Guest Speaker 
Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3
19 m²
2
- Last staterooms
Historic Cities of the Baltic Sea
Copenhagen - Stockholm
Dates:
02/08/2023
to
10/08/2023
days
nights on board
PONANTinvites you to discover the historical cities along the Baltic Sea. You will embark onLe Champlainfor an 9-day cruiseabout the cultural wonders of the Hanseatic League.
Departing from Copenhagen, you will head for the seaside resort of Travemünde, a favourite destination of travellers since the 19th century due to its kilometres of beach and its charming fishing port.
Your ship will then call at Gdansk, famous for its amber stone and its shipyards. The former Hanseatic city will reveal some of its architectural treasures, in Gothic and Baroque styles, restored or rebuilt.
Further north, Klaipeda, formerly known as Memel, the main port town in Lithuania, is separated only by a narrow channel from the Curonian Spit, a UNESCO Heritage.
You will also discover Riga, capital of Latvia. A unique blend of different architectural styles, the old town will open itself up to you like the pages of a history book.
You will then head to Helsinki. Located on a peninsula surrounded by almost 300 islands, the verdant capital of Finland will charm you with its Art Nouveau architecture.
Your next port of call will be Tallinn, a site that was important for the Hanseatic League in the Baltic Sea around the 13th century. UNESCO Heritage Site, this once opulent city still has remarkably well-preserved ramparts, public buildings, merchant houses and warehouses.
Your ship will finally head for Stockholm, your disembarkation port.
Ref : EC020823
Your itinerary
A cruise on the Baltic Sea, to discover important cities of the Hanseatic League, through eight northern European countries: Denmark, Germany, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Finland, Estonia and Sweden. UNESCO...
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Your trip in detail
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Complete your trip
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Additional services
For more peace of mind, PONANT selects stays and flights then takes care of your transfers for your trip as well as shore visits before and after the cruise.
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LE LYRIAL
07/11/2023 to the 22/11/2023
LE LYRIAL
01/10/2023 to the 08/10/2023
LE PAUL GAUGUIN
LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT
06/02/2024 to the 03/03/2024
LE BORÉAL
07/07/2024 to the 20/07/2024
*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
Services provided
- 24-hour room service
- Inclusive Wifi internet access (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Dyptique Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- Electronic safe
- Direct line telephone
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
- 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- Two ADA staterooms
Select your stateroom category
Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.
For women:
- Simple dress
- Skirt or trousers
- Blouse
- Polo
For men:
- Pleated trousers or chinos
- Sports jacket
- Shirt
- Polo
Officer’s evening:
For all cruises longer than 8 nights, an Officer’s Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).
Gala evening:
During the cruise, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits.
For women:
- Cocktail attire
- Evening dress (if you wish to)
For men:
- Dark suit
- Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)
SHOP:
A small shop is available on board offering a wide range of outfits, jewellery, leather goods and many accessories.
A laundry service (washing/ironing) is available on board, but unfortunately there are no dry cleaning services. For safety reasons, your cabin is not equipped with an iron.
ACCESSORIES:
- Polarized sunglasses
- Swimsuit (for the Spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
- Hat/cap
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
- Medications and prescriptions
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
- Casual outfits for the day
- Smarter outfits for dinners
- Elegant outfits for Gala evenings
- White or black and white outfit
PRECAUTIONS:
In your hand luggage, remember to bring any medicines that you need, and possibly a small spare bag of toiletries (in case of delay in the delivery of your baggage by the airline). Remember to always have your travel documents with you in case you need them: hotel vouchers, cruise vouchers, return flight tickets... Never leave them in your hold luggage.
All our cabins have a safe. We recommend not to go ashore with valuable jewellery.
PONANT activities
Highlights
- A cruise on the Baltic Sea, to discover important cities of the Hanseatic League, through eight northern European countries: Denmark, Germany, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Finland, Estonia and Sweden.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Curonian Spit from Klaipeda, the historical centre of Riga, the sea fortress of Suomenlinna from Helsinki and the old town of Tallinn.
- Discover five European capitals on the same cruise: Copenhagen (Denmark), Riga (Latvia), Helsinki (Finland), Tallinn (Estonia), Stockholm (Sweden).
- A port of call in the charming German fishing port, Warnemünde.
- Before your cruise: possibility to visit Copenhagen.
Ports of Call & Excursions
2 August 2023 - Copenhagen
Embarkation 02/08/2023 from 15:00 to 16:00
Departure 02/08/2023 at 17:00
Connected to the far eastern side of Sealand island, a few kilometres away from the Swedish coasts, Copenhagen offers you the high colour of Scandinavian capitals. You can discover the city's riches that weaves through the canal networks through the historical districts of Christiansborg and Nyhavn. Many palaces provide an apercu of Danish history. For eating, you can try out the smorrebrod, traditional danish sandwiches made with ham, cheese or smoked fish.
3 August 2023 - Travemünde
Arrival 03/08/2023 early morning
Departure 03/08/2023 midday
Made famous by Thomas Mann and Dostoevsky, Travemünde has, since the 19th century, been a popular seaside resort for the cultural elites of Northern Europe. The colourful beach huts that line the 4.5 km of fine sandy beach, the seafront walkway lined with boutiques and cafes and its wide streets have kept their yesteryear charm. From Travemünde, you can discover the magnificent historical centre of Lübeck, for the former capital of the Hanseatic League, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Characterised by its unique profile with seven bell towers and the island of its Old Town surrounded by quaysides and parks, the city has managed to preserve many patrician dwellings of the 15th and 16th centuries and a monumental fortified town gate.
4 August 2023 - Gdansk
Arrival 04/08/2023 early afternoon
Departure 04/08/2023 evening
This ravishing city on the Baltic sea is nicknamed “the golden door of Poland”, and you’ll understand why when you see its beautiful Hanseatic architecture. You’ll be charmed by the mouldings and gables that enhance the colourful façades of the houses. Along the Vistula Quays, you can take a pleasant stroll among the crafts shops. In elegant Mariacka street, the amber jewellers will most certainly tempt you into their boutiques. You can visit the church of Saint-Mary and its astronomic clock. Not far, the majestic Long Market square offers the famous Artus Court and the rich Gdansk History Museum.
5 August 2023 - Klaipeda
Arrival 05/08/2023 early morning
Departure 05/08/2023 late afternoon
Klaipeda was founded in the 13th century by Christian crusaders from the German Order of Teutonic Knights. Its strategic location on the edge of the Baltic Sea has made it a source of conflict between Germans, Poles, Lithuanians and even the French since its creation. Today, the legacy of Klaipeda’s rich history is a great multiculturalism. This is the main port of Lithuania and the country’s third largest city. The beautiful landscapes of the surrounding Baltic coast make it a popular tourist destination. The city centre is very pleasant to visit due to its architecture blending German and Scandinavian influences.
6 August 2023 - Riga
Arrival 06/08/2023 early afternoon
Departure 06/08/2023 evening
At the place where East meets West on the edge of the Baltic Sea, Riga, the capital of Latvia, will charm you with its contrasts. Although it is one of the oldest cities in the Baltic states, with a unique atmosphere that is imbued with the memory of its medieval past, Riga is also tangibly dynamic and modern. As you stroll through its old town, you will enjoy its exceptional architecture, its cathedrals, the remains of old walls and the typical narrow streets. Nicknamed “the Paris of the North” in the 1930s, this cosmopolitan city boasts a rich heritage.
