North Sea Empires: London to Copenhagen on Marina

Embark Marina at Southampton today ready to begin your cruise, where ultra-spacious suites, sparkling furnishings and a country-club ambience await, with six open-seating gourmet restaurants and multiple bars on offer for you to make the most of your evenings over the next 12 days.

Stay: Marina 

You've got a full day at sea today to really take advantage of all the ship has to offer. Perhaps indulge at the spa with a luxurious treatment or celebrate the start of your adventure with a cocktail on the pool deck or afternoon tea in the lounge. When it comes to dining, Oceania Cruises offer one of the best experiences at sea. There's everything from gourmet, wine-paired food tasting at La Reserve by Wine Spectator – think Brittany blue lobster and wagyu beef paired with champagne – to the only hands-on cooking school at sea, run by some of Europe's best master chefs. This evening, sample of one of the five other dining venues that offer Asian, Italian or French cuisine in ultra-stylish settings, the perfect prelude to a night at the casino, theatre or one of the multiple intimate bars.

Stay: Marina

One look at the abundance of canals and gabled houses in Gothenburg, and it's clear that the Dutch founded this robust city on the Göta River. That was in 1621, close to the time that mighty Elfsborg Fortress was built at the harbour mouth. Touring the citadel is fascinating, as are the 17th century Crown House, Maritiman ship museum, and Gothenburg Art Museum with masterpieces from Edvard Munch to Picasso. Gothenburg is one of Sweden's greenest cities, compliments of parks such as Slottsskogen. For a vibrant atmosphere, walk along Kungsportavenyn, Gothenburg's main street, which is a hive of cafés, boutiques and plazas

Stay: Marina

Anchor in to the harbour at Kiel today, a historic maritime city and gateway to the famous Kiel Canal. Explore the Kiel fjord, museums and memorials in the city centre and buzzing waterfront – and be sure to make time to visit the famed Kiel Maritime Museum Fish Market and botanical gardens before stopping at one of the many promenade-side cafes.

Stay: Marina

The tiny, charming city of Karlskrona awaits today in a perfect showcase of Sweden's rich maritime and architectural heritage. The city itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, explored with everything from boat tours to the Kungsholm fortress or drives along the east coast to walk through Renaissance-era towns – making time for a Swedish fika, of course, at one of the city's many cosy cafes. From there, there's also the chance to head out on a thrilling museum and boat tour, pausing at Karlskrona’s 30-island archipelago and famous baroque landmarks, or for sailing enthusiasts, why not visit the old naval shipyard and naval museum on a guided walking tour?

Stay: Marina

Spend a marvellous day discovering this lovely city and its beautiful buildings. Visit the charming Old Town, medieval Gamla Stan, the elegant royal palace, the wonderful parks and the impressive Vasa, the magnificently restored 17th century warship that sank in the harbour on her maiden voyage.

Stay: Marina

Sail to neighbouring Finland today to take in Helsinki's impressive modern architecture, sprawling parks and buzzing open-air markets. Nearby Porvoo is a charming medieval gem, or there's the chance to visit a family-run horse farm or go kayaking on the Finnish archipelago. We'd highly recommend a tour taking in Helsinki’s most famous sights in panoramic comfort on a guided coach drive, pausing at landmarks like the domed cathedral and its famous steps, the historic Olympic Stadium and the modern opera house on Töölönlahti Bay.

Stay: Marina

Step back in time as you sail to Tallin’s beautifully preserved medieval centre today. Explore with city tours to take in the city's ancient houses, famous churches and squares alongside delightful parks, Baroque palaces and the city's famed 15th-century convent, as well as the chance to discover the city's Upper Town and its secret tunnels – best combined with traditional beer tasting in the Old Town.

Stay: Marina

Once called the "Paris of the Baltics," Riga has regained its status as a cosmopolitan capital with dozens of museums and arguably Europe's most exceptional Art Nouveau architecture. Founded in 1201, Riga boasts a magnificent Old Town called "Vecriga." Riga Castle, the residence of Latvia's president, was built on the site of the original settlement next to the Daugava River. St. Mary's Dome Cathedral is renowned for its stained glass windows and massive 19th century organ comprised of more than 6,500 pipes. Outside the city limits, traditional Latvian life is on display in outdoor exhibits at the Open Air Ethnographic Museum

Stay: Marina

Sail to Sweden's beautiful island of Gotland today and the former Hanseatic League city of Visby's medieval towered walls, winding lanes and ancient churches. We'd recommend a tour around the city and its surrounding coastline, taking in sights like the old Hanseatic harbour, the world’s largest hoard of Viking silver and the famous ring of UNESCO-listed towers, or even head to a local Gotland farm to sample local Swedish delicacies. It's well worth booking onto an Oceania exclusive small-group tour, allowing you ultimate flexibility and even personalised tours.

Stay: Marina

Lithuania’s third largest city, Klaipeda has been in and out of the hands of the Russians, Swedes and Germans. Marvel at the impressive, and verbosely christened, St. Mergeles Marijos Taikos Karalienes Church tower and walk through Anika Square. Head to the pristine Baltic waters lapping at the broad sands of Smiltyne Beach. Or duck into the Clock Museum or Castle Museum.

Stay: Marina

The Baltic jewel of Gdansk awaits on your penultimate day, home to the famed Golden Gate, Solidarity Square, ancient St. Mary's Church and Oliwa Cathedral. Be reminded of Poland's turbulent recent history with a visit to the sobering museum at Stutthof Concentration Camp, or perhaps head on a panoramic Gdansk coach tour that'll see you take in the sights in comfort, with multiple stops for photos, of course. Tonight, why not enjoy a pre-dinner aperitif on the deck before a night at the casino to toast your final night on board with new-found friends?

Stay: Marina

On you final day, enjoy breakfast on board before disembarking in Copenhagen, then, transfer to the airport for your flight back to the UK.

Alternatively, why not extend and enjoy a few days in Denmark's delightful capital city - speak to one of our specialists for details of the options available.