Military and Veteran discounts on all Northern Europe cruises
We offer Military and Veteran discounts on all Northern Europe cruises.
This includes all cruises to the Fjords, Iceland, and Ireland.
Which Baltic cruise departure ports are closest to Stuttgart and K-town?
Kiel and Warnemunde are both about a 7-hour drive from Stuttgart. Copenhagen is about 10 hours.
FIND ALL BALTIC CRUISE DEALS HERE!When can you cruise to England, Wales, Scotland, Ireland and Iceland?
Those destinations are so far north, it’s too cold to cruise except during the height of summer: June, July, and August.
CLICK LINKS BELOW to see ALL CRUISE DEALS by DEPARTURE PORT and DESTINATION!
The best deals are at the top of the lists!
Northern Europe Cruise Port Information
Aalborg, Denmark (Baltic/Russia, Scandinavia & Fjords)- This charming waterfront town has great nightlife and shopping. Aalborg is also a great family spot with a zoo that breeds siberian tigers, a park of music, and specialty museums.
Aarhus, Denmark (Baltic/Russia, Scandinavia & Fjords)- This university town is preserved as a historic village, similar to historic Williamsburg in the United States. It houses the Fyrkat Viking fortress, and Moesgard Museum of Prehistory with stone age artifacts, viking tools, and a 2000 year old man. There are natural draws as well. Head to the Marselisborg deer park to feed the deer, or the beautiful botanical gardens and greenhouses.
Akureyri, Iceland (British Isles & Coastal)- One way to enjoy the majestic nature in Akureyri is by going whale watching! This is an Animal Planet recommended destination with Princess Cruise lines! Ready for more natural splendor? Head over to the enchanting Godafoss falls, or plant a tree with Disney Cruise Lines. You will not regret it.
Alesund, Norway (Scandinavia & Fjords)- This beautiful countryside is topped with a mountain range and filled with daisies. Following a fire the town was reborn phoenix-style as an Art haven. Take it all in at from the cliffs of Trollveggen, or the Fjellstua viewpoint! Then enjoy the fantastic Atlantic Sea park, one of the largest aquariums.
Amsterdam, Netherlands (Baltic/Russia, British Isles & Coastal, Scandinavia & Fjords)- While admiring the city’s beautiful canals on a canal tour be sure to visit the equally stunning Van Gogh museum. For a nature fix, you can visit the tulips of the Keukenhof Gardens, or the lush Vondelpark. Important historical landmark to visit is Anne Frank’s House, Rembrandt’s house, and of course the red light district.
Andalsnes, Norway (Scandinavia & Fjords)- This is a natural oasis with waterfalls, mountains, and a rock wall named the “Trollwall.” Hike the trails, or take the Raumabanen train to see it all.
Antwerp, Belgium (British Isles & Coastal)- With its gothic architecture Antwerp is a throwback to Medieval times. However, this thoroughly modern city has bike lanes, a strong nightlife, and a burgeoning diamond trade. Whether you prefer history in vibrant Ruben’s House and MAS museums, or the energy of the Grote Markt this city is for you.
Ayr, Scotland (British Isles & Coastal)- When coming to Ayr you must see Culzean Castle. It is breathtaking, well kept and prominent in the town. With kids you can continue pretending to be royals while heading over to the Heads of Ayr Farm Park. The park has slides, lemurs, llamas and meerkats!
Belfast, Ireland (British Isles & Coastal)- This up and coming city has become a strong getaway for locals. You can head up to the beautiful basalt columns of the giant’s causeway, or see the Titanic museum where the ship was built! With grand stone buildings, just walking around this city is a nice way to spend the day.
Bergen, Norway (Baltic/Russia, Scandinavia & Fjords)- The Hanseatic Wharf in Bergen is the beautiful colorful town of the north. Imagine La Boca in Buenos Aires or the Amalfi Coast and you’ve found the palette of Bergen. While there you can tour around by boat, bike, or segway, enjoy the stunning views of the Fjords for the funicular, and visit the local fish market for the catch of the day!
