Northern Europe Cruises

Northern Europe is a region rich in history, breathtaking landscapes, and captivating cultures, making it a fantastic destination for cruisers. Did you know that Northern Europe is home to the famous Midnight Sun, where the sun doesn’t set for several weeks during summer? From fjords in Norway to quaint towns in the Baltic, a cruise through Northern Europe offers an incredible variety of experiences. You’ll find stunning architecture, vibrant cities, and delicious cuisine that reflects the area’s diverse heritage. Set sail for an adventure that combines stunning vistas, intriguing local traditions, and an opportunity to explore some of the world’s most picturesque destinations!

Major Cruise Lines to Northern Europe

• Cunard: Operating a luxurious fleet of 4 ships, Cunard has 3 vessels offering itineraries to Northern Europe. The Queen Mary 2 and Queen Anne are revered for their elegant atmosphere and world-class service, featuring grand ballrooms and fine dining reminiscent of an opulent past. Cruises typically depart from international ports like Southampton and New York for visitors eager to explore Northern Europe’s charms, while Australia-based cruisers can depart from Sydney or Perth.
• P&O Cruises: P&O operates 7 ships, 6 of which sail to Northern Europe. The Aurora and Ventura are well-known for their attention to family-friendly activities, extensive entertainment options, and exceptional dining experiences. Most ship departures occur from international ports, such as Southampton or Bridgetown, creating flexible booking options for travellers wanting to dive into Northern Europe’s beauty.
• Holland America Line: With a fleet of 11 ships, Holland America has 4 that sail to Northern Europe. The Nieuw Statendam and Rotterdam are popular choices for their sophisticated design, culinary excellence, and enriching onboard experiences. You can set sail from various international ports, mainly from Rotterdam and Dover, with departures also available from Sydney for Australian cruisers.
• Princess Cruises: This cruise line features a fleet of 17 vessels, 9 of which cater to Northern Europe itineraries. The Sky Princess and Crown Princess offer exciting onboard entertainment, varied dining, and comfortable accommodations tailored to cruise passengers’ needs. Departures often occur from multiple domestic ports such as Sydney and Brisbane, as well as international ports like Southampton and Dover.
• MSC Cruises: MSC’s fleet consists of 23 ships, with 4 dedicated to Northern European voyages. The MSC Poesia and MSC Virtuosa boast family-oriented amenities and a range of entertaining activities onboard. Departures are typically found at numerous international ports, including Southampton and Copenhagen, ensuring an easy start to your adventure across Northern Europe.

Top Luxury and Small Ship Cruises to Northern Europe

• Oceania Cruises: With a fleet of 8 ships, Oceania has 5 that regularly explore Northern Europe. The Sirena and Vista offer a focus on fine dining and immersive cultural experiences that showcase local flavors and traditions. You can expect departures from key international ports, with Southampton and Reykjavik being popular choices for starting your journey through Northern Europe.
• Silversea: Operating a fleet of 12 ships, Silversea features 5 dedicated to itineraries in Northern Europe. The Silver Dawn and Silver Spirit are known for their luxurious service, elegant graces, and all-inclusive offerings. Departures typically happen from various ports, including Copenhagen and Reykjavik, providing a perfect launchpad for exploring this beautiful region.
• Azamara Cruises: Azamara operates a fleet of 4 ships, all of which include itineraries to Northern Europe. The Azamara Quest and Azamara Journey excel at offering immersive experiences, with longer port stays for travelers to truly enjoy local cultures. Departures are commonly found at international ports such as Copenhagen and Southampton, making it easy to embark on your ocean adventure!
• Seabourn: Seabourn has a fleet of 6 ships, with 2 that regularly voyage through Northern Europe. The Seabourn Quest and Seabourn Sojourn are esteemed for their all-suite accommodations, outstanding cuisine, and personalized service. You can expect cruises to depart from a variety of ports, with common options being London and Reykjavik, ensuring a sumptuous journey through Northern Europe.

