- A Scandinavian cruise is one way to experience the beauty of northern Europe.cruise ship image by palms from Fotolia.com
Technically, Scandinavia consists of the countries of Denmark, Sweden and Norway. Generally, however, Iceland, Finland and sometimes Greenland are included in the term. Because all these northern European countries are bound to the water, travelers can experience the breathtaking scenery of the area on board one of the many ships that sail their seas. - Oceania Cruises offers mid-size, luxury vacations.waiting cruise ship image by Pix by Marti from Fotolia.com
Formed in 2002, Oceania Cruises offers passengers an upscale, mid-size cruise experience. Intimate public spaces and indoor lounges provide plenty of space to socialize. Fodor's applauds the cruise line's efforts to "satisfy the wants of inquisitive passengers." Ships feature walnut paneling, designer fabrics, gourmet dining throughout the day, spa and fitness facilities.
Oceania provides six different cruise itineraries in Scandinavia. From Copenhagen to Russia, Reykjavik to Estonia, summer cruise choices abound. The "Nordic Legends" cruise is 12 days from Greenwich to Copenhagen. Norwegian cities like Stavanger and old Viking ports such as Hellesylt, give visitors a glimpse into the area's history. Stops in Sweden and Scotland allow passengers time to shop, walk or sight see while returning each night to the Insignia.
Insignia, one example of Oceania's cruise ships, accommodates 684 guests in an eclectic blend of traditional and contemporary styles. Typical staterooms include 160 sq. ft. of space, a 24-hour room service menu, and either two twin beds or one queen-size bed. Deluxe ocean-view rooms are slightly bigger and provide a large window, while regular ocean-view rooms have portholes. At 216 sq. ft., the concierge-level offers guests more luxurious surroundings, cashmere lap blankets, complimentary shoulder bags and priority services such as shoeshines and luggage delivery. At nearly 1,000 sq. ft., the largest suites cater to every whim. A butler, Jacuzzi tub, large TVs, floor-to-ceiling glass doors and a wraparound, teak veranda may ensure that the traveler never leaves his room.
Oceania Cruises
800-531-5619
oceaniacruises.com - Hunger is not an option aboard a cruise.buffet image by Nath Photos from Fotolia.com
With a name like "Norwegian," of course this cruise line provides tours of Scandinavia. Offering cruises since 1966, Fodor's states, "NCL has been a cruise-industry leader for four decades and is as much at home in Europe as it is in the Caribbean."
Six northern European vacations provide travelers with ample choices to tour Scandinavia. A popular 14-day cruise covers Norway, Iceland and the Faroe Islands along with stops in Scotland and Ireland.
The 1,936-passenger Norwegian Sun services Scandinavia. Staterooms range from the economical, 145 to 147 sq. ft. inside rooms to the 828 sq. ft. owner's suite. 14 dining options offer a variety of foods to suit any palate; sushi, tapas, Pan-Asian and fine French cuisine are all available. An art gallery, fitness center, spa, track, casino, pool, kid's corner or video zone will banish any chance of boredom. Some services require paying an additional fee, but buffets, traditional dining, bars, pools, hot tubs, children's programs, comedy entertainment and sports activities are included in the cruise fare.
Norwegian Cruise Line
866-234-7350
ncl.com - Scantours will gladly customize trips to suit the traveler's taste.cruise ship leaving image by Paula Gent from Fotolia.com
Offering tours of Scandinavia since 1967, Scantours knows the area it serves. Scantours's offerings of complete, roundtrip voyages, shorter one-way voyages or partial-cruises incorporated into packages convey the company's desire to accommodate guests' wishes and offer custom itineraries.
The Norwegian Coastal Voyage covers 34 ports in 12 days. The cruise begins and ends in Bergen, the capital of West Norway. Highly-qualified guides lead shore excursions such as walking, sightseeing and small-boat tours of glaciers; all tours require an additional fee. Rates include all meals, tax and service charges, accommodations and port charges. Cabins range from inside rooms, outside cabins with or without views, mini-suites, suites of one or two rooms, grand suites that include a Jacuzzi and balcony or bay window, or the captain's suite with two rooms and private balcony.
The Norwegian Coastal Voyage Fleet consists of 11 ships that change depending on departure dates. Check dates to determine which ship is available, since not all offer the same accommodations. The Millennium ships are the newest vessels and accommodate over 650 passengers. These ships house lounges, a gym, sauna, internet cafe, outdoor pool and Jacuzzis. Six smaller, contemporary ships hold approximately 490 passengers each and vary in decor and number of available suites. Refurbished in 1995, the MS Vesteralen houses approximately 320 guests. The MS Lofoten, a traditional coastal ship, accommodates 171 passengers and offers a more intimate cruise experience. Most cabins include bunks and some have shared shower and toilet facilities.
Scantours
800-223-7226
scantours.net
Oceania Cruises
Norwegian Cruise Line
Scantours
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