
The long sunny days of a Baltic summer are legendary and it is the perfect time to discover the region which is bordered by diverse kingdoms and republics in a relatively contained area. This new cruise aboard the all-suite MS Hebridean Sky has been developed to combine time in some of our favourite Baltic cities such as beautiful Stockholm, historic Gdansk, the maritime city of Tallinn and Latvia’s charming capital Riga with visits to some of the islands where you can experience the enchantment of island life.
The Baltic Sea has long been one of Europe’s great crossroads, its sheltered waters linking kingdoms, empires and merchant cities whose fortunes were built on trade and exploration. Today, this fascinating region offers an extraordinary concentration of beautifully preserved Medieval towns, magnificent royal residences, UNESCO World Heritage Sites and vibrant cultural capitals, all set amidst picturesque coastlines and enchanting archipelagos.
Our journey begins in the beautiful Swedish capital of Stockholm which is spread across a network of islands. Setting sail through the idyllic islands of the Stockholm Archipelago, we continue to the wonderfully preserved Hanseatic town of Visby on the island of Gotland where we can experience the island’s peaceful countryside aboard the historic Gotland Railway. Continuing south, we call at Kalmar, one of Sweden’s oldest cities before crossing to the Danish island of Bornholm with its picturesque fishing villages and distinctive round churches. Next we discover Gdansk with its beautifully restored streets and impressive merchant houses. In Lithuania we explore Klaipeda’s charming Old Town before visiting elegant Palanga and its renowned Amber Museum, where the story of the Baltic’s ‘gold’ is brought vividly to life. Our voyage continues to Latvia, where we discover both the charming port of Ventspils, with its imposing Livonian Order Castle, and the beautifully preserved town of Kuldiga, home to Europe’s widest waterfall. In Riga, one of the Baltic’s finest capitals, we wander through the Old Town of Gothic churches, grand merchant houses and atmospheric squares. After a relaxing day at sea, we arrive in Tallinn, one of Europe’s most perfectly preserved Medieval cities. Our final port is picturesque Kotka in Finland before we conclude our voyage in the elegant capital of Helsinki.
This is certainly not an itinerary that one of the large cruise vessels could undertake but is perfect for one the size of the MS Hebridean Sky. Our voyage will be a leisurely one with the benefit of some daytime sailing allowing you to relax on board and experience the serenity of sailing through the region in summer. Our Guest Speaker will provide informative talks and our excellent local guides will bring the history and unique character of the cities and islands vividly to life as we explore in small groups during our guided walks. We have also ensured there is ample time for you to discover the timeless atmosphere of the islands and cities at leisure.
Hebridean Sky
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.
Itinerary
Day 1 London to Stockholm, Sweden.
Fly by scheduled flight. On arrival transfer to the MS Hebridean Sky. Enjoy welcome drinks and dinner on board as we moor overnight.
Day 2 Stockholm.
This morning’s guided city tour will include 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. Alternatively you may like to join the guided tour to historic Uppsala, one of the oldest cities in Sweden that has played a dominant role in the political, intellectual and historical development of the country. We start with its Medieval cathedral including the Renaissance tomb of Gustav Vasa and continue to the Linnaeus Garden, Sweden’s oldest botanical garden originally laid out in 1655. Spend some time in this beautiful, serene garden designed by Carl von Linne. After lunch on board there will be some time at leisure to explore Stockholm further at your own pace before 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.
Day 3 Visby, Gotland.
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. After lunch on board, you can choose to explore further at your own pace or alternatively join us for a ride on the Gotland Railway, a historic train travelling along the only remnant of Gotland’s once extensive railway network. We will see peaceful landscapes, passing through Tule and ending at Roma, a perfect way to admire rural Gotland. We leave the train and continue to the west coast of Gotland, arriving at the fishing village of Gnisvärd from where we will venture into the nearby forest to view a stone ship. Boulders dating back to the Bronze Age have assumed the form of a ship over 150 feet in length and are presumed to be marking a grave or cremation burials.