Brest, France (British Isles & Coastal)- Brest is a Naval base with historical forts and castles to visit. There is even a historic lighthouse in Plouguerneau, on the “coast of legends.”
Cherbourg, France (British Isles & Coastal)- Enjoy a city tour of the beautiful chateaus, such as Mont Saint Michel, and impressive views, such as the rocky coast of La Hague Cape. Visit the important Normandy beaches, and it eat crepes. You are in France after all!
Cobh, Ireland (British Isles & Coastal)- Enjoy a city bus tour of Cobh, Blarney castle, or a boat tour!
Cork, Ireland (British Isles & Coastal)- This small seaport is made to be walked. View the hills, head to the city market, and marvel at the St Fin Barre’s cathedral as you meander the city.
Copenhagen, Denmark With beginnings as a Viking fishing village, Copenhagen is a beautiful piece of history. Tour or bike to the 1,000 year old Rosenborg castle with falconry demonstrations, Round Tower observatory, Baroque churches, a statue of the little mermaid and much more. Historical artifacts not your thing? Listen to the water in Tivoli Gardens, or visit one of the eclectic and vibrant museums.
Djupivogur, Iceland (British Isles & Coastal) – Enjoy the beautiful bird watching at the Papeyjarferdir, the Hoffellsjokull Glacier, and the mountain, Bulandstindur.For man made treasures look no further than the Egg sculptures, sitting atop the ledges on the side of the road.
excuse meDover, England (Baltic/Russia)- Head straight to the famous Windsor castle and white cliffs of Dover. Enjoy boat tours where you may see Sea lions, or admire old cars at the Dover transport museum. Visit nearby Canterbury or London. Whatever you choose, you’ll have fun at this departure port.
Dublin, Ireland (British Isles & Coastal)- Here is your spot to drink Guinness, learn about famous authors such as James Joyce, and see the beautiful iconic green hills that make Dublin, Dublin. Head out to the iconic Cliffs of Moher, or the Dublin Castle.
Dundee, Scotland (British Isles & Coastal)- This town has a history rich in the garment industry which is covered at the strongly touted Verdant Works museum.Amidst all the castles. this museum provides a unique highlight. Slightly farther away you can visit the famed city of Edinburgh.
Dunmore East, Ireland (British Isles & Coastal)- Enjoy the nightlife and joy of this pub town by night, and Seaweed foraging and cooking by day. Alternatively, head over to nearby Waterford, where you can watch craftsmen at work making the famous hand-cut crystal.
Edinburgh, Scotland (British Isles & Coastal)- See the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo perform! Go see the Loch Ness monster, or enjoy some bagpipes and whisky. You cannot go wrong in this Scottish highlight.
Eidfjord, Norway (Scandinavia & Fjords)- This is one of Norway’s beautiful Fjords, worth the visit just to hike and stare. To mix it up, head to the famous Voringsfossen waterfall, kayak on Eidfjord lake, or taste the cider from the local orchards!
Falmouth, England (British Isles & Coastal)- England is known for it’s gardens and whether you head to Trebah, The Lanhydrock House, or Glendurgan you will see why. They are outstanding and truly worth a visit.
Flaam, Norway (Baltic/Russia, Scandinavia & Fjords)- Enjoy the 5 star Fjordsafari where you may sea porpoises, seals, goats, eagles and hidden views. For a calmer tour, enjoy the scenery from the Flaam Railway.
Fredericia, Denmark (Baltic/Russia)- This southern town has beautiful parks and hills that are perfect for leisurely stroll on a nice day. A mere hour and half away is the ancient city of Ribe, and slightly farther is Funen, Hans Christian Andersen’s Museum, and Legoland for the kids.
Galway, Ireland (British Isles & Coastal)- Check out the enchanting basalt columns that make up the Giant’s Causeway, the impressive Cliffs of Moher, the Castle of Connemara, and the beautiful Irish countryside.
