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baltic cities & coastal charms | a voyage around the baltic sea

24th Aug 2026 | 9 nights | Explora Journeys | Explora III

Luxury, modern & all-inclusive cruising
This package can be tailored to suit you
Financially protected by the ATOL scheme
Tallinn
Stockholm
Riga
Visby
Ronne, Bornholm Island
  • Suite
    from £6,599 pp
Luxury, modern & all-inclusive cruising
This package can be tailored to suit you
Financially protected by the ATOL scheme

All-inclusive luxury in Baltic waters (save up to £725pp)

Why do we love this cruise holiday? This Baltic voyage from Copenhagen takes in a series of charming cities and historic towns, each with its own character to explore. Starting and finishing in the Danish capital, it threads together cobbled streets, lively waterfronts and hidden corners, from Tallinn’s old town to Stockholm’s islands and Riga’s Art Nouveau façades. Explora III feels well suited to this kind of route, with plenty of space to relax between ports and thoughtful touches that make time at sea feel easy rather than simply a gap between visits ashore. For guests who enjoy discovering a region’s character through its streets, cafés and waterfronts, this itinerary brings a nice balance of scenic variety and quietly engaging destinations.

What's included?

  • Return flights with a generous checked baggage allowance
  • 1-night 5* hotel stay in Copenhagen
  • 8-night all-inclusive cruise
    • Unlimited fine beverages
    • 9 Culinary Experiences
    • In-Suite Dining
    • All on-board gratuities
    • Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi
    • Shuttle services from port to city centre
    • Bottle of wine and spirit of the guests’ choice upon arrival
  • Financially protected by the ATOL scheme

What's included with the cruise

  • In-suite welcome bottle of champagne and sweet treats
  • Bottle of wine and spirit of the guests’ choice upon arrival
  • Unlimited fine beverages
  • 9 Culinary Experiences
  • In-Suite Dining
  • Thermal Spa Access
  • Wellbeing and fitness programmes
  • All on-board gratuities
  • Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi
  • Shuttle services from port to city centre
  • Authentic, cultured, intuitive service

Cruise Circle Collection packages adhere to our 7 point charter:

  • Up-front, honest pricing
  • No hidden fees
  • No booking fees. Ever.
  • A personal service
  • Educational trips and ship visits
  • Good quality accommodation
  • No unreasonable flight times
Learn more about our charter
Day
Date
 
Arrival
Departure
 
1
24th Aug 2026 Monday
Flight from the UK to Copenhagen, Denmark
 
 
Copenhagen, Denmark
 
 
Flight from the UK to Copenhagen, Denmark
Flights

You'll start your Baltic culturally rich exploration with a flight today.

Copenhagen, Denmark
Hotel

Check into your centrally located 5* hotel for the night.

2
25th Aug 2026 Tuesday
Copenhagen
 
17:00
Copenhagen
Cruise
Copenhagen
According to a recent World Happiness Report, the Danes are the happiest people in the world. Whether it's the high wages and low unemployment rate or something magical in Copenhagen's salty sea air, a cruising visitor will feel the positive vibe -- and no doubt bring a little extra "happy" back to the ship. Sitting on the east coast of Denmark, Copenhagen has been the country's capital for 600 years, and it's the largest city in Scandinavia, with a population of 1.9 million people. It's home to the world's oldest monarchy (King Erik VII set up permanent residence in 1417), and its present Queen, Margrethe II, currently lives at Amalienborg Palace. A country rich in Viking history, grand castles and lush green countryside, Copenhagen is a charming city of 17th- and 18th-century buildings, beautiful parks and gardens, pretty promenades along canals, and ancient winding streets made for walking and biking. During the longer days and warmer weather of summer, outdoor cafe lounging and outings to magical Tivoli Gardens are highlights. To many, Copenhagen is synonymous with Hans Christian Andersen. Born in 1805, he's the author of such beloved fairy tales as "The Little Mermaid" and "The Princess and The Pea." Andersen's childhood home (now a museum) is located in Odense, about a 1.5-hour drive away, reachable by train. Getting your bearings in old Copenhagen is easy; it's a warren of pedestrian streets, bound by Norreport Station, Town Hall Square and the Central Train Station. Stroget, which is an amalgamation of five streets -- Frederiksgerggade, Nygade, Vimmelskaftet, Amagertorv and Ostergade -- runs practically smack-dab through the centre of the city between Radhuspladsen and Kongens Nytorv. Pistolstraede is chock-a-block with galleries, restaurants and boutiques; Fiolstraede offers old bookstores; Straedet (parallel to Stroget) is lined with antiques stores; and Nyhavn is a popular restaurant zone. It's a pricey city, but a visit there is worth the splurge. You might want to consider getting the Copenhagen Card, which offers unlimited free access by bus and rail throughout the metropolitan area for 24 hours (multiple-day cards also available), as well as complimentary admission to more than 70 attractions and museums. Up to two children younger than 10 are allowed free with each adult card.
3
26th Aug 2026 Wednesday
At Sea
 
 
4
27th Aug 2026 Thursday
Tallinn
09:00
16:00
Tallinn
Cruise
Tallinn
Estonia's capital city is only 53 miles across the Gulf of Finland from Helsinki, but for nearly 50 years, as part of the Soviet Union, it was ideologically a world away. That ended in 1991 when the Soviet Union collapsed and Estonia became the Baltic's smallest independent nation.

Today, thanks to its strategic position on the Gulf, Estonia's largest city is thriving. Tallinn, with a population of 451,000, is not only a major port but also a major industrial centre. Timber, chemicals, electronics and information technology are all booming industries. Voice-over-Internet calling service Skype, of all things, was developed in Estonia. One of its creators: Jaan Tallinn.

The contemporary city of Tallinn is Scandinavian sleek mixed with Soviet-era concrete. But the attraction for cruise passengers is the remarkably restored, medieval Old Town, which despite a plethora of shops catering to locals and tourists, still feels a part of the 1400's because of the cobblestone streets and medieval architecture that has remained largely unchanged for over 600 years. Walk the winding streets, past ancient towers and the old city wall, and you'll feel like you're taking a step back into a medieval storybook. It is no wonder that the old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Tallinn is artsy and a delightful place to hang out and people-watch from one of the sidewalk cafes. The folks there are no longer restrained, and amid the fairy tale surroundings there is an "anything goes" ambience. The shops, especially the galleries and antiques venues, serve up interesting finds, such as elaborate weavings from textile artists and modern art from local painters; antique shops feature Communist memorabilia (Lenin paperweight, anyone?).
5
28th Aug 2026 Friday
Stockholm
09:00
 
Stockholm
Cruise
Stockholm
Named in this century as both Europe's Cultural Capital and also the continent's first Green Capital, Stockholm is the largest city in Scandinavia, with about 1.8 million residents in the metropolitan area -- about one-fifth of Sweden's total population. The city, founded in 1252, comprises 14 islands, and is a popular port of call and turnaround port on Northern Europe cruises.

Stockholm's premier tourist attraction is Gamla Stan (literally, Old Town), one of the largest neighbourhoods of 16th-century buildings in Europe. Block after block of these four- and five-story structures are painted in vivid colours typical of Mediterranean villages and occasionally feature wrought-iron signs symbolizing ancient craftworkers' guilds or faces of religious figures. Cobblestone streets and arms-width alleys criss-cross Gamla Stan. There, you'll also find the 18th-century Royal Palace atop the crown of the hill upon which Gamla Stan is located. (Sweden is a constitutional monarchy and has a one-house parliament).

Boulevards defining Stockholm's busy waterfront are also lined with photogenic architecture -- turrets, spires, stucco patterns -- mostly dating from before the turn of the 20th century. Elsewhere downtown, glass-and-steel retail centres and office buildings have replaced such older buildings. But the divergent styles tend to be clustered and don't compete with each other for the viewer's eye.

Offsetting the city's bustle and buildings are large swatches of green space. The Ekoparken, or eco-park, curves for six miles through a couple of the busiest islands and along one side of the downtown business district.

A word to the pennywise: Stockholm is expensive. Especially if you're spending time there pre-or post-cruise, a best-bet is the Stockholm Card, which provides automatic admission to about 80 museums and attractions, plus passage on buses, trams, subways and some ferries. Presuming you are in the city long enough to use it for some of the museums, it's easily worth the $65-$70 (about £50) charge for a one-day card. Buy it online before leaving home.
6
29th Aug 2026 Saturday
Stockholm
 
13:00
Stockholm
Cruise
Stockholm
Named in this century as both Europe's Cultural Capital and also the continent's first Green Capital, Stockholm is the largest city in Scandinavia, with about 1.8 million residents in the metropolitan area -- about one-fifth of Sweden's total population. The city, founded in 1252, comprises 14 islands, and is a popular port of call and turnaround port on Northern Europe cruises.

Stockholm's premier tourist attraction is Gamla Stan (literally, Old Town), one of the largest neighbourhoods of 16th-century buildings in Europe. Block after block of these four- and five-story structures are painted in vivid colours typical of Mediterranean villages and occasionally feature wrought-iron signs symbolizing ancient craftworkers' guilds or faces of religious figures. Cobblestone streets and arms-width alleys criss-cross Gamla Stan. There, you'll also find the 18th-century Royal Palace atop the crown of the hill upon which Gamla Stan is located. (Sweden is a constitutional monarchy and has a one-house parliament).

Boulevards defining Stockholm's busy waterfront are also lined with photogenic architecture -- turrets, spires, stucco patterns -- mostly dating from before the turn of the 20th century. Elsewhere downtown, glass-and-steel retail centres and office buildings have replaced such older buildings. But the divergent styles tend to be clustered and don't compete with each other for the viewer's eye.

Offsetting the city's bustle and buildings are large swatches of green space. The Ekoparken, or eco-park, curves for six miles through a couple of the busiest islands and along one side of the downtown business district.

A word to the pennywise: Stockholm is expensive. Especially if you're spending time there pre-or post-cruise, a best-bet is the Stockholm Card, which provides automatic admission to about 80 museums and attractions, plus passage on buses, trams, subways and some ferries. Presuming you are in the city long enough to use it for some of the museums, it's easily worth the $65-$70 (about £50) charge for a one-day card. Buy it online before leaving home.
7
30th Aug 2026 Sunday
Riga
09:00
18:00
Riga
Cruise
Riga
Riga, founded in 1201, is the geographical center of the Baltic States and arguably one of Northern Europe's best kept secrets ... tourism is just now beginning to boom in what's quickly becoming one of Europe's top cultural capitals.

The city of 800,000 on the Daugava River is the capital of Latvia, a country finding its place in a new world after being occupied for 50 years (1941 to 1991), first by the Nazis and then by the Soviet Union. Today, visitors will see a city in transition: women embracing fashion trends, men following the latest news on American sports teams, and a Caribbean-themed bar serving mean mojitos (while patrons stare at a portrait of Fidel Castro). School kids are learning English as a second language instead of Russian.

Today, Riga is a happening place boasting big-city attractions for visitors. Opera, music and ballet flourish (even during Soviet times, Riga was known for its arts offerings). The city has museums that house displays on everything from art and textiles to fire-fighting and the history of medicine. Old Riga, the historic center of the city, has been recognized by UNESCO, and the city's Art Nouveau architecture is among the finest in Europe.

Nightlife is active, with hopping bars and dance clubs open until 6 a.m. on weekends. A large number of restaurants serve up an impressive diversity of international options (Russian, Armenian, Tibetan, Tex-Mex). There are shopping malls and hotels springing up, and new cars clog the streets.

But perhaps most intriguing is how the city still feels like a bridge between the Old Soviet and modern Europe -- our advice is to get here now before things rapidly change.
8
31st Aug 2026 Monday
Visby
08:00
18:00
Visby
Cruise
Visby
To be honest, there's not a great deal to do in Visby. But then, that's kind of the point of the place.

Visby is the capital of Gotland, Sweden's beautiful 'holiday island', famous for its soft sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs, distinctive grey-fleeced sheep and wild orchids (more than 35 varieties of them, at the last count).

It also has a fascinating history, having been inhabited for more than 7,000 years and invaded by 13th Century Germans (who left behind some spectacular medieval churches) and then by Danes, only reverting to Swedish rule in the mid 17th Century.

Visby itself, which lies on Gotland's northwest coast, is the jewel of the island and testament to its rich history -- a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Sweden's best-preserved medieval cities (complete with ancient walls).

It has the feel of a real seaside resort and is a truly delightful place to spend a few hours in, boasting some spectacular church ruins, very pretty Botanical Gardens, a few historic houses and an interesting museum -- as well as a sparkling seafront, some excellent craft shops and good cafés and restaurants.

Come here with a go-getting rubbernecking agenda and you might be disappointed that there's not more to it. On the other hand, if you view a day here as a chance to kick back, mosey around and smell the roses (which proliferate -- thanks to its clement climate -- until very late autumn) and you'll have a truly lovely time and experience the laid-back Swedish lifestyle at its best.

