St Petersburg and Baltic Discovery - 13 nights, June 2013

After a short transfer, arrive at Senate Square, the historical centre of Helsinki. From here, stroll past formidable buildings that make a strong impression on the Helsinki skyline, such as the Railway Station, Sanoma Building, the Finlandia Congress Hall and the Museum of Contemporary Art.

A stop will be made at a waterfront café for some light refreshments.

Continue your walk up to Toolo residential area and through Hesperia Park. Then head to The Rock Church, a unique church blasted into the solid rock. The walking part of the tour will conclude at the Rock Church, where a coach will await to return you to the ship.

Alternatively, you may choose to remain in the city for further independent exploration and shopping. If taking this option, you will be responsible for your own return to the ship.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is a total of 2½ hours of walking over mainly paved and gravel surfaces. You are advised that the Rock Church may close without prior notice. The order of sites may vary.

During the Northern War of the 18th century, Tsar Peter the Great joined Estonia with Russia. Your tour begins in Tallinn's Lower Old Town, with a view of Toompea Hill and the Town Wall dating from 1265. Pass by Estonia's oldest school to Lai Street, home of many well preserved medieval citizens' residences. Stroll along Laboratooriumi Street, one of the narrowest streets of old Tallinn to see St Olaf's Church. First mentioned in 1267, this was once one of the tallest buildings in the world. Visit the former Russian garrison church, where a powerful iconostasis given to the church by Peter the Great is on display.

An exclusive and verdant seaside district is cantered around Kadriorg Park and Palace, built by Peter the Great. The design of Kadriorg was strongly influenced by the high society of the Tzar's empire and the Palace was built in honour of Peter's empress wife, Catherine I.

On the same level as the Palace, across the flower garden, lies the Estonian President's office and, hardly noticeable, is a tiny stone house. Peter used this humble summer estate for himself even before the building of the Palace had begun and called it his 'cottage in the woods'. Now Peter's cottage is a museum exhibiting items belonging to him.

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Entrance is not included to Kadriorg Palace on this tour. You are advised that there is approximately 2½ hours' total walking, which includes cobbled paths and stairs at the various attractions. Comfortable, non-slip shoes are recommended.

See the city's focal point, Senate Square, with fine 19th century neo-classical buildings and the impressive Lutheran Cathedral of St Nicholas. Pass the Uspenski Cathedral and the North Harbour where the icebreaker fleet is stationed.

The Rock Church (Temppeliaukio), a unique creation carved out of solid rock and topped with a copper dome is a striking example of modern Finnish architecture. En route you will see the Presidential Palace, the colourful Market Square and the beautiful Kaivopuisto Park, where many of the foreign embassies are situated.

Stop to admire the massive, stainless steel Sibelius Monument dedicated to the musical vision of Jean Sibelius and situated in the beautiful Sibelius Park. View the Olympic Stadium, where the Olympic games were held in 1952 and travel past the new Opera House, Finlandia Hall, the Parliament Building, the National Museum and the Railway Station.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Should you opt to remain in the city for independent sightseeing, you will be responsible for your own return to the ship. Please note that the Rock Church may close without prior notice. The tour does involve some walking, with gravel walkways at the Sibelius Monument and steps at Senate Square. The order of sites may vary. Due to parking restrictions at The Rock Church there is a 10 minute uphill walk to the Church from the parking area.

Once onboard your four stop transfer, you will be given a map of Copenhagen, so you can plan your free time.

The first stop is by the Cathedral of Copenhagen, you’ll have time here to look inside or maybe take a stroll in the Bohemian Quarter. You might like to wander to Nytorv (New Square) and Gammeltorv (Old Square) where you will find the City Court of Copenhagen and the oldest fountain in Copenhagen - The Well of Caritas that dates back to 1608.

At Gammel Strand you may choose to wander down the famous shopping street, Stroeget or admire the fabulous architecture including Christiansborg Castle, home of the Danish Parliament, the Old Stock Exchange, the Naval Church and Thorvaldsens Museum.

The third stop is at Amalienborg Royal Palace, the home of Queen Margrethe II. Enjoy an hour of free time to view the palace from the beautiful square; visit the nearby Marble Church which boasts the fourth largest dome in Europe or head off on a short walk to Nyhavn, famous for its charming old houses and lively waterfront. No visit to Copenhagen would be complete without a visit to the Little Mermaid, for photographs.


This excursion will operate by coach. A tour assistant will be on hand to provide practical information about where and when to meet for the onward transportation. Please note that the assistant is not a tour guide. A map of Copenhagen will be provided. No entrance fees are included in the tour price.

