Deckplan
Please note that all beds can be configured as twin or double with the exception of suites 601 and 602 which both feature a fixed double bed.
A voyage from Aberdeen to Helsinki aboard the MS Hebridean Sky
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 this 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 which makes exploration so enjoyable, especially when travelling aboard the MS Hebridean Sky with just 118 like-minded, fellow guests.
With over thirty years of experience operating cruises in this region, we believe we have the most perfectly balanced cruise. Whilst not forsaking our old-time favourites such as Stockholm and Tallinn we also visit some smaller ports such as Kalmar, Turku and Saaremaa which are well off the path of the big cruise vessels that ply the region. Other well-hidden treasures include Denmark’s Bornholm Island, Visby on the Swedish island of Gotland and the Estonian island of Saaremaa, a gem with its Medieval Episcopal castle and timeless countryside. A highlight for many will be our call to Denmark’s northernmost town of Skagen whose amazing seascapes and incredible light casts a lifelong spell on all who visit.
Each day will see us in a new port of call with a range of included, guided excursions and the complex past of the region will be brought to life by our excellent local guides and onboard Guest Speaker, helping us to gain a greater understanding of both old and new Baltic nations.
The MS Hebridean Sky is one of our two flag ships and sister vessel to the MS Island Sky. Both vessels were built in the same ship yard in Italy at similar times and share the same excellent attributes that make them two of the finest small ships in the world.
Embark the MS Hebridean Sky this afternoon. Transfers will be provided from Aberdeen Airport and Aberdeen Railway Station at a fixed time. Enjoy welcome drinks and dinner on board as we sail this evening.
Relax on board as we sail across the North Sea to Denmark. Maybe join a lecture in the lounge or find a spot on deck.
Skagen is a 600 year old market town situated in the far north of Denmark where the breathtaking scenery and light have inspired poets, artists and musicians over the years whilst the area around Skagen has been designated as a rare, authentic natural beauty spot by the World Wide Fund for Nature. We will visit Grenen, the northernmost part of Denmark where the North Sea meets the Baltic and where the daily movement of sand has created a spit that is constantly moving. See the 14th century Sanded Church named after Saint Laurence, the seafarer’s and Skagen’s patron saint, which sunk beneath the sand in the 18th century and where today only the tower of the ancient church is visible. This afternoon is free to discover the winding alleys in the atmospheric old quarters or the vibrant atmosphere at the marina. Alternatively, take the chance to visit the local museum to see the artwork of Ancher and Kroyer who were inspired by the region.
The Danish King, Eric of Pomerania built a fortress in the early 15th century to enforce the collection of dues for all ships wishing to enter the Baltic. In the following century Frederick II rebuilt the castle into a magnificent Renaissance castle, Kronborg was considered at the time to be the strongest fortress in Europe. The castle is known to many as ‘Elsinore’ the setting for Shakespeare’s tragedy, Hamlet, Prince of Denmark. We will enjoy a morning exploring the castle and the old town before returning to the ship for lunch. This afternoon you can choose to explore further at your own pace or relax on board.
Arrive this morning into Ronne and on our 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 Ronne at your own pace before we sail this evening.
We arrive in Sweden at one of the country’s oldest cities and ports, Kalmar, where we will berth close to the historical centre. A morning tour will include Kalmar Castle, one of the best-preserved Renaissance castles in Scandinavia and a stronghold of royal power. Originating from the 12th century, the current building represents the rule of the Vasa Kings who rebuilt it in the style of a Renaissance palace. Alternatively, join a visit to the UNESCO island of Oland. Visit Stora Alvaret, a giant limestone plateau containing ancient remains, unique flora and fauna as well as the royal palace of Solliden. Built by Queen Victoria of Sweden in 1903, it is still used as a summer retreat by the Swedish Royal Family and we will have time to explore the extensive gardens and pavilion. The afternoon is free to wander the cobbled streets of the old town.