Gdynia, Poland (Baltic/Russia)- Gdynia has a strong history as a fishing village that was modernized rapidly during World War I. It is now a cultural hub for tourist with an annual film festival, an emigration museum, and an interesting Torpedo launch station.Farther back in time are medieval remnants in nearby Gdansk. Head to the Malbork castle, St. Mary’s Basilica, and Gdank’s old town.
Geiranger/Geirangerfjord, Norway (Scandinavia & Fjords)- Waterfall lovers rejoice, this UNESCO heritage site is for you! Check out the Seven Sisters, Suitor, and Bridal Veil waterfalls.
Goteborg, Sweden (Baltic/Russia)- Goteborg, also known as Gothenburg, is not only the host of the Metaltown festival, but also a great tourist spot. There are kayaking tours, hop on hop off buses, segway tours, and even the Volvo museum.
Glengarriff, Ireland (British Isles & Coastal)- Glengarriff is a place of beauty with a strong nature reserve, The Ewe sculpture garden, hills and woods. If you take the ferry to Garish island, you may even see seals sunning themselves on the rocks!
Gravdal, Norway (Scandinavia & Fjords)- This port is part of the Lofoten Archipelago of Islands. These islands are what remains of a mountain range that was worn away by arctic glaciers over time. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery then head to the Viking Museum, or Ice Bar is you are over 21!
Greenock, Scotland (British Isles & Coastal)- Take a sightseeing tour or day trip through this Scottish town with gorgeous views and a strong proximity to Glasgow. Learn about textiles at the Scottish Wool Centre, or visit the Glengoyne Whisky distillery for a harder trip.
Grundafjordur, Iceland (British Isles & Coastal)- Whether you hike out Krikjufell Mountain or Gatklettur, a natural basalt rock structure left behind from lava flows you will see impressive nature here. Go puffin and whale watching to explore the local fauna as well! If you’re looking for an Icelandic delicacy, try the fermented shark on this shark farm and lava field tour!
Hamburg, Germany (British Isles & Coastal)- As one of the biggest harbors around, this is a very convenient departure port for Military families looking for a Baltic cruise. While you are here there are chocolate tours, white boats, tours of the medieval town of Lubeck, and the fairytale castle of Schwerin!
Hammerfest, Norway (Scandinavia & Fjords)- Just north of Tromso, this is as far north as many will go on a Fjords cruise. One the best places to visit is the free Polar Bear Society museum!
Hardangerfjord, Norway (Scandinavia & Fjords)- Danger is in the name! However, this gorgeous Fjord provides a non-dangerous way to feel like you are standing on the edge of the world with the fantastic Trolltunga hike. While you’re there, check out the beautiful waterfalls of Voringsfossen, or the twin falls in Latefossen.
Harwich, England (British Isles & Coastal)- Halfpenny pier is described as peaceful and relaxed as you watch the boats go by. You can even be peaceful on one of the boats as you ferry across on the Stena line. There are day trips that go to London, and the Royal Windsor palace as well.
Haugesund, Norway (Scandinavia & Fjords)- If you’re looking for low-key calm hikes then this is the port for you. Enjoy the calm beauty of the karmoy beaches, the North Sea Trail to the Ryvarden lighthouse, the tranquil forests of Djupadalen, or a calm walk through town.
Hellesylt, Norway (Baltic/Russia, Scandinavia & Fjords)- This port, on the Geraingerfjord, hosts Briksdal Glacier, a giant sheet of ice remaining from the ice age. Hike out to glacier, or up Dalsnibba Mount, to see other natural wonders such as the Seven Sisters waterfalls. Or to get your adrenaline pumping, go kayaking or rafting down the scenic Valldal river!
Helsingborg, Sweden (Baltic/Russia)- Helsingborg has a stunning panoramic view atop the steps of the Karnan castle tower. It is a great family spot with animal encounters in the Tropikariet, Hamlet’s castle, and adorable seaside beaches. Enjoy a culinary tour of swedish pastries, chocolates, and local tapas.
