Baltic Sea Round Trip: Tallinn-Stockholm-Tallinn Mini-Cruise

Traveling between Tallinn and Stockholm by sea offers a unique blend of comfort, scenery, and city exploration—all wrapped into one smooth journey. We haven’t personally taken this cruise, but based on the reviews and details, it’s a popular choice for those looking to enjoy a city break without the hassle of flying or long land transport.

What really catch our eye? First, the two nights onboard in private cabins make for a relaxed trip, and second, the full day in Stockholm gives you enough time to soak in the sights without feeling rushed. Plus, the onboard amenities—dining options, entertainment, and duty-free shopping—add a nice touch of variety.

However, there’s one thing to keep in mind—this type of trip is all about quick visits. The itinerary is tight, which means you’ll be packing in sightseeing in Stockholm and then rushing back to the ship. It’s ideal if you’re craving a scenic, low-stress way to see two cities, but perhaps less suited for travelers wanting a deep dive into either destination.

This cruise will suit those who value easy logistics, value for money, and a comfortable, scenic experience. It’s especially good for first-timers in the Baltic region or those short on time but eager to get a taste of Stockholm.

Key Points

• Comfortable overnight cabins make the trip restful and convenient.
• Full day in Stockholm allows a decent taste of the city’s highlights.
• Onboard amenities include dining, entertainment, and shopping, making it more than just transportation.
• Kids under 6 travel free (with a maximum of 2 per cabin), making it family-friendly if you’re traveling with little ones.
• Efficient schedule with quick turnarounds means you see both cities, but the time is tight.
• Cost-effective at around $113 per person, considering the included amenities and accommodation.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: What You Can Expect

We’re looking at a journey that combines the practicality of a mini-cruise with the enjoyment of exploring two iconic cities in one go. Departing from Tallinn in the evening at 18:00, you’ll settle into your private cabin—whether it’s a standard or deluxe one. The ship, operated by Tallink Silja Line, is well-regarded for its smooth organization and onboard atmosphere.

Setting Sail from Tallinn

Starting your trip in the D-Terminal, you’ll check in at the harbor with your reservation number and security code—easy enough if you arrive about an hour early, as recommended. The departure is typically in the evening, heading out into the Baltic Sea. The ship itself offers a variety of entertainment options, from live music to karaoke, so you can unwind as you leave Estonia behind.

Spending The Night Onboard

The private cabins are a highlight here—they’re described as cozy and clean, with some options offering sea views. The onboard amenities are plentiful: buffet and à la carte restaurants, bars with live music, and a spa or sauna to relax after a day of travel. Many reviews praise the good quality and variety of food, noting that the buffet is especially popular for its wide choice.

Arriving in Stockholm

The next morning, around 10:30, you’ll pull into the Värtahamnen Terminal. From there, it’s easy to access Stockholm’s city center—just a short journey, whether by taxi or public transport. With a full day ahead, you have plenty of options: explore the cobbled streets of Gamla Stan, visit world-class museums, or indulge in some shopping.

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The Return Journey

In the evening, at approximately 17:30, the ship departs back to Tallinn. You’ll spend a second night onboard in your cabin, giving you another chance to enjoy the ship’s amenities or simply unwind. The next morning, at around 10:45, you’ll arrive back in Tallinn, completing a well-rounded Baltic adventure.

Onboard Entertainment and Dining

One of the appealing aspects of this cruise is the variety of activities available. The reviews highlight the music, shows, and lively atmosphere aboard. You might find yourself enjoying a karaoke night or wandering through shops offering duty-free goods. The food gets high marks too—many reviewers mention the quality and variety of the buffet as a highlight, especially considering the price point.

For those opting for the Deluxe Cabin, there’s the added perk of a special breakfast and minibar, which elevates the experience slightly. The ship’s environment is described as family-friendly, with play areas for children and a relaxed vibe, which makes it suitable for families or groups seeking a convenient city break.

The Scenery and Views

Traveling by sea gives you a different perspective on the Baltic region. We loved the way the ship provides a scenic route packed with views of the open water, passing islands, and the Stockholm archipelago. It’s a calming, visually interesting journey that feels like a mini adventure on its own.

The Practicalities: Pricing, Checking In, and Transportation

At roughly $113 per person, this cruise offers solid value—considering accommodation, transportation, and onboard entertainment included. You won’t have to worry about additional costs for kids under 6 (up to 2 per cabin), which makes it an attractive option for families.

Check-in is straightforward, happening at the harbor terminal with your reservation details. Arriving an hour early is recommended to avoid last-minute stress. The departure and arrival times are quite fixed, so it’s best suited for travelers with a flexible schedule.

The Reviews: Authentic Voices

We pulled from genuine feedback to give you a broader picture:

• A traveler from the UK called the boat “comfortable,” praising the clean cabins and the smooth organization.
• A Lithuanian reviewer simply said, “worth trying,” highlighting that it’s a good experience for the price.
• From Brazil, one reviewer mentioned that “everything is meticulously perfect,” emphasizing the attention to detail.
• Another from the UK shared that “the food in the buffet was very good,” and they had a “lot of fun” with the entertainment, which is reassuring if you’re looking for a lively atmosphere.

Some users noted feeling a bit like “cattle” due to the crowd, which is something to keep in mind if you’re sensitive to large group settings. Still, most agree that the boat is well-organized and offers a seamless experience.

Who Is It Best For?

This cruise works well for first-time visitors to Stockholm or Tallinn, travelers looking for a quick Baltic escape, and those who want to avoid the hassle of airports. It’s ideal for families with young children, given the free travel for kids under 6 and onboard play areas.

It’s less suited for travelers requiring wheelchair accessibility or those wanting in-depth exploration of Stockholm, as the schedule is tight. If you prefer slow-paced, immersive city stays, this might not satisfy.

Final Thoughts

For a scenic, comfortable, and affordable way to see two Baltic gems, this round-trip cruise ticks many boxes. It combines the perks of private cabins, onboard activities, and the chance to explore Stockholm’s highlights—all without the stress of planning multi-leg transport or accommodation.

While it’s a quick jaunt, it’s well-suited for those who want a taste of Scandinavian culture and scenery in a manageable package. The onboard experience, backed by positive reviews, indicates that most travelers find it enjoyable and good value.

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic city break with a touch of maritime charm, this cruise could be just what you need.

FAQs

Is the cruise suitable for families?
Yes, especially since children under 6 travel free (up to 2 per cabin). The ship has play areas and family-friendly amenities, making it a comfortable choice for family trips.

How long do I spend in Stockholm?
You get a full day, arriving at 10:30 and leaving again at 17:30. It’s enough time for a quick tour, museum visits, or a stroll through Gamla Stan, but not for a deep dive into everything the city offers.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the round-trip cruise, two nights in a private cabin, onboard entertainment, and (if you choose the Deluxe option) a special breakfast and minibar. Dining and sightseeing in Stockholm are not included.

How do I check in?
Check-in is at the Passenger Terminal D in Tallinn. Use your reservation number and security code at the check-in machine. Arriving at least 60 minutes before departure is recommended.

Is the ship accessible for wheelchair users?
Unfortunately, this experience is not suitable for wheelchair users, so if accessibility is a concern, consider this before booking.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund, making it flexible if your schedule shifts.

This cruise offers a practical and enjoyable way to tick off Stockholm from your Nordic itinerary without fuss. Whether you’re new to the region or just want a quick scenic escape, it’s a solid choice that balances comfort, value, and fun.

You can check availability for your dates here: