What wonders did the ice age leave behind around the Gulf of Bothnia? How do the Sami live today? Where can you enjoy the Scandinavian lifestyle at its most authentic? The HANSEATIC nature will give you the answers with the wealth of experience of the experts on board, who will provide a journey of knowledge with their presentations. The many open decks already offer you the best views during the daytime passage through the Kiel Canal.

You will be in the perfect frame of mind to enjoy cruising through the Stockholm Archipelago. The deck is the ideal vantage point to see 24,000 islands, a unique piece of natural heritage. There is no trace of the hustle and bustle of the high season in winter, and you’ll 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 walk in the Tyresta National Park*, the only people you are likely to encounter will be locals. Afterwards, it’s northbound.

The spirit of adventure will hang in the clear air as you press on into the icy northern extension of the Baltic Sea. Experiences that are only possible with a small expedition ship like the HANSEATIC nature, which is suitable for polar regions, await you on the flexible expedition day in the Bothnian Sea and Bothnian Bay. Depending on the weather and ice conditions, the nature Walk and the many open deck areas will become your front-row seats.

Situated at the northern end of icy Bothnian Bay, Lulea is your gateway to Swedish Lapland. Your exhilarating days here are all about adventure moments and outdoor winter activities – whether it’s a winter experience with huskies* or on a fat bike* ride across the ice and snow. You will also have the opportunity to get to know the culture and traditions of the Sami*. 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 by going winter 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.

The Finnish town of Kemi is situated not far from the Arctic Circle. You can experience for yourself how the locals get around on a snowmobile safari*, on a dog sleigh ride* or on a snowshoe hike* through deep snow-covered forests and along frozen lakes and rivers. Perhaps you would also like to try your hand at ice fishing*? Extend your knowledge about life in northern Europe in Rovaniemi* on a visit to the Arktikum museum. You will also be amazed by the SnowCastle, a hotel and restaurant that are rebuilt every year.

Oulu is considered a real paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Why not see for yourself on a reindeer sleigh ride* or with a snowmobile* – or alternatively explore Finnish Lapland while cross-country skiing*.

On the second flexible expedition day in Bothnian Bay and the Bothnian Sea, nature keeps enticing you with new views that are only possible with a small expedition ship like the HANSEATIC nature.

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 that is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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. A winter charm that will warm your explorer’s heart – just like the entire cruise.