Overview
Throughout your journey, you will benefit from an excursion included per person per port of call, to choose from a selection offered by PONANT. On this cruise, you can stroll through the countryside and villages of Bornholm,enjoy a visit to Gdansk read more and fall under the spell of the music at a Chopin concert and attend an Estonian folk show in Tallinn. The diversity of experiences on offer promises you intense and varied moments (to discover the full range of excursions, go to the itinerary tab). The diversity of experiences on offer promises you intense and varied moments (to discover the full range of excursions, go to the itinerary tab).
From Fredrikstad, Northern Europe's best preserved fortified town, you will sail towards the southern part of Denmark, along the shores of the Limfjorden strait, to reach the city of Aalborg. Founded by the Vikings, it is home among other things to the archaeological remains of a circular fortress built during the same period.
Le Champlain then heads for the Danish capital, Copenhagen, before reaching Gudhjem, a charming village lying on the small Danish Island of Bornholm, much admired by Danes for its varied landscapes of granite and long sandy beaches.
Your ship will then call at Gdansk, famous for its amber stone and its shipyards. The former Hanseatic city will reveal some of its architectural treasures, in Gothic and Baroque styles, restored or rebuilt.
Le Champlain will sail to the Swedish island of Gotland and call at Visby, a site that was important for the Hanseatic League in the Baltic Sea around the 13th century. A UNESCO Heritage Site, this once-opulent city still has remarkably well-preserved ramparts, public buildings, merchant houses and warehouses.
You will then head towards Stockholm. Built on water, the Swedish capital embraces nature, which is omnipresent there. Its blend of medieval architecture, colourful houses and trendy neighbourhoods makes it a particularly enjoyable city to visit.
On Saaremaa, dive into the complex history of this island, Estonia’s largest. First invaded by the Vikings, it became Danish then Swedish before being taken by the Russian Empire and later occupied by the Germans. In 1991, it finally became Estonian when the country gained its independence.
You will also visit Tallinn, emblematic city of the Hanseatic League, the large trading network that dominated the Baltic Sea for several centuries. Listed as UNESCO Heritage Site, this once opulent city still have remarkably well-preserved public buildings, merchant houses and warehouses. Finally, you will then chart a course Helsinki. Located on a peninsula surrounded by almost 300 islands, the verdant capital of Finland will charm you with its Art Nouveau architecture.
Cruise Itinerary
Located at the head of the gorgeous Oslofjord, Norway's capital is encircled by wooded hills and snow capped peaks. Explore the striking Oslo Opera House, where you can walk on the rooftop for harbor views. The Viking Ship Museum showcases remarkably preserved ships from the Viking era, while Vigeland Park features over 200 sculptures by Gustav Vigeland. Visit the Akershus Fortress for a glimpse into medieval history, or stroll along the waterfront Aker Brygge, filled with restaurants and shops.
Fredrikstad, founded in 1567 by King Frederick II, boasts one of Northern Europe’s best-preserved fortress towns, Gamlebyen (Old Town). Stroll through cobblestone streets lined with quaint shops, galleries, and cafés, all within the ancient city walls. Discover the Fredrikstad Museum, which delves into the city's rich history or take a scenic ferry ride across the Glomma River.
Step off the ship at Aalborg’s Royal Cruise Berth and into the heart of the city, with the main square just 200m (656ft) away from where you’ll dock.
Explore Aalborg Castle, a medieval gem turned museum, wander through the Old Town and the picturesque Hjelmerstald neighbourhood, or discover Viking history at the burial site of Lindholm Hoje.
Architectural hotspots like Musikkens Hus and the Utzon Center create a modern contrast within the city and Aalborg's culinary scene invites visitors to indulge in some traditional smorrebrod at local eateries. Check out the vibrant cultural centre of Nordkraft, housing exhibitions, theatres and food vendors, all built into a 1940s power station.
Copenhagen captivates with its blend of royal history and modern Scandinavian cool. Visit the 17th-century Rosenborg Castle, home to Denmark’s crown jewels, or stroll through the picturesque Nyhavn harbor with its colorful townhouses and lively cafés.
