fbpx

Baltic Odyssey (Serenissima)

Baltic Odyssey (Serenissima)

From GBP £4,695

Description

If ever there was a sea perfect for exploring by ship, it is the Baltic. Join us on this summer voyage of discovery as we explore the many delights of the region. From the grandeur of St Petersburg and its surrounding estates to the newly independent Baltic states and their capitals with marvellously untouched Medieval quarters, or the sheer delight of Scandinavian ports with their colourful architecture, it is a truly fascinating region.

One of the many extraordinary experiences of the Baltic is the summer light that gives the sea and landscape a very special quality. After a long winter, the region responds to the sun unlike anywhere else and there is a calm and order even in the cities, which makes exploration so enjoyable especially when travelling aboard the MS Serenissima with less than 100 fellow, like-minded guests.

The history of the region is intriguing, with countries vying for commercial and political influence for over a thousand years. Each day will see us in a new port of call with a range of included, guided excursions and the complex past will be brought to life by our excellent local guides and onboard Guest Speakers, helping us to gain a greater understanding of both old and new Baltic nations.

Trip Name
Baltic Odyssey (Serenissima)
Days
11
Overview
Vessel Type: Small Ship Length: 87 metres Passenger Capacity: 95 Built / refurbished: 1960 / 2013 / 2018 MS Serenissima is a charming vessel and one of her best known and loved features of this vessel is its unique style. During a major refit the then owners commissioned Swedish interior designers to create a Gustavian style interior. This bright Swedish 18th century influenced, country house style works particularly well on a vessel of this vintage, providing intimacy and classic nautical sensibility often lacking in larger vessels. The vessel is equipped with a fleet of Zodiac landing craft allowing us to visit remote places where normal tender arrangements are not possible. The European Captain, Officers, Expedition Staff, and crew offer a first class service and have been selected for their professionalism and caring attitudes. The atmosphere on board is warm and welcoming and dedicated to discovery and relaxation. AIR-CONDITIONING The ship is air conditioned throughout. Please note that only the Serenissima Suites have individually controlled air-conditioning. DAILY PROGRAMME A Daily Programme, detailing the following day’s arrangements as well as any specific information about the day’s activities is produced onboard and delivered to your cabin each evening during the turn down service. DINING, DRINKING AND DIETARY REQUIREMENTS The Venice Restaurant onboard serves international cuisine and accommodates all guests at a single open seating. Tables seat 4 to 10 diners. In addition, there is an outside dining area for when the weather and itinerary permit. Breakfast and lunch are both buffet style, dinner is waiter service only. Complimentary (red and white) house wine, beer and soft drinks are included with lunch and dinner. Bar drinks and other beverages with meals are not included; these may be purchased onboard and paid for at the end of your cruise. Complimentary tea and coffee are available between 07:00 hours and 23:00 hours at the tea and coffee station located in the Andrea lounge. Please advise of any special dietary requests in advance. DISABLED FACILITIES The ship can accommodate passengers with mobility restrictions and wheelchair dependent passengers in cabin 407, which has a wider door and no step into/out of the bathroom and shower area. There is a lift serving decks 3 to 6, but there is no stair lift. DOCTOR A medical doctor is available on board 24 hours a day. A fee is charged for any consultations and medication prescribed. Please ensure you carry adequate supplies of any regular medications you may require.  ELECTRICITY The electrical outlets in the cabins and public areas are 220V and take a two-round-pin plug (as in continental Europe). There is a 110/220V, 60Hz outlet for electric shavers in the bathroom. We recommend that you bring an international adaptor. GRATUITIES Gratuities to crew and whilst on excursions are included in the cost of your holiday. INTERNET The onboard library has a computer equipped for email/internet access and Wi-Fi access is available in public areas, although you will require your own laptop, tablet or smartphone, and charges apply – 100mb for €15 Euros, or 500mb for €25 Euros. Please note that connection is dependent on weather conditions and location. LANGUAGE All members of the crew speak English. MONEY The following payment methods are accepted for settlement of shipboard accounts: Cash (Euros or British Pounds), Credit Card (MasterCard, Visa, American Express), Debit Card (MasterCard and Visa). Please note that personal cheques and Travellers’ Cheques are not accepted. PUBLIC AREAS • Andrea Lounge (on Deck 5). The bar is open from 11.00 until 24.00. • Harald Jarl Lounge (on Deck 5). There is a small library here with books and games. There is also a computer for public use (charges apply for internet access) • Lido area (on Deck 5) with a Jacuzzi and fitness room with two running machines • Observation Deck (access from Deck 5 lido area) • Deck 5 and Deck 6 outside seating areas SNORKELLING Snorkelling equipment is kept onboard. Please note that there is no snorkelling from Zodiacs. All snorkelling stops will operate from a beach.  TELEVISION The ship is equipped with a satellite TV system which receives 15 channels. TV reception depends on the satellite dish and on occasion it may not be possible to receive a signal. There is one central video channel on which it is possible to listen to the lectures delivered in the Andrea Lounge. There is also a channel for the ship’s camera located in front of the ship. ZODIACS Some destinations may require the use of Zodiacs to go ashore. These are usually on expedition cruises though may sometimes be used on destination cruises. 

