Become acquainted with Helsinki’s imposing architecture and fascinating history before taking a brief foray out into the countryside. You will pass Helsinki’s colorful open-air market, the Presidential Palace, Uspenski Orthodox Cathedral and the icebreakers docked for the summer, the Bank of Finland and the House of Estates to pause at Senate Square to learn about the city’s history and admire the neoclassical-style buildings dating from the mid-1800s. Next, head out to the farming community of Sipoo, which although close to the city is typically representative of Finnish countryside. On arrival you will view St. Sigfrid’s, which was built in the 1400s and is the community’s oldest church. Then continue your drive through the forest to a Finnish countryside home nestled beside a beautiful lake. You will have time to stroll the grounds as your charming hosts describe life in Finland. Later, refreshments of coffee or tea with seasonal berry pie and ice cream will be served. A leisurely drive back to the city will take you along Mannerheim Street, Helsinki’s main thoroughfare. Here you see Parliament House, Finlandia Hall, the National Museum, Kiasma and the Olympic Stadium. You will also see the interior of the famous Rock Church before you return to the ship.

One of the finest ways to explore Helsinki’s tree-lined avenues, graceful parks and distinctive architecture is on foot. From the pier, a coach will transport you directly to Senate Square, with its imposing Lutheran Church, Senate Building, and University, in neo-classical style. From here, your walk passes the Eliel Saarinen Central Railway Station, National Theater and Sanoma Talo. Then view several formidable buildings which dominate the city skyline, such as the Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art, Finlandia Hall, the National Museum and Parliament House. A welcome cup of coffee or tea will be served with a pastry at a waterfront café near the Opera House, before ascending to the Töölö residential area, through Hesperia Park. Ahead lies the famous Rock Church, a magnificent modern-day structure built entirely into bedrock and quarried stone. As your walk concludes here, a coach will return you directly to the pier. Guests on morning departures have the option of staying in the downtown area before returning independently to the yacht.

Experience Helsinki’s main sights and attractions by private transportation followed by an exhilarating helicopter ride over the city. Your adventure will begin by private vehicle past the Uspenski Cathedral’s golden domes before pausing in Senate Square, with its neo-classical architecture and the huge Lutheran Cathedral. Next, pass by the colorful market square adjacent to the City Hall and continue along the Mannerheimintie. Other sites lining your route include the Parliament, Finlandia Hall, the National Museum and the Opera House. Pause at the Olympic Stadium for a brief photo opportunity before arriving at the Sibelius Monument, located in a serene park. Your next destination will be the famous Rock Church. Look closely and you will see that its splendid interior features water gently trickling over one wall. Depart for the heliport to be welcomed and briefed by the pilot then you will board your helicopter and lift off. Head west, passing your cruise ship, Cargo Harbor, and magnificent panoramic tour of Helsinki from high above. See all the major sites from a bird’s point of view as well, Sibelius Park, the Parliament Building, the Ice-Breaker Fleet, the Open Air-Market and the Suomenlinna Island Fortress among other things. After an approximately 15-minute flight you will return by van to your waiting Windstar ship.

Experience the bustling city harbor of Helsinki with its large ferries and picturesque islands. Take a short motor coach ride to the city center – a fascinating mix of East and West, old and new. Stop in the historic heart of Helsinki, Senate Square which dates back to 1778. Visit the famous Rock Church – an intriguing modern-day structure built entirely into bedrock and quarried stone. You’ll pass City Hall, the President’s Palace, Olympic Stadium, Opera House and the Parliament House. In Sibelius Park, photograph the monument of over 600 steel pipes which honors the great Finnish composer Jean Sibelius. Take note of the location of Esplanade Street, famous for its fine shops and open-air restaurants. At the end of the tour, you’ll have the option of shopping independently in town or returning to the yacht.