Must-Explore Harbours in Northern Europe

• Southampton, England: Known as the gateway to London, Southampton is full of maritime history. While you’re in port, explore the SeaCity Museum, which showcases the city’s connection to the Titanic, or stroll down to the picturesque docks. If time allows, take a quick train ride to London for a day of iconic sightseeing!
• Rotterdam, Netherlands: Rotterdam is famous for its modern architecture and vibrant cultural scene. Explore the unique cube houses, visit the Markthal for fresh produce and local delicacies, or take a boat tour through the iconic harbor. Enjoying a meal at one of the trendy restaurants along the waterfront is a great way to soaking up the lively atmosphere!
• Copenhagen, Denmark: The capital of Denmark is a delightful mix of historic and modern attractions. Visit the famous Nyhavn harbor for beautiful scenery and waterfront dining, wander the quaint streets of Tivoli Gardens, or explore the historic Rosenborg Castle. Don’t forget to snap a photo with the iconic Little Mermaid statue!
• Reykjavik, Iceland: Known as the “Gateway to Iceland,” Reykjavik is vibrant and unique. Enjoy walking through the charming streets, visit the incredible Hallgrímskirkja church, or relax in the famous Blue Lagoon geothermal spa—just a short drive away. The city’s rich culture and stunning natural surroundings make it a must-see.
• Oslo, Norway: Oslo, nestled among the fjords, boasts stunning natural beauty combined with urban charm. While in port, visit the impressive Viking Ship Museum and the Oslo Opera House, or take a stroll in Frogner Park, home to gorgeous sculptures. The nearby Fjords offer breathtaking views, making it a perfect setting for exploration!

When to Cruise Northern Europe

When planning your trip, consider visiting Northern Europe during the best seasons for cruising. From May to September, temperatures can range from 15°C to 25°C, providing ideal conditions for exploring cities and enjoying nature. The summer months are peak travel season, meaning more tourists but plenty of festivals and events to enjoy. In contrast, winter provides a magical landscape, particularly around Christmas, although temperatures drop to between -3°C and 10°C, with opportunities for snow and winter activities that are truly unforgettable.

Cost Overview for a Cruise in Northern Europe

If you’re thinking about a cruise to Northern Europe, here’s a breakdown of costs. A 1-week cruise typically ranges from approximately $1,800 to $3,000 AUD for standard options, while luxury cruises start around $4,000 AUD or higher. Dining costs in the region can vary, with meals at local restaurants averaging between $25 to $60 AUD, while drinks generally cost around $5 to $12 AUD. Many cruise packages include a variety of meals, so you can explore the local food scene without going over budget!

Alternative Regions to Consider

If you’re considering a cruise to Northern Europe, why not explore some alternative regions that promise just as much adventure:

• Southeast Asia: Experience vibrant cultures, incredible culinary delights, and stunning landscapes across bustling cities like Bangkok and serene beaches in Bali. An enchanting region known for its exotic atmosphere and breathtaking beauty!
• Western Mediterranean: Uncover the charm of Southern Europe with its picturesque coastlines and rich history. Explore iconic cities like Barcelona, Rome, and Nice while enjoying Mediterranean delicacies.
• Eastern Mediterranean: A cruise through the Eastern Mediterranean includes beautiful islands like Santorini and historic cities such as Istanbul. The region is known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and delicious cuisine.
• The Caribbean: Dive into warm turquoise waters, relax on magnificent beaches, and explore tropical islands with vibrant cultures. The Caribbean is ideal for beach lovers and those seeking picturesque paradise!
• Western Europe: Featuring culturally-rich destinations like Paris, London, and Amsterdam, Western Europe offers diverse experiences filled with history and culinary delights waiting to be explored!

Are you ready to embark on your Northern European adventure? Book your next cruise holiday with Cruise1st today and explore the stunning landscapes, vibrant cultures, and captivating experiences this unique region have to offer!