Most people considering a summer cruise will probably be thinking 'Med.' But set your compass on all points north and you'll not only find extra long hours of daylight but a surprising diversity of experiences, from Baltic capitals to dramatic fjord coastlines. And since many ships cast off from UK ports, there's no need to put yourself through the hassle of airports. 
Recommended cruise operator: Fred. Olsen Cruises
Fred. Olsen Cruises says
The Baltic is one of the most popular destinations for Fred. Olsen customers, with its culture, tradition, art and architecture, as well as some stunning scenery to enjoy. A typical Baltic cruise will visit several of the popular Scandinavian and Baltic cities, giving passengers a real taste of this fascinating region.
We offer a variety of itineraries, taking in visits to such cities as Oslo, Copenhagen, Stockholm and Helsinki as well as Tallinn, Riga and Gdynia. The highlight of any Baltic cruise, of course, is a stay in St Petersburg, the city created by Peter the Great as his window on the western world. On our cruises, you will always spend at least two days here, allowing plenty of time to see all the magnificent sights. Tour options include the fabulous Summer Palace, the Hermitage with its priceless art treasures, and even an evening at the ballet.
Invariably, a Baltic itinerary will also include a cruise through the Kiel Canal, and an all-day call at either Warnemunde (Germany) or Szczecin (Poland, up to October 2010 only)) to allow for tours into Berlin.
We offer an extensive range of UK departure ports for our cruises to the Baltic including Dover, Southampton, Newcastle and Rosyth (for Edinburgh), making it very easy to join one of these cruises from wherever you live in the country.
If you can’t bear ot leave your golf clubs at home, Fred. Olsen’s exclusive golf package, Flagship Golf, is available on some Baltic cruises (at an additional cost).
Click here for more about information on Baltic cruises and prices and our latest special offers.
