Deluxe Kabine Deck 3
15% Ponant Bonus
19 m²
2
In Partnerschaft mit RADIO CLASSIQUE, in Anwesenheit von Alain Duault und einer außergewöhnlichen musikalischen Besetzung.
Entdecken Sie die geschichtsträchtigen Städte an der Ostsee mit PONANT. Sie gehen an Bord der Le Bellot zu einer 10-tägigen Kreuzfahrt rund um die kulturellen Juwelen der Hanse.
Von Kopenhagen aus geht es zunächst nach Karlskrona. Die südschwedische Stadt, deren Geschichte untrennbar mit der schwedischen Marine verbunden ist, verfügt über einen außergewöhnlichen architektonischen Komplex, charakteristisch für europäische Marinestädte am Ende des 17. Jahrhunderts. So wurde der Marinehafen mit seinen ehemaligen Werften und Verteidigungsanlagen von der UNESCO zum Welterbe erklärt.
Das Schiff läuft Danzig an, das für seinen Bernstein und seine Werft berühmt ist. Die alte Hansestadt enthüllt ihre Architektur im gotischen und barocken Stil, die restauriert oder wieder aufgebaut wurden.
Etwas weiter nördlich trennt nur eine schmale Passage Litauens wichtigste Hafenstadt Klaipeda, von der UNESCO-klassifizierten Kurischen Nehrung.
Anschließend nimmt die Le Bellot Kurs auf die Insel Gotland mit Visby, eine der bedeutendsten Hansestädte der Ostsee im 13. Jahrhundert. Diese zum UNESCO-Welterbe zählende ehemals reiche Handelsstadt besitzt bemerkenswert gut erhaltene Stadtmauern, öffentliche Bauwerke, Zunfthäuser und Lagergebäude.
Sie entdecken auch Riga, die Hauptstadt Lettlands. Mit ihrer beeindruckenden Mischung aus verschiedenen Architektur-Stilen gleicht die Altstadt einem Geschichtsbuch.
Helsinki, Finnlands grüne Hauptstadt, die auf einer von 300 Inseln umgebenen Halbinsel liegt, besticht durch ihre Jugendstil-Architektur.
Sie besuchen Tallinn, eine emblematische Stadt der Hanse, dieses mächtigen Städte- und Handelsbundes, der über mehrere Jahrhunderte die Ostsee beherrschte. Diese ehemals sehr reichen Handelsstädte besitzen bemerkenswert gut erhaltene Stadtmauern, öffentliche Bauwerke, Zunfthäuser und Lagergebäude und zählen heute zum UNESCO-Welterbe.
Nach diesem letzten Aufenthalt läuft das Schiff Stockholm an, wo Ihre Reise endet.
Ref : EE200424
Musik-Kreuzfahrt in Partnerschaft mit RADIO CLASSIQUE in Anwesenheit von Alain Duault und einer Auswahl renommierter Musiker Eine Kreuzfahrt in der Ostsee, Entdeckung bedeutender Hansestädte in acht...
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Elena Galitskaya
Originally from Russia and of dual French-Russian nationality, Elena Galitskaya trained at the Moscow Academy of Choral Arts, graduating in 2007. She now divides her time between France and Italy.
Since her operatic début at the Opéra National de Lyon in the Shostakovich operetta Moscow, Cheryomushki in 2009, she is regularly invited to perform there, notably at the 2011 Mozart Festival where she alternated the roles of Despina, Zerlina and Barbarina. She also played Frasquita in Carmen (2012), directed by Olivier Py, Ilia in Mozart’s Idomeneo and Eurydice in Gluck’s Orfeo ed Euridice.
Notable roles from 2015 to 2018 included Fiorilla in Il Turco in Italia at the Dijon Opéra, Sophie (Werther), Pamina at the Teatro Verdi in Trieste and the Italian singer in Capriccio at the Theater an der Wien. In 2017, she made her début at the Théâtre du Capitole of Toulouse as Lisette in Puccini’s La Rondine, then at the Graz Opera where she sang the Contessa di Folleville role in Rossini’s Il Viaggio a Reims, and finally at the Aix en Provence Festival Echo in Ariadne auf Naxos.
During the 2018-2019 season, she played Papagena at the La Monnaie Théâtre Royal in a production by Roméo Castelluci. She then sang Pamina at the Teatro Bellini in Catania, then Micaela in Carmen at the Dijon Opéra.
More recently, she played Pauline in a production of La Vie Parisienne at the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées, directed by Christian Lacroix, then Amour, still at the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées, in Orfeo ed Euridice. Her performance as Fiorilla in Il Turco in Italia at the Wallonia Royal Theatre was a triumph.
