Baltic Cruise

[TheSkipper]

Hi Gang,

Would like to hear suggestions concerning the selection of a cruiseline or ship for a Baltic Cruise.

Have you had any experiences, good or bad in this area??

I know most of the Major cruiseline go to this area, but do not know anyone who has actually cruised here.

Any comments, suggestions, etc. will be most welcome.

[JohnG]

I have a group of 16 from Panama and California sailing roundtrip from Copenhagen on the HAL Amsterdam, and they have been to the area before.

Examine the time the line allows inport for the visit to St Petersburg...the more the better. Travelers to St Petersburg do not need a Russian visa if the use the ship excursions. It they do a private tour, they must obtain a Russian visa, which requires a letter of invitation from a company in Russia. Agencies like Red October can do that.

To obtain better airfare, ensure the sailing you chose is a roundtrip to the same port. Flying into and out of two different ports, required by some cruiseline Baltic itineraries, costs more.

[TheSkipper]

Good tips, John. The norm seems to be two days in St. Petersburg, however, I did see one with three days from Oceana. Will need to check reviews on that cruiseline, as I've not sailed with them yet.

Thanks for the help.

[JohnG]

My next one is on Oceania Nautica in August, 10 day Barcelona to Athens. My customers rave about the level of service...400 staff to 684 passengers.