Your tour begins with a picturesque drive to Porvoo. Along the way you will pass the Market Square, Uspenski Orthodox Cathedral and the Presidential Palace. From here you continue with a 1 hour drive towards Porvoo along the coastal road. Porvoo is an old town situated at the mouth of River Porvoo. It was an important trading center as early as the middle ages. In 1346 the Swedish King Magnus Eriksson gave the town its charter. Upon arrival in Porvoo, you will stop at the Old Bridge from where you will be able to see one of the most photographed views in Finland: the Old Town of Porvoo with a decorative row of red riverside storehouses. You will then continue by foot to the Old Town where your guide will take you through this charming part of Porvoo with its idyllic little houses and narrow winding streets. You will also have time to walk around on your own and to visit the different small handicraft stores. Refreshments will then be served at Porvoo Roastery, located in an old Brick storehouse built in 1902. The café is located by the riverbank of Povoo River from where you can enjoy a fantastic view. Begin your drive back to Helsinki through the city and return to your cruise ship.

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the most interesting sights in the comfort and privacy of your own car. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore. See the iconic sights of the city, or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own. Capacity: 2 guests. Your private party may be of any size up to the maximum capacity. Private cars are ordered per vehicle (not per person)

Your tour will begin with a short sightseeing trip through the town of Mariehamn, founded in 1865 by the reigning Russian Czar. Travel to the islands of Järsö where your scenic drive will take you close to the water and – depending on weather and the time of the year – hopefully to see some of the local birdlife. Continue to Jan Karlsgården (Jan Karl’s Farmstead) to visit the open air museum where you will see what local farms were like around the end of the 19th. See the castle ruins of Kastelholm, the construction of which began around. Then you will head on to a visit to the Sund Church, built about 1280 and consecrated to St. John, contains the tallest crucifix in Scandinavia at 16 feet tall. Arrive at the fortress ruins of Bomarsund, built by the Russian army starting in 1819. You will make a stop at the remains of one of the defense towers that were erected around the main fortress building. From here you will have a spectacular view over a typical Åland landscape of sea and islands. Return to Mariehamn and to your awaiting yacht.

Sport fishing in Åland is an all-year activity in a unique environment where various fishing methods are used. On this very special tour the method used will be rod-and-reel fishing. You will board your private fishing boat and be greeted by the Captain, who will also function as your guide during the tour. Onboard, you will be provided with the necessary equipment, including warm clothing in case it’s needed. As you leave the harbor and head out into the magnificent archipelago, your fishing adventure will start. During the trip your Captain will tell you all about the art of fishing around the Åland Islands, as well as answer any questions you may have. In the waters surrounding Åland there are many varieties of fish, from pike, perch and whitefish to sea trout and salmon.

Enjoy a guided kayaking adventure in the beautiful Aland Archipelago! On your arrival you will be greeted and you will have the choice between single or tandem kayaks. You will receive safety briefing and a technique demonstration will be given ashore, before your departure out to the sea. The route is chosen depending on wind and weather conditions. The excursion will take you between islands and rocks in a calm tempo. You will have a short refreshment break on one of the islands which form the Åland Archipelago. Coffee and a sandwich will be served and you will have the possibility to stretch your legs before you depart paddling back to mainland.

This tour consists of a panoramic highlights tour including a visit to Stallhagen beer brewery and pub. Your tour begins with a short sightseeing tour through the town of Mariehamn, founded in 1865 by the reigning Russian Tsar. Drive passing the outdoor museum of Jan Karlsgården and the Ruins of Kastelholm castle. Arriving at the Stallhagen Pub & Brewery you will be welcomed by the local host. Stallhagen beer is a locally produced slow beer, using the local fresh near produce. Stallhagen has many times been awarded as a first class quality beer. The restored building was originally built as a barracks building for the Åland stationed Russian coastal artillery in the early last century. You will enjoy a short tour of the brewery and learn about production, methods and traditions & trends in beer brewing. Enjoy a beer tasting accompanied with a sampling of small savory local specialties. During your visit, a short story of Champagne will most likely be heard, as the brewery happens to be a proud owner of one of the oldest champagnes in the world… Following your visit continue with a scenic drive through the countryside before returning to the pier.

