Overlook of city with colorful buildings and breathtaking landscapes in Sweden
View of the embankment with yachts on the Coast of the Baltic Sea, Aland Islands, Finland
Two women sitting on a park bench enjoying a nice day in front of a stone wall and green bushes
Tall white castle like building stands over a lush green garden on a blue cloudy day
Old church in Visby, Gotland, Sweden standing tall next to a nice large lawn of grass
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Europe Northern Europe Cruise

Scandinavia & the Baltic Sea: Coasts, Islands & Archipelagos

The islands and archipelagos of Scandinavia and the Baltic Sea delight travelers with serene nature, idyllic villages, vibrant cities, and maritime history. Discover some of the highlights as you sail through this picturesque region once traversed by Viking ships and Hanseatic League merchants. Stroll into the past in places like Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s colorful Old Town, UNESCO-designated Visby, or Mariehamn, “the town of a thousand Linden trees.” Kayak and Zodiac past remote lighthouses in the Åland Islands and venture to Stora Karlsö, a bird-filled nature reserve that rests upon ancient coral reefs.

Discover the stunning beauty of Baltic Sea archipelagos, including the Ǻland Islands and the Stockholm Archipelago. Experience pristine beaches, rugged coastlines, and charming seaside villages as you island hop across southern Scandinavia. Step into the past with stops in historic cities and towns like Copenhagen, Bornholm, and UNESCO-designated Visby. Explore Stora Karlsö, the second-oldest nature reserve in the world, which teems with fascinating birdlife and geology.

The 138-guest National Geographic Endurance expedition ship is technologically advanced, fully stabilized and equipped with a well-rounded set of exploration tools including an ROV and enough kayaks and Zodiacs to send all guests out exploring at the same time. Additionally, select cabins offer private balconies for special moments taking in the awe-inspiring wilderness and the bar tab is included for all passengers. This expedition ship is small enough to access remote locations yet large enough to provide a taste of luxury.

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Northern Europe cruises.



Itinerary

Eastbound Scandinavia and the Baltic Sea: Coasts, Islands and Archipelagos

On this 8-day small ship cruise, sail from Copenhagen, Denmark, to Stockholm, Sweden, exploring the Baltic Sea along the way.

route map of small ship cruise from Copenhagen, Denmark, to Stockholm, Sweden aboard nat geo endurnace small ship cruise
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Day 1
Embark Copenhagen, Denmark

Arrive in Copenhagen and transfer to the city center. Known for its walkable, colorful streets and charming canals, experience the city at your own pace before embarking the ship this afternoon.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

dinner

Read More
Day 2
Bornholm

Arrive at the island of Bornholm, a Danish island located in the Baltic Sea between Sweden and Germany. Known for its local makers and crafters, Bornholm offers a relaxing atmosphere. Rønne, the capital of the island, is a market town dating back to 1327, and that creative mindset continues to grow in modern times. Spend the day getting to know the history, artists, and landscape of this Danish gem.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 3
Stora Karlsö, Sweden

The second oldest nature reserve in the world after Yellowstone National Park, Stora Karlsö is a nature lover’s paradise. Composed of fossilized coral reefs formed over 400 million years ago, the scenery is one of the main draws of this ”rock” in the middle of the Baltic Sea. It’s home to the biggest bird cliffs in the Baltic which teem with colonies of breeding guillemots and razorbills, and it’s carpeted with an array of dazzling flowers depending on the season. You’ll be guided through this rich diversity by your naturalists as well as by the Reserve Rangers.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 4
Visby, Gotland

A former Viking site on the island of Gotland, the UNESCO-designated city of Visby is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Scandinavia. Its history as a part of the Hanseatic League can still be witnessed in its two-mile-long city wall, cobblestone streets and stone houses. Outside its walls, Gotland lures travelers with its rich history, striking nature and a growing reputation for local crafts and goods. Spend the day exploring the island or follow the local lifestyle of slowing down and enjoying the rhythm of the Baltic Sea.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 5 - 6
Finnish Archipelago

The Finnish Archipelago, comprising more than 6,700 islands, is known for its slower pace, strong ties to the sea, and independent nature. Discover the Åland Islands, a fascinating autonomous region, as you explore from its capital of Mariehamn to the outer island of Utö. Visit remote lighthouses perched on red granite islands; navigate through coves and islands on Zodiacs and kayaks; explore the decks of the Pommern, a four-masted barque and one of the last of the Flying P-Liners; and walk Mariehamn’s city streets to see why it’s referred to as ”the town of a thousand Linden trees.”