Helsinki, Finland (Baltic/Russia) this Finnish capital has a burgeoning cultural scene with classic cathedrals as well as modern museums and parks. A beautiful place for a picnic is the UNESCO World heritage site of the Suomenlinna, which is a fortress of 6 connected islands. Check out the modern spiritual Rock Church or the Kamppi Chapel of silence. Head by bike, or foot, to the Senate square to see the Helsinki Cathedral, government halls, and the contrasting architecture of the Uspenski Cathedral.
Honningsvag, Norway (Scandinavia & Fjords)Atop Norway, with Tromso and Hammerfest, is Honningsvag. Here sits a wonderful place to see the Northern lights, get king crabs, visit an ice bar, and truly marvel at the freezing Arctic!
Ilfracombe, England (British Isles & Coastal) For calm enjoy some tea in a tea house. However, if you are looking for a little adventure the Sea safari speed-boat rides will take you to see soaring cliffs, seals, puffins, waterfalls, and a pregnant warrior statue.
Invergordon, Scotland (British Isles & Coastal)- Enjoy the gorgeous scottish highlands via a bus tour or taxi tour. The tour will go to Loch Ness, the overlooking Urquhart castle, and possible even a falconry show! Then you can stop at a local pub to sample Scottish whisky afterward.
Inverness, Scotland (British Isles & Coastal)This is the port that will you take you to see the famous Loch Ness Monster. Visit the Queen Mother’s castle of Mey or the Medieval Urquhart Castle which overlooks the lake
Isafjordur, Iceland (British Isles & Coastal) This is a great location to horseback ride, kayak, and get a walking tour of the town. Learn about native arctic foxes, Icelandic music and dance, the local glaciers and fjords, and see puffins!
Kalmar, Sweden (Baltic/Russia) Head to the restored Kalmar Castle to feel like you are a Disney Princess.
Kiel, Germany (Baltic/Russia, Scandinavia & Fjords) This is one of the most convenient departure ports for our military families. Before you leave take a boat trip down the canal, a tour through town to learn of its maritime history, or visit Lubeck, a preserved medieval town!
Kirkwall, Scotland (British Isles & Coastal)- Tour by air, bus, or boat, there is plenty to see! There are incredible ruins and architectural hubs to check out such as the Stones of Stennes, Majestic Cliffs of Deerness, Bishop’s Palace, The Earl’s Palace, The Orkney Museum, and the Saint magnus Cathedral.
Klaipeda, Lithuania (Baltic/Russia)- When in Klaipeda be sure to visit the Curonian Spit in Kursiu Nerija National Park. This lovely beach has soft sand, crystal blue water and hiking trails. You can take a ferry across, kayak, or go with a guide to search for amber and hear local folk tales about Witches. Once you go into the city, go the Amber Museum, visit the monastery of Kretinga, or see the historic Soviet Nuclear Missile site.
Kristiansand, Norway (British Isles & Coastal, Scandinavia & Fjords) This historic site dating back to the 5th century is now one of Norway’s most popular vacation spots! If you’re coming with kids visit the Dyreparken- a combined zoo, waterpark, and theme park! Take a tour on a steam locomotive on the Setesdal Vintage Railway, see the historic cannons, or visit the Setesdal Mineral Park in what was once one of the biggest mines in Norway.
Le Havre, France (British Isles & Coastal) Head to the Musee des Beaux Arts which has a large impressionist collection sure to delight. Storm the beaches of Normandy or head inland for a day trip to Paris or Versailles! Oui Oui!
Leith, Scotland (British Isles & Coastal) Costa will take you to this port right outside of Edinburgh! Get to know Scotland’s capital with a city tour, and explore the beautiful Glamis Castle.
Leknes, Norway (Scandinavia & Fjords) Along with Gravdal, this port is part of the famed Lofoten Islands. These islands are what remains of a mountain range that was worn away by arctic glaciers over time. Enjoy the stunning color contrasts of the white-sand Haukland beach, or the Himmeltinden nature park. Go to the ancient viking farm of Lofotr, or see a real glassblower perfect his craft on the beach of Vikten.
Lerwick, Scotland (British Isles & Coastal) Lerwick is known for its fishing history and annual fire festival! During the festival there is a torch-lit parade of almost 1000 people and the burning of a replica of a Viking ship. It is the main port off of the sparsely inhabited Shetland islands located to the north of the British isles. While here be sure to bring money to buy from the many local craftsman of cashmere knitwear and fine jewelry. Travel to the ruins of Scolloway Castle and meet some Shetland ponies. Hungry? Frankie’s Fish and Chips in the village of Brae is supposed to some of the best Fish and Chips in the region!
Limfjord, Denmark (Baltic/Russia) Aarlborg is a nearby charming waterfront town has great nightlife and shopping. This is a great family spot with a zoo that breeds siberian tigers, a park of music, and specialty museums. Visit an ancient Viking burial site, and Danish distilleries in this best of Aarlborg tour.
Liverpool, England (British Isles & Coastal)- If you’re stopping in Liverpool you have to do something related to the Beatles. You can go to John Lennon’s home, or see “The Beatles Story” to relive the music. Since Liverpool is so close to Wales you can choose to tour northern Wales, Conway Castle, or head to the beautiful Lake District.
Londonderry/Derry, Ireland (British Isles & Coastal) This historic walled city is a special one just to stroll through. The City walls are painted with giant murals, and there is the Peace bridge. For a natural wonder head on a tour of the basalt rocks in Giant’s Causeway or the Northernmost tip of the country in the Doagh Folk Village.
Longyearbyen, Norway (Scandinavia & Fjords) You are truly in the Arctic fjords at this port, Be prepared for glaciers, dolphins, and polar bears! You can visit sled dogs at the Adventsdalen Dog Farm, and even go dogsledding yourself! There’s also fossil hunting at the Longyear glacier and hikes to the Global Seed Vault.
Milford Haven, Wales (British Isles & Coastal) Enjoy the lovely walks of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Pembroke Castle, Skomer Island Nature Reserve, and the charming boutiques and galleries in the area. For a unique excursion learn more about the Welsh tradition of carving lovespoons!
Molde, Norway (Scandinavia & Fjords) When people mention the Southern Fjords- this is location that comes to mind. The Panoramic view from the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Geirangerfjord, is absolutely spectacular! During spring you’ll see cherry and apple blossoms, and the northern lights between October and March. Take a hike up Mount Varden, or ride up the famous twisty Trollstigen road. It was named for, you guessed it: Trolls!
Murmansk, Russia (Baltic/Russia) Despite being North of the Arctic Circle, this port is ICE FREE. This may be due in part to the naval center’s nuclear-powered icebreaker fleet. Many points of interest harbor around this military past. There are three war memorials: the Aloysha Monument, the monument to the Anti-Hitler Coalition, and the Allied Cemetery, which is a final resting place for many US soldiers who lost their lives during WWII.
Newcastle upon Tyne, England (British Isles & Coastal) This industrial city is home to a buzzing nightlife for the party fans, and historical tours for the bookish. Among the arts and cultural center, of the Quayside District, is the Gateshead Millennium Bridge, and Baltic Center for Contemporary Art. There are also “gory” walking tours, tours of the Victoria tunnel, Durham Cathedral, and even a Discovery Museum for young learners!
Nynashamn, Sweden (Baltic/Russia)- Enjoy the Vasa Museum and Old town in nearby Stockholm. Tour Sweden’s capital to see the Royal Palace and Canals, the Ice Bar, or head to the fascinating Skansen Open Air Museum. This Museum is a miniature village with costumed characters, and demonstrations of traditional crafts.
Oban, Scotland (British Isles & Coastal) – Oban is a fascinating spot in Scotland housing a War & Peace Museum, the arched wall of McCaig’s Tower, distillery tours, or the Scottish Sea Life Sanctuary.