7 August 2023 - At sea
Arrival 07/08/2023
Departure 07/08/2023
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
8 August 2023 - Helsinki
Arrival 08/08/2023 early morning
Departure 08/08/2023 late evening
Seated in the southern peninsula of Finland, Helsinki offers the buzz of a cosmopolitan city that has opted for both elegance and beauty. Explore its historical centre where the soft hues of neoclassical buildings are juxtaposed with spectacular modern constructions. The bustling Kallio district is teeming with boutiques and restaurants where you can taste some local specialities like graavilohi - a sweet, marinated, aromatic salmon dish. Keskuspuisto park, a stone’s throw from the centre, is a good place to sit and unwind.
9 August 2023 - Tallinn
Arrival 09/08/2023 early morning
Departure 09/08/2023 midday
Opening onto the Baltic sea, to the far north of Estonia, the town of Tallin will win you over with the picturesque charm of its architecture. You can meander through its little streets in the heart of the medieval centre where its gothic town hall has been standing since 1404. The Kiek in de Kök tower, the Orthodox Alexander Nevski cathedral, or Toompea castle give visitors a taste of this town’s rich past. The city was particularly active during the medieval period, as is demonstrated by the very beautiful monuments from this period that are still visible. Don't hesitate to lose yourself in the heart of Tallinn, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
10 August 2023 - Stockholm
Arrival 10/08/2023 early morning
Disembarkation 10/08/2023 at 08:00
The capital of Sweden occupies an archipelago in the east of the country at the junction of Mälar Lake and the Baltic sea. In Gamla stan, meaning “old town” in Swedish, you can stroll at your leisure in picturesque medieval streets until you reach the majestic Royal Palace. On the green island of Djurgården, you can visit several very different kinds of cultural centres: the Vasa museum is dedicated to a 17th century three-mast, the ecomuseum of Skansen presents traditional customs, and the ABBA museum is dedicated to the legendary pop group. For a fantastic, all-encompassing view of Stockholm, you can take a ride in SkyView, a glass-encased sphere gondola that takes you to the top of the world’s largest building, the Ericsson Globe, a Stockholm landmark.
Lübeck, a gourmet city
During this tour, you will explore the best known highlights of Lübeck and its medieval old town with narrow streets and charming backyards which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Lübeck's most famous delicacy, its fine marzipan.
From the pier, a short transfer by coach brings you to the city of Lübeck while your guide provides you with the first impressions about the countryside and the area that became rich through Lübeck's history as a trading city. Start your walk at the impressive Holsten Gate, which gives you a first impression of old Lübeck . Walk through Lübeck's romantic narrow streets and courtyards and stop at St Mary's Church, built at the end of the 12th century and featuring the largest mechanical organ in the world.
Right next to it you will see the famous Buddenbrooks House, home of the famous writers Heinrich and Thomas Mann, both born in Lübeck. You will then continue to one of the first senior citizen homes in Germany, the Heiligen Geist Hospital, before you head back towards the heart of Lübeck.
Last but not least, you will visit the Niederegger Café where you will enjoy a cup of coffee or tea and Niederegger's delicious marzipan gateau. Marzipan is Lübeck's most famous food product, considered by many to be the finest in the world, and available in various forms, figures and tastes.
Afterwards you join your coach and guide again to make your way back to the ship.
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This tour involves approximately 3 miles (5.5 km) of walking on flat, uneven and cobblestoned streets. We recommand you to wear good walking shoes and bring a light jacket. The order of visits may vary depending on the daily conditions.
Total : 100 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Lübeck, queen of the Hanse
From the pier, meet your guide and start your journey towards the city of Lübeck, a major trading center of the Hanseatic League.
To enter the city's most historical part, you will pass by the beautiful Holsten Gate. Nearby, you will have the opportunity to admire the St. Peters Church and learn about the fascinating history of the city.
After this first glimpse of the city, you will make your way towards the European Museum of the Hanse, a true must for European history and trading lovers. Since the 12th century, German merchants have spanned a medieval trading network across borders from the Baltic Sea to the North Sea, from the Alps to the French Atlantic coast and even to more distant coastal cities in Spain and Portugal. Offices were in former trading hot spots such as Novgorod, Bruges, London, and Bergen to protect and develop their outposts under their own legislation. Through vibrant markets in the Baltic region, they offered their valuable natural goods for sale, they traded in fine fabrics, spices and jewel stones in the Baltic region and beyond.
Once at the museum, learn about the merchant trade, set off like them from Lübeck to the north and experience the exciting atmosphere of a Hanseatic Day. Experience life along the old trade routes and the flow of goods in the development of the Hanseatic League up to today's Europe commercial powerhouse. Lively room productions bring to life historic settings of the river Neva, in Bruges and Bergen, as well as the historic Lübeck. Cabinets with original objects from all over Europe, archaeological finds and magnificent facsimiles provide the scientific background.
Finally, your guide will accompany you back to the port and your ship, on your coach.
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This tour involves approximately 1,5 miles (2,5 km) of walking on flat, uneven and cobblestoned streets. We recommand you to wear good walking shoes and bring a light jacket. The order of visits may vary depending on the daily conditions.
Total : 100 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Gdansk city tour
From the pier in Gdansk, you will board your coach for a drive through the suburban and commercial sections of Gdansk on your way to the Old Town.
The city’s 1,000 years of history have left a collection of buildings and monuments designed in Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles. Your guided walk will bring you to the heart of the city - the Old Town. You will see buildings decorated with elaborate façades crowded by ornate gables. You will pass by the Town Hall, Long Market and the beautiful 15th century merchant’s Palace of Artus Court. Pause at Neptune’s Fountain to admire this monumental symbol of Gdansk’s Hanseatic past and its connection with the sea before walking down to the waterfront canal. Then take Mariacka or St. Mary’s Street, which delight its visitors with its lively atmosphere, quaint shops and lovely terraced buildings.
Continue to St. Mary’s Church, the pride of Gdansk. Gothic St. Mary’s is the world’s largest brick church, accommodating some 25,000 worshippers. Situated in the centre of the Old Town, this medieval church took 159 years to build, and its deceivingly plain exterior belies a bright, spacious interior with large windows and more than 30 beautifully decorated chapels. The floor is covered with ancient tombstones, and the northern transept holds an amazing 15th-century astronomical clock, complete with the zodiac cycle and a calendar of the saints.
You will enjoy time at leisure to shop for amber jewellery, artwork and souvenirs in the Old Town of Gdansk.
- This tour involves approximately 2.5 km (1.6 mile) of walking, some over cobblestone streets. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes. Appropriate dress is recommended to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered).
Total : 60 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Gdansk city tour & Chopin concert
From the pier in Gdansk, you will board your coach for a drive through the suburban and commercial sections of Gdansk on your way to the Old Town.
The city’s 1,000 years of history have left a collection of buildings and monuments designed in Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles. Your guided walk will bring you to the heart of the city - the Old Town. You will see buildings decorated with elaborate facades crowded by ornate gables. You will pass by the Town Hall, Long Market and the beautiful 15th century merchant’s Palace of Artus Court. Pause at Neptune’s Fountain to admire this monumental symbol of Gdansk’s Hanseatic past and its connection with the sea before walking down to the waterfront canal. Then take Mariacka or St. Mary’s Street, which delight its visitors with its lively atmosphere, quaint shops and lovely terraced buildings.