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 7
Stockholm Archipelago

This morning, enjoy one of the most iconic Scandinavian sailings as we navigate the Stockholm archipelago or skärgården, watching local ferries crisscross the waterways and photographing the quaint cottages that line the shores before arriving into the heart of the city. This afternoon, arrive in Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s oldest district as you take advantage of the city’s highlights and walk among the cobblestone streets, along the surrounding canals, or through the numerous public parks. Visit the Vasa Museum and marvel at the world’s only preserved 17th century ship as well as hear from experts about its sister ship which was recently discovered in the Baltic Sea.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 8
Disembark Stockholm, Sweden

Disembark in Stockholm and transfer to the airport for flights home.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Inclusions

Expedition parka to keep; all accommodations aboard ship; meals as indicated; beer, wine & full bar; excursions; services of expeditions leader, naturalist staff and expert guides; use of kayaks; entrance fees; all port charges and service taxes; basic WiFi (enhanced and premium packages available for purchase). Gratuities for all departures of National Geographic Explorer, Orion, Endurance, Resolution, Sea Cloud, Jahan and Lord of the Glens.

Exclusions

Immigration fees; air transportation; extensions; meals not indicated; reserve wines & premium spirits; gratuities for all departures of Delfin II, Endeavour II, Islander II, Venture, Quest, Sea Bird and Sea Lion; personal items such as emails, laundry, voyage DVD, etc.; and insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 15% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Special payment terms apply for groups of 8 or more; inquire for details. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person fees, based on number of days prior to departure:
120 or more days – 100% of deposit**
119 to 90 days – 50% of total trip cost
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
**Advance payments will be credited in the form of a Lindblad Expeditions Travel Certificate, valid for 12 months from the date of cancellation, and which may only be applied towards final payment on any future booking. 

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The Eastbound 8-day Scandinavia & the Baltic Sea: Coasts, Islands & Archipelagos cruise begins in Copenhagen, Denmark (CHP) and ends in Stockholm, Sweden (ARN) . Plan flights to arrive to Copenhagen, Denmark on Day 1 of the itinerary. Disembarkation on Day 8. Plan flights to depart Stockholm, Sweden on the final day. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include mountain biking, hiking, kayaking, Zodiac excursions, photography, morning yoga and stretching, glacier viewing and wildlife observation.

Room Configuration

In addition to listed Solo cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. If you would like to share accommodations with another guest of the same gender, we will be happy to try to accommodate you in select cabin categories. This program allows you to pay the per person double-occupancy rate whether or not a roommate is found. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and availability.

Families & Children

Children under the age of 18 are eligible for $500 off the double occupancy rate. Skilled staff members trained with National Geographic Education organize activities that inspire curiosity in young people of all ages. Programming for kids may include activities like photo workshops, journaling, scavenger hunts, Zodiac-driving lessons, hands-on nature and science programming and kid-friendly menu options.

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Read this itinerary as a guide only; the exact route and program varies according to ice, weather conditionswildlife encountered and the captain’s discretion. Flexibility is the key to the success of any Arctic expedition.

Westbound Scandinavia & the Baltic Sea: Coasts, Islands & Archipelagos

On this 8-day small ship cruise, sail from Stockholm, Sweden, to Copenhagen, Denmark, exploring the Baltic Sea along the way.

Route map of small ship cruise from Stockholm, Sweden, to Copenhagen, Denmark aboard small ship cruise national geographic
Read More
Day 1
Embark Stockholm, Sweden

Arrive in Stockholm and transfer to the city center. As the largest city in Scandinavia, the city offers a dynamic blend of culture, architecture and history. Spend the day at your own pace, taking in this world capital throughout the ages, before embarking the ship this afternoon.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

dinner

Read More
Day 2
Stockholm Archipelago

This morning, wake up next to Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s oldest district as you take advantage of the city’s highlights and walk among the cobblestone streets, along the surrounding canals or through the numerous public parks. Visit the Vasa Museum which houses the world’s only preserved 17th century ship and hear from experts about its sister ship which was recently discovered in the Baltic Sea. This afternoon, enjoy one of the most iconic Scandinavian sailings as you navigate the Stockholm archipelago or “skärgården,” watching local ferries crisscross the waterways and photographing the quaint cottages that line the shores.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Days 3 - 4
Finnish Archipelago

The Finnish Archipelago, comprising more than 6,700 islands, is known for its slower pace, strong ties to the sea and independent nature. Discover the Åland Islands, a fascinating autonomous region, as you explore from its capital of Mariehamn to the outer island of Utö. Visit remote lighthouses perched on red granite islands; navigate through coves and islands on Zodiacs and kayaks; explore the decks of the Pommern, a four-masted barque and one of the last of the Flying P-Liners; and walk Mariehamn’s city streets to see why it’s referred to as ”the town of a thousand Linden trees.”