Olden, Norway (Scandinavia & Fjords) Briksdal Glacier is truly breathtaking and the place to go while in Olden! Have time for more scenic beauty? Head over to the Lake Stryn by drive, boat or helicopter!
Oslo/Oslofjord, Norway (Baltic/Russia, Scandinavia & Fjords) The capital sits at the peak of the fjord itself in this two for one port. In man-made sights there is a beautiful sculpture garden at Vigeland, a Polar Ship Museum and Viking ship museum, a Skiing Museum, and the Nobel Peace Center. You can even travel for free on the public transportation using an Oslo Pass which also pays your entry into many of the museums! Then if you want nature made beauty head simply to the Oslo Fjord, or Sognsvann lake for breathtaking views.
Outer Hebrides, Scotland (British Isles & Coastal) The Callanish Standing Stones are a must-see that is easier to get to than Stonehenge! There are castles and ruins to usher in the modern era such as Kisimul Castle, and Carloway Broch. If you’re looking for something timeless- there are also local distillery tours.
Plymouth, England (British Isles & Coastal) This English port boasts both water access and water spectacles. Head over to the Plymouth Sound, or Burrator Reservoir to see your reflection on a grand scale. Enjoy a touch of history? This port which once shipped off the Pilgrims on the Mayflower is filled with it. Visit the Mayflower steps, and ruins from the destruction of WWII. Then enjoy a traditional British pub lunch or Devon Cream tea.
Portland, England (British Isles & Coastal) This port offers a touch of old and new. Whether you are going as far back as the Jurassic era with a coastal walk, or to our early ancestors in Stonehenge, or to the more modern Corfe Castle there is history here for you! Maybe you’re more of a peaceful nature lover- I recommend the Abbotsbury Swannery and gardens for a tranquil outing.
Portree, Scotland (British Isles & Coastal)- Quiraing is supposed to be an amazing hike and place to view the sunrise. There are many active tours here including shooting ranges, and rock climbing.
Queensferry, Scotland (British Isles & Coastal) This Scottish town is divided by a channel that runs right down the middle. Enjoy a boat tour through the channel! On land there are tours of Dundas Castle and Inchcolm Abbey to bring you back to the medieval days. In the historical spirit, you can listen to bagpipes and sample whiskey! Plus the world heritage site of Edinburgh is just a day’s drive away.
Reykjavik, Iceland (British Isles & Coastal) This is a capital for nature lovers by day and hip partiers by night. There are many day trips tours including ATV tours to the Langjokull Glacier, Barnafoss Waterfalls, and Deildartunguhver Hot Springs! For something a little different, go on a haunted Reykjavik guided walking tour!
Riga, Latvia (Baltic/Russia) This grand city boasts a UNESCO world heritage site, the colorful old town, an ethnographic open-air museum, multiple art nouveau museums, and even an International museum of Vodka!
Rostock, Germany (Baltic/Russia)- Along with Warnemunde, Kiel, and Hamburg- this is a convenient departure port for US military families stationed in Germany. Plus this is a seaside resort town, so it’s really pleasant for your overnight stay the night before you cruise!
Rosyth, Scotland (British Isles & Coastal) Rosyth is just a hop, skip, and a jump away from Edinburgh! Edinburgh is a prime destination for cruisers due to its historical castles, bustling arts scene, and beautiful green hills. You can even take a tour based on the famous novel, The Da Vinci Code!
Rotterdam, Netherlands (Baltic/Russia, British Isles & Coastal, Scandinavia & Fjords)- Rotterdam was reborn like a phoenix after mass destruction during World War II. Since then the canaled city has become ultra-modern with fantastic, sleek, architecture at every turn. Visit the Modern market hall of Markthal Rotterdam. Marvel at the craftsmanship of Dutch Porcelain, or the natural beauty of the Keukenhof Tulips. In town for a little longer? Head onwards to the famous city of Amsterdam with its windmills, clogs, and red light district.