Day 4 Kalmar.
Our final day in Sweden is at one of the country’s oldest cities and ports, Kalmar, where we will berth close to the historical centre. A choice of morning tours 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 where we will see 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. After lunch on board the afternoon is at leisure to explore further at your own pace.
Day 5 Ronne, Bornholm Island, Denmark.
Arrive into Ronne this morning, our base for exploring Bornholm Island which is a mixture of wheat fields, forests and an attractive coast dotted with fishing villages. During our guided tour we will explore the highlights of northern Bornholm and on an island drive we will see the famous 12th century Osterlars Round Church, visit the town of Gudjem and sample the local smoked herring. Return to the ship for lunch and a relaxing afternoon at sea sailing to Poland.
Day 6 Gdansk, Poland.
Gdansk’s 1000 years of history have left a collection of buildings and monuments designed in Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles. On a morning city tour we will walk along the cobbled streets of the Royal Way in the old quarter and view the elaborate architecture, including the 15th century merchant’s palace of Artus Court. Also see the pride of Gdansk, Gothic St Mary’s, which is the world’s largest brick church, accommodating some 25,000 worshippers. Alternatively, visit 13th century Malbork Castle which belonged to the Teutonic Order and at the time was the largest castle in the world. Over the years it has been used as a royal residence as well as a fortress and was renovated after being damaged during World War II. In 1997 it was listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and now serves as a museum with grand exhibition halls displaying collections of armory, ceramics, sculptures and spectacular Baltic amber. Return to the MS Hebridean Sky for lunch and enjoy the afternoon at leisure to explore further at your own pace before we meet this evening to enjoy a recital by members of the Polish Baltic Philharmonic at a local venue.
Days 7 Klaipeda, Lithuania.
Founded in 1252 by the Teutonic Knights of East Prussia, Klaipeda was annexed by Hitler in 1939 and almost destroyed towards the end of World War II. Arriving over lunch we spend the afternoon exploring the old town of Klaipeda including a stop in Theatre Square before strolling along the narrow atmospheric streets where in the past craftsmen including shoemakers, blacksmiths and bakers used to live and work. Continue towards the resort town Palanga where, after a walk through the Botanical park, we arrive at a 19th century Neo-Renaissance style mansion which houses the largest Amber Museum in the Baltics. Here we will learn all about ‘Baltic gold’ before returning to the MS Hebridean Sky and sailing this evening.
Day 8 Ventspils, Latvia.
Arrive in Latvia at Ventspils, a city built at the meeting point of the Venta River and the Baltic Sea. Once an important trading settlement of the Hanseatic League, the town flourished during the Middle Ages under the protection of the Livonian Order, whose imposing castle remains one of Latvia’s best-preserved medieval fortresses. A morning city tour will include the 13th-century Livonian Order Castle, now home to an engaging museum that traces the town’s history from its Medieval origins to the modern era. Nearby, the attractive Market Square and Old Town reveal cobbled streets, historic merchants’ houses and elegant churches that reflect centuries of prosperity. Alternatively, drive inland to charming Kuldiga renowned for its cobbled streets, well-preserved wooden architecture and relaxed atmosphere. We will see the Ventas Rumba, Europe’s widest waterfall before strolling across the historic, brick bridge which spans the Venta River. Afterwards we continue to the picturesque old town which is filled with colourful houses before we visit St Catherine’s Church and the peaceful courtyards tucked between the old buildings. Return to the MS Hebridean Sky for lunch and enjoy a leisurely afternoon to explore Ventspils further at your own pace.
Day 9 Riga.
This morning we will explore Latvia’s capital by foot. Founded in the 13th century it became one of the most successful trading cities of the Baltic. Explore the Old Town with its Medieval streets lined with Hanseatic warehouses and punctuated with Gothic and Baroque churches including St Peter Cathedral, the largest Medieval church in the Baltic. Return to the ship for lunch and spend the afternoon exploring independently, maybe see the Art Nouveau district, visit one of the many local museums or the impressive central market housed in an old zeppelin hangar.