Today we visit this once important Hanseatic port on the island of Gotland. Best explored on foot, the beautifully preserved Medieval town snuggles inside 13th century walls, housing 44 watchtowers. In Viking times and several centuries after, the Swedish island of Gotland and especially the city of Visby became a centre of trade in the Baltic Sea and is a World Heritage Site. Walk its streets from the Middle Ages and see its gardens ablaze with flowers, earning the city its nickname ‘the city of ruins and roses’. Later, visit the impressive St Maria Cathedral and wander the paths of the botanical gardens. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure to explore further and maybe see the Viking exhibits at the Gotland Museum.
This morning we will enjoy a guided city tour which includes the Vasa Museum, built around the 17th century warship which sank in Stockholm’s inner harbour on her maiden voyage in 1628; its discovery in 1956 and subsequent salvage in 1961 is one of the most important events in marine archaeology. In addition to the well-preserved, elaborately decorated hull, thousands of items from the ship, including hundreds of sculptures, have been recovered. On our return to the MS Hebridean Sky we will drive through old Stockholm and past the Parliament Building and Royal Palace which overlooks the inner harbour. After some free time we sail in the late afternoon through the many islands of the Swedish archipelago. This is a great sailing area and the islands are peppered with attractive summer homes.
Sail this morning into the attractive town of Mariehamn. On an island tour we will head into the beautiful countryside along scenic roads towards the Jan Karlsgarden Museum where we learn about the island’s farming traditions. We continue to Badhausberget which provides panoramic views over the town and islands before visiting the fascinating Aland Maritime Museum with its exhibits of model ships as well as highlighting the region’s shipbuilding history. Return to the ship for lunch and spend a relaxing afternoon to explore at leisure before cruising this evening through some of the 6700 islands of the Aland archipelago.
After sailing through the 20,000 islands of the Turku archipelago we arrive at the oldest city in Finland. Originally part of Sweden, Turku became Finland’s first capital in 1229 and remained so until 1812. On a morning tour we will discover Turku Castle, the largest in Finland and a national treasure. The castle has stood guard over the River Aura since the 13th century and serves as a fascinating museum containing hundreds of artefacts. We will also see the 14th century cathedral and have time to explore the town. Alternatively, join an excursion to Kulturanta, the official summer residence of the President of Finland. Here we explore the 16 hectare landscaped park adorned with several flower gardens, pergolas, gazebos and fountains. Return to the MS Hebridean Sky via the historic holiday resort and spa town of Naantali where there will be some free time to explore the winding streets of old wooden houses. The afternoon is free to explore the city further from our central berth.
This morning 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 island dotted with attractive villages in a rolling forested landscape. An island drive will take you back in time through a countryside of stone walls, thatched roofs, traditional villages and windmills before we end at the lovely capital Kuressaare with its magnificent Medieval castle. We will stroll through the streets of the enchanting old town before taking a local lunch. Enjoy some free time in the town before returning to the ship this afternoon.
Over breakfast we arrive in the historic maritime city of Tallinn with her awe inspiring city walls and fortifications, narrow Medieval streets and 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. There will be free time to explore further at your own pace this afternoon before we sail tonight.
Built on the site where the River Kymijoki meets the Baltic Sea, picturesque Kotka has a long seafaring tradition. This morning we will explore the history of the region and visit the Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge which was built in 1889 for Alexander III, the future Emperor of Russia who used it as a summer home. It is now a living museum situated in a stunning nature reserve on the river. Continue to the Maritime Centre Vellamo where local guides will enlighten us about the maritime and cultural heritage of the region. The afternoon is free to explore the old city from our central berth.
Arriving in Helsinki over breakfast, our morning city tour will take us to the colourful Market Square, the President’s Palace and the impressive architecture of Senate Square including the Lutheran Cathedral of Finland and Uspenski Cathedral. We continue to the Sibelius Monument and the impressive Temppeliaukio, the church in the rock before returning to the ship. This afternoon we journey to Ainola, the home of Finnish composer Jean Sibelius situated on the edge of the city on the shores of Lake Tuusula where, after exploring the museum, we will enjoy a private concert of his music.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to London.
