The Northern Europe cruise season runs from May to September. Norwegian Fjords are best June to August, when the midnight sun illuminates fjords around the clock and temperatures are pleasantly mild. Baltic itineraries peak in June and July with long days ideal for exploring Scandinavian capitals. Shoulder months (May and September) offer fewer crowds and autumn foliage in the fjords. Winter departures (October-March) target the Northern Lights, particularly on Hurtigruten's year-round Norwegian coastal voyages.
Two distinct experiences in one region. Norwegian Fjords itineraries sail past sheer cliff walls, tumbling waterfalls, and UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord and Naeroyfjord, with ports in Bergen, Stavanger, Flam, Alesund, and Tromso. Expect scenic rail journeys on the Flamsbana, visits to stave churches, and fjord kayaking. Baltic itineraries circle the great capitals — Copenhagen, Stockholm, Helsinki, and Tallinn — with their royal palaces, design districts, and maritime museums. Ports may also include Oslo, Riga, Gdansk, and Warnemuende (gateway to Berlin). Itineraries range from 7-night fjord-focused voyages departing the UK to 12-14 night grand Baltic rounds from Southampton or Amsterdam.
Our Northern Europe & Norwegian Fjords specialists can help you find the perfect voyage — from first-time cruisers to seasoned travellers.