Day 10 At Sea.
Spend a relaxing day at sea as we continue our voyage around the Baltic Sea. Take in a lecture or find a spot on deck to relax.
Day 11 Tallinn, Estonia.
Over breakfast we arrive in the historic maritime city of Tallinn with her awe inspiring city walls and fortifications, narrow Medieval streets and the gateways which remain remarkably well preserved. In the Upper Town we will enjoy the views from Dome Hill with the extraordinary vista of domes, spires and gables and see Toompea Castle, once a fortress, and now the seat of the Estonian parliament. Walking to the Lower Old Town we will visit the main Square where we will find the oldest pharmacy in Europe, the Gothic Cathedral and the 15th century Town Hall. Alternatively, drive to the outskirts of Tallinn to Kadriorg Palace and Park, which were commissioned in 1718 by Russian Tsar Peter I, soon after his conquest of Estonia, in honour of his wife Catherine I. The palace was designed by Italian architect Nicola Michetti and its magnificent main hall is considered to be one of the most beautiful examples of Baroque architecture in Northern Europe. We will visit the art collection housed within the palace and spend time exploring the magnificent park with its fountains, hedges, and flowerbeds, modelled on Versailles. After lunch on board, the afternoon is at leisure to explore further at your own pace.
Day 12 Kotka, Finland.
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. We will continue to the Maritime Centre Vellamo where local guides will enlighten us about the maritime and cultural heritage of the region. After lunch on board, enjoy an afternoon at leisure to explore the old city from our central berth.
Day 13 Helsinki to London.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight.
Dates and Prices
| 9 to 21 August 2028 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| Amundsen Deck Standard Suite | £8895 | £8395 |
| Byrd Deck Superior Suite | £9095 | £8595 |
| Mawson Deck Premium Suite | £9395 | £8895 |
| Mawson Deck Corner Suite | £9795 | £9295 |
| Scott Deck Deluxe Balcony Suite | £10495 | £9995 |
| Shackleton Deck Owner's Balcony Suite | £10795 | £10295 |
| Shackleton Deck Hebridean Suite | £11495 | £10995 |
| Amundsen Deck Standard for sole use | £11295 | £10795 |
| Byrd Deck Superior for sole use | £11495 | £10995 |
Tour Reference Code: SCHSK090828
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • 12 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 • Port taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
Please be aware that our website does not display real-time availability. As a result, the categories and prices listed above are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please call us at 020 7752 0000 and speak with one of our experienced Travel Consultants.
Hebridean Sky
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.
Skys Video Tour
Tour Extensions
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If you would like to spend some time in Helsinki after your cruise aboard the MS Hebridean Sky, we are offering a two night hotel extension with included guided tours.
Helsinki
The Itinerary
Day 1 Helsinki, Finland.
Disembark this morning for a city tour which 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. After lunch we transfer to our hotel and the rest of the day and evening are at leisure. (B, L)
Day 2 Helsinki.
After breakfast in the hotel we will make our way to the harbour to board a local ferry to cruise around the Helsinki archipelago. We will pass inhabited and uninhabited islands including the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the site developed over three centuries and eras, initiated by the Swedish in 1747 before Russia took over in 1808 and coming under Finnish control in 1918. After returning to Helsinki we will have a free afternoon before meeting for dinner this evening. (B, D)
Day 3 Helsinki to London.
Check out this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight. (B)
Prices per person based on double occupancy
21 to 23 August 2028 Category Price Single £995 Twin £845 Price Includes: Two nights hotel accommodation in Helsinki, meals as indicated (B - Breakfast, L - Lunch, D - Dinner), excursions, Tour Manager, gratuities, transfers.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
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Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000







