Capitals & Fjords: Lithuania, Latvia & Nordfjord Rotterdam 2025-05-10

HomeSearchCapitals & Fjords: Lithuania, Latvia & Nordfjord Rotterdam 2025-05-10

Your itinerary

Rotterdam, The Netherlands
At Sea
Oslo
Scenic Cruising Oslo Fjord
Arhus, Denmark
Warnemunde
At Sea
Klaipeda
Riga
Tallinn
Stockholm
At Sea
Kiel
Copenhagen
At Sea
Rotterdam, The Netherlands
At Sea
Eidfjord, Norway
Scenic cruising Hardangerfjord
Alesund
Nordfjordeid
Scenic Cruising Nordfjord
Bergen
At Sea
Rotterdam, The Netherlands

Day 1

10th May '25

Rotterdam, The Netherlands

Often called the gateway to Europe, the port city of Rotterdam is full of old-world charm. The harbor offers amazing views and a maze of wharves and canals, along with towering spires make for a beautiful sight. Take a stroll and duck into one of the pubs or eateries along the way. Only three pre World War II buildings in the city centre have survived and are worth a look – city hall, St. Laurence church and the White House. Explore the Museum Boymans van Beuningen, which houses a unique collection dating from the 14th century, or the Museum Voor Volkenkunde – home to ethnological exhibits. Exquisite architecture can be seen in many areas of Rotterdam, most notably in the Delfshaven quarter of the city – where 18th century houses are on display. For a laugh, check out Kijk-Kubus, an upside-down house. More

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15:00

Day 2

11th May '25

At Sea

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Day 3

12th May '25

Oslo

At the head of Oslofjord, Norway’s handsome capital is the logical first stop in Scandinavia. Thor Heyerdahl’s raft, Kon Tiki, recalls a voyage between Easter Island and Tahiti to prove a theory about the earliest colonization of Oceania. Watch the changing of the palace guard; ferry to the open-air Folke Museum with its 12th-century stave church More

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7:00

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15:00

Day 3

12th May '25

Scenic Cruising Oslo Fjord

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Day 4

13th May '25

Arhus, Denmark

Denmark’s second city often seems to sit modestly in the shadow of its better-known big sister. But this picturesque town of winding canals and cobbled streets has many of the capital’s charms without its crowds of tourists. As well as dictating its waterside confines, Århus’s location on the east coast of the Jutland Peninsula yields a rich natural bounty that the city’s restaurateurs have exploited with aplomb. Dishes such as caviar and wood smoke at Frederikshøj, or rye and rabbit ravioli at Restaurant Substans, have helped win a clutch of Michelin stars for the region’s pioneering chefs and cement it as a frontrunner of the New Nordic food scene; its affordable street food offerings are no less exciting.The city also holds its own on the design and architecture front, boosted by its 2017 designation as a European Capital of Culture, which resulted in a collection of waterside developments that are architecturally innovative, but anchored by a simple and pleasing Danish aesthetic. In short, this is a city in which to relax, imbibe, and enjoy both the bracing Danish sea air and a touch of laid-back metropolitan class. More

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10:00

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18:00

Day 5

14th May '25

Warnemunde

Inseparable from its modern history, Berlin decidedly features it. In the former Soviet/American/British sectors are the Berlin Cathedral, Checkpoint Charlie, Unter den Linden Boulevard and the stunning Brandenburg Gate. In the Western sector, browse the lively Kurfurstendamm for snazzy clothing stores, delicate hand-painted porcelain and a snack of beer and bratwurst. More

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23:00

Day 6

15th May '25

At Sea

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Day 7

16th May '25

Klaipeda

The distinctly German-style timber-frame buildings that line the cobbled streets of Klaipėda’s Old Town hint at its past life as the former capital of Prussia. Controlled on and off by Germany well into the 20th century, the city went by the name Memel until 1945, when it formally adopted the Lithuanian name Klaipėda. Now the country’s third-largest metropolis, Klaipėda retains much of its historic and maritime flavor, but there’s also a growing arts scene, with lively exhibition spaces and modern sculptures scattered around the city. The most popular gathering place for locals and visitors is Old Town’s Theatre Square, which features the city’s famed sculpture of a young girl, Taravos Anikė. Nearby, the “Crafts Yard” is home to timber-frame buildings dating from the 18th century; here you can visit various workshops and see how crafts, art and home goods are made. A short ferry ride across a narrow strait takes you to Smiltynė, where you’ll find the Maritime Museum and Aquarium, which hosts Black Sea bottlenose dolphin shows. More