Named an HSBC Laureate of the Académie Européenne de Musique of the Festival International d’Art Lyrique d’Aix en Provence in 2010, the following year she won third prize and the public prize at the Queen Elisabeth Competition in Brussels.
Languages spoken: French, English and Russian
Photo credit: ARR
Natalia Morozova
Russian pianist Natalia Morozova was born in Moscow, where she began her piano studies at the age of six. She graduated with highest honors from the Tchaikovsky State Conservatory, where her teachers had included Tigran Alikhanov, Victor Mergianov, Alexander Mdoyantz, and undertook further chamber music studies in Italy.
For her achievements as a soloist and with her piano duo partner Vitaly Younitsky she won a series of prizes at international competitions in Russia, Italy and Switzerland. As a soloist with orchestra Natalia performed across Europe and produced recordings with the Basel Sinfonietta, the Ekaterinburg Philharmonic, the Moscow Symphony Orchestra, and the Moscow Soloists conducted by Yuri Bashmet. Moreover, she could be heard in solo and chamber music recitals across Russia, in Italy (at the Quirinal Palace in Rome for Rai 3 television), Austria (Mozarteum Salzburg), France, Great Britain, Lebanon (Al Bustan Festival), Slovenia, Croatia, Lettonia, Bulgaria and Switzerland, where she featured in Classeek’s Winter Festival Live Stream Concerts and many others.
Chamber music partners include Renaud Capuçon, Maxim Vengerov, Nikita Boriso-Glebsky, Michael Guttman, Yuri Bashmet, Anton Martynov, Julian Rachlin, Gautier Capuçon, François Salque, Nadezda Tokareva, Carlo Colombara, Anna Serova, Emmanuele Baldini, Laurence Guillod and Alexandra Conunova.
Constantly seeking new forms of expression and knowledge, Natalia Morozova’s repertoire has recently increased in the fields of baroque and contemporary music.
Languages spoken: Russian, Italian, English and French
Photo credit: ARR
Polina Streltsova
Born into a family of musicians, Polina Streltsova grew up inside the inspiring atmosphere of the Bolshoi theater in Moscow where her parents are both artists.
After finishing Moscow State Conservatory she continued her studies in the class of Jérôme Pernoo at CNSM of Paris,then with Henri Demarquette at Ecole Normale Alfred Cortot. In the season 2018-2019 Polina was a part of Philippe Jaroussky Academy for young soloists.
Polina is supported by Fondation Safran pour la musique, Fondation Meyer and Mécénat Musical Société Générale.
Her stage partners are, among others, Philippe Jaroussky, Michel Beroff, François Chaplin, Ludmila Berlinskaya, Sonia Wieder-Atherton. Polina has taken part in numerous international festivals and academies, such as Kronberg Academy Masterclasses, Amsterdamse Cello Biënnale, Encuentro de Santander, Rutesheim Cello Academy...
She performs on Russian and European stages: Paris Philharmony Grande Salle, Auditorium of La Seine Musicale in Paris, concert halls of Moscow State Tchaikovsky Conservatory, New Stage of Bolshoi Theater, Moscow International House of Music, Moscow Kremlin halls; in France, Germany, Poland, Greece and Spain.
Languages spoken: French, English and Russian
Photo credit: ARR
Alain Duault
The novelist, poet, journalist, musicologist and radio and television presenter Alain Duault has been sharing his passion for and knowledge of classical music for more than 30 years. Considered to be one of the greatest opera specialists in France he is now President of the Prix Pelléas jury, and has been made an Officier de la Légion d’Honneur and Commandeur des Arts et Lettres.
Alain Duault studied literature, philosophy and psycho-analysis in Paris, then musicology and piano. His first TV appearance was as a guest of Bernard Pivot for his book of poems, Colorature. This led to a number of radio programmes dedicated to classical music, notably on RTL, the radio station where Alain Duault would be “Mr Classical Music” for 22 years, before joining Radio Classique with daily slots until 2018. A role that he also took on for the France 3 television channel, presenting a number of exceptional programmes (masterclasses with Ruggero Raimondi in the Salle Gaveau, Musiques en fête at the Chorégies d’Orange festival…).
In 1999, he conceived and presented Intégrale Chopin (225 works, 60 pianists), broadcast on France 3. Then in 2001, he wrote and performed an ambitious and very popular show, Verdi, une passion, un destin (with Jean Piat and 250 musicians). In the wake of this success, he wrote and performed two other shows: Victor Hugo, la légende d’un siècle in 2002 and Rencontre avec George Sand (with Marie-Christine Barrault) in 2004 and 2005.