Discover St. Petersburg’s fascinating history and priceless artistic treasures on this exploration by motor coach. Your tour will begin with a 15-minute journey to the Spit of Vasilievsky Island, an ideal vantage point for impressive views. Sites you will see include the Peter and Paul Fortress , the Cathedral, with its distinctive gilded spire soaring over 380 feet into the sky, and the 18th century university. Cross the Trinity Bridge over the Neva River to see the Field of Mars, the Admiralty Building and the imposing façade of the Winter Palace. Continue past St. Isaac’s Square to view the exterior of Mariinsky Palace and the monument to Czar Nicholas I. After lunch, you will visit the Hermitage Museum, a spectacular landmark ranking among the world’s finest museums. As you marvel at the wonderful paintings and tapestries adorning the museum walls, pay special attention to the spectacular staircases, marble structures, malachite columns and highly decorated floors and ceilings, in this former residence of the mighty Russian czars.

Drive to the city center with an introduction to the history of St. Petersburg. At the Spit of Vasilievsky Island, you will take in the view of the Neva River, the Rostral Columns, the Winter Palace and Hermitage Museum. See also the Peter and Paul Fortress, founded in 1703 to defend the city and considered to be the birthplace of St. Petersburg. The Cathedral, designed by Trezini, features a gilded spire stretching more than 380 feet into the sky – a distinctive, majestic landmark. This is the burial ground for many members of the Romanov royal family. Continue past the 18th century buildings of the university and drive across the Trinity Bridge over the Neva River to the mainland past the Field of Mars, the Admiralty Building and the imposing façade of the Winter Palace. You will stop at St. Isaac’s Square in front of St. Isaac’s Cathedral to view and photograph the exterior of Mariinsky Palace at the far end of the square, as well as the monument to Czar Nicholas I.

The town of Pushkin, only 50 minutes from your pier contains a marvelous ensemble of palaces and parks. Catherine’s Palace is an ornate masterpiece whose façade is decorated in white, blue and gold. You will see a series of imposing rooms, including the famous Picture Gallery and Great Hall and the amazing Amber Room, stolen by the Nazis during the war, smuggled (as legend holds) to Paraguay and lost forever. After lunch, you will proceed on to the Imperial Estate of Pavlovsk and Grand Paul’s Palace, a gift from Catherine the Great to her son Paul on the birth of his son, Alexander. The Grecian ballroom, adorned with green-fluted Corinthian columns, is probably the palace’s most elegant room. Paul’s rooms are richly adorned with mahogany and heavy gilding while those of his wife pervade a distinctive charm, rather than grandeur. Nearby Pavlovsk Park boasts ponds, valleys, waterfalls and statues and is one of the largest of its type in Europe.

St. Petersburg has long been regarded as one of the world’s most famous ballet centers. Here’s a grand opportunity to enjoy a special performance of a well-known ballet at a leading theater. There will be a 20-30-minute drive to the venue for the performance of a classical ballet – such as Giselle or Swan Lake. The actual performance scheduled will be known nearer the time. Dance is an integral part of the Russian nature and for two centuries this country has maintained its superiority in this art form. With the help of Italian and French choreographers, artists and composers, dancers and ballerinas, Russian ballet finally triumphed in Paris in the early 1900s, at a time when that city had almost lost its own ballet art. At the conclusion of the evening’s triumphant performance, you will return by coach to the ship.

Participate in an evening of spectacular cultural entertainment featuring the renowned St. Petersburg Highlights folklore group. Following a 30-minute coach journey from the port you embark on a fascinating 90-minute musical journey through various regions of Russia. Witness acrobatic Don Cossack dances, Russian and Ukrainian choral singing (including the famous Russian folksong “Kalinka,)” with thrilling live balalaika musical accompaniment throughout. Champagne and mineral water are served during the intermission.

