Popular with the locals, still a real insider tip with us: marvel at the colours of Scandinavia’s Indian summer in the forests of Lapland. “Ruska” refers to the short, colourful phase of the Nordic autumn, and the HANSEATIC nature takes you exclusively to this natural spectacle in the northern extension of the Baltic Sea. The many open deck areas already offer you the best views during the daytime passage through the Kiel Canal.

See more, experience more: after cruising in the Stockholm Archipelago, September bathes the capital of Sweden in golden light, including Drottningholm Palace*. On a photo safari through Gamla Stan*, you will explore the charming metropolis on paths that only true Stockholmers know.

Set course for the special magic of Nordic landscapes on an expedition day in Sweden’s High Coast. When cruising and with the Zodiacs, you will flexibly discover this geologically interesting UNESCO World Heritage Site comprising archipelagos, cliffs and forests. Idyllic Harnosand, your starting point for a wide range of activities, is also found in this region. Enjoy a hike in the Skuleskogen National Park* or explore pure wilderness on an excursion to Skuleberget*, the scenic “mountain of robbers and flowers”. Alternatively, the Vastana waterfall and the home of Swedish gin* tell exciting stories about the power and taste of nature. The following, equally seldom visited destinations are also influenced by ruska: yellow birch trees and green larches alternate in the hinterland with blueberries and purple heaths.

On an expedition day in the Kvarken Archipelago, you will cruise through a paradise of more than 5,000 islands in the Swedish part of the archipelago – the Zodiacs might also be used, depending on the local conditions.

At the northern end of Bothnian Bay, great moments of adventure await you from Lulea: visit Storfosen, the largest rapids in Scandinavia*, or discover the culture and traditions of the Sami*. Autumn is also berry season: picked by yourself, Swedish berries will sweeten every outdoor activity – go ahead and try them. Enjoy getting really active on a fat bike tour* or a kayak tour*. The HANSEATIC nature will moor here overnight.

On the following expedition day in the northern Bothnian Bay, the spirit of adventure will hang in the air as your small ship cruises through the clear waters. Let yourself be surprised at which island the Zodiacs will be lowered into the water so you can set off ashore.

Colourful trees, quiet lakes and rushing rivers – in Finnish Lapland, Kemi is your starting point for activities in an autumnal landscape. Rovaniemi*, the home of Santa Claus, is worth a visit 365 days a year. Learn more about the life and culture as well as the flora and fauna of Lapland in the centre of knowledge. Alternatively, take a hike* through the radiant red-and-orange forests.

In Oulu, Finland, you can look forward to the intense autumnal colours of ruska – whether while Nordic Walking* or exploring Rokua National Park*. Autumn is also a good time of year for birdwatching in Liminka Bay*. The wetlands serve as a stopover for migratory birds such as peregrine falcon, ruff and merlin.

Vaasa is one of the most beautiful cities on the coast of Finland. On a hike in the Kvarken Archipelago*, you will now also explore the Finnish part of the archipelago. Alternatively, you can enjoy a truly authentic hot-and-cold Finnish sauna experience*.

A group of around 6,500 widely scattered islands – and you on a flexible course in the midst of them on an expedition day in the Aland Islands. Only 60 of these islands are inhabited, and the only town is Mariehamn. Embark on a hike or explore the archipelago in a Zodiac.

A final image that would have inspired even Caspar David Friedrich presents itself to you when cruising off the famous chalk cliffs of the island of Mon. In good weather, the cliffs glow majestically in the warm autumn sun, while the clear Baltic Sea air refreshes your senses on deck.