Alain Duault also puts his writing skills to the service of classical music. The author of a number of books, including Dans la peau de Maria Callas, (Le Passeur Éditeur, 2014, pocket edition, 2017), Dictionnaire amoureux illustré de l’Opéra (Plon Gründ, 2016), Ce léger rien des choses qui ont fui, poetry (Gallimard, 2017), he also writes editorials for Classica.
Language spoken: French
Photo credit: Laurent Rouvrais @Radio Classique
Vorbehaltlich des Widerrufs im Falle von höherer Gewalt
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:
For men:
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:
For men:
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:
HEALTH CARE:
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
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 Aktivitäten
Radio Classique
RADIO CLASSIQUE versammelt jeden Tag mehr als eine Million Hörer um ein originelles Versprechen: die schönsten Werke der besten Interpreten des klassischen Repertoires zelebrieren und möglichst vielen Menschen die Emotionen dieser Musik in einem geselligen und friedlichen Ambiente übermitteln. Hierzu stützt sich Radio Classique auf Persönlichkeiten mit einer Leidenschaft für Kommunikation und ein abwechslungsreiches Programm, von Symphoniemusik über Opern bis Filmmusik, interaktive Sendungen und die Live-Übertragung von zahlreichen Konzerten.
Diese Werte machen Radio Classique zu einem echten Radiosender der Lebenskunst und der Eleganz im Alltag, der besonders bei Genießern und anspruchsvollen Hörern bekannt ist. Diese Werte und diese Geisteshaltung harmonieren perfekt mit den musikalischen Kreuzfahrten von PONANT, die in einem persönlichen und privilegierten Rahmen unter der künstlerischen Leitung von Alain Duault ein unvergessliches musikalisches Erlebnis in Begleitung von einzigartigen Künstlern bieten.
Vorbehaltlich des Widerrufs im Falle von höherer Gewalt
Einschiffung 20.04.2024 von 16:00 bis 17:00
Abfahrt 20.04.2024 um 18:00
Die im äußersten Osten der Insel Seeland, in nur wenigen Kilometern Entfernung von den schwedischen Küsten gelegene Stadt Kopenhagen bietet Ihnen die ganze Buntheit der skandinavischen Metropolen. Sie können deren Sehenswürdigkeiten mit dem entlang der Kanäle durch die historischen Viertel Christiansborg und Nyhavn entdecken. Zahlreiche Paläste geben Ihnen einen Einblick in die dänische Geschichte. Kulinarisch lockt das Smorebrod, ein traditionelles dänisches Gericht mit verschiedenem Räucherfisch.
Ankunft 21.04.2024 am frühen Vormittag
Abfahrt 21.04.2024 am frühen Nachmittag
Karlskrona liegt zwischen Land und Meer, verstreut über die kleinen Inseln des Blekinge-Archipels im Süden Schwedens. Aufgrund ihrer strategischen Lage in der Ostsee machte König Karl XI. von Schweden die Stadt 1680 zum Flottenstützpunkt der königlich-schwedischen Marine und gründete die Werft. Die Zitadelle wurde ex nihilo gebaut. Die Architektur wurde bis heute bewahrt, und die gesamte Anlage wurde zum UNESCO-Welterbe erklärt. Die dem nie weit entfernten Meer zugewandten, bunten Holzhäuser aus der Gründungszeit und die reiche Marinegeschichte verleihen der Stadt einen einzigartigen Charme. Ein unvergesslicher Abstecher.
Ankunft 22.04.2024 am frühen Vormittag
Abfahrt 22.04.2024 am späten Nachmittag
Diese entzückende Stadt an der Ostsee trägt den Beinamen "Goldenes Tor von Polen", dem die schöne hanseatische Architektur alle Ehre erweist. Die von Zierstäben und Giebeln verlängerten, farbenfrohen Fassaden der Häuser üben einen besonderen Reiz aus. Entlang der Weichsel-Ufer macht es Spaß, durch die Kunsthandwerksläden zu bummeln. In der eleganten Frauengasse locken die Bernsteinläden mit ihrem Schmuck. Bei dieser Gelegenheit können Sie auch die Marienkirche und ihre astronomische Uhr besichtigen. Ganz in der Nähe lässt Sie der Lange Markt den sehr berühmten Artushof und das historische Museum von Danzig mit reichen Sammlungen entdecken.
Ankunft 23.04.2024 mittags
Abfahrt 23.04.2024 am späten Nachmittag
Klaipeda wurde im 13. Jahrhundert von christlichen deutschen Rittern des Deutschritterordens gegründet. Wegen ihrer strategischen Lage an der Ostseeküste war die Hafenstadt seit ihrer Gründung Gegenstand von Konflikten zwischen Deutschen, Polen, Litauern und sogar Franzosen. Aufgrund dieser reichen Geschichte ist Memel heute sehr multikulturell. Die Schönheit der Ostseeküste macht die drittgrößte Stadt Litauens mit dem wichtigsten Hafen des Landes zu einem beliebten Touristenziel. Die Architektur ist von deutschen und skandinavischen Einflüssen geprägt und verspricht einen interessanten und angenehmen Besuch in der Innenstadt.