Your tour’s main destination will be the Hermitage Museum – a spectacular landmark which ranks among the world’s finest museums. The Hermitage was created in 1764 by the Czarina Catherine the Great. Her original purchase of 225 canvasses by Dutch and Flemish masters provided the nucleus of today's collection, which consists of almost three million exhibits and represents many cultures. The museum boasts 353 rooms, filled with masterpieces by Raphael, Titan, Giorgione, Michelangelo, Leonardo Da Vinci and others. Located within the Winter Palace on the banks of the Neva River, the Hermitage Museum is a work of art in itself. You will marvel at the wonderful paintings and tapestries that adorn the museum walls, pay special attention to the spectacular staircases, marble structures, malachite columns and highly decorated floors and ceilings, in this former residence of the mighty Russian czars.

Petrodvorets (or Peterhof), the town of palaces, is located on the south shore of the Gulf of Finland, about 25 miles from the pier of St. Petersburg. Built in 1710 as the summer residence of Peter the Great, this lovely complex of gilded fountains and sprawling parks rivals even Versailles. After a motor coach ride from the ship, you’ll see Peterhof’s picturesque French gardens, 64 fountains, waterfalls, staircases and stunning marble statues. In the middle of the grounds is the spectacular Grand Palace, built in Baroque and Russian styles. It features hundreds of rooms comprising the palace’s state apartments. Just some of the amazing rooms you will see include the large Throne Room used for ceremonies and receptions, the Partridge Dining Room, the White Dining Room, in early Classical style, and Peter the Great’s private study.

View some of St. Petersburg's most beautiful highlights and visit some of the previously "off-limits" wonders of this historical city. You'll begin with a visit to Peter the Great's fabulous Summer Palace at Peterhof. Walk through the sumptuous interior of this great palace and out into the gardens to view the breathtaking fountains designed in the 18th century by Peter the Great. You will enjoy lunch in a local restaurant. Travel by hydrofoil to St. Petersburg for your tour of the city which includes a stop at the battleship Aurora, and a drive by Decembrists' Square, where you will see the famous Bronze Horseman statue of Peter the Great, and St. Isaac's Cathedral. Finally, you will visit one of St. Petersburg's most noted landmarks, the Church of the Resurrection (Church on the Spilled Blood). This jewel-like structure is one of the most precious gems in the crown of this Imperial capital. You will also be given some free time to shop for traditional Russian souvenirs at the "Black Market" across the street.

Drive to the city center with an introduction to the history ofSt. Petersburg. The first stop is at the Cathedral of St. Peter & Paul. Th Peter & Paul Fortress was founded in 1703 to defend the city, and is considered to be the birth place of St. Petersburg. The Cathedral, designed by Trezini, features a guilded spire stretching more than 380 feet into the sky, and is a distinctive, majestic landmark. This is the burial ground for many members of the Romanov Royal family. Continue past the 18th century buildings of the University and across the bridge over the Neva River to teh Mainland. The next stop is at St. Isaac's Square. Here you will visit the St. Isaac's Cathedra, which was designed by teh French architect Montferrand in 1818-1858, and is the largest church in St. Petersburg with the capacity of 10,000 people. The interior of teh cathedral is richly decorated with different kinds of marble, malachite and other semi-precious stones.

After a drive through St. Petersburg, you will leave the city and head for the countryside to the town of Pushkin. Here, you will visit the magnificent palace of Catherine the Great, restored over the past 40 years to its original splendor. See the main staircase and look up at the palace ceilings decorated with paintings by Italian artists of the 17th and 18th centuries. You'll also see decorative plates and vases of Japanese and Chinese porcelain throughout. Marvel at the magnificent Grand Hall (or "Throne Room"), a gilded wonder with a spectacular painted ceiling and mirrored walls that are breathtakingly beautiful. The Cavalier's Dining Room was designed by Bartolomeo Rastrelli, and you'll also see Alexander I's State Study with its splendid marble fireplace. The Picture Gallery contains more than 130 paintings by Dutch, Flemish, French and Italian masters of the 17th and 18th centuries. Above all, don't miss the outrageously beautiful Amber Room--a brilliant and painstaking re-creation built in semi-precious stone by Russian craftsmen after the original panels were stolen by the Nazis during World War II. The parks of the estate add to the splendor of the palace, and several are embellished with a number of charming pavilions. The town of Pushkin is famous not only for its remarkable palace, but for the man it was named after. Since 1937, it has been named after Alexander Pushkin, the most celebrated poet in the country.

