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St. Petersburg & the Baltic Sea - Southbound

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 Trip Length
12 Days
 Trip Starts
Stockholm
 Trip Finishes
Copenhagen
12 Day St. Petersburg & the Baltic Sea - Southbound Itinerary (Tauck)
Countries Explored: Sweden, Finland, Russia, Estonia, Denmark
Trip Operator
Trip Style
Cruise
Trip Code
SBS
Cruise Line
Ponant
Ship
Ship Class
Ponant Explorers
Passengers
184
Crew
118
Launched
2018

Overview

Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on Tauck's 12 Day St. Petersburg & the Baltic Sea - Southbound. Travel through the cultural history of the Baltics, from the Vikings to the czars, aboard Le Champlain, one of Ponant's Explorer Class yachts, exploring Copenhagen, Stockholm, Helsinki, St. Petersburg and Tallinn.

Itinerary

Tour begins: 7:15 PM, Radisson Blu Waterfront or Sheraton Stockholm. Upon arrival of your flight, a transfer is included from the Arlanda Airport to the Radisson Blu Waterfront or Sheraton Stockholm in the heart of Stockholm. Meet your fellow travel companions at tonight's exclusive welcome cocktail reception and dinner at the Vasa Museum, the centerpiece of which is the world’s only preserved 17th-century warship, the Vasa, salvaged in 1961 after more than 300 years on the bottom of Stockholm Harbor! Stay Two Nights: Sheraton Stockholm (D)

Sightseeing in Stockholm today includes a look at the city's intriguing islands – Sweden’s capital sits astride 14 of them – on a cruise along its historic canals; and a guided tour of its iconic City Hall, where the annual Nobel Prize award festivities take place – including the Council Chamber, the Gold Room, and the misnamed Blue Room (the architect changed his mind and left its beautiful red-brick walls intact). If you wish, join us for a stop at the city's Royal Palace to watch the changing of the guard, or return to the hotel. The rest of the day is yours to explore more of Stockholm as you please. (B)

Your morning begins with a guided visit to Stockholm's historic Royal Swedish Opera House, opened at the turn of the 20th century, and continues on a walking tour along the cobbled streets of Stockholm's medieval Gamla Stan, or Old Town, with your local guide, revealing centuries of Swedish history and culture. This afternoon, enjoy some more Stockholm sightseeing before boarding Le Champlain for the start of your Baltic Sea cruise. Stay Seven Nights: Le Champlain (B/D)

Following your ship's arrival in seaside Helsinki, Finland, a sightseeing excursion shows you the neo-Classical Senate Square, Helsinki Cathedral, Market Square, and the Sibelius Monument dedicated to the great Finnish composer. Visit the Temppeliaukio Church, or "Church of the Rock," a modern design hewn out of solid granite. Drive by Finlandia Hall, designed by famed Finnish architect Alvar Aalto, en route back to the ship, which sets sail for Russia late this afternoon; join us for a welcome reception followed by the Captain's Gala dinner tonight. (B/L/D)

Awaken in the glorious imperial city of St. Petersburg; you have a choice of sightseeing today. Visit the Fabergé Museum, housed in Shuvalov Palace in the center of St. Petersburg. This privately owned museum features the work of the renowned Russian jeweler Carl Fabergé, and its collection includes the famous group of nine Imperial Easter Eggs created for Russia's last two czars, Alexander III and Nicolas II – along with thousands of other works of Russian decorative and fine arts.

After a local lunch with folkloric entertainment, visit the famous Church of the Spilled Blood. Alternatively, visit the imposing Peter and Paul Fortress, built in the 18th century as the core of Peter the Great’s new capital, what the czar called his "window on the west." Inside the fortress, Peter and Paul Cathedral – with its tall golden spire – contains the tombs of all the Russian czars. After lunch, head to St. Isaac Square. Alternatively, you can also choose an excursion to the seaside palace of Peterhof and its gardens. Then it's back to the ship, where an early dinner onboard precedes a memorable night at Yusupov Palace in St. Petersburg, featuring a tour and entertainment. (B/L/D)

Take a privately guided tour of The State Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg at the best time to visit today, as you view one of the largest collections of art and artifacts in the world. Displays include prehistoric cultures, classical antiquities, Western European art, and golden treasures that reflect the development of art and culture throughout the ages. After lunch and some free time this afternoon at Arts Square, return to the ship for dinner this evening. (B/L/D)