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 5
Visby, Gotland

A former Viking site on the island of Gotland, the UNESCO-designated city of Visby is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Scandinavia. Its history as a part of the Hanseatic League can still be witnessed in its two-mile-long city wall, cobblestone streets and stone houses. Outside its walls, Gotland lures travelers with its rich history, striking nature and a growing reputation for local crafts and goods. Spend the day exploring the island or follow the local lifestyle of slowing down and enjoying the rhythm of the Baltic Sea.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 6
Stora Karlsö

The second-oldest nature reserve in the world after Yellowstone National Park, Stora Karlsö is a nature lovers’ paradise. Composed of fossilized coral reefs formed over 400 million years ago, the scenery is one of the main draws of this ”rock” in the middle of the Baltic Sea. It’s home to the biggest bird cliffs in the Baltic, which teem with colonies of breeding guillemots and razorbills, and it’s carpeted with an array of dazzling flowers, depending on the season. You’ll be guided through this rich diversity by your naturalists as well as by the Reserve Rangers.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 7
Bornholm, Denmark

Arrive at the island of Bornholm, a Danish island located in the Baltic Sea between Sweden and Germany. Known for its local makers and crafters, Bornholm offers a relaxing atmosphere. Rønne, the capital of the island, is a market town dating back to 1327 and that creative mindset continues to grow in modern times. Spend the day getting to know the history, artists and landscape of this Danish gem.

Accommodations

National Geographic Endurance

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 8
Disembark Copenhagen, Denmark

Disembark in Copenhagen and transfer to the airport for flights home.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Inclusions

Expedition parka to keep; all accommodations aboard ship; meals as indicated; beer, wine & full bar; excursions; services of expeditions leader, naturalist staff and expert guides; use of kayaks; entrance fees; all port charges and service taxes; basic WiFi (enhanced and premium packages available for purchase). Gratuities for all departures of National Geographic Explorer, Orion, Endurance, Resolution, Sea Cloud, Jahan and Lord of the Glens.

Exclusions

Immigration fees; air transportation; extensions; meals not indicated; reserve wines & premium spirits; gratuities for all departures of Delfin II, Endeavour II, Islander II, Venture, Quest, Sea Bird and Sea Lion; personal items such as emails, laundry, voyage DVD, etc.; and insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 15% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Special payment terms apply for groups of 8 or more; inquire for details. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person fees, based on number of days prior to departure:
120 or more days – 100% of deposit**
119 to 90 days – 50% of total trip cost
89 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
**Advance payments will be credited in the form of a Lindblad Expeditions Travel Certificate, valid for 12 months from the date of cancellation, and which may only be applied towards final payment on any future booking. 

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The Westbound 8-day Scandinavia & the Baltic Sea: Coasts, Islands & Archipelagos cruise begins in Stockholm, Sweden (ARN) and ends in Copenhagen, Denmark (CHP). Plan flights to arrive to Stockholm, Sweden on Day 1 of the itinerary. Disembarkation on Day 8. Plan flights to depart Copenhagen, Denmark on the final day. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include mountain biking, hiking, kayaking, Zodiac excursions, photography, morning yoga and stretching, glacier viewing and wildlife observation.

Room Configuration

In addition to listed Solo cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. If you would like to share accommodations with another guest of the same gender, we will be happy to try to accommodate you in select cabin categories. This program allows you to pay the per person double-occupancy rate whether or not a roommate is found. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and availability.

Families & Children

Children under the age of 18 are eligible for $500 off the double occupancy rate. Skilled staff members trained with National Geographic Education organize activities that inspire curiosity in young people of all ages. Programming for kids may include activities like photo workshops, journaling, scavenger hunts, Zodiac-driving lessons, hands-on nature and science programming and kid-friendly menu options.

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Read this itinerary as a guide only; the exact route and program varies according to ice, weather conditionswildlife encountered and the captain’s discretion. Flexibility is the key to the success of any Arctic expedition.

Rates & Dates

Cruise Rates & Dates

May 30 - Jun 06, 2026
National Geographic Endurance • 8 days
From $7300USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Jun 06 - Jun 13, 2026
National Geographic Endurance • 8 days
From $6894USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Accommodation

Learn About the Small Ship on Your Itinerary

Expedition Ship
National Geographic Endurance

The 138-guest National Geographic Endurance is the newest addition to the National Geographic fleet. This expedition ship is specifically designed for stability and sustainability as well as for in-depth education and an unmatched range of exploration in the polar regions.

Deal

Current Deals on This Trip

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Offer expires February 9th, 2026
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From Alaska to Antarctica and everywhere in between, this worldwide National Geographic offer delivers up to 20% savings plus a reduced deposit for 2026–2027 departures.

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