* The shore activities are not included in the cruise price and are in the planning stage. Subject to change.
Individual travel arrangements to Hamburg, departure 19.00 hrs, evening cruise on the Elbe
Daytime passage through the Kiel Canal
Winter in the northern Baltic is a well-kept secret, an adventure and an expedition all rolled into one. What wondrous worlds did the Ice Age leave behind around the Gulf of Bothnia? How traditionally do the people of Lapland still live? Where is the best place to enjoy the typical Scandinavian sense of hygge? Only the HANSEATIC nature can provide the answers. Draw on the wealth of experience of the experts on board: they will provide commentary on the daytime passage through the Kiel Canal and their presentations will turn the entire route into a journey of discovery.
Relaxation at sea
Cruising through the Stockholm Archipelago
Stockholm/Sweden, from 11.00 to 19.00 hrs
24,000 islands, a unique natural heritage and the best views from the deck as you cruise through the Stockholm Archipelago. There is no trace of the hustle and bustle of the high season in winter and you will have a special opportunity to explore Stockholm at a relaxed pace, whether you choose to walk through the fabulous old town or visit the open-air museum Skansen*. Even on a winter hike in the Tyresta National Park*, the only people you are likely to encounter will be locals. Afterwards, we will head north to the Bothnian Sea.
Gulf of Bothnia (Bothnian Sea and Bothnian Bay):
Sundsvall, from 14.00 to 19.00 hrs
The spirit of adventure will hang in the clear air as you press on into the northern extension of the Baltic Sea. Situated between Sweden and Finland, the Gulf of Bothnia attracted settlers such as the ancestors of the people of Lapland as if by magic. To this day, the settlements on the banks are living proof of the people’s tradition and their relationship with nature. Sundsvall is one charming example. Marvel at the 19th century brick architecture as you explore the city at your own pace.
Relaxation at sea
Lulea, arrival 7.00 hrs
Situated at the northern end of icy Bothnian Bay, Lulea is your gateway to Swedish Lapland. From this point on, your days will be full of adventure and outdoor winter activities – depending on the weather and ice conditions – be it on a hovercraft tour* in the Lulea archipelago or riding a fat bike* over the ice and snow. Gammelstad Church Town* is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attests to the lives and beliefs of people in northern Scandinavia. Shed light on the history of this snowy church town on an atmospheric guided tour with torches. Alternatively, get in the mood for adventure near the Arctic Circle by going hiking and ice fishing* on frozen lakes. Would you like even more Nordic highlights? With a little luck, in clear weather you will be able to see the Northern Lights, observing this show of nature spellbound from the deck of the HANSEATIC nature.
Lulea, departure 19.00 hrs
Kemi/Finland, from 7.00 to 20.00 hrs
The Finnish town of Kemi is situated not far from the Arctic Circle and the sense of winter exploration is palpable everywhere, whether you go snowshoe hiking* in the snowy spruce forest or ride a dog sled pulled by huskies*. A visit to the Arktikum museum in Rovaniemi* paints an interesting picture of life in Lapland. An evening visit to the SnowCastle*, a hotel and restaurant that are rebuilt each year, is like something straight out of a fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen.
Oulu, from 7.00 to 18.00 hrs
Oulu is also popular among outdoor enthusiasts. How about an example? Then take a ride in a reindeer sleigh* and on a snowmobile* or go cross-country skiing* through Finnish Lapland.
Expedition day in Bothnian Bay (depending on the ice)
Experiences that are only possible with a small expedition ship that is suitable for polar regions like the HANSEATIC nature await you on the flexible expedition day in Bothnian Bay. Depending on the weather and ice conditions, the nature Walk and glass balconies will become your front-row seats. You might even be able to ride out in a Zodiac.
Rauma, from 8.00 to 13.00 hrs
With bobbin lace and picturesque wooden houses, Rauma is a living example of Finnish craftsmanship. You will have the place almost completely to yourself at this time of year. Wind your way through the charming old town which is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Relaxation at sea
Copenhagen/Denmark, from 8.00 to 0.00 hrs
In keeping with the contented feeling of hygge, explore the Danish capital of Copenhagen on foot with glogg and a pastry*. Use the long lay time into the evening to stroll through the charming streets on your own and pay flying visits to the Little Mermaid and Amalienborg Palace.
Relaxation at sea/Evening passage through the Kiel Canal
You will then return to Hamburg, taking plenty of happy memories back home with you.
Hamburg, arrival 8.00 hrs
Individual travel arrangements from cruise arrival point
* The shore activities are not included in the cruise price and are in the planning stage. Subject to change.
The itinerary depends on weather and the ice conditions. The natural experiences and Northern Lights sightings described are possibilities on this cruise and are not guaranteed.
The following programmes can be booked.
Please note that our pre- and post-cruise programmes are conducted in German and are charged additionally to the travel package. The prices and conditions for these programmes can be found on the German travel details page and are charged additionally to the travel package. For individual programmes kindly consult your travel agent.
The following programmes are offered in German:
Our travel concierge would be happy to put together travel arrangements tailored to your very own preferences. Whether you’re interested in boutique hotels, luxurious beach resorts, theatre-ticket reservations or restaurant recommendations in the most exciting cities, you can find exclusive tips here and by visiting www.hl-cruises.com/travel-concierge. Our travel concierge will be at your service before the cruise and when on board, of course.