Continue to St. Mary’s Church, the pride of Gdansk. Gothic St. Mary’s is the world’s largest brick church, accommodating some 25,000 worshippers. Situated in the centre of Old Town, this medieval church took 159 years to build, and its deceivingly plain exterior belies a bright, spacious interior with large windows and more than 30 beautifully decorated chapels. The floor is covered with ancient tombstones, and the northern transept holds an amazing 15th-century astronomical clock, complete with the zodiac cycle and a calendar of the saints. Enjoy some time at leisure to shop for amber jewellery, artwork and souvenirs in the Old Town of Gdansk.
Next, drive to the Polish Baltic Philharmonic and enjoy an exlusive concert of Polish classical music, which presents the most famous pieces of classical music written by Frédéric Chopin, as well as other great masters that continued his tradition: Edward Grieg, Fritz Kreisler, Wojciech Kilar (a contemporary film music composer) and Henryk Wieniawski. The entire programme will be performed by a renowned Polish pianist Rafal Lewandowski.
After the concert, re-board your coach for the return drive to the pier and your ship.
- This tour involves approximately 2.5 km (1.24 mile) of walking, some over cobblestone streets. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes. Appropriate dress is recommended to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered). A welcome drink before the concert will be offered.
Total : 350 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Cycling to the end of the Dunes
Depart from the pier by bicycle to the pedestrian ferry and cross the lagoon to the Curonian spit, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is also known as Neringa. The old legend says that the giant Neringa gathered an apron full of sand and poured a ribbon of sand to divide the sea from the lagoon and thus make fishermen safer from sea storms.
The short 10-minute trip by ferry across the lagoon to the Curonian spit is an enjoyable experience. Once you are on the Curonian Spit, bike along the lagoon passing Klaipeda yacht club on the way. Reach the Hagen Dune and make a stop to view the panorama of Klaipeda. Continue through the picturesque Curonian Spit and stop by the dunes. You will find out how the Curonian Spit forests were planted by human hands and saved the Spit from disappearance.
Continue on the forest trail and cycle out to see one of the most beautiful beaches in Klaipeda, also considered one of the best on the coast of the Baltic Sea. Take a break and enjoy light Lithuanian snacks and local beer at a local cafe near the beach.
On the way back to the ferry, ride along the breakwater. Pass 19th century Prussian military fort, which is now the Sea and Maritime Museum. Pass old fishing vessels and a typical 19th century fishermen's farmstead before taking the ferry back to Klaipeda and bike to the heart of the Old town of Klaipeda. Browse through the local craftsmen market before returning to the pier.
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Total biking distance for this tour is 16 km (10 miles). Participants should be in excellent physical condition. E-bikes are available for guests older than 16 years.
Total : 100 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Charms of Franciscan Kretinga
Kretinga is a quaint little town situated just a 30-minute drive north to Klaipeda. From the pier board your coach and drive to this city with its special charm.
You will first visit the Church of the Annunciation which dates back to the 17th century. On the grounds surrounding the church you will view the stations of the cross. See the 400-year-old main altar restored to its authentic glory and go down to the crypts.
The adjoining Franciscan monastery combines Renaissance and Baroque elements. The Franciscan brothers, who lived in the monastery, have made a great contribution to education in Lithuania. They opened the first school and later began publishing books and newspapers. The Franciscan monastery was closed by the tsarist government and again later in Soviet times. In 1992, after the independence, the Franciscans returned. They look after the church and hold warm and welcoming services. The church is invariably full when services are held. One of the brothers or sisters will guide you around the church if they are not at prayer.
Continue by coach through the center of Kretinga to Count Tiskevicius’ 19th century estate. This historic mansions is also widely known for its special home made chocolate, which is known since 18 century. You will be offered a cup of tea or coffe, special Count's chocolate and a piece of Lithunian cake in a former Kretinga's Water Mill, which now houses a cosy family owned cafe.
Return by bus to Klaipeda and drive through the central streets. Pass the Neo-Gothic Post Office building, the Clock and Watches museum before making a stop in the Old Town of Klaipeda to view the sculpture of Annchen von Tharau in the Theatre Square.
Re-board your coach for the 10-minute return drive to the pier and your ship.
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Total walking distance for this tour is 2 km (1.24 mile) on uneven surfaces (cobblestones at the monastery and in the old town); some steps are involved. We recommend you wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
Total : 60 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Legends of the Witches Hill
You will meet your guide and board your coach for a short drive through Klaipeda. From, there, you will embark on a 10-minute ferry ride across the Curonian Lagoon to the Curonian Spit, famous for its unique and unspoilt nature. Curonian Spit is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You guide will lead you through Juodkrante (Blackshore), the oldest fishermen’s village on the Spit. Today, it is a seaside resort, which has retained its old charm. On the way to Juodkrante you will pass by Amber Bay, where amber was mined in the 19th century. In Juodkrante, you will be able to admire the decorated and ornamented traditional fishermen's houses.
Opened in 1979, the Hill of Witches is a collection of sculptures of witches, devils and fairy tale monsters, all carved from oak. Here, you can whisper to the witch who, it is said, will fulfil your wishes. Or sit on a bench, which is said to cure all diseases. See legends come to live such as the giant Neringa, Egle the Queen of Grass-Snakes, the Thunder, the Poacher and many witches performing their devilry. This is a special place somewhere between the mystical and the real world, where your imagination and creative powers come alive.
In Juodkrante, you will walk along the Lagoon quay, which is decorated with modern sculptures. You will stop to see the Evangelical Lutheran church and the Gallery of Weathervanes. In the 19th century, weathervanes were used as a special marking system on the top of Kurenas. Later, fishing boats. Later, the weathervanes became an original artistic phenomenon. In the gallery, you will have the opportunity to meet the owner, see amber artefacts, unique pieces containing inclusions and jewellery made by local amber artists.
Take the ferry back to Klaipeda and make a photo stop in the heart of the Old Town, at the Theatre Square before driving back to the ship.
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The tour includes a walking distance of approximately 2,5 kilometres (1.55 miles). The Hill of Witches - hard gravel forest path going uphill and downhill. Roots of the trees are crossing the path. Lutheran church - even surface, 2 steps at the entrance to the church. No ramp. The Weathervane gallery - a flat surface, 2 steps at the entrance to the gallery. No ramp. Klaipeda Old Town - cobblestones, 10-15 steps total. Please wear comfortable walking shoes. It is advisable to wear waterproof clothing or/and carry an umbrella during a rainy day.
Total : 60 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Old Riga & wooden boat cruise
Riga is the capital of Latvia, the largest city of the country and the most cosmopolitan town of the Baltic capitals. It is a well-known and highly appreciated industrial, commercial, cultural and financial center of the Baltic States as well as one of the most important seaports of the region.
You will get beautiful trip by boat and will enjoy Riga’s and charming city canal.
From the pier, your coach will take you to the river pier located 10 minutes away. You will board a charming wooden boat for a commented cruise on the charming Riga's canal to discover the city marvelous layout, its buildings, its parks and its boulevards.