Today, you have a choice of guided tours of sights in and around St. Petersburg. You may choose to explore the seaside palace of Peterhof, with its magnificent gardens and fountains, and have lunch at a local restaurant. Often referred as the "Russian Versailles,” the vast, opulent complex of palaces and gardens that was begun in 1714 by Peter the Great – who referred to it as the Monplaisir ("my pleasure") Palace – was expanded over the next two centuries. Nearly destroyed by German forces during World War II, it has been largely restored since, and along with the St. Petersburg city center is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Alternatively, you can travel outside of city limits to Pushkin (Tsarskoye Selo) to explore Catherine Palace (a.k.a. The Summer Palace), the Rococo-style summer residence of the Romanovs, expanded by Empress Catherine the Great. You'll immediately notice the ornate blue-and-white ornamental façade; lavish interiors feature gilded wall carvings and intricate ceiling murals, and opulent touches including silk wallpaper, crystal chandeliers and marble chimneys. During lunch, enjoy traditional folkloric entertainment at a local restaurant. (B/L/D)

Your ship arrives this morning in the walled city of Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, one of Europe's best-preserved medieval cities. Drive through Tallinn’s suburbs, and join your local guide to stroll through narrow cobblestone streets and the main Market Square of Old Town; admire the 13th-century Toompea Castle, Estonia's traditional seat of power and visit St. Nicholas's Church. After lunch aboard ship, you'll have time to return to town and wander as you wish; Tauck's shuttle is available to take you from the city to the ship. Your Baltic Sea cruise heads to Denmark this evening. (B/L/D)

Your innovative small ship sets a new standard in cruising which you'll enjoy during an entire glorious day at sea en route to Copenhagen, Denmark today. As you cruise, check out all the amenities this sleek, state-of-the-art Explorer Class yacht offers... including fine cuisine in the elegant main dining room or more casual dining in the ship's buffet restaurant... cocktails and music in three stylish lounges... informative lectures and entertainment... a workout in the fitness center, and much more. (B/L/D)

Disembark your yacht in Copenhagen, Denmark, as your Baltic Sea cruise draws to a close. On a Copenhagen sightseeing tour, see the Danish Crown Jewels and other treasures at Rosenborg Slot (Palace), built in Dutch Renaissance style; Amalienborg, home to the Danish royal family; the famous statue of The Little Mermaid; and visit the colorful district of Nyhavn. The afternoon and evening are free to explore the city as you please; admission is included to Tivoli Gardens; you may want to stroll along the fashionable pedestrian area of Strøget. Stay Two Nights: Radisson Collection Royal Hotel Copenhagen (B)

Journey today to Roskilde – Denmark's religious, cultural, and political center from the Viking times through the Middle Ages – for a visit to the Vikingeskibshallen (Viking Ship Museum), featuring five ships from the 11th century that were discovered in the 1960s, and lunch in a local restaurant. Return to Copenhagen to explore on your own and, later, share memories of this most remarkable Baltic Sea cruise with your fellow guests at this evening's farewell reception and dinner. (B/L/D)

Tour ends: Copenhagen. Fly home anytime. A transfer from the Skt Petri or Radisson Collection Royal Hotel Copenhagen to Copenhagen Airport and the Copenhagen Central Station is included. You should allow a minimum of 3 hours for flight check-in at the airport. (B)

Trip Inclusions

  • Take in the sweep of history from Scandinavian and Baltic capitals to glorious St. Petersburg aboard your Explorer-Series yacht.
  • Walk down the cobblestone streets in ancient Tallinn.
  • Gaze at the treasures museums, royal summer retreats and a palatial venue for ballet and opera.
  • Enjoy a guided visit to The State Hermitage Museum.
  • A choice between a tour of the Peterhof in St. Petersburg or Catherine Palace (the Summer Palace) in Pushkin.
  • Walking tours of Helsinki and Tallinn.
  • Guided sightseeing during two-night stays at top hotels in Copenhagen and Stockholm.

  • Special onboard lectures on a variety of topics related to the Baltic region by Tauck's experienced lecturer aboard every departure
  • All gratuities to Tauck Director(s), ship staff aboard Le Champlain, and local guides
  • Tauck's private shore excursions and distinctive inclusions
  • One Tauck Director for approximately every 40 Tauck guests
  • Airport transfers upon arrival and departure as noted
  • Service charges, applicable fuel surcharges, taxes and porterage

  • 27 meals (11 Breakfasts, 7 Lunches & 9 Dinners)
  • Aboard ship – alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are available throughout the day aboard ship including house wines and spirits; premium spirits and wines are available at extra cost

  • Itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
  • Price is for land, cruise and specified internal flights. International flights not included.
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Deck Plans

DEL
Deluxe Stateroom
DS3
Deluxe Suite
Deck 3
PR4
Prestige Stateroom
DS4
Deluxe Suite
Deck 4
PR5
Prestige Stateroom
DS5
Deluxe Suite
PS5
Prestige Suite
PV5
Privilege Suite
GD5
Grand Deluxe Suite
Deck 5
PR6
Prestige Stateroom
DS6
Deluxe Suite
PS6
Prestige Suite
PV6
Privilege Suite
GD6
Grand Deluxe Suite
SA
Owner's Suite
Deck 6
Deck 7

Cabins

Balcony

Deluxe Stateroom

One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm). A bathroom with shower. A private 4 m² balcony with two armchairs. A glazed panoramic swing door and rectangular window. Services provided include 24-hour room service, inclusive Wifi internet access, individually-controlled air conditioning, dressing room with shelves and closet, dressing table and hairdryer, Dyptique Paris top-of-the-line bath products, minibar, Nespresso coffee maker, Bose Bluetooth speaker and Flat screen TV.

Balcony

Prestige Stateroom

One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm). One chaise longue. A bathroom with shower. A private 4 m² balcony with two armchairs. A panoramic sliding bay window or panoramic swing door. Services provided include 24-hour room service, inclusive Wifi internet access, individually-controlled air conditioning, dressing room with shelves and closet, dressing table and hairdryer, Dyptique Paris top-of-the-line bath products, minibar, Nespresso coffee maker, Bose Bluetooth speaker and Flat screen TV.

Suite

Deluxe Suite

One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm). An armchair and sofa (90 x 190 cm). A bathroom with shower. A private 6 m² balcony with two armchairs. A glazed panoramic swing door and panoramic window. Services provided include 24-hour room service, inclusive Wifi internet access, individually-controlled air conditioning, dressing room with shelves and closet, dressing table and hairdryer, Dyptique Paris top-of-the-line bath products, minibar, Nespresso coffee maker, Bose Bluetooth speaker and Flat screen TV.

Suite

Prestige Suite

A bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm). A lounge with convertible sofa to a king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm), armchair, second TV, and sliding courtesy door. Two bathrooms with shower. A private 8 m² balcony with four armchairs. Two panoramic sliding bay windows. Additional services provided include champagne and fruit basket upon arrival, an assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and fruit basket every day, 24-hour room service, inclusive Wifi internet access, individually-controlled air conditioning, dressing room with shelves and closet, dressing table and hairdryer, Dyptique Paris top-of-the-line bath products, minibar, Nespresso coffee maker, Bose Bluetooth speaker and Flat screen TV.

Suite

Privilege Suite

One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm). A lounge corner with chaise longue and armchair. A bathroom with shower. A private 8 m² balcony with two armchairs. A panoramic sliding bay window. Additional services provided include priority boarding, butler service, 24-hour room service, inclusive Wifi internet access, individually-controlled air conditioning, dressing room with shelves and closet, dressing table and hairdryer, Dyptique Paris top-of-the-line bath products, minibar, Nespresso coffee maker, Bose Bluetooth speaker and Flat screen TV.

Suite

Grand Deluxe Suite

A bedroom with one king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm). A lounge with sofa bed convertible to a double bed (160 x 190 cm) or a single bed (80 x 190 cm) , armchair, and second TV. A bathroom with shower and Baleno bathtub. A private 32 m² terrace with two deckchairs and four-seater dining table. Two panoramic sliding bay windows. Additional services provided include priority boarding, butler service, an assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and fruit basket every day, 24-hour room service, inclusive Wifi internet access, individually-controlled air conditioning, dressing room with shelves and closet, dressing table and hairdryer, Dyptique Paris top-of-the-line bath products, minibar, Nespresso coffee maker, Bose Bluetooth speaker and Flat screen TV.

Suite

Owner's Suite

A lounge with armchair, double sofa bed, and second TV. A bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm). A bathroom with shower, balneo bathtub and smart mirror. A private 45 m² terrace: 2 deckchairs, jacuzzi, and lounge corner with sofa and armchair. Two panoramic sliding bay windows. Additional services provided include concierge service from your reservation until you return from your trip, private return transfer, priority boarding, champagne and fruit basket upon arrival. butler service, a one-hour spa treatment per person (for 2 people) in the well-being space, chosen from the facial and body treatments on offer and premium drinks at the bar.

Prices & Dates

There are currently no departures available on this trip. Either it's the end of the season and new departures will be released shortly, or this itinerary has been changed and will no longer continue. Feel free to contact us for information about when next seasons dates will be released or click here to view the general release dates for all destinations.

Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Prices and trip information are correct at the time at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Tauck. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Tauck. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

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