Ankunft 24.04.2024 am frühen Vormittag
Abfahrt 24.04.2024 mittags
Diese ehemalige Hansestadt liegt an der Westküste von Gotland, einer schwedischen Ostseeinsel. Sie durchschreiten die Stadtmauern von Visby am Dalmans-Tor, um die zum UNESCO-Weltkulturerbe erklärte Altstadt zu besichtigen. In den Straßen entdecken Sie reiche Kaufmannshäuser, während die Gassen mit niedrigen Holzhäusern gesäumt sind. Unbedingt sehenswert ist die Domkirche Sankt Maria mit Zwiebeltürmchen sowie der Pulverturm an den Festungsanlagen. Vergessen Sie auch nicht, in eines der mit den emblematischen Rosen geschmückten Cafés einzukehren, um die Spezialität der Insel, Safranpfannkuchen mit roten Früchten, zu kosten.
Ankunft 25.04.2024 mittags
Abfahrt 25.04.2024 am späten Abend
Riga, die Hauptstadt Lettlands an der Kreuzung zwischen West und Ost, an der Ostsee, verführt mit Kontrasten. Als eine der ältesten Städte im Baltikum mit ihrer einzigartigen Atmosphäre, die an ihre mittelalterliche Vergangenheit erinnert, zeigt sie auch eine spürbare Dynamik und Modernität. Beim Bummel durch die Altstadt können Sie die außergewöhnliche Architektur, die Kathedralen, die Überreste alter Mauern und die typischen engen Gassen bewundern. Die kosmopolitische Stadt, die in den 1930er-Jahren „Paris des Nordens“ genannt wurde, besitzt ein sehr reiches Erbe.
Ankunft 26.04.2024
Abfahrt 26.04.2024
Genießen Sie während der Überfahrt auf See die zahlreichen Freizeitangebote an Bord. Gönnen Sie sich Entspannung im Spa oder halten Sie sich im Fitnessraum in Form. Lassen Sie sich je nach Jahreszeit zu einem Sprung in den Pool oder zu einem Sonnenbad verlocken. Dieser Reise ohne Zwischenstopp bietet auch Gelegenheit, einer Konferenz oder einer der an Bord angebotenen Vorstellungen beizuwohnen, abhängig von den angebotenen Aktivitäten, oder in der Boutique ein wenig zu shoppen oder die PONANT-Fotografen in ihrem eigenen Bereich aufzusuchen. Wer das offene Meer liebt, bewundert auf dem Oberdeck das Schauspiel der Wogen und kann mit etwas Glück Meerestiere beobachten. Eine zauberhafte kleine Auszeit mit Komfort, Entspannung und Unterhaltung.
Ankunft 27.04.2024 am frühen Vormittag
Abfahrt 27.04.2024 abends
Ganz im Süden von Finnland auf einer Halbinsel errichtet, bietet Ihnen Helsinki die Lebendigkeit einer kosmopolitischen Hauptstadt, die nicht zwischen Eleganz und pittoreskem Stadtbild hat wählen wollen. Sie können das historische Zentrum durchstreifen, wo die neoklassizistischen Gebäude in zarten Farben neben spektakulären modernen Gebäuden stehen. Das quirlige Viertel Kallio eröffnet Ihnen eine Welt aus Läden und Restaurants, wo Sie die lokalen Spezialitäten wie Graavilohi, ein marinierter, gesüßter und aromatisierter Lachs, probieren können. Der Park Keskuspuisto, nur wenige Schritte vom Zentrum entfernt, lädt zu entspannenden Augenblicken ein.
Ankunft 28.04.2024 nachts
Abfahrt 28.04.2024 am frühen Nachmittag
Die an der Ostsee im äußersten Norden von Estland gelegene Stadt Tallinn besticht durch den pittoresken Charme ihrer Architektur. Sie lädt zu einem Bummel durch die Gassen ihres mittelalterlichen Zentrums ein, das vom Rathaus, ein 1404 fertiggestelltes gotisches Gebäude, geschmückt wird. Um einen Einblick in die reiche Vergangenheit der Stadt zu erhalten, können Sie auch den Turm Kiek in de Kök, die orthodoxe Alexander-Newski-Kathedrale oder auch die Burg Toompea besichtigen. Eine kulinarische Pause ermöglicht Ihnen, lokale Spezialitäten wie geräucherten Hering, Elchbraten oder Lachs mit Wildbeeren zu entdecken.