YYour walking tour of St Petersburg uses the cities canals and elegant bridges to guide you to the Summer Garden. Located on a man-made island, the garden dates back to 1704 and were designed by Peter the Great. Take a walk through what remains to be, one of the most romantic and evocative places in St Petersburg.

St Michael’s Castle is an extraordinary red-brick structure built by a paranoid Paul I to be a safer alternative to the Winter Palace. Ironically it was only a royal residence for 41 days as the Emperor was assassinated in his own bedroom. Continue through the grounds and St Michael’s Park before arriving at the distinctive onion shaped domes of the Church on Spilled Blood. You’ll have the opportunity to go inside this former church which was built on the spot where Alexander II was assassinated.

As you continue to walk, you will find yourself in the cultural heart of the city, Arts Square. The square and its surrounding museums, theatres and concert halls were designed by Italian neo-classical architect Carlo Rossi. You’ll have some free time here for a photograph opportunity and a chance to purchase local souvenirs from a nearby gift shop before returning to your ship.



This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is approximately 2½ hours of walking on this tour over paved surfaces. Flat comfortable walking shoes are recommended. This tour will operate in all weather conditions.

The Yusupovs were one of Russia’s wealthiest families and the history of their Palace is shrouded in mystery. The family owned the Yusupov Palace for centuries and this gala evening will give you an insight into their lavish lifestyle.

Upon your arrival, you’ll tour a suite of elegant reception halls and state rooms. The State Bedroom and Ballroom are perfect examples of the interiors in a Russian aristocratic home, and the Moorish Salon with its exquisite décor and oriental charm make it one of the most extravagant rooms in the Palace.

Make your way down into the basement where your guide will bring to life the sinister events of a cold December evening in 1916. Prince Felix Yusupov and a group of noblemen plotted and carried out the assassination of Grigory Rasputin, a Siberian peasant whose influence over the Russian Tsar and his family was feared.

Enjoy a glass of Russian 'champagne' in the Preziozo Hall as you appreciate some of the family’s magnificent art collection, before making your way to the beautiful Home Theatre. Take your seats in this palatial, yet intimate theatre for an exclusive classical concert.



This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The excursion involves approximately 1½ hours’ walking, including many steps. The concert and ‘champagne’ reception are exclusive to Cunard, however the Yusupov Palace reserves the right to allow other small groups into the Palace. This tour is non refundable within seven days of the departure of your cruise.

Your journey will take you through the beautiful New Forest National Park, where you will have the chance to see the famous New Forest ponies which graze on the wild heathland, before arriving at Exbury Gardens. Created in the 1920’s, Exbury Gardens are a spectacular 200 acre site, world famous for the Rothschild collection of rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias, rare trees and shrubs. So spectacular are the gardens that the Queen of England enjoys private visits every year.

The Gardens have been specially created to reflect the changing colours of nature throughout the different seasons. During the spring the magnolias, camellias, azaleas and wisteria burst into flower, whilst the Daffodil Meadow is a carpet of glorious gold. The spectacular collection of over ten thousand rhododendron specimens is at its best with its display of beautiful colours.

During the tour there will be the opportunity to take a delightful 20 minute ride on a small narrow gauge steam railway to see parts of the Gardens not accessible on foot.

The Gardens contain a quaint tearoom, which serves a delicious English cream tea (own expense), and an extensive gift shop selling an array of gifts and souvenirs.


Guests who are embarking or disembarking the ship in Southampton should not book a shore excursion for this port.  Southampton excursions are available for guests visiting Southampton as a port call.

This excursion will operate by coach, mini steam train and on foot. There is up to three hours of walking, which is at guests' discretion. The railway and main paths of the Gardens are wheelchair accessible. There is a buggy tour available on the day for those with limited mobility (additional expense, payable direct).

Your introduction to Stockholm begins with a panoramic tour of the modern city centre and the business areas.

Cross the enchanting medieval old town, pass the Royal Palace and the Royal Dramatic Theatre, travel along Strandvägen en route to the island of Djurgården, regarded as Stockholm’s amusement and recreation centre. Not only does the island have great parks, but also museums, including the Skansen Open-Air Museum and the Vasa Museum.

The Vasa Museum is built around the incredible 17th-century warship, which sank in Stockholm’s inner harbour on her maiden voyage in 1628. Salvaged in 1961 and today restored to much or her former glory, the Vasa represents an authentic piece of living history. This remarkable ship is a sight to behold as you imagine a time when it was once the worlds largest and most prestigious warship.