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Day 8

17th May '25

Riga

The capital of Latvia, Riga is an Art Nouveau gem, rich in fun, flamboyant architecture that somewhat belies the many centuries of war and changes of power in its long history. Founded in 1201 by German traders, the port city was a powerful member of the Hanseatic League for several hundred years until it came under Swedish rule; in the 1800s, the Russian empire assumed control, with turbulent periods of uprisings, followed by Nazi and Soviet occupation. In 1990, Latvia regained its independence and Riga quickly became a popular tourist destination thanks to the beauty of its Old Town—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—and flourishing restaurant and nightlife scenes. Among the top attractions are Riga Castle; the 13th-century Riga Cathedral, with one of the largest organs in the world; Alberta Iela (Alberta Street), a stunning Art Nouveau street; and the Central Market, housed in former zeppelin hangars. The city also has a booming bohemian quarter, centered around Miera Iela, or “Peace Street,” where you’ll find hipster bars, cafés, galleries, and quirky boutiques. For a sobering look at the hardships endured by Latvians under Nazi and Soviet regimes, the Museum of the Occupation of Latvia is a must-visit; it includes a tour of the Corner House, the former headquarters of the KGB. More

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16:00

Day 9

18th May '25

Tallinn

Medieval walls and towers still stand tall in Tallinn’s Old Town. Stroll and shop along cobblestone streets, walk up to the Baroque palace in the Upper Town, look out over the red roofs to the Baltic below, drop in at Alexander Nevsky Cathedral to find inspiration in the gleaming mosaics and icons. Crisp, gorgeous linen is a local specialty—find yours at a small store near the town hall square. More

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18:00

Day 10

19th May '25

Stockholm

There’s so much to see in charming Stockholm, sprawled on 18 islands, often called the “Venice of the North.” Cruise the sparkling waterways and navigate narrow, medieval streets. Watch the snappy changing of the guard at the Baroque Royal Palace and sail into Viking history with a visit to the awesome Vasa Museum. Work up an appetite so you can do justice to a lavish smorgasbord. More

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17:00

Day 11

20th May '25

At Sea

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Day 12

21st May '25

Kiel

A university town, naval base, and Germany’s largest passenger port, Kiel offers the perfect blend of urban charm, culture and history. Kiel also serves as your gateway for Hamburg, a beautiful port city on the Elbe River. Spend a delightful day exploring St. Michael’s baroque church, the St. Pauli District, and the gardens and cafés around Alster Lake. Sample shore excursions: Hamburg – Germany’s Gateway to the World; Medieval Lüneburg by Horse & Carriage. More

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Day 13

22nd May '25

Copenhagen

Copenhagen is one of the easiest European capitals to fall in love with. The sights of old buildings, cobbled streets and the tower- and turret-dotted skyline lend fairy-tale charm—this was, after all, the home of author Hans Christian Andersen. But make no mistake: This is a thoroughly modern city with international clout. Restaurants around the world draw inspiration from the New Nordic cuisine pioneered by Noma and other Copenhagen restaurants, while Danish design from this century and the last is universally admired and coveted. Urban planners flock here to try to work out just how the city remains so livable and yet so functional, and despite its wealth of old buildings, Copenhagen’s not locked in the past; there are also thrilling examples of modern architecture. Copenhagen is a city that’s easy to find things to do and explore on foot or by excellent public transport, where everyone speaks perfect English, the food is fresh and innovative, and there’s plenty of locally brewed beer—which, of course, is best enjoyed sitting by the water on a sunny day. More

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Day 14

23rd May '25

At Sea

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Day 15

24th May '25

Rotterdam, The Netherlands

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Day 16

25th May '25

At Sea

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Day 17

26th May '25

Eidfjord, Norway

In the shadow of snowy peaks and near stunning blue-green fjords, Eidfjord is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful villages in Norway. Even though it has a population of less than 1,000, scores of visitors come here each year to bask in the area’s natural splendor. Hardangervidda, near Eidfjord, is Europe’s largest mountain plateau as well as Norway’s largest national park. Interestingly, the legendary polar explorer Roald Amundsen, who led the first expedition to reach the South Pole, and Fridtjof Nansen, who made the first successful crossing of the Greenland interior, both used Hardangervidda to prepare for their expeditions. Walking, hiking, cycling and cross-country skiing are popular, and the area is home to Europe’s largest population of wild reindeer. Numerous canyons, including the famous Måbødalen Valley, lead south from the Hardangervidda plateau to the fjords along the coast, and about 16 kilometers (10 miles) south of Eidfjord, visitors can see the dramatic 182-meter-tall (597-foot-tall) Vøringfossen waterfall. In the center of Eidfjord stands the 14th-century stone Eidfjord Kirke, while outside town the famous Kjeåsen Mountain Farm sits on a ledge some 600 meters (1,968 feet) above the Simadalsfjord. More