Depart the pier for the scenic drive to the Hermitage Museum. Upon arrival the guests visit the Diamond and Gold Rooms of the Hermitage. The Diamond Room The Diamond Room is home to a significant collection of archaeological finds; the famous Scythian and Greek gold, numerous royal gifts and a fabulous collection of Western European jewellery crafted by the most prominent jewellers of the time. On display are numerous rings, pendants, watches, table decoration, fans, perfume bottles, and bouquets adorned with gold, enamels, emeralds, rubies, sapphires, and pearls once worn by royalty. A portion of the exhibit is highlighted by a superb collection of royal snuffboxes fashioned by many brilliant masters of the 18th century. The Golden Room A visit is then made to the Golden Rooms, which features a unique three-section collection of jewellery amassed over two centuries and designed by Russian, European and Oriental artists and craftsmen. It was known as the ‘Treasure Gallery’ under Catherine the Great and augmented to yet greater splendour by her successors. The ‘Gold of Nomads’ consists of unique archaeological finds from the North Coast of the Black Sea, Northern Caucasus and Western Siberia, including the Siberian collection of Peter the Great and the fabulous Scythian Gold of the 7th–4th centuries B.C. The ‘Jewellery Art of the East and South America’ is an exquisite selection of Oriental jewellery collections from Central Asia, Caucasus, India, Iran, Turkey, Egypt, Byzantium, Mongolia, China, Indonesia, and South America. The ‘Pre-Columbian Jewellery of South America’ features a huge variety of polished gemstones in every shape, size and colour. Following your visit, re-board your coach for the approximately 30-minute return drive to the pier.

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the most interesting sights in the comfort and privacy of your own car. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore. See the iconic sights of the city, or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own. Capacity: 2 guests. Your private party may be of any size up to the maximum capacity. Private cars are ordered per vehicle (not per person)

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the most interesting sights in the comfort and privacy of your own van. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore. See the iconic sights of the city, or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own. Capacity: 6 guests your private party may be of any size up to the maximum capacity. Private vans are ordered per vehicle (not per person)

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the most interesting sights in the comfort and privacy of your own car. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore. See the iconic sights of the city, or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own. Capacity: 2 guests. Your private party may be of any size up to the maximum capacity. Private cars are ordered per vehicle (not per person)

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the most interesting sights in the comfort and privacy of your own van. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore. See the iconic sights of the city, or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own. Capacity: 6 guests your private party may be of any size up to the maximum capacity. Private vans are ordered per vehicle (not per person)

Covering the city districts of Sodermalm, Gamla Stan, Norrmalm, Ostermalm, Kungsholmen and Djurgarden, each with its own special character, this driving tour will give you an excellent introduction to Stockholm. You will see Fjallgatan, with its magnificent view of the city, as well as the enchanting medieval old town, “Gamla Stan” with the Royal Palace overlooking Stockholm’s inner harbor. From the historic island of Riddarholmen, adjacent to the old town and mostly regarded as a part of it, you will have a stunning view over Lake Malaren and the city hall. Proceed past the dramatic Royal Theatre along Strandvagen to the island of Djurgarden, regarded as Stockholm’s amusement and recreation center with great parklands and beautiful gardens but also with many cafés and restaurants as well as the Grona Lund Tivoli, the Skansen Open Air Museum and the well-known Vasa Museum, housing the 17th century warship, Vasa. You will continue through the Diplomat Quarters and through Ostermalm, a fashionable neighborhood of stately apartment buildings, to the modern shopping and business areas at Hamngatan and Sergels Torg as you travel north towards Arlanda Airport, where your tour will end.