After an hour's ride along the water, you will leave your boat and board your coach for a 20-minute panoramic tour through the modern part of the city. You will pass by the National Opera, the Music Academy, the Central Railway Station, the Council of Ministers and Brivibas Street, the main shopping street of Riga. You will see other iconic places such as the Park Esplanada and its monument to the famous Latvian poet Janis Rainis, the Academy of Arts and the State Museum of Fine Arts.
You will continue with a guided walking tour of the historic center of Riga, which will take you to churches, renovated buildings and the magnificent Dome Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece. The cathedral is famous for its prestigious organ, built in 1883, with over 6,700 pipes. You will continue your walk to the Town Hall Squaree, where you will be able to admire the House of Blackheads, the statue of Roland and the Saint Peter's church. On the Livu Square, you will stop to see the Black Cat House and the small and large guild houses.
After your stroll through Old Riga, you will re-board your coach for the 10-minute ride back to your ship.
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This moderate tour involves about 2 km of walking on cobblestone streets, with some steps. We recommend that you bring comfortable clothing and walking shoes. Participants must be able to get on and off the river boat without assistance. This tour is limited to 35 participants.
Total : 80 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Charming Riga
Start your tour by coach and enjoy a short driving along the boulevards, parks and charming green spots of Riga. During this part of the tour, see various examples of Art Nouveau buildings, as well as the Latvian National Museum of Art, the Freedom Monument erected in 1935 on the donations of citizens of Latvia, the Latvian University and the National Opera. A stop will be made at the Art Nouveau district for a short walk through the Alberta street.
Next, reboard your coach for a drive through the modern part of the city, before you discover historical Old Riga on foot and acquaint yourself with the churches, the renovated buildings and the magnificent Dome Cathedral?–?a masterpiece of architecture. The Dome is renowned for its prestigious organ, constructed in 1883, with more than 6,700 pipes.
Your tour continues to the Town Hall Square, where you will see the House of Blackheads, the Roland Monument and St. Peter’s Church. A stop will be made at Livu Square to see the Cat House and the guild houses.
After your walking tour in Old Riga, reboard your coach for the 10-minute return drive to the pier and your ship.
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This moderate tour involves some steps and approximately 2 km (1.2 mile) of walking on cobblestone streets. We recommend you wear comfortable clothing and comfortable walking shoes. Appropriate dress is recommended to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered).
Total : 60 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Helsinki highlights
From the pier, drive towards Sibelius Park. It was named after Finland's greatest composer Jean Sibelius on his 80th birthday in 1945. Here you can view the Sibelius Monument designed by Eila Hiltunen.
Then proceed to Temppeliaukio Church. Built from the natural bedrock, it is one of Helsinki's most popular tourist attractions. The interior walls are created naturally by the rock, hence its nickname the Rock Church. The church was opened in 1969. Due to its excellent acoustics, the church is a popular venue for concerts.
After the visit, drive to Senate Square; it is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful urban squares in the world. The square is dominated by four buildings designed by Carl Ludvig Engel between 1822 and 1852: Helsinki Cathedral, the Government Palace, the main building of the University of Helsinki and the National Library of Finland.
Next, walk down from Senate Square to the very lively Market Place. Here, discover the real heart of Helsinki and enjoy free time walking around and tasting local foods. Re-board the coach for the return drive to the pier and ship.
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This tour involves 1 mile (1,5 km) of walking on flat but uneven terrain and cobblestone streets. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes.
Total : 60 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Porvoo Old Town and Malmgård manor
Enjoy a delightful drive through the Finnish countryside to the medieval town of Porvoo for a walking tour and a visit of Malmgård manor.
Board your motorcoach for a one hour drive to Porvoo.
The second oldest town in Finland, Porvoo is one of Finland's six medieval towns. It is famous for its wooden buildings in the old town and cobbled streets with charming shops and cafes. Celebrated as a national treasure, its old town has remained unchanged since the Middle Ages. With your guide, you will admire the red warehouses on the riverbank that once formed the medieval port. Today, these old buildings have become the symbol of Porvoo and are among the most photographed attractions in Finland. After a short orientation walk, you will enjoy some free time before heading to Malmgård Castle.
The manor house is of renaissance inspiration and is one of the most beautiful in Finland. Malmgård is now a private estate.
Your host will welcome you and invite you to visit this magnificent building which has belonged to the Creutz family since the early 1600s. Count Henrik Creutz still resides in the manor and has modernised the property by creating an organic farm and an ecological brewery. After the tour, you will be served a light lunch before heading to the farm's eco-brewery. The brew master will show you the secrets of his products. You will taste 3 types of beer and have a chance to share your opinion with the brewer ! And of course, the history of the farm and how it became involved in ecological farming is also a very interesting topic.
The estate also has a shop selling produce from the farm, local specialities and beers.
Back on the bus, you will return to Helsinki after this pleasant day in the Finnish countryside.
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This tour includes approximately 2km of walking over uneven surfaces, cobblestoned streets and wooden floors. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes.
Total : 140 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Suomenlinna Fortress
From the Market Square, board a local ferry to reach Suomenlinna Island. The island is a major monument of military architecture. The construction of the sea fortress on the islands just off Helsinki in the middle of the 18th century was the most extensive building project during Swedish rule. When it was complete, its military shipyard was one of the biggest dry docks in the world and centres of know-how at that time. At the end of Swedish rule, the fortress was being compared with the maritime fortifications of Gibraltar. The 250-year-old fortress, which has been preserved intact because of its military use, is today part of UNESCO’s World Heritage List.
Join your guide for a walking tour of the island.
From the fortress, head back to the mainland by ferry, where you will pass through the Market Square and enjoy free time before walking back to the ship.
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This tour involves approximately 1.5 miles (2 km) of walking on uneven ground and sand paths. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes. There are no inside visits included. The use of the local ferry is nonexclusive.
Total : 70 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Foraging in a Finnish forest
This tour takes you on a journey through Mother Nature's kitchen, right in the heart of the Finnish forest.
Board your coach for a 45 minute drive through the Finnish landscapes towards Nuuksio National Park.
Here, you will meet your local Finnish forest guide, who has studied all the edible herbs, berries and mushrooms. He will guide you through the national park and will explain all the secrets of the forest, which is a kind of open-air market garden and kitchen. Indeed, Finland's ever-changing and organic forests provide families with a wide variety of ingredients that change with each season.
During your tour in the middle of the forest the guide will tell you about the Finnish culture, and the importance of the open spaces for the locals.
Every story is unique when it starts in nature. The story of the day will be directed by the season and the wild foods you can find in the heart of it. From spring to autumn, you will be on the hunt for wild herbs like elderberry and nettle, wild berries like blueberries, raspberries and lingonberries, and some of nature's finest mushrooms, such as the golden chanterelle and the picturesque porcini.
Accompanied by your guide, you will cook and taste the products in the same way as a Finnish person would. You will also use the collected products to make a dish. You can make a salad, create a creamy mushroom sauce or even make your own cranberry jam. You will enjoy a Finnish-style light lunch cooked over a campfire.
After this journey in the forest, you will reboard your coach and drive back to the ship.
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This tour includes approximately 3km of walking in the forest. A raincoat in case of rain is included in the tour. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and outdoor clothing in accordance with the weather. Guests must be well fit for a nature walk.
Total : 150 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Gothic treasures of Tallinn
Departing from the pier by coach, you will pass the modern city centre with its hotels, banks and shopping centres. Reaching the Old Town, a stop is made at the Tall Hermann Tower to get an outside view of the imposing castle. You can walk to the Kiek in de Kök Tower to get a view of the towers and steeples of the Upper Town.