Runavik (Faroe Islands, Denmark)- The Faroe Islands are a natural paradise, isolated in the Atlantic, to the east of Iceland. Enjoy nature with drives through rocky peninsula as you spot seabirds! For more adventure, zoom away on a “RIB” (rigid inflatable boat) safari boat.
Saint Helier, England (British Isles & Coastal) Saint Helier’s island location between England and France has contributed to its unique history under both French and British control. During WWII it was even occupied by Germans! Discovery Channel recommends a visit to the Mont Orgueil Castle which is incredibly well preserved, especially considering the numerous conquests of Saint Helier.
St. Petersburg, Russia (Baltic/Russia) Saint Petersburg’s iconic architecture on the Winter Palace, Peterhof Palace and Gardens, and Kazan Cathedral are sure to warm even the coldest of winter hearts. For a fascinating and gory history lesson and beautiful mosaics head to the Church of the Savior, or Spilled Blood Cathedral. St. Isaac’s Cathedral is so beautiful that it is compared to the one in the Vatican. Go on a sightseeing tour to catch all of these highlights, or head a little outside to a Matryoshka doll workshop, or to the Faberge Museum (the makers of those delicate eggs) for something really special!
Saint Peter Port, England (British Isles & Coastal)- Along with Saint Helier, this port on the isle of Guernsey, is located square between England and France. This makes a popular spot for both British and French vacationers. Visit the sparkly, Little Chapel, as part of best of Saint Peter tour, tour by bicycle, or go underground to learn more about WWII at the Occupation Museum.
Scrabster, Scotland (British Isles & Coastal) The Castle of Mey is such a well kept castle that the late Queen mother used to use it as her summer home. Come check it out to feel like a princess, or queen, yourself! If you wish to reject your crown, you can instead hike to Hoborn Head lighthouse, or learn more about the herring fishing past of the port.
Seydisfjordur, Iceland (British Isles & Coastal) This port in a fjord in Eastern Iceland is considered the land of the fairies! However, if you desire mythical-level wonder without the myth, hike to Hengifoss to gape at a 394 ft plunging waterfall.
Skagen, Denmark (Baltic/Russia)- The yellow-painted town of Skagen is a true Denmark city, with bicycles for rent, pastries for consuming, and fish available to eat right off the boat! Royal Caribbean offers a tasting tour, but there is plenty to taste even if you tour on your own!
Skjolden, Norway (Scandinavia & Fjords) This port on the Sognefjord is surrounded by mountains and waterfalls. This port is awash of colors with the blue ice, green Lusterfjord, and bright white low hanging clouds. See it all on a nature tour like this one.
Sognefjord, Norway (Scandinavia & Fjords) This fjord is known for being the longest traversable one in Norway. Cruises with this port listed in their itinerary will come to a stop in beautiful Skjolden.
Stavanger, Norway (Scandinavia & Fjords) This bustling port first was a fishing town, and then an oil boon! However, even with its recent successes Stavanger has maintained its classic look with colorful buildings, and cobblestone streets. Take a walking tour through town, or learn more about the local industries at the Iron Age Farm & Petroleum Museum.
Stockholm, Sweden (Baltic/Russia)- Stockholm boasts two UNESCO sites: The Royal Palace Drottningholm, and the Woodland Cemetery. Travel back in time on maintained cobblestone streets and or cruising under gorgeous bridges in this city on a delta. Learn about old ships up close at the VASA museum, and Nobel prize winners at the Nobel museum. Or if you’re more interested in recent culture and history head to the ABBA museum!
Southampton, England (Baltic/Russia, British Isles & Coastal) Southampton is a charming port, where you can begin and end your cruise. Bike on a tour to visit the “God’s House Tower,” which currently holds the Museum of Archeology and the ornate carvings of the Bargate, gate. Take a visit to nearby London, or Stonehenge.