Ankunft 29.04.2024 am frühen Vormittag
Ausschiffung 29.04.2024 um 08:00
Die Hauptstadt Schwedens erstreckt sich über ein Archipel im Osten des Landes am Übergang zwischen Mälarsee und Ostsee. In der Gamla stan, "Altstadt" auf Schwedisch, schlendern Sie durch malerische mittelalterliche Gassen bis zum majestätischen königlichen Schloss. Auf der grünen Insel Djurgården können Sie mehrere sehr verschiedene Kulturstätten besichtigen: Das Vasa-Museum widmet sich einem Dreimaster des 17. Jahrhunderts, das Freilichtmuseum Skansen präsentiert die Bräuche in früheren Zeiten und das ABBA-Museum ist der namensgebenden Popgruppe geweiht. Um einen ungewöhnlichen Panoramablick auf Stockholm zu genießen, steigen Sie in den SkyView, dessen Glasgondeln die sphärischen Wände des Ericsson Globe erklimmen.
The best way to explore Karlskrona, a listed UNESCO World Heritage Site, is from the seaside. Indeed, Karlskrona extends over 30 islands and countless smaller ones.
Meet your guide on the pier, and enjoy a small guided walk through the beautiful city centre, to the kayak base.
There, you will meet your local kayak guide, who will give you a short security briefing before launching into the sea. Your kayak guide will take you on a picturesque paddle tour around some of the islands that forms the World Heritage site.
Enjoy gliding over the sea as its mirror-like water reflects the sunlight and be amazed by the coast and its kilometres of protected waters. You will pass by Brändaholm, the most famous allotment garden areas of Sweden, with its famous little wooden houses. See the gunpowder-house on Ljungskär as well as the Old Fish Market.
This active tour combines nature, history and culture.
After paddling along the coast, you will head back to the kayak base to wrap up. As a reward for the effort spent paddling, you can enjoy a fika (hot beverage with Swedish pastry).
You guide will walk you back to the pier.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : € 135
You will join your guide at the pier for a short walk to the city centre to experience Karlskrona's military history.
Once in the centre, you will visit Karlskrona's “underground” . During the Cold War a concept of ”total defence” was developed in preparation of an invasion by the Soviet Union – only 35 km across the Baltic - that was a preoccupying concern at the time.
You will visit one of the many civil defence shelters from the 1950s, in the middle of Karlskrona's city centre. One of the interesting underground facilities you can visit from the Second World War and the Cold War is a civilian bunker, 30 metres below ground, dating from 1959, which can accommodate over 6,000 people.
Then, you will headthrough the railway tunnel which the military used as a starting point for the underground facilities. You will continue your adventure at the impressive Submarine Hall, a part of the Naval Museum. Here, you will experience a close encounter with an actual Cold War submarine. Filled with the latest technology, HSwMS Neptun was commissioned in 1980 by the Swedish Navy to patrol the Baltic Sea during the Cold War.
You will have the chance to visit the Cold War exhibition before walking back to the ship.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : € 130
You will meet your guide and board your coach for a panoramic 30-minutes tour of the UNESCO World Heritage listed part of the city, which is full of historical splendours reflecting its maritime heritage before heading to Brändaholm, and where you will be immersed in a typical Swedich neighbourhood.
Brändaholm is considered to be Sweden's most picturesque and beautiful community garden. It is a picture-postcard example of Sweden's idylic way of life. It is located on a small promontory of the Dragsö island, and is characterized by its 1920s-style houses and picturesque streets. An ideal destination for simply taking a stroll. There are 45 small houses with gardens, adorned with the Sewedish flag floating in the wind. None of the cabins may be larger than 32 square meters and the rule in Brändaholm states that all houses in size, shape and style must be similar.
To own a cottage you need to be in an inhabitant of Karlskrona. The local owners are very proud of their houses, and, of course, their gardens. The houses have historically passed from owner to owner through inheritance of other direct and personal means and they are rarely traded in the open market.
Stops will be made at a couple of the gardens where you will be able to have a look inside.
Then, head to a typical Swedish “fika” where you will enjoy a coffee with Swedish cake in the company of your local guide, who will be happy to ask all your questions about the area.
After this nice break, you will head to nearby Björkholmen, the old quarter of Karlskrona, with narrow streets and old wooden houses. A sharp contrast with the buildings of the city centre, you will enjoy a unique visit of one of the cottages before reboarding your coach and drive back to your ship.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : € 85
Meet your guide and board your coach, for a short drive to the old Fish Market area.