This excursion will operate by coach. To derive full enjoyment, some walking is required. Approximately 1¼ hours is given to view the Vasa Museum.

St Petersburg is home to some of the most stunning architecture in Russia, yet some of it remains a mystery to many, keep your eyes peeled as your tour begins with a panoramic drive through the city.

Yelagin Palace is one of the lesser know Palaces and was the home of Maria Fydorovna, the mother of Alexander I. It was designed by a young Carlo Rossi who later went on to become the undisputed master of neo-classicism in the city. Yelagin Palace has an intimate, cozy feeling and is completely accessible with all display rooms located on the ground floor. Join your guide as you walk through rooms including Empress’s Dressing Room, the exquisitely painted Porcelain Study and the Blue Parlour with its silk damask wallpaper. You’ll have some free time to enjoy a walk in the peaceful grounds where swans, geese and ducks can often be found down by the pond.

Make your way to the rear of the Palace and discover the Glass Museum located in the Orangery. This small but fascinating museum is divided into 2 sections showcasing precious glassware versus modern works of the glassmaker which will be presented by your guide.

Hidden Gems is a quieter, more tranquil option, perfect for anyone looking for a leisurely outing.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. This excursion involves approximately two hours of walking over flat ground. There are approximately 20 steps in the Palace to the restrooms and 16 steps up to the terrace.

An air-conditioned minivan with an English-speaking guide and local driver is offered on this tour. This is a private vehicle; those accompanying you are family or friends with whom you agree to share costs. We do not match groups of guests to form a private group for the vehicle. Vehicles and guides are extremely limited and so early reservation is recommended to avoid disappointment. No deviations to duration, venues if included or departure and return times can be made.

Minivans will take up to five guests.

From 1721 the Peter and Paul Fortress housed part of the city's garrison and served as a high security political jail. Among the inmates was Peter's own rebellious son, Alexei, plus Gorky, Trotsky and Lenin's older brother, Alexander.

Since 1900, the Trubetskoj bastion of the Peter and Paul Fortress was used as a military jail. 13 ministers of the defeated "Vremennoe Pravitelstvo" (Provisional Government) were some of the last prisoners there from October 1917 to March 1918.

Visit the impressive Peter and Paul Cathedral, the burial place of all the Russian Emperors and Empresses from Peter the Great to Alexander III. On top of the Cathedral’s gilded spire stands a magnificent golden angel holding a cross. This weathervane is one of the most prominent symbols of St Petersburg.

St Isaac’s Cathedral is the third largest domed Cathedral in the world after St Peter’s in Rome and St Paul’s in London. The Cathedral can accommodate a 10,000 strong audience and features 112 solid granite columns weighing up to 114 tons each.

Private tours are non-refundable once confirmed. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability and the number of guests in your party. Only ticket per party should be booked and the full cost will be charged to that person’s credit card. Once on board, you’ll receive a request for the names of each individual in your party. This information is required to allow your party to disembark the ship for the tour. You may be expected to queue to gain entrance to Palaces in all weather.

Peter and Paul Fortress – Flash photography restrictions
St Isaac’s Cathedral – Flash photography restrictions apply. It is forbidden to take long overcoats, umbrellas, large bags or bottles inside. Modest dress should be worn.

This panoramic tour of St Petersburg will show you many of the interesting and historical sites of the city. The beautifully decorated St Isaac's Cathedral is well known for its magnificent, central golden dome, which dominates the city skyline. History surrounds the Hermitage and Palace Square, once the centre of Russian power with the Czar's residence, state offices and Alexander Column.

The blank shot that signalled the start of the Russian Revolution was fired from the Cruiser Aurora, which is now berthed as a museum on the north bank of the Neva.

The uniquely named Church of the Saviour on the Spilled Blood sits on an equally unique site, the place where Alexander II was assassinated. The striking multi-coloured onion domes, representative of the intricate pseudo-Russian style of architecture, create a memorable picture.

There will be a chance to browse for a variety of Russian craft items and enjoy some refreshments during a shopping stop.


This excursion operates by coach. There is minimal walking on this tour. Local currency is the Rouble, however the gift shop accepts credit cards and, unofficially, US dollars and Euros. Photograph stops are programmed, time and traffic permitting.

The Ericsson Globe Arena, resembling a giant golf ball, is the largest spherical building in the world. An exhilarating two minute glass gondola ride will take you to the top of the Globe. Make sure you remember your camera as when you reach 426 feet above sea level, the ‘bubble’ will make a brief stop for you to admire the magnificent views over the city and take some panoramic photographs.