Svartisen glacier, Norway (Scandinavia & Fjords) This is Norway’s second largest Glacier, and it is stunning. Some Norwegian Cruise Line sailings list this stop specifically in the itinerary so that you know that you will definitely get to visit it.
Tallinn, Estonia (Baltic/Russia)- Tallinn has beautiful architecture with medieval spires, towers, windmills, taverns, and watermills. You can explore the old town on foot, including the beautiful domed Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and the tall St. Olav’s spire (one of the tallest in the world). For both a museum and nature check out the Rocca Al Mare open air museum! For modern art check out Town Wall, or the more classic Kumu Art Museum.
Torshavn, Faroe Islands, Denmark – (British Isles & Coastal) Torshavn is the capital of the Faroe Islands. You cannot go wrong in this isolated natural paradise. As described on the Norwgian Cruise line website this port, “features a panoply of Nordic landscapes, with fjords, straits, deep green valleys, and a wonderful harbor dotted with colorful boats.” Visit the Island of Vagar, or the Vestmanna Seacliffs.
Travemunde, Germany (Baltic/Russia) Travemunde is a convenient entryway to the famous gothic city of Lubeck. Lubeck houses an old fortification wall, cobblestone streets and prominent gothic architecture. Whether you visit a brewery here, the old lighthouse of Travemunde, or sample the Schwerin castle and candy marzipan, you are sure to appreciate this blast from the past.
Tromso, Norway (Scandinavia & Fjords) This is a major hub above the Arctic Circle and a fantastic viewing spot for the Northern Lights. There is a Husky wilderness camp that you can visit to see huskies preparing for dogsled races. There is a Polar Museum highlighting Arctic explorers. Tromso itself is even worth the view with its beautiful wooden houses and stained glass cathedral.
Trondheim/Trondheimsfjord, Norway (Scandinavia & Fjords) This year-round ice-free fjord was once the home to Viking king Olav! Now it’s convenient for snowman Olav with a popular ski-resort! To learn more about local history be sure to visit the Open-Air folk museum with living rooftops, and gothic-style Nidaros Cathedral.
Ullapool, Scotland (British Isles & Coastal) Beautiful mountains give way to memorable valleys. I recommend Corrieshalloch Gorge, Knockan Crag, and the Bone Caves for jaw-dropping hikes.
Ulvik, Norway (Scandinavia & Fjords) Ulvik is the inner port of the same Fjord that houses nearby Bergen. Sample the catch of the day in this port city, and hike the fantastic mountains that stretch across the skyline.
Visby, Sweden (Baltic/Russia) Visby is an island that is so medieval that it hosts a medieval week each year in August! It maintains cobblestone streets, and an impressive, 13th century, stone, security wall.
Vlissingen, (Scandinavia & Fjords) Netherlands This harbor has a special place in history as one of the main harbors for the Dutch East India Company! Whether you want to relax on this historical beach, learn about the maritime trade at the museum, or visit a 16th century prison tower- this port is for you!
Warnemunde, Germany (Baltic/Russia, Scandinavia & Fjords) This beachfront town hosts strong winds prime for kite-flying. Play in the waves, fly your kite, and look out from the lighthouse for a great view. Warnemunde is a delightful and convenient entrance to northern cruises for military families stationed in Germany!
Waterford, Ireland (British Isles & Coastal) If this name sounds familiar to you then you are a connoisseur of fine things. This is the home of the famed, hand-cut, “Waterford Crystal” and there are tours of the factory! Kilkenny castle is available for history-buffs, and there is a seaweed cooking demo for nature lovers!
Zeebrugge, Belgium (Baltic/Russia, British Isles & Coastal)This is the spot for a boat ride! Head to Bruges for a Canal cruise of Medieval architecture, beer tasting, or chocolate making demonstrations of the famous Belgian chocolates. Or head farther inland to Brussels!
Map of Baltic/Russian Cruise ports
Map of British Isles Cruise ports
Map of Scandinavian/Fjords cruise ports