9
1st Sep 2026 Tuesday
Ronne, Bornholm Island
09:00
20:00
Ronne, Bornholm Island
Cruise
Ronne, Bornholm Island
Bornholm Island lies in the Baltic Sea near to Sweden, where powder-white beaches in the south and heather-covered hills and cliffs in the north frame picturesque fishing villages, 12th century round churches - and, at Hammershus Slot, the ruins of Scandinavia's largest medieval castle. 
10
2nd Sep 2026 Wednesday
Copenhagen
08:00
 
Flight from Copenhagen, Denmark to the UK
 
 
Copenhagen
Cruise
Copenhagen
According to a recent World Happiness Report, the Danes are the happiest people in the world. Whether it's the high wages and low unemployment rate or something magical in Copenhagen's salty sea air, a cruising visitor will feel the positive vibe -- and no doubt bring a little extra "happy" back to the ship. Sitting on the east coast of Denmark, Copenhagen has been the country's capital for 600 years, and it's the largest city in Scandinavia, with a population of 1.9 million people. It's home to the world's oldest monarchy (King Erik VII set up permanent residence in 1417), and its present Queen, Margrethe II, currently lives at Amalienborg Palace. A country rich in Viking history, grand castles and lush green countryside, Copenhagen is a charming city of 17th- and 18th-century buildings, beautiful parks and gardens, pretty promenades along canals, and ancient winding streets made for walking and biking. During the longer days and warmer weather of summer, outdoor cafe lounging and outings to magical Tivoli Gardens are highlights. To many, Copenhagen is synonymous with Hans Christian Andersen. Born in 1805, he's the author of such beloved fairy tales as "The Little Mermaid" and "The Princess and The Pea." Andersen's childhood home (now a museum) is located in Odense, about a 1.5-hour drive away, reachable by train. Getting your bearings in old Copenhagen is easy; it's a warren of pedestrian streets, bound by Norreport Station, Town Hall Square and the Central Train Station. Stroget, which is an amalgamation of five streets -- Frederiksgerggade, Nygade, Vimmelskaftet, Amagertorv and Ostergade -- runs practically smack-dab through the centre of the city between Radhuspladsen and Kongens Nytorv. Pistolstraede is chock-a-block with galleries, restaurants and boutiques; Fiolstraede offers old bookstores; Straedet (parallel to Stroget) is lined with antiques stores; and Nyhavn is a popular restaurant zone. It's a pricey city, but a visit there is worth the splurge. You might want to consider getting the Copenhagen Card, which offers unlimited free access by bus and rail throughout the metropolitan area for 24 hours (multiple-day cards also available), as well as complimentary admission to more than 70 attractions and museums. Up to two children younger than 10 are allowed free with each adult card.
Flight from Copenhagen, Denmark to the UK
Flights

Your holiday draws to an end today with a flight back to the UK.

Overview Activities Dining Cabins Decks

Explora III, the third ship in the Explora Journeys fleet, is set to launch in summer 2026, offering a refined and spacious cruising experience reminiscent of a private yacht. With 463 ocean-front suites, a guest-to-host ratio of 1.25:1, and a design focused on comfort and elegance, the ship promises a luxurious home-away-from-home at sea. Guests can enjoy five heated pools, 12 bars and lounges, and six distinct restaurants, all thoughtfully curated to provide an atmosphere of effortless sophistication.

Explora III offers a variety of activities designed to enrich and entertain guests throughout their journey. The ship features five heated pools, providing ample space for relaxation and leisure. Guests can also explore curated shopping experiences, including luxury boutiques, and participate in wellness programmes that focus on holistic health and rejuvenation. The ship's design encourages a seamless connection with the sea, allowing guests to engage in both active pursuits and tranquil moments.

Culinary excellence is a cornerstone of the Explora III experience, with six restaurants offering a diverse range of global cuisines. Dining venues such as the Marble & Co. Grill and the Asian-fusion Sakura provide guests with a variety of flavours and atmospheres. The ship's wine programme is particularly noteworthy, featuring a selection of hard-to-source wines and older vintages, curated by experts to complement the dining experience. Guests can also participate in wine classes led by professionals, enhancing their appreciation of fine wines.

Accommodation aboard Explora III is designed with comfort and elegance in mind. The Ocean Terrace Suites, among the largest entry-level suites in the industry, feature floor-to-ceiling windows and private sun terraces with dining areas and daybeds, allowing guests to feel closer to the ocean. Each suite includes a lounge area, a walk-in wardrobe with a seated vanity, and a bathroom with a walk-in shower and heated floors. Additional amenities such as a replenished minibar, espresso machine, and a complimentary selection of teas and coffees ensure a luxurious stay.

Deck 14
Deck 12
Deck 11
Deck 10
Deck 9
Deck 8
Deck 7
Deck 6
Deck 5
Deck 4
Deck 3

Best for...