Tallinn has one of the finest medieval Old Towns in all of Northern Europe. Explore its must-see highlights by comfortable motor coach and on foot. Aboard a coach, you will proceed to the walkway opposite the main railway station to begin your stroll through the Lower Town’s historic center. Pass the Old Town Wall with its towers dating from the 13th- 15th centuries and St. Michael’s Convent and Church. Other Old Tallinn architectural highlights include medieval guild houses and the Holy Ghost Church. Then walk along narrow Bun Lane into Town Hall Square for two more landmark buildings from the Middle Ages; the Gothic Town Hall and 15th century pharmacy. Continue to the St. Catherine’s Arts and Crafts Center for independent shopping time. Back aboard the coach, you will head to the recreational area of Pirita, passing Kadriorg Park, founded by Peter the Great. See also the Song Festival Grounds where song festivals are held featuring approximately 30,000 performers. You will also see the well-preserved 16th century ruins of the old St. Birgitta’s Convent as well as the impressive new building, and the Olympic Yachting Complex before returning to your ship past the monument to Brave and Enterprising People, Count Orlov’s summer residence, and the Russalka mermaid monument.

Tallinn’s Old Town has earned a place in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Capture views of its must-see highlights and gain an appreciation of Estonia’s rich musical traditions. Your coach will travel past the Old Town Wall, the National Opera, and Freedom Square. You will ascend Dome Hill (Toompea), for enchanting views of the Parliament of Estonia, the Long Hermann Tower and the Russian Orthodox Church of St. Alexander Nevski. Other sites include the Lutheran Dome Church (St. Mary’s Cathedral) and the House of the Estonian Knighthood. Then take a stroll along narrow cobblestone lanes and alleys for sweeping panoramas of the Lower Town with its red rooftops and slender church steeples framed by beautiful sea views. Enter a restaurant and meet a folk musician, learn about Estonian music traditions and see the playing of various musical instruments. Refreshments of Estonian schnapps, pickled pumpkin and cheese will be served before your walk continues to Town Hall Square, past the Great Guild House, House of the Brotherhood of the Blackheads and the Church of the Holy Spirit. Beyond lies the Town Council’s 15th century Apothecary and Town Hall. After traversing Apteegi (Pharmacy) Lane you will continue to the Katariina (Catherine’s) Passage lined with handicraft workshops and Müürivahe Lane, a street market brimming with wool and linen products. Reboard the coach and return to the yacht.

Explore Tallinn, to discover the early lifestyles of Estonia’s people and venture out to a charming local home and garden on this delightful sightseeing adventure. Just 20 minutes from the pier you will visit the Rocca-al-Mare Open Air Museum, showcasing fascinating examples of Estonian rural architecture going back over 200 years. Back aboard the coach, there’s a 10-minute drive to the seaside setting of a modern Estonian private home. On arrival, your hostess, Mrs. Reine proudly escorts you around her home and garden. You will hear interesting stories of her family, work and hobby during a coffee break on the terrace. Back aboard the coach, you will head for the Upper Town of Old Tallinn and the Tall Hermann Tower on Toompea Hill. A short walk will then bring you to Palace Square surrounded by the Parliament House and the Russian Orthodox Church. After passing St. Mary’s Cathedral your stroll will continue over narrow cobblestone lanes to a scenic viewpoint for expansive panoramas of the Lower Town with its towers and steeples rising above a cluster of red-tiled roofs. En route back to your yacht, you will pass splendid houses formerly belonging to wealthy landowners.

This tour is a chocolate lover’s dream: a 2-hour truffle-making workshop under the tutelage of a master confectioner. You will be taken to the Rotermann Quarter – the former industrial district, now an area of cultural and environmental value. It is here that the famous Estonian Kalev Chocolate Factory has opened its newest shop, which not only sells chocolate, marzipan and confectionary products to all with a sweet-tooth but also organizes workshops on truffles. Here you will experience a 2-hour workshop on chocolate. You will have an extraordinary opportunity to make delicious fillings from exotic spices for your truffles and cover them with chocolate; all under the watchful eye of an experienced Master Confectioner. At the conclusion of the workshop enjoy a short time for shopping in the Kalev store, before re-boarding the motorcoach for the return to your waiting Windstar ship.