28 July to 11 August 2024 | ||
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Category | Price | |
Amundsen Deck Standard Suite | Fully Booked | |
Byrd Deck Superior Suite | Fully Booked | |
Mawson Deck Premium Suite | Fully Booked | |
Mawson Deck Corner Suite | Fully Booked | |
Scott Deck Deluxe Balcony Suite | Fully Booked | |
Shackleton Deck Owner's Balcony Suite | Fully Booked | |
Shackleton Deck Hebridean Suite | Fully Booked | |
Amundsen Deck Standard for sole use | Fully Booked | |
Byrd Deck Superior for sole use | Fully Booked |
Tour Reference Code: SCHKS280724
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel from Helsinki to London • 14 nights aboard the MS Hebridean Sky on a full board basis • House wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner • Noble Caledonia onboard team including Guest Speaker • Shore excursions • Gratuities • Transfers • Airport taxes • Port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
Please note that all beds can be configured as twin or double with the exception of suites 601 and 602 which both feature a fixed double bed.
The MS Hebridean Sky is one of our two flag ships and sister vessel to the MS Island Sky. Both vessels were built in the same ship yard in Italy at similar times and share the same excellent attributes that make them two of the finest small ships in the world.
Nicholas Merchant’s career has mirrored his abiding interest in antiques. He has worked for some of the major auction houses in London as well as running his own book business devoted to the decorative and fine arts. While his particular interest is English 18th century furniture and Country Houses, he has broad interests and likes to discuss many objects, not just for themselves but in their historical context.
Nicholas is much in demand as a lecturer which has taken him recently to the United States, South Africa, Europe and all over the United Kingdom, including the V&A in London. Since joining NADFAS he has given over 500 lectures all around the world. Nicholas is the West Yorkshire representative of the ArtFund. He is the proprietor of Aspect Events, a company which arranges cultural breaks and short trips for collectors and art lovers.
For those who would like to extend their time in Finland after disembarking the MS Hebridean Sky we are offering a three night tour exploring the beauty of the Finnish Lakes.
Day 1 Helsinki & Hameenlinna, Finland.
After breakfast we will disembark and drive out of the city to Hameenlinna and Hame Castle where we enjoy lunch. Hame Castle is one of Finland’s Medieval royal castles and is believed to have been built at the end of the 13th century, following the crusade by Swedish Earl Birger to Hame region. After our tour we will transfer to the hotel situated on a lake in the Aulanko Nature Park. Relax and enjoy the views before meeting for dinner this evening. (B, L, D)
Day 2 Aulanko & Tampere.
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before our full day cruise through the beautiful forest-covered landscape of the lake district. Take in the scenery of Lake Pyhajarvi and Lake Vanajavesi before lunch on board. In the early afternoon we will make a stop at Visavuori, the house and studio of sculptor Emil Wikstrom. Wikstrom’s home is typical of Nordic artists’ homes of the time and in the studio almost 100 of his works are displayed. Re-boarding our ship we will continue through the lake country to Tampere where we stay overnight by Lake Pyynikki. (B, L, D)
Day 3 Tampere & Helsinki.
After breakfast in the hotel we enjoy a scenic drive around Tampere finishing at the Nasineula restaurant, renowned for its wonderful panoramic views over Tampere and the view beyond. After lunch continue on to the Iittala Glass Centre, where the Aalto Vase is produced along with other signature glass pieces. Later, drive to our hotel in Helsinki for an overnight stay. (B, L, D)
Day 4 Helsinki to London.
Check out this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to London. (B)
11 to 14 August 2024 | |
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Category | Price |
Twin | £1995 |
Single | £2245 |
Price Includes: Overnight four-star hotel accommodation in Helsinki, Hameenlinna and Tampere, meals as indicated (B – Breakfast, L – Lunch, D – Dinner), excursions, Tour Manager, gratuities, transfers.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
A voyage from Helsinki to Stockholm aboard the MS Hebridean Sky with Guest Speaker Martin Sixsmith
A voyage from Aberdeen to Stockholm aboard the MS Hebridean Sky
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000