There, you will embark aboard one of the local tour boats which will take you on a scenic cruise through Karlskrona’s urban archipelago to an island fortress that has safeguarded the city's main sea entrance for over 300 years. During the cruise to Kungsholms Fortress, you will be able to enjoy great views of the city, as well as some of Karlskronas major landmarks that you will passed along the way, including the Naval Shipyard that has fueled the city’s economy and reputation for centuries. The city centre of Karlskrona is uniquely situated in the middle of the archipelago, 6 km from the mainland.
Built at the time of Karlskrona’s founding as a naval community in 1680, Kungsholms Fortress was essential to the defence of the city – and remains actively manned by the Swedish navy to this day. The bastion’s signature feature, a vast round harbor surrounded by imposing walls and towers, is an impressive sight.
While it’s never been attacked, Kungsholm is fully ready – sporting a 3-story cannon tower and storage magazines fortified with double-brick shells and hefty iron doors. While here, you will also have a chance to stroll the fort’s gardens, flourishing with exotic plants brought back by sailors from their voyages. If you’re up for a climb, the tower stairs lead to phenomenal panoramic views of the archipelago.
You will then cruise back to the pier of Fisktorget before driving back to the ship.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : € 85
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.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : € 60
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.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : € 350
Discover one of the most popular specialties of Poland: pierogi. This tour will allow you to taste the local food and enjoy a guided tour of Gdansk.
Meet your guide and board your coach for a short 30-minute drive to downtown Gdansk.
Together with your guide, you will arrive at a local workshop where you can make and taste pierogi. Indeed, as far as cuisine is concerned, Poland is the most famous country for its pierogi, also called dumplings. They are made by wrapping pockets of unleavened dough around a savoury or sweet filling and cooking them in boiling water. During this workshop, your local chef will explain all the subtleties of this dish. He will guide you in the preparation of your pierogi. You will have the opportunity to get your hands dirty by following the Polish recipe with local ingredients and your chef's instructions, and prepare your own Polish dumplings. Your chefs know the recipes inside out, so you will not only prepare and taste these delicious dishes, but you will also learn about the true Polish traditions. After the workshop, you will taste your preparations accompanied by a glass of a typical Polish drink, namely kompot. It is a national drink, that is non-alcoholic, which and accompanies the meals in Poland. Very different from the traditional compote, the Polish kompot is prepared with stewed fruits and water.
After this workshop and tastings, you will head to a local restaurant for another tasting: the Goldwasser. This is a strong liquor made from roots and herbs that has been produced since at least 1598 in Gdansk. The most striking feature of this drink is the presence of small gold flakes of 22 or 23 carats suspended in the drink. You will learn more about its history from your guide and taste the liquor.
Finally, your guide will take you to the heart of Gdansk for a guided tour of the Old Town. - tThe city's 1,000-year history has left a rich collection of buildings and monuments designed in a splendid mix of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles. Although Gdansk's Old Town is not as old as it looks, as over 80% of the buildings were rebuilt after the devastation of World War II, it has been thoroughly and lovingly restored to its former glory.
Enjoy some free time before re-joining your guide and coach to return to your ship.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : € 150
Discover the beauty of Poland and visit the castle that has remained an object of European fascination since its mediaval origins.
Meet your guide, then board your bus for a one-hour ride to the town of Malbork.
Follow your guide and get immersed in medieval Poland, the time of the Teutonic Knights and the largest medieval fortress in Europe.
Malbork Castle, also known as the Castle of the Teutonic Order of Malbork, is the most complete and elaborate example of a Gothic brick castle complex in the characteristic and unique style of the Teutonic Order. Moreover, in 1997 it was included in the list of UNSECO World Heritage Sites. A large part of the original structure remains in Malbork and testifies to the high standard and exceptional quality of craftsmanship practiced in the region throughout the 14th century. Construction along the Nogat River began in 1274, when the Teutonic Knights created this massive stone fortress that includes formidable defensive walls, towers, a labyrinth of chambers, keeps and wonderful architectural details. In 1309, the headquarters of the knights left Venice to settle here. In 1466, the castle and town became part of Royal Prussia, a province of Poland, and served as the royal residence of Polish kings for the next 300 years. Extensive conservation work on the castle was carried out in the 19th and early 20th centuries. After the severe damage it suffered during the final phase of World War II, the castle was renovated once again. Today, the castle serves as a museum, with large exhibition halls, which display collections of armour, ceramics, sculptures and spectacular Baltic amber.
At the end of this exceptional tour, you will return, by bus, to your ship in Gdansk.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : € 80
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.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : € 60
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.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : € 60
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.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : € 110
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. The highlight of your visit will be a short organ recital, demonstrating the power and beauty of its impressive sound.