Continue your guided visit on foot to the old Hanseatic town viewing the Transfiguration church, Nun's Gate and numerous merchants' homes on your way. You can admire Gothic facades of the guild houses and the Holy Ghost church with the oldest street clock in Tallinn till you reach the Town Hall Square.
In the centre of the square is the 15th century Town Hall, one of the very few well-survived Gothic town halls in Europe. You will be treated a guided tour of this magnificent building visiting the citizens' hall which is now often used for VIP receptions and concerts as well as the councillors' hall where part of the unique 15th century furniture has been exhibited.
After the Town Hall inside visit, you can admire other old buildings that line the square paying a special attention to the facade of the Town Hall apothecary shop, probably the oldest pharmacy in Europe that has been functioning since 1422. You will also enjoy some free time there.
On the way back to your coach, pass the Viru gate, one of the three gates that has survived in the city wall.
Reboard your coach for the 15-minute return drive to your ship.
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This tour includes approximately 1.3 km (0.8 mile) of walking on uneven ground and cobblestone streets and involves approximately 20 steps at the Town Hall. We recommend that you wear comfortable shoes. It is not recommended for persons with walking difficulties.
Total : 40 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Tallinn & folklore
Tallinn is a wonderfully preserved city of the Hanseatic League with its old town entered in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Departing from the pier, your coach will circle around the Old town, offering magnificent views of the medieval city wall.
You will start your guided walking tour in the Upper Town with its watch-towers, graceful spires and winding, cobbled streets. Visit the Russian Orthodox Church, inaugurated in 1900 and filled with a stunning array of superb icons. You will view the exterior of the castle which is now the seat of Estonia's parliament. Built on a cliff top the Upper Town provides superb vantage point from which to view the red gabled roofs and spires of the Lower Town.
Your tour will continue as you follow your guide down Long and Short Leg Streets to the Lower Town. The first visit here will be to a historical building in the city centre where you will be treated to a delightful Estonian folk show.
Once you are rested and ready to resume your touring, you will continue with a walking tour of the Lower Town. Among the highlights is the apothecary, which opened in 1422, the Great Guild House, Holy Ghost Church and the 15th century Gothic Town Hall (all from outside). Here in the heart of Tallinn, you will enjoy some free time before rejoining your coach and returning to the pier.
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This tour involves 2 km (1.24 miles) of walking, mostly on cobblestone streets, and about 100 steps to climb. We recommend that you wear comfortable shoes. Appropriate dress is recommended to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered). Please note that the church may be closed on Sundays due to religious service. It is not recommended for persons with walking difficulties.
Total : 50 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Le Champlain
Like the rest of the PONANT EXPLORERS series, Le Champlain successfully manages to subtly combine the desire to explore the remotest regions of the planet with the comfort and privacy of a cosily intimate ship.
To the innovative and environmentally friendly equipment are added elegant design and a unique atmosphere in keeping with the whole PONANT universe. Your dream of a cruise onboard a cosily intimate ship is thus made possible through the combination of an authentically genuine voyage experience together with discreet luxury.
Up to 184 Guests
92 staterooms & suites
118 crew members
Spa
2 restaurants
Decks
Guest Speaker
Aboard your ship, an English-speaking lecturer will enlighten you about the culture and history of your destination to deepen your knowledge of the origins of local traditions, the history of emblematic sites, and stories involving famous personalities and those of major historical significance. During on-board lectures or on your shore visits, this expert will be there to share their precious knowledge with you throughout your PONANT cruise.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
02/08/2023 - FLIGHTS FROM/TO PARIS + COPENHAGEN, A ROYAL CITY (PRE) + ART TOUR AND TRANSFER TO ARLANDA AIRPORT (POST)
750 €
Find out moreCOPENHAGEN, A ROYAL CITY
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your day time between the airport and your port of embarkation.
Copenhagen
Meet at Copenhagen Airport in the Arrival Hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT.
First, you will be taken to Nyhavn district located on the banks of the canal in the city centre, lined with colourfully-painted houses. Nyhavn was originally a busy commercial port where ships from all over the world would dock. Today the beautiful old houses have been renovated and trendy restaurants and cafés dominate the old harbour. You will have some free time to have lunch on your own and enjoy the lovely atmosphere of the Nyhavn canal filled with sailboats.
You will then head to the centre of Copenhagen for a panoramic tour. You will discover all the charms of the Danish capital: the picturesque streets of the old city, art galleries, the famous Little Mermaid, the Tivoli Gardens and the royal palaces including Amalienborg, the royal family’s winter residence. Amalienborg is considered one of the greatest works of Danish Rococco architecture and was constructed in the 1700's. This architectural complex is made up of four identical palace facades spread around an octagonal courtyard with, at its centre, a statue of the founder King Frederick V.
In the mid-afternoon, you will be transferred to the pier to embark on your ship.
Your programme includes:
- Transfers and visits mentioned in the programme.
- Services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
- Lunch.
- Tips for the driver and local guide.
- Personal expenses.
- Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
- The Danish Krone (DKK) is the official currency of Denmark.
Duration of the visits are given as a guide only. The order of the visits may be reversed. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel advisor; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
In the event of schedule changes of PONANT’s selected flight, your programme will be adapted to ensure the most seamless and enriching experience. The content of your revised programme will be updated on the PONANT website, in My Ponant space and on the PONANT app. The final programme will also be sent to you along with your cruise documents.
Total : 150 €
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
Lübeck, a gourmet city
During this tour, you will explore the best known highlights of Lübeck and its medieval old town with narrow streets and charming backyards which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Lübeck's most famous delicacy, its fine marzipan.
From the pier, a short transfer by coach brings you to the city of Lübeck while your guide provides you with the first impressions about the countryside and the area that became rich through Lübeck's history as a trading city. Start your walk at the impressive Holsten Gate, which gives you a first impression of old Lübeck . Walk through Lübeck's romantic narrow streets and courtyards and stop at St Mary's Church, built at the end of the 12th century and featuring the largest mechanical organ in the world.
Right next to it you will see the famous Buddenbrooks House, home of the famous writers Heinrich and Thomas Mann, both born in Lübeck. You will then continue to one of the first senior citizen homes in Germany, the Heiligen Geist Hospital, before you head back towards the heart of Lübeck.
Last but not least, you will visit the Niederegger Café where you will enjoy a cup of coffee or tea and Niederegger's delicious marzipan gateau. Marzipan is Lübeck's most famous food product, considered by many to be the finest in the world, and available in various forms, figures and tastes.
Afterwards you join your coach and guide again to make your way back to the ship.
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This tour involves approximately 3 miles (5.5 km) of walking on flat, uneven and cobblestoned streets. We recommand you to wear good walking shoes and bring a light jacket. The order of visits may vary depending on the daily conditions.
Total : 100 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Lübeck, queen of the Hanse
From the pier, meet your guide and start your journey towards the city of Lübeck, a major trading center of the Hanseatic League.
To enter the city's most historical part, you will pass by the beautiful Holsten Gate. Nearby, you will have the opportunity to admire the St. Peters Church and learn about the fascinating history of the city.
