Hamburg to Helsinki

The quirky and heritage-filled Hamburg is a true city of water, nestled snugly between the Baltic and North seas and intersected by a frayed network of rivers and canals, spanned by hundreds of pretty bridges. Explore the Speicherstadt, the world’s largest warehouse district and a UNESCO site, known for its neo-gothic architecture.

The nearby Elbphilharmonie concert hall is impressive with its striking design and views over the Elbe River. For a taste of local life, visit the lively Fish Market or stroll along the waterfront at Landungsbrücken, where ferries offer scenic river cruises along the canals.

Connecting the North Sea to the Baltic Sea, the Kiel Canal is one of the world’s busiest shipping routes. Slicing a man-made path through the German countryside, this 61-mile-long marvel of engineering allows vessels to avoid 250 nautical miles of sea sailing on average, ensuring a faster and safer passage through Europe.

The leisurely transit takes roughly 8 hours and you will cruise past waterfowl in the marshes, as well as cows, sheep and bike riders along the banks. You’ll witness the small freight ships and pleasure craft that share the waters of the world’s busiest man-made waterway.

Vaasa, a coastal city in western Finland, is known for its rich cultural scene and stunning natural surroundings. The city's picturesque waterfront and archipelago offer ample opportunities for boating, fishing, and exploring scenic islands. The Kvarken Archipelago, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is particularly famous for its unique geological formations and beautiful landscapes.

In the city, visitors can explore cultural attractions such as the Ostrobothnian Museum and the Vaasa Maritime Museum. The historic Market Square and nearby shops provide a glimpse into local life.

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