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.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : € 65
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.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : € 75
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.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : € 65
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.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : € 150
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.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : € 50
Musik
Brechen Sie auf zu einer Musikreise auf dem Wasser! Sie lieben klassische Musik, Opern, Jazz oder keltische Melodien und haben Lust auf ein ganz besonderes Kreuzfahrterlebnis mit PONANT? Unsere Ehrengäste – bekannte Künstler, talentierte Interpreten und brillante Virtuosen – teilen ihr Wissen und ihre Leidenschaft im privaten Rahmen bei Konzerten und Vorträgen, an Bord oder an Land.
Lektor
An Bord Ihres Schiffes bieten Ihnen ausgewählte Lektoren kulturelle und historische Einblicke, damit Sie noch mehr über Ihr Reiseziel erfahren können: den Ursprung der lokalen Traditionen, die Geschichte symbolischer Orte, berühmte Persönlichkeiten und historische Helden... Die Experten begleiten Sie während der gesamten Kreuzfahrt, an Bord und bei den Ausflügen an Land, um ihr Know-how und ihre Einsichten mit Ihnen zu teilen.
Unsere Zusatzleistungen
The best way to explore Karlskrona, a listed UNESCO World Heritage Site, is from the seaside. Indeed, Karlskrona extends over 30 islands and countless smaller ones.
Meet your guide on the pier, and enjoy a small guided walk through the beautiful city centre, to the kayak base.
There, you will meet your local kayak guide, who will give you a short security briefing before launching into the sea. Your kayak guide will take you on a picturesque paddle tour around some of the islands that forms the World Heritage site.
Enjoy gliding over the sea as its mirror-like water reflects the sunlight and be amazed by the coast and its kilometres of protected waters. You will pass by Brändaholm, the most famous allotment garden areas of Sweden, with its famous little wooden houses. See the gunpowder-house on Ljungskär as well as the Old Fish Market.
This active tour combines nature, history and culture.
After paddling along the coast, you will head back to the kayak base to wrap up. As a reward for the effort spent paddling, you can enjoy a fika (hot beverage with Swedish pastry).
You guide will walk you back to the pier.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : € 135
You will join your guide at the pier for a short walk to the city centre to experience Karlskrona's military history.
Once in the centre, you will visit Karlskrona's “underground” . During the Cold War a concept of ”total defence” was developed in preparation of an invasion by the Soviet Union – only 35 km across the Baltic - that was a preoccupying concern at the time.
You will visit one of the many civil defence shelters from the 1950s, in the middle of Karlskrona's city centre. One of the interesting underground facilities you can visit from the Second World War and the Cold War is a civilian bunker, 30 metres below ground, dating from 1959, which can accommodate over 6,000 people.
Then, you will headthrough the railway tunnel which the military used as a starting point for the underground facilities. You will continue your adventure at the impressive Submarine Hall, a part of the Naval Museum. Here, you will experience a close encounter with an actual Cold War submarine. Filled with the latest technology, HSwMS Neptun was commissioned in 1980 by the Swedish Navy to patrol the Baltic Sea during the Cold War.
You will have the chance to visit the Cold War exhibition before walking back to the ship.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : € 130
You will meet your guide and board your coach for a panoramic 30-minutes tour of the UNESCO World Heritage listed part of the city, which is full of historical splendours reflecting its maritime heritage before heading to Brändaholm, and where you will be immersed in a typical Swedich neighbourhood.
Brändaholm is considered to be Sweden's most picturesque and beautiful community garden. It is a picture-postcard example of Sweden's idylic way of life. It is located on a small promontory of the Dragsö island, and is characterized by its 1920s-style houses and picturesque streets. An ideal destination for simply taking a stroll. There are 45 small houses with gardens, adorned with the Sewedish flag floating in the wind. None of the cabins may be larger than 32 square meters and the rule in Brändaholm states that all houses in size, shape and style must be similar.
To own a cottage you need to be in an inhabitant of Karlskrona. The local owners are very proud of their houses, and, of course, their gardens. The houses have historically passed from owner to owner through inheritance of other direct and personal means and they are rarely traded in the open market.
Stops will be made at a couple of the gardens where you will be able to have a look inside.
Then, head to a typical Swedish “fika” where you will enjoy a coffee with Swedish cake in the company of your local guide, who will be happy to ask all your questions about the area.
After this nice break, you will head to nearby Björkholmen, the old quarter of Karlskrona, with narrow streets and old wooden houses. A sharp contrast with the buildings of the city centre, you will enjoy a unique visit of one of the cottages before reboarding your coach and drive back to your ship.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : € 85
Meet your guide and board your coach, for a short drive to the old Fish Market area.