After this first glimpse of the city, you will make your way towards the European Museum of the Hanse, a true must for European history and trading lovers. Since the 12th century, German merchants have spanned a medieval trading network across borders from the Baltic Sea to the North Sea, from the Alps to the French Atlantic coast and even to more distant coastal cities in Spain and Portugal. Offices were in former trading hot spots such as Novgorod, Bruges, London, and Bergen to protect and develop their outposts under their own legislation. Through vibrant markets in the Baltic region, they offered their valuable natural goods for sale, they traded in fine fabrics, spices and jewel stones in the Baltic region and beyond.
Once at the museum, learn about the merchant trade, set off like them from Lübeck to the north and experience the exciting atmosphere of a Hanseatic Day. Experience life along the old trade routes and the flow of goods in the development of the Hanseatic League up to today's Europe commercial powerhouse. Lively room productions bring to life historic settings of the river Neva, in Bruges and Bergen, as well as the historic Lübeck. Cabinets with original objects from all over Europe, archaeological finds and magnificent facsimiles provide the scientific background.
Finally, your guide will accompany you back to the port and your ship, on your coach.
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This tour involves approximately 1,5 miles (2,5 km) of walking on flat, uneven and cobblestoned streets. We recommand you to wear good walking shoes and bring a light jacket. The order of visits may vary depending on the daily conditions.
Total : 100 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Gdansk city tour
From the pier in Gdansk, you will board your coach for a drive through the suburban and commercial sections of Gdansk on your way to the Old Town.
The city’s 1,000 years of history have left a collection of buildings and monuments designed in Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles. Your guided walk will bring you to the heart of the city - the Old Town. You will see buildings decorated with elaborate façades crowded by ornate gables. You will pass by the Town Hall, Long Market and the beautiful 15th century merchant’s Palace of Artus Court. Pause at Neptune’s Fountain to admire this monumental symbol of Gdansk’s Hanseatic past and its connection with the sea before walking down to the waterfront canal. Then take Mariacka or St. Mary’s Street, which delight its visitors with its lively atmosphere, quaint shops and lovely terraced buildings.
Continue to St. Mary’s Church, the pride of Gdansk. Gothic St. Mary’s is the world’s largest brick church, accommodating some 25,000 worshippers. Situated in the centre of the Old Town, this medieval church took 159 years to build, and its deceivingly plain exterior belies a bright, spacious interior with large windows and more than 30 beautifully decorated chapels. The floor is covered with ancient tombstones, and the northern transept holds an amazing 15th-century astronomical clock, complete with the zodiac cycle and a calendar of the saints.
You will enjoy time at leisure to shop for amber jewellery, artwork and souvenirs in the Old Town of Gdansk.
- This tour involves approximately 2.5 km (1.6 mile) of walking, some over cobblestone streets. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes. Appropriate dress is recommended to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered).
Total : 60 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Gdansk city tour & Chopin concert
From the pier in Gdansk, you will board your coach for a drive through the suburban and commercial sections of Gdansk on your way to the Old Town.
The city’s 1,000 years of history have left a collection of buildings and monuments designed in Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles. Your guided walk will bring you to the heart of the city - the Old Town. You will see buildings decorated with elaborate facades crowded by ornate gables. You will pass by the Town Hall, Long Market and the beautiful 15th century merchant’s Palace of Artus Court. Pause at Neptune’s Fountain to admire this monumental symbol of Gdansk’s Hanseatic past and its connection with the sea before walking down to the waterfront canal. Then take Mariacka or St. Mary’s Street, which delight its visitors with its lively atmosphere, quaint shops and lovely terraced buildings.
Continue to St. Mary’s Church, the pride of Gdansk. Gothic St. Mary’s is the world’s largest brick church, accommodating some 25,000 worshippers. Situated in the centre of Old Town, this medieval church took 159 years to build, and its deceivingly plain exterior belies a bright, spacious interior with large windows and more than 30 beautifully decorated chapels. The floor is covered with ancient tombstones, and the northern transept holds an amazing 15th-century astronomical clock, complete with the zodiac cycle and a calendar of the saints. Enjoy some time at leisure to shop for amber jewellery, artwork and souvenirs in the Old Town of Gdansk.
Next, drive to the Polish Baltic Philharmonic and enjoy an exlusive concert of Polish classical music, which presents the most famous pieces of classical music written by Frédéric Chopin, as well as other great masters that continued his tradition: Edward Grieg, Fritz Kreisler, Wojciech Kilar (a contemporary film music composer) and Henryk Wieniawski. The entire programme will be performed by a renowned Polish pianist Rafal Lewandowski.
After the concert, re-board your coach for the return drive to the pier and your ship.
- This tour involves approximately 2.5 km (1.24 mile) of walking, some over cobblestone streets. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes. Appropriate dress is recommended to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered). A welcome drink before the concert will be offered.
Total : 350 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Cycling to the end of the Dunes
Depart from the pier by bicycle to the pedestrian ferry and cross the lagoon to the Curonian spit, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is also known as Neringa. The old legend says that the giant Neringa gathered an apron full of sand and poured a ribbon of sand to divide the sea from the lagoon and thus make fishermen safer from sea storms.
The short 10-minute trip by ferry across the lagoon to the Curonian spit is an enjoyable experience. Once you are on the Curonian Spit, bike along the lagoon passing Klaipeda yacht club on the way. Reach the Hagen Dune and make a stop to view the panorama of Klaipeda. Continue through the picturesque Curonian Spit and stop by the dunes. You will find out how the Curonian Spit forests were planted by human hands and saved the Spit from disappearance.
Continue on the forest trail and cycle out to see one of the most beautiful beaches in Klaipeda, also considered one of the best on the coast of the Baltic Sea. Take a break and enjoy light Lithuanian snacks and local beer at a local cafe near the beach.
On the way back to the ferry, ride along the breakwater. Pass 19th century Prussian military fort, which is now the Sea and Maritime Museum. Pass old fishing vessels and a typical 19th century fishermen's farmstead before taking the ferry back to Klaipeda and bike to the heart of the Old town of Klaipeda. Browse through the local craftsmen market before returning to the pier.
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Total biking distance for this tour is 16 km (10 miles). Participants should be in excellent physical condition. E-bikes are available for guests older than 16 years.
Total : 100 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Charms of Franciscan Kretinga
Kretinga is a quaint little town situated just a 30-minute drive north to Klaipeda. From the pier board your coach and drive to this city with its special charm.
You will first visit the Church of the Annunciation which dates back to the 17th century. On the grounds surrounding the church you will view the stations of the cross. See the 400-year-old main altar restored to its authentic glory and go down to the crypts.
The adjoining Franciscan monastery combines Renaissance and Baroque elements. The Franciscan brothers, who lived in the monastery, have made a great contribution to education in Lithuania. They opened the first school and later began publishing books and newspapers. The Franciscan monastery was closed by the tsarist government and again later in Soviet times. In 1992, after the independence, the Franciscans returned. They look after the church and hold warm and welcoming services. The church is invariably full when services are held. One of the brothers or sisters will guide you around the church if they are not at prayer.
Continue by coach through the center of Kretinga to Count Tiskevicius’ 19th century estate. This historic mansions is also widely known for its special home made chocolate, which is known since 18 century. You will be offered a cup of tea or coffe, special Count's chocolate and a piece of Lithunian cake in a former Kretinga's Water Mill, which now houses a cosy family owned cafe.