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Day 17

26th May '25

Scenic cruising Hardangerfjord

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Day 18

27th May '25

Alesund

Ålesund, a quaint fishing town of approximately 45,000 in western Norway, has been called Norway’s most beautiful city. A fire in 1904 destroyed much of it, resulting in the town being rebuilt in the Art Nouveau style—also known as Jugendstil—that was popular around the turn of the 20th century. A year after the fire, Norway gained its independence from Sweden, which led to a campaign to build a “Norwegian town” to mark the creation of the new nation. The colorful buildings feature castlelike turrets and spires with intricate facades of ornamental flowers, gargoyles and Viking-inspired decorations. Bordering the Norwegian Sea, this area is also famous for its mountain ranges and fjords. For those looking for a more active visit, Ålesund offers great hiking, mountain biking and kayaking. One of the highlights is climbing the 418 steps that lead up Mount Aksla for a spectacular view of the city and the Sunnmøre Alps. Nearby is the Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its beautiful waterfalls. This is also home to Atlanterhavsparken, or the Atlantic Sea Park, one of the largest aquariums in Europe. More

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22:00

Day 19

28th May '25

Nordfjordeid

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17:00

Day 19

28th May '25

Scenic Cruising Nordfjord

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Day 20

29th May '25

Bergen

Beautiful Bergen, Norway’s second-largest city, is one of the most popular ports of call on a cruise up the fjords. Step off the ship into the medieval Bryggen wharf area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979, where small boats line the harbor and wooden gabled buildings stand proud along the waterfront. Bergen’s rich maritime tradition goes back nearly 1,000 years, including the years the town played an important part in the Hanseatic League, the trading empire that dominated maritime commerce in the region between the 14th and 18th centuries. The city is one of Europe’s oldest settlements, and its cobblestone streets and narrow alleyways lead to emerald-green parks, medieval cathedrals and stone fortresses that kept enemies at bay centuries ago. It’s also eminently walkable, with historic buildings and excellent markets selling everything from fish and produce to trinkets and souvenirs. Surrounded by mountains and thick forest, and sitting halfway between Geiranger to the north and Stavanger to the south, Bergen offers plenty to do outside the city too. Whether you sign up for a guided excursion or venture out on your own, you’ll be sure to fall in love with Bergen. More

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Day 21

30th May '25

At Sea

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Day 22

31st May '25

Rotterdam, The Netherlands

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Your ship - The Rotterdam

In honor of some of the most memorable ships in Holland America Line’s history, our third Pinnacle-class ship (and new flagship) will be named Rotterdam. This new addition to our fleet will fill your journey with a rhythm all its own, putting music front and center, creating the soundtrack to the discoveries you make every day. At the heart of it all is Music Walk: an exclusive collection of five venues featuring live music and electrifying performances from accomplished musicians, dancers and artists every night. Rotterdam hits all the right notes: exquisite dining experiences, enhanced staterooms and suites, the finest service at sea and craftsmanship that reflects nearly 150 years of seafaring expertise. The result is a ship that moves you — from the start of your first day to the end of each perfect night.

Rolling Stone Rock Room

Lincoln Center Stage

B.B.King’s Blues Club

BBC Earth in Concert

Billboard Onboard

Greenhouse Spa & Salon

World Stage

Casino Action

Explorations Central

Club Hal

row-center

bottom-right

Restaurant

Jewellery show

Rotterdam

Description
Other
Recreational
Relaxation
Fitness
Food and Drink
Entertainment

Art Gallery
Boutique
Culinary Arts Center
Future Cruise Sales
Hair Salon
Laundry Service
Medical Centre
Photo Gallery
Reception
Shops
Shore Excursion Office

Card Room
Club HAL
Table Tennis
The Loft and The Oasis

Beauty Salon
Greenhouse Spa & Salon
Lido Pool
Massage
Sauna
Spa
Thermal Suite
Whirlpool

Aerobics
Basketball
Fitness Center
Gym
Tennis Court

24-hour Room Service
Bar
Canaletto Restaurant
Cocktail Bar
Explorations Cafe
Explorers’ Lounge
Lido Casual Restaurant
Pinnacle Grill
Queens Room
Rotterdam Dining Room
Terrace Grill