There, you will embark aboard one of the local tour boats which will take you on a scenic cruise through Karlskrona’s urban archipelago to an island fortress that has safeguarded the city's main sea entrance for over 300 years. During the cruise to Kungsholms Fortress, you will be able to enjoy great views of the city, as well as some of Karlskronas major landmarks that you will passed along the way, including the Naval Shipyard that has fueled the city’s economy and reputation for centuries. The city centre of Karlskrona is uniquely situated in the middle of the archipelago, 6 km from the mainland.
Built at the time of Karlskrona’s founding as a naval community in 1680, Kungsholms Fortress was essential to the defence of the city – and remains actively manned by the Swedish navy to this day. The bastion’s signature feature, a vast round harbor surrounded by imposing walls and towers, is an impressive sight.
While it’s never been attacked, Kungsholm is fully ready – sporting a 3-story cannon tower and storage magazines fortified with double-brick shells and hefty iron doors. While here, you will also have a chance to stroll the fort’s gardens, flourishing with exotic plants brought back by sailors from their voyages. If you’re up for a climb, the tower stairs lead to phenomenal panoramic views of the archipelago.
You will then cruise back to the pier of Fisktorget before driving back to the ship.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : € 85
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.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : € 60
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.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : € 350
Discover one of the most popular specialties of Poland: pierogi. This tour will allow you to taste the local food and enjoy a guided tour of Gdansk.
Meet your guide and board your coach for a short 30-minute drive to downtown Gdansk.
Together with your guide, you will arrive at a local workshop where you can make and taste pierogi. Indeed, as far as cuisine is concerned, Poland is the most famous country for its pierogi, also called dumplings. They are made by wrapping pockets of unleavened dough around a savoury or sweet filling and cooking them in boiling water. During this workshop, your local chef will explain all the subtleties of this dish. He will guide you in the preparation of your pierogi. You will have the opportunity to get your hands dirty by following the Polish recipe with local ingredients and your chef's instructions, and prepare your own Polish dumplings. Your chefs know the recipes inside out, so you will not only prepare and taste these delicious dishes, but you will also learn about the true Polish traditions. After the workshop, you will taste your preparations accompanied by a glass of a typical Polish drink, namely kompot. It is a national drink, that is non-alcoholic, which and accompanies the meals in Poland. Very different from the traditional compote, the Polish kompot is prepared with stewed fruits and water.
After this workshop and tastings, you will head to a local restaurant for another tasting: the Goldwasser. This is a strong liquor made from roots and herbs that has been produced since at least 1598 in Gdansk. The most striking feature of this drink is the presence of small gold flakes of 22 or 23 carats suspended in the drink. You will learn more about its history from your guide and taste the liquor.
Finally, your guide will take you to the heart of Gdansk for a guided tour of the Old Town. - tThe city's 1,000-year history has left a rich collection of buildings and monuments designed in a splendid mix of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles. Although Gdansk's Old Town is not as old as it looks, as over 80% of the buildings were rebuilt after the devastation of World War II, it has been thoroughly and lovingly restored to its former glory.
Enjoy some free time before re-joining your guide and coach to return to your ship.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : € 150
Discover the beauty of Poland and visit the castle that has remained an object of European fascination since its mediaval origins.
Meet your guide, then board your bus for a one-hour ride to the town of Malbork.
Follow your guide and get immersed in medieval Poland, the time of the Teutonic Knights and the largest medieval fortress in Europe.
Malbork Castle, also known as the Castle of the Teutonic Order of Malbork, is the most complete and elaborate example of a Gothic brick castle complex in the characteristic and unique style of the Teutonic Order. Moreover, in 1997 it was included in the list of UNSECO World Heritage Sites. A large part of the original structure remains in Malbork and testifies to the high standard and exceptional quality of craftsmanship practiced in the region throughout the 14th century. Construction along the Nogat River began in 1274, when the Teutonic Knights created this massive stone fortress that includes formidable defensive walls, towers, a labyrinth of chambers, keeps and wonderful architectural details. In 1309, the headquarters of the knights left Venice to settle here. In 1466, the castle and town became part of Royal Prussia, a province of Poland, and served as the royal residence of Polish kings for the next 300 years. Extensive conservation work on the castle was carried out in the 19th and early 20th centuries. After the severe damage it suffered during the final phase of World War II, the castle was renovated once again. Today, the castle serves as a museum, with large exhibition halls, which display collections of armour, ceramics, sculptures and spectacular Baltic amber.
At the end of this exceptional tour, you will return, by bus, to your ship in Gdansk.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : € 80
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.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : € 60
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.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : € 60
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.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : € 110
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. The highlight of your visit will be a short organ recital, demonstrating the power and beauty of its impressive sound.
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.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : € 65
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.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : € 75
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.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : € 65
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.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : € 150
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.
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : € 50