Return by bus to Klaipeda and drive through the central streets. Pass the Neo-Gothic Post Office building, the Clock and Watches museum before making a stop in the Old Town of Klaipeda to view the sculpture of Annchen von Tharau in the Theatre Square.
Re-board your coach for the 10-minute return drive to the pier and your ship.
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Total walking distance for this tour is 2 km (1.24 mile) on uneven surfaces (cobblestones at the monastery and in the old town); some steps are involved. We recommend you wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
Total : 60 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Legends of the Witches Hill
You will meet your guide and board your coach for a short drive through Klaipeda. From, there, you will embark on a 10-minute ferry ride across the Curonian Lagoon to the Curonian Spit, famous for its unique and unspoilt nature. Curonian Spit is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You guide will lead you through Juodkrante (Blackshore), the oldest fishermen’s village on the Spit. Today, it is a seaside resort, which has retained its old charm. On the way to Juodkrante you will pass by Amber Bay, where amber was mined in the 19th century. In Juodkrante, you will be able to admire the decorated and ornamented traditional fishermen's houses.
Opened in 1979, the Hill of Witches is a collection of sculptures of witches, devils and fairy tale monsters, all carved from oak. Here, you can whisper to the witch who, it is said, will fulfil your wishes. Or sit on a bench, which is said to cure all diseases. See legends come to live such as the giant Neringa, Egle the Queen of Grass-Snakes, the Thunder, the Poacher and many witches performing their devilry. This is a special place somewhere between the mystical and the real world, where your imagination and creative powers come alive.
In Juodkrante, you will walk along the Lagoon quay, which is decorated with modern sculptures. You will stop to see the Evangelical Lutheran church and the Gallery of Weathervanes. In the 19th century, weathervanes were used as a special marking system on the top of Kurenas. Later, fishing boats. Later, the weathervanes became an original artistic phenomenon. In the gallery, you will have the opportunity to meet the owner, see amber artefacts, unique pieces containing inclusions and jewellery made by local amber artists.
Take the ferry back to Klaipeda and make a photo stop in the heart of the Old Town, at the Theatre Square before driving back to the ship.
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The tour includes a walking distance of approximately 2,5 kilometres (1.55 miles). The Hill of Witches - hard gravel forest path going uphill and downhill. Roots of the trees are crossing the path. Lutheran church - even surface, 2 steps at the entrance to the church. No ramp. The Weathervane gallery - a flat surface, 2 steps at the entrance to the gallery. No ramp. Klaipeda Old Town - cobblestones, 10-15 steps total. Please wear comfortable walking shoes. It is advisable to wear waterproof clothing or/and carry an umbrella during a rainy day.
Total : 60 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Old Riga & wooden boat cruise
Riga is the capital of Latvia, the largest city of the country and the most cosmopolitan town of the Baltic capitals. It is a well-known and highly appreciated industrial, commercial, cultural and financial center of the Baltic States as well as one of the most important seaports of the region.
You will get beautiful trip by boat and will enjoy Riga’s and charming city canal.
From the pier, your coach will take you to the river pier located 10 minutes away. You will board a charming wooden boat for a commented cruise on the charming Riga's canal to discover the city marvelous layout, its buildings, its parks and its boulevards.
After an hour's ride along the water, you will leave your boat and board your coach for a 20-minute panoramic tour through the modern part of the city. You will pass by the National Opera, the Music Academy, the Central Railway Station, the Council of Ministers and Brivibas Street, the main shopping street of Riga. You will see other iconic places such as the Park Esplanada and its monument to the famous Latvian poet Janis Rainis, the Academy of Arts and the State Museum of Fine Arts.
You will continue with a guided walking tour of the historic center of Riga, which will take you to churches, renovated buildings and the magnificent Dome Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece. The cathedral is famous for its prestigious organ, built in 1883, with over 6,700 pipes. You will continue your walk to the Town Hall Squaree, where you will be able to admire the House of Blackheads, the statue of Roland and the Saint Peter's church. On the Livu Square, you will stop to see the Black Cat House and the small and large guild houses.
After your stroll through Old Riga, you will re-board your coach for the 10-minute ride back to your ship.
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This moderate tour involves about 2 km of walking on cobblestone streets, with some steps. We recommend that you bring comfortable clothing and walking shoes. Participants must be able to get on and off the river boat without assistance. This tour is limited to 35 participants.
Total : 80 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Charming Riga
Start your tour by coach and enjoy a short driving along the boulevards, parks and charming green spots of Riga. During this part of the tour, see various examples of Art Nouveau buildings, as well as the Latvian National Museum of Art, the Freedom Monument erected in 1935 on the donations of citizens of Latvia, the Latvian University and the National Opera. A stop will be made at the Art Nouveau district for a short walk through the Alberta street.
Next, reboard your coach for a drive through the modern part of the city, before you discover historical Old Riga on foot and acquaint yourself with the churches, the renovated buildings and the magnificent Dome Cathedral?–?a masterpiece of architecture. The Dome is renowned for its prestigious organ, constructed in 1883, with more than 6,700 pipes.
Your tour continues to the Town Hall Square, where you will see the House of Blackheads, the Roland Monument and St. Peter’s Church. A stop will be made at Livu Square to see the Cat House and the guild houses.
After your walking tour in Old Riga, reboard your coach for the 10-minute return drive to the pier and your ship.
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This moderate tour involves some steps and approximately 2 km (1.2 mile) of walking on cobblestone streets. We recommend you wear comfortable clothing and comfortable walking shoes. Appropriate dress is recommended to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered).
Total : 60 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Helsinki highlights
From the pier, drive towards Sibelius Park. It was named after Finland's greatest composer Jean Sibelius on his 80th birthday in 1945. Here you can view the Sibelius Monument designed by Eila Hiltunen.
Then proceed to Temppeliaukio Church. Built from the natural bedrock, it is one of Helsinki's most popular tourist attractions. The interior walls are created naturally by the rock, hence its nickname the Rock Church. The church was opened in 1969. Due to its excellent acoustics, the church is a popular venue for concerts.
After the visit, drive to Senate Square; it is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful urban squares in the world. The square is dominated by four buildings designed by Carl Ludvig Engel between 1822 and 1852: Helsinki Cathedral, the Government Palace, the main building of the University of Helsinki and the National Library of Finland.
Next, walk down from Senate Square to the very lively Market Place. Here, discover the real heart of Helsinki and enjoy free time walking around and tasting local foods. Re-board the coach for the return drive to the pier and ship.
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This tour involves 1 mile (1,5 km) of walking on flat but uneven terrain and cobblestone streets. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes.
Total : 60 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Porvoo Old Town and Malmgård manor
Enjoy a delightful drive through the Finnish countryside to the medieval town of Porvoo for a walking tour and a visit of Malmgård manor.
Board your motorcoach for a one hour drive to Porvoo.
The second oldest town in Finland, Porvoo is one of Finland's six medieval towns. It is famous for its wooden buildings in the old town and cobbled streets with charming shops and cafes. Celebrated as a national treasure, its old town has remained unchanged since the Middle Ages. With your guide, you will admire the red warehouses on the riverbank that once formed the medieval port. Today, these old buildings have become the symbol of Porvoo and are among the most photographed attractions in Finland. After a short orientation walk, you will enjoy some free time before heading to Malmgård Castle.
