Few places in the world enjoy their summer months as much as the people of the Baltic nations. 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. Join us aboard the MS Island Sky in late July and witness the spectacle of colour that the sun brings to the northern world. The cities of the Baltic offer a cornucopia of delights. Whether it be the grandeur of St Petersburg and its surrounding country estates, the newly independent Baltic states and their capitals with marvellously untouched medieval quarters, or the sheer delight of small Scandinavian ports with their unique architecture and a freshness that is unique to the area. Why Cruise the Baltic with Noble Caledonia? If you are contemplating a cruise in the Baltic, you have probably come across a number of cruises offering a range of experiences and aboard ships of varying sizes. What makes our cruises aboard MS Island Sky unique is the experience of travelling with just 100 or so like-minded passengers. This means disembarking with ease at each port of call, just a few buses rather than a whole fleet that will be waiting for the big cruise liners, and quality excursions in small groups. Aboard the MS Island Sky there will not be endless entertainment and impersonal service, instead you can enjoy some light music in the bar after dinner and informative briefings and talks by our Cruise Director and Guest Speaker. You will get to know all the onboard staff during your cruise, and by the end you won’t want to leave them. The Island Sky is well-run, peaceful and relaxing and after a day ashore, it is a pleasure to return to your comfortable suite. We prefer to place the importance of our Baltic cruises on the itinerary and experience. This is why, after twenty years of designing Baltic itineraries, we believe we have the most perfectly balanced cruises. Top of our list is an adequate stay in St Petersburg, with two or three full days in this captivating city. In addition we visit a further six or seven nations which border the Baltic, making our cruises the most comprehensive available. Furthermore our long-standing relationship with local agents ensures we have the best tour guides at each port. Our contacts in each port has also meant that for 2012 we have been able to arrange some special opening/closing times on our visits to Catherine’s Palace, Peterhof Palace and the Hermitage in St Petersburg. Quietvox earphones are also available for all shore excursions. Within our two week itineraries, we aim to provide you with a comprehensive tour of the Baltic with knowledgeable guest speakers onboard to add to your understanding of this fascinating region. If you prefer, listen to the lecture from the comfort of your cabin. However, we know that it is also important to relax and we therefore allow for ample time for you to relax onboard and enjoy the facilities and service of this exquisite ship. One thing is for sure, there are plenty of cruise ships plying the Baltic, but if you prefer a peaceful environment, high degree of comfort, exceptional cuisine and a comprehensive itinerary, the MS Island Sky is the best by far. |