Itinerary



Day 1 - Day 1 - Copenhagen, Denmark.
Arrive in Copenhagen and transfer to the MS Serenissima. Enjoy Welcome Drinks and Dinner as we sail this evening.
Day 2 - Day 2 - Bornholm Island.
We arrive into Ronne this morning which will be our base for the day. During our morning excursion we explore the highlights of northern Bornholm. Bornholm Island is a mixture of wheat fields, forests and an attractive coast dotted with fishing villages. On an island drive we will see the famous 12th century Osterlars Round Church and visit the town of Gudjem where we can sample the smoked herring. Also see Hammerhaus Castle offering fantastic views of the island’s rugged coastline. The afternoon is free to explore independently.
Day 3 - Day 3 - Gdansk, Poland.
We have a full day in this charming city. This old Hanseatic port’s 1000 years of history have left a collection of buildings and monuments designed in Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles. On a morning tour we will walk along the cobbled streets of the Royal Way in the old quarter and view the elaborate architecture before ending at the 15th century merchant’s palace of Artus Court. Also see the pride of Gdansk, Gothic St. Mary’s, which 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 afternoon is free for further independent exploration.
Day 4 - Day 4 - Klaipeda, Lithuania.
Founded in 1252 by the Teutonic Knights of East Prussia, Klaipeda was annexed by Hitler in 1939 and almost destroyed towards the end of World War II. We have a choice of touring options this morning. You may wish to head into the countryside where we will experience village life and visit the Memorial Museum, dedicated to the Lithuanians sent to Siberia to fight against the Soviets during the Cold War years. Alternatively, take the scenic drive to the Zemaitija National Park, home to Lake Plateliali and surrounded by dense forest. It was in these forests that, during the Cold War, the Soviets hid their first nuclear missile base directed at all the major European cities. Our tour will visit the Cold War Museum located in the former Soviet Missile Base. We will visit the bunkers, see the control centre and learn more about the weapons held at the site and their evolution. After lunch on board there will be some free time before we sail later this afternoon.
Day 5 - Day 5 - Riga, Latvia.
After a morning at sea we arrive to Latvia this afternoon. We will explore Latvia’s capital by foot. Founded in the 13th century it became one of the most successful trading cities of the Baltic. Explore the Old Town with its Medieval streets lined with Hanseatic warehouses and punctuated with Gothic and Baroque churches including St Peter Cathedral, the largest Medieval church in the Baltic. Spend the evening at leisure to explore independently.
Day 6 - Day 6 - Saaremaa, Estonia.
After a relaxing morning at sea we arrive at Estonia’s largest island which offers a glimpse of a bygone age. Untouched by industry it is a green and very pleasant land dotted with attractive villages in a rolling forested landscape. During an afternoon drive we will visit the lovely capital Kuressaare with its magnificent Medieval castle and stroll through the streets of the enchanting old town. Continue inland on a journey that will take you back in time through a countryside of stone walls, thatched roofs, traditional villages and windmills.
Day 7 - Day 7 - Tallinn.
Arrive this morning in the historic maritime city of Tallinn with its awe inspiring city walls and fortifications, narrow Medieval streets and the gateways which remain remarkably well preserved. In the Upper Town we will enjoy the views from Dome Hill with the extraordinary vista of domes, spires and gables and see Toompea Castle, once a fortress, and now the seat of the Estonian Parliament. Walking to the Lower Old Town we will visit the main square where we will find the oldest pharmacy in Europe, the Gothic Cathedral and the 15th century Town Hall. After lunch on board there will be some free time before we sail later this afternoon.
Day 8 - Days 8 & 9 - St Petersburg, Russia.
We have two days to explore this most endlessly captivating of Russian cities. Founded in 1703 by Peter the Great, St Petersburg is a fascinating mix of classic and Baroque architecture on a network of canals. We will be offering a number of tours for you to choose from during our time here including visits to the Peter and Paul Fortress, the wonderful Peterhof Palace and Gardens and Catherine’s Palace.
Day 9 - Day 10 - Helsinki, Finland.
This morning a guided city tour will take us to the colourful Market Square and the impressive architecture of Senate Square including the Lutheran Cathedral of Finland. We continue to the Sibelius Monument dedicated to the Finnish composer Jean Sibelius. Before returning to the vessel we also visit the shipyards. Ship construction is one of the main industries in Finland and many cruise ships and icebreakers have been built at this shipyard.
Day 10 - Day 11 - Stockholm, Sweden.
Disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport for your flight back home.
Day 11 - Please Note:
Itineraries are subject to change.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
26-06-201906-07-2019GBP £4,695Standard Stateroom
26-06-201906-07-2019GBP £5,295Superior Stateroom
26-06-201906-07-2019GBP £6,095Standard Single
26-06-201906-07-2019GBP £6,095Deluxe Stateroom
26-06-201906-07-2019GBP £6,595Junior Suite
26-06-201906-07-2019GBP £6,995Owners Suite
30-07-201909-08-2019GBP £6,595Junior Suite
30-07-201909-08-2019GBP £6,995Owners Suite
30-07-201909-08-2019GBP £4,695Standard Stateroom
30-07-201909-08-2019GBP £5,295Superior Stateroom
30-07-201909-08-2019GBP £6,095Deluxe Stateroom
30-07-201909-08-2019GBP £6,095Standard Single

Inclusions

    • Explore the highlights of northern Bornholm
    • See the pride of Gdansk, Gothic St. Mary’s, which is the world’s largest brick church, accommodating some 25,000 worshippers
    • Explore Riga
    • Latvia’s capital by foot
    • Arrive at Estonia’s largest island which offers a glimpse of a bygone age
    • Arrive in the historic maritime city of Tallinn with its awe inspiring city walls and fortifications, narrow Medieval streets and the gateways which remain remarkably well preserved
    • Have two days to explore St Petersburg
    • one of the most endlessly captivating of Russian cities

Map