Explora Journeys is best for luxury travellers seeking bespoke experiences, pampering, and exploration aboard intimate ships.

Not the best for...

Explora Journeys may not suit budget-conscious travellers seeking economical options. It's tailored for luxury voyagers desiring premium experiences. Those preferring off-the-beaten-path exploration or minimalistic travel may find its offerings excessive.

Who goes on Explora Journeys cruise ships?

Explora Journeys cruise ships attract discerning travellers seeking luxury experiences intertwined with cultural immersion. Their clientele typically comprises affluent individuals with a penchant for exploration, aged between 30 to 60, who appreciate fine dining, curated excursions, and personalised service. These voyagers value authenticity, preferring intimate settings over mass tourism, and are often well-travelled, seeking unique destinations and meaningful connections with local communities. Explora Journeys caters to those who crave adventure, comfort, and the opportunity to create lasting memories in elegant surroundings, making it a choice for those who seek refinement and discovery on the high seas.

Do I have to dress up on a Explora Journeys cruise?

On an Explora Journeys cruise, there's no formal dress code. While smart casual attire is recommended for dining and public areas, there's no strict requirement for formal wear. Feel comfortable in elegant yet relaxed clothing, suitable for both onboard activities and exploring destinations. Enjoy the freedom to express your style while maintaining a respectful atmosphere onboard.

Is everything included on Explora Journeys cruises?

Explora Journeys cruises offer a nearly all-inclusive experience, covering accommodation, dining, beverages, gratuities, and select shore excursions. However, some premium experiences, such as certain shore excursions, spa treatments, and exclusive dining options, may incur additional charges.

What are Explora Journeys's most popular activities?

Explora Journeys, renowned for bespoke travel experiences, offers a plethora of captivating activities. Their most sought-after include immersive cultural excursions, where guests engage with local customs and traditions. Nature enthusiasts relish in guided hikes through breathtaking landscapes, discovering hidden gems and wildlife encounters. Culinary delights await with exclusive cooking classes, showcasing regional cuisines. Relaxation is paramount with luxurious spa treatments and wellness retreats, rejuvenating both body and mind. For the adventurous, thrilling water sports and adrenaline-fueled activities provide exhilarating experiences. With meticulous attention to detail, Explora Journeys ensures unforgettable adventures tailored to every traveller's desires.

Prices based on:

Ocean Terrace Suite
Ocean Terrace Suite

Our Ocean Terrace Suites are amongst the largest entry-level suites in the industry. Each one has floor-to-ceiling windows, and a private sun terrace featuring a dining table and a daybed, allowing guests to feel closer to the ocean as it carries them on their journey.

All Ocean Terrace Suites include elegant lounge areas, private refrigerated mini bar – replenished according to the guests’ preferences, espresso machine, kettle and tea pot with a complimentary selection of coffee and teas, and feature spacious walk-in wardrobes with a seated vanity area.

Features

  • Oversized floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the sea
  • Lounge area with coffee/dining table
  • In-suite welcome bottle of champagne
  • Private refrigerated minibar, replenished according to the guests’ preferences from a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
  • Espresso machine, kettle and tea pot with a complimentary selection of coffee and teas
  • Complimentary personal refillable water bottle for each guest
  • Pair of binoculars for guests’ use during their journey
  • Safe accommodating most tablets and laptops

Outdoors

  • Spacious ocean-front terrace with a dining area
  • Comfortable daybeds for relaxation

Bedroom

  • Bespoke king-sized bed sleep system - size: 180 x 200 cm (71 x 79 in)
  • Some suites feature twin beds – size: 2 x 90 x 200 cm (35 x 79 in)
  • Down duvets and pillows
  • Fine bed linens
  • Extensive pillow selection
  • Spacious walk-in wardrobe with a seated vanity area

Bathroom

  • Spacious bathroom with a walk-in shower and heated floors
  • Plush bathrobes and bath linens
  • Mandala Blue custom bath toiletries and amenities for Explora Journeys
  • Dyson SupersonicTM hairdryer and illuminated make-up/shaving mirror
  • Some suites feature bathtubs

Stats

  • Total Suite Area: 35-39 sqm (377-420 sq. ft)
  • Suite: 28 sqm (301 sq. ft)
  • Terrace: 7-11 sqm (75-118 sq. ft)
  • Maximum capacity: 2 adults and 1 child under 18 years old
*All images are a combination of photography and artist renderings.

 The artist representations and interior decorations, finishes, and furnishings are provided for illustrative purposes only.

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