Once back on firm ground enjoy a panoramic tour of the City’s main sights. Admire the enchanting medieval Old Town, Gamla Stan and the Royal Palace overlooking Stockholm’s inner harbour. You’ll also pass by the island of Djurgården, regarded as Stockholm’s amusement and recreation centre with great parklands, beautiful gardens and numerous museums including the world famous Vasa Museum. On the island of Kungsholmen, enjoy impressive views of City Hall, renowned for its architecture, mosaics and for being the site of the annual Nobel Prize Banquet.

This excursion operates by coach. This tour has very little walking included however guests must be able to negotiate the steps of the coach and 30 steps at the entrance to the SkyView.

The village of Fiskars has a long and flourishing history which has been well preserved. Today, the village is a beautiful blend of historic buildings mixed with modern arts, crafts and design shops.

Sit back, relax and enjoy a scenic drive through the lush and beautiful countryside as you travel to the ironworks village of Fiskars. In 1649, Peter Thorwöste was granted permission by Queen Christina of Sweden to manufacture cast iron and forged products, with the exception of cannons. In the 1980's operations began to move away from Fiskars to streamline production and make use of more modern facilities. Looking to keep the traditions of the village and buildings alive, a search for new inhabitants began, so that craftsmen, designers and artists could fill the old, vacant buildings. This 'Living Ironworks Village' is now a huge success which showcases high quality Finnish art and design.

With your guide, explore and meet the local residents, including the blacksmith, a pottery maker and admire the skilful art of glassblowing. Enjoy some free time for shopping or simply stroll along the tree-lined streets browsing the various boutiques and galleries.

Before leaving, relax beside the river and sample a slice of seasonal fruit pie served with tea or coffee.


This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. This tour includes approximately 2½ hours of walking over flat ground.

Titanic pulled away from the White Star dock in Southampton at the start of her maiden voyage on 10th April 1912. Five days later in the early hours of 15th April she sank after striking an iceberg. The disaster made headlines across the world and had a devastating effect on the people of Southampton. Of the 724 crew which lived within in the area - only 175 returned home.

Your interesting walking tour commences at Ocean Terminal, which is located adjacent to the site of the original White Star dock. A leisurely stroll will take you through Queen’s Park and past the luxury flats which used to be the old South Western Hotel. This hotel was where the First Class passengers stayed before embarking on the majestic liner. Close by are the old White Star offices where Southampton residents gathered in their hundreds, waiting day after day for news of loved ones.

A walk along Oxford Street will take you past some of the drinking establishments used by the ill fated crew including The Grapes pub, which is where filming took place for the famous ‘Titanic’ movie. At the end of the street are the ruins of Holyrood Church where a memorial to the Titanic crew stands. As you wander past the ancient Southampton walls and through the main shopping precinct, with its eclectic mix of shops, you’ll hear poignant tales of the Titanic heroes and survivors.

The highlight of the tour is a visit to the SeaCity Museum. This interactive Museum is filled with information and interesting memorabilia of the fateful disaster and illustrates the impact the liner has had on the city.


Guests who are embarking or disembarking the ship in Southampton should not book a shore excursion for this port.  Southampton excursions are available for guests visiting Southampton as a port call.

This excursion operates on foot. There is two hours walking on mostly flat ground with some slight inclines. The return journey will be by shuttle bus. Guests can opt to remain in the city centre and make their own way back to the berth by shuttle bus at their own convenience. This excursion only operates when the ship is berthed at Ocean Terminal.

Enjoy a panoramic tour of Helsinki which will pass the Shipyard, Embassy Park, the new Opera House, Finlandia Hall, the National Museum, the Parliament House and the Contemporary Art Museum. Leave the city behind as you enjoy a scenic drive to the village of Hintharaa.

From Hintharaa station, a steam train, named ‘Lili’ will be waiting to take you on a 40-minute ride to Porvoo. Passing farms and agricultural areas, experience the rural side of Finland as you steam along.

On arrival in the town take a leisurely walk to the Old Bridge of Porvoo, stop at the Old Bridge which offers magnificent views. Begin a short walking tour of the town before continuing your tour independently as you are given free time to stroll along the cobbled streets and small shops. Luncheon will be served at the Haikko Manor House on the outskirts of Porvoo.

At Haikko Manor rejoin your coach which will pass the Olympic Stadium as you drive back to Helsinki.


This excursion will operate by coach, steam train and on foot. Early booking of this tour is recommended. The tour includes up to 30 minutes’ walking over cobblestones and with steps to enter the train carriages. The order of sites may vary.