The manor house is of renaissance inspiration and is one of the most beautiful in Finland. Malmgård is now a private estate.
Your host will welcome you and invite you to visit this magnificent building which has belonged to the Creutz family since the early 1600s. Count Henrik Creutz still resides in the manor and has modernised the property by creating an organic farm and an ecological brewery. After the tour, you will be served a light lunch before heading to the farm's eco-brewery. The brew master will show you the secrets of his products. You will taste 3 types of beer and have a chance to share your opinion with the brewer ! And of course, the history of the farm and how it became involved in ecological farming is also a very interesting topic.
The estate also has a shop selling produce from the farm, local specialities and beers.
Back on the bus, you will return to Helsinki after this pleasant day in the Finnish countryside.
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This tour includes approximately 2km of walking over uneven surfaces, cobblestoned streets and wooden floors. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes.
Total : 140 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Suomenlinna Fortress
From the Market Square, board a local ferry to reach Suomenlinna Island. The island is a major monument of military architecture. The construction of the sea fortress on the islands just off Helsinki in the middle of the 18th century was the most extensive building project during Swedish rule. When it was complete, its military shipyard was one of the biggest dry docks in the world and centres of know-how at that time. At the end of Swedish rule, the fortress was being compared with the maritime fortifications of Gibraltar. The 250-year-old fortress, which has been preserved intact because of its military use, is today part of UNESCO’s World Heritage List.
Join your guide for a walking tour of the island.
From the fortress, head back to the mainland by ferry, where you will pass through the Market Square and enjoy free time before walking back to the ship.
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This tour involves approximately 1.5 miles (2 km) of walking on uneven ground and sand paths. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes. There are no inside visits included. The use of the local ferry is nonexclusive.
Total : 70 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Foraging in a Finnish forest
This tour takes you on a journey through Mother Nature's kitchen, right in the heart of the Finnish forest.
Board your coach for a 45 minute drive through the Finnish landscapes towards Nuuksio National Park.
Here, you will meet your local Finnish forest guide, who has studied all the edible herbs, berries and mushrooms. He will guide you through the national park and will explain all the secrets of the forest, which is a kind of open-air market garden and kitchen. Indeed, Finland's ever-changing and organic forests provide families with a wide variety of ingredients that change with each season.
During your tour in the middle of the forest the guide will tell you about the Finnish culture, and the importance of the open spaces for the locals.
Every story is unique when it starts in nature. The story of the day will be directed by the season and the wild foods you can find in the heart of it. From spring to autumn, you will be on the hunt for wild herbs like elderberry and nettle, wild berries like blueberries, raspberries and lingonberries, and some of nature's finest mushrooms, such as the golden chanterelle and the picturesque porcini.
Accompanied by your guide, you will cook and taste the products in the same way as a Finnish person would. You will also use the collected products to make a dish. You can make a salad, create a creamy mushroom sauce or even make your own cranberry jam. You will enjoy a Finnish-style light lunch cooked over a campfire.
After this journey in the forest, you will reboard your coach and drive back to the ship.
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This tour includes approximately 3km of walking in the forest. A raincoat in case of rain is included in the tour. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and outdoor clothing in accordance with the weather. Guests must be well fit for a nature walk.
Total : 150 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Gothic treasures of Tallinn
Departing from the pier by coach, you will pass the modern city centre with its hotels, banks and shopping centres. Reaching the Old Town, a stop is made at the Tall Hermann Tower to get an outside view of the imposing castle. You can walk to the Kiek in de Kök Tower to get a view of the towers and steeples of the Upper Town.
Continue your guided visit on foot to the old Hanseatic town viewing the Transfiguration church, Nun's Gate and numerous merchants' homes on your way. You can admire Gothic facades of the guild houses and the Holy Ghost church with the oldest street clock in Tallinn till you reach the Town Hall Square.
In the centre of the square is the 15th century Town Hall, one of the very few well-survived Gothic town halls in Europe. You will be treated a guided tour of this magnificent building visiting the citizens' hall which is now often used for VIP receptions and concerts as well as the councillors' hall where part of the unique 15th century furniture has been exhibited.
After the Town Hall inside visit, you can admire other old buildings that line the square paying a special attention to the facade of the Town Hall apothecary shop, probably the oldest pharmacy in Europe that has been functioning since 1422. You will also enjoy some free time there.
On the way back to your coach, pass the Viru gate, one of the three gates that has survived in the city wall.
Reboard your coach for the 15-minute return drive to your ship.
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This tour includes approximately 1.3 km (0.8 mile) of walking on uneven ground and cobblestone streets and involves approximately 20 steps at the Town Hall. We recommend that you wear comfortable shoes. It is not recommended for persons with walking difficulties.
Total : 40 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
Tallinn & folklore
Tallinn is a wonderfully preserved city of the Hanseatic League with its old town entered in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Departing from the pier, your coach will circle around the Old town, offering magnificent views of the medieval city wall.
You will start your guided walking tour in the Upper Town with its watch-towers, graceful spires and winding, cobbled streets. Visit the Russian Orthodox Church, inaugurated in 1900 and filled with a stunning array of superb icons. You will view the exterior of the castle which is now the seat of Estonia's parliament. Built on a cliff top the Upper Town provides superb vantage point from which to view the red gabled roofs and spires of the Lower Town.
Your tour will continue as you follow your guide down Long and Short Leg Streets to the Lower Town. The first visit here will be to a historical building in the city centre where you will be treated to a delightful Estonian folk show.
Once you are rested and ready to resume your touring, you will continue with a walking tour of the Lower Town. Among the highlights is the apothecary, which opened in 1422, the Great Guild House, Holy Ghost Church and the 15th century Gothic Town Hall (all from outside). Here in the heart of Tallinn, you will enjoy some free time before rejoining your coach and returning to the pier.
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This tour involves 2 km (1.24 miles) of walking, mostly on cobblestone streets, and about 100 steps to climb. We recommend that you wear comfortable shoes. Appropriate dress is recommended to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered). Please note that the church may be closed on Sundays due to religious service. It is not recommended for persons with walking difficulties.
Total : 50 €
According to availability, price per passenger.
ART TOUR AND TRANSFER TO ARLANDA AIRPORT
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your day time between your port of disembarkation and the airport.
Stockholm
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local English-speaking representative.
You will depart the pier for a unique tour to discover Stockholm and the hidden art of this city.
Stockholm’s Metro system is 110 kilometer long and houses a unique collection of sculptures, artworks and exhibitions. More than 90 of the 100 stations are beautifully decorated by artists. Just as fascinating as the artworks themselves are the stories about the artists who created them, told by your guides.
You will then be transferred to the airport in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight.
Your programme includes:
- Transfer and visit as mentioned in the programme.
- Services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
- Lunch.
- Tips for the driver and local guide.
- Personal expenses.
- Other services not mentioned in the programme .
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
In the event of schedule changes of PONANT’s selected flight, your programme will be adapted to ensure the most seamless and enriching experience. The content of your revised programme will be updated on the PONANT website, in My Ponant space and on the PONANT app. The final programme will also be sent to you along with your cruise documents.
Total : 170 €
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
FLIGHTS FROM/TO PARIS + COPENHAGEN, A ROYAL CITY (PRE) + ART TOUR AND TRANSFER TO ARLANDA AIRPORT (POST)
Total : 750 €
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.