local delicacies, visit the stunning Cube Houses, or take a harbour cruise to see the city’s skyline from the water before settling in for your journey to Sweden.
Helsinki
As a beautiful blend of modern architecture and extensive green spaces, Helsinki is a great addition to your cruise experience. Visit the iconic Rock Church (Temppeliaukio) or take a stroll through the Market Square for a taste of local culture. If you’re feeling adventurous, ferry over to nearby Suomenlinna, a UNESCO-listed sea fortress.
Best Times to Experience Sweden
Sweden is best visited from May to September, when temperatures typically range from 15°C to 25°C, making it ideal for outdoor exploration. The long summer days allow for maximum sightseeing, with the beautiful Swedish landscapes in full bloom. If you prefer milder temperatures with fewer crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder months of April and October, when daytime temperatures are around 10°C to 15°C, and the scenery is often stunning.
Cruise Pricing Overview for Sweden
Curious about the costs associated with cruising to Sweden? A 1-week cruise typically ranges from $1,800 to $3,800 for standard packages, while luxury options can set you back between $5,000 and $10,000. For a longer, 2-week cruise, expect prices to be around $3,200 to $6,500 for regular cruises, while luxurious experiences can be upwards of $12,000. Typically, the cheapest times to cruise to Sweden are during the shoulder months and the winter months, while summer tends to be the most expensive. Dining prices in the region usually range from $20 to $55 for a meal, with drinks costing approximately $7 to $15.
Major Cruise Lines Journeying to Sweden
- Princess Cruises
Princess has a fleet of 17 ships, with 4 making stops in Sweden, including Sky Princess and Sapphire Princess. Departures often occur from Sydney or Brisbane, as well as international ports like Southampton and Copenhagen. Known for its beautiful ships and onboard activities, Princess Cruises creates an enjoyable family-friendly experience with diverse entertainment options during your journey.
- MSC Cruises
With a fleet of 23 ships, MSC features MSC Poesia as its sole vessel that visits Sweden. Most cruises depart from Copenhagen or Warnemünde. MSC is recognised for its family-oriented atmosphere and exceptional dining options, making cruises enjoyable for guests of all ages.
- Holland America Line
Holland America, with a fleet of 11 ships, has 2 dedicated to Sweden itineraries, namely Rotterdam and Nieuw Statendam. Departures for this experience most often happen from Rotterdam or Dover. Holland America is well-respected for its immersive cruising experiences and culinary excellence, ensuring that your journey to Sweden is memorable.
- Norwegian Cruise Line
With a robust fleet of 20 ships, Norwegian has 4 that head to Sweden, including Norwegian Dawn and Norwegian Sun. Most voyages are from Helsinki or Copenhagen, and Norwegian is known for its freestyle cruising concept, offering guests flexibility in dining, entertainment, and overall onboard experiences.
- Celebrity Cruises
Celebrity boasts a fleet of 16 ships, with two that regularly sail to Sweden—Celebrity Apex and Celebrity Eclipse. Common departure points are from Southampton or Amsterdam. Celebrity Cruises focuses on premium experiences, with stylish ships and unique dining options that elevate your experience.
Luxury and Small Ship Options to Sweden
- Silversea
With a fleet of 13 ships, Silversea features 3 vessels that navigate to Sweden, including Silver Spirit and Silver Dawn. Departures typically occur from Copenhagen or Stockholm. Silversea is known for its ultra-luxury offerings and personalised service, ensuring that cruisers enjoy an intimate and exclusive experience at sea.
- Viking Ocean Cruises
With a fleet size of 11 ships, Viking boasts 4 that offer itineraries to Sweden, including Viking Jupiter and Viking Saturn. Common departures occur from Stockholm or Bergen. Viking is celebrated for its destination-focused itineraries, providing enriching cultural experiences and immersive excursions that truly connect you with the destinations you visit.
- Regent Seven Seas Cruises
This luxury cruise line has a fleet of 6 ships, 4 of which have itineraries to Sweden, including Seven Seas Navigator and Seven Seas Voyager. Departing mainly from Stockholm or Southampton, Regent offers an all-inclusive experience with gourmet dining and exceptional service, ensuring a lavish journey throughout your cruise.
- Oceania Cruises
With a fleet of 8 ships, Oceania contains 2 that sail to Sweden, including Sirena and Vista. Departures take place from Copenhagen or Stockholm. Oceania is known for its culinary offerings and destination-rich itineraries, allowing guests to indulge in both exquisite dining and local culture while exploring Sweden.
- Ponant
Ponant operates 11 ships, 2 of which journey to Sweden, including Le Champlain and Le Laperouse. These cruises usually depart from Fredrikstad or Copenhagen. Ponant is known for its unique French flair and intimate small ship experiences, focusing on cultural immersion and genuine service for discerning travelers.
Alternative Regions to Consider for Your Cruise
If you’re intrigued by Sweden, consider these interesting alternative regions for your next cruise adventure:
- Norwegian Fjords: The Norwegian Fjords offer stunning landscapes with dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters. Known for their natural beauty and opportunities for outdoor adventures, this region is perfect for those seeking awe-inspiring scenery and unique experiences.
- Baltic Sea: The Baltic Sea features a fascinating mix of cultures and charming cities, including Tallinn and Helsinki, each offering rich histories and beautiful architecture. Ideal for history buffs and culture lovers alike, cruising in this region will expose you to diverse traditions and breathtaking scenery.
- Arctic: For those seeking adventure, the Arctic offers stunning untouched landscapes and unique wildlife experiences. This region is perfect for nature lovers looking to see polar bears, seals, and the mesmerizing northern lights up close.
- British Isles: The British Isles beckon with a mix of historic sites, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Cruises in this region allow you to explore famous landmarks while enjoying the warm hospitality of local communities.
- Adriatic Sea: Known for its coastal beauty and rich history, the Adriatic Sea invites travelers to explore ancient cities like Dubrovnik and Split, while enjoying picturesque views of the sparkling sea. Ideal for those who love vibrant culture and stunning coastal scenery.
Whether you’re exploring the intriguing cities, enchanting waterways, or stunning landscapes, a cruise to Sweden with CruiseAway promises an unforgettable experience. Start planning your adventure today!