The iconic Little Mermaid statue sits serenely by the waterfront, while Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest amusement parks, offers charming rides and lush gardens in the heart of the city. Your ship will dock at the Port of Copenhagen, which is a 30 minute drive to Copenhagen Airport and a 15 minute drive into the city centre.
Bornholm boasts a wealth of scenic beauty ranging from bucolic farms to one of Denmark's largest forests. The island also features sandy beaches, quaint fishing ports and a rugged coast crowned by the ruins of the largest medieval fortress in Northern Europe. Ships will dock at the Port of Ronne.
Top Things to Do on Bornholm:
- explore the medieval Hammershus fortress
- sample the local beer in Svaneke
- tour the Baltic Sea Glass studios
- cycle in and around the city of Ronne
- visit the islands famed round churches
Lying on the Baltic coast of Poland, the port city of Gdansk is known for its beautiful Hanseatic architecture and colourful Old Town. The city was left in ruins after World War II and has been masterfully restored. Most ships will dock in the neighbouring town of Gydnia, while some small ships will dock at the Oliwskie Pier in Gdansk.
Top Things to Do in Gdansk:
- visit the Malbork Castle and museum
- stroll along Long Street
- shop for Amber on Mariacka Street
- tour Stutthof Camp
- visit the Oliwa Cathedral
A small town on the island of Gotland, Visby was a popular trading spot during the Viking Age. Today, this pretty medieval city is Sweden's sunniest vacation destination and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Ships will dock at the Visby Cruise Quay.
Top Things to Do in Visby:
- visit the Gotlands Museum
- walk along the medieval Visby Ring Wall
- take in the view from Gallows Hill
- stroll through the Botanic Gardens
- pass through Dalmansporten's gate to explore the medieval city
Stockholm, Sweden's charming capital, spans 14 islands connected by picturesque bridges. Begin your exploration in Gamla Stan, the city's historic old town, where cobblestone streets lead to the majestic Royal Palace and the medieval Storkyrkan Cathedral.
For a dose of modern culture, visit the ABBA Museum on Djurgården Island, celebrating Sweden's iconic pop group. Nearby, the Vasa Museum showcases a remarkably preserved 17th-century warship. Stroll along the waterfront promenade of Strandvägen for stunning views and vibrant cafes. Don't miss the Stockholm City Hall, renowned for its striking architecture and the annual Nobel Prize banquet. Enjoy Swedish cuisine at a local bistro, featuring dishes like meatballs and herring.
Tallinn's fairy-tale castles, cobbled streets and warm hospitality remain one of Europe's best-kept secrets. Ancient convents, steepled churches and handsome guild houses are all preserved as they were in Tallinn’s Old Town area, which was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ships will dock at the Old City Harbour.
Top Things to Do in Tallinn:
- admire the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
- take in the city views from Toompea Hill
- visit the Open Air Museum
- stroll the gardens of Kadriorg Park
Finland's capital is a laid-back but vibrant seaside city, surrounded on three sides by sea and tiny islands. Helsinki is a city of graceful neoclassical buildings, striking modern architecture and spacious boulevards dotted with squares and parks. Ships will dock in either South Harbour or West Harbour.
Top Things to Do in Helsinki:
- take the ferry to the fortress of Suomenlinna
- visit the Kiasma Modern Art Museum
- see the rock church, Temppeliaukio
- shop at Market Square
- stroll through Sibelius Park
Life Onboard Le Champlain
You will love the onboard innovations, French gastronomy and sophisticated chic when you cruise on Le Champlain. Read more
Your ocean facing accommodation provides you a well appointed luxurious home as you explore the seas. Read more
Enjoy the views as you take a dip or swim in the resistant currents of the infinity pool. Read more
The chic innovative underwater lounge offers guests a chance to view and hear marine life. Read more
Enjoy the convivial social life in the main lounge or take in a show in the theatre. Read more
The two restaurants offer exquisite French gastronomy, both with outdoor settings and Ponant's impeccable service. Read more
Download Brochure
Ponant Winter Inspiring Voyages (2025-26)
USD Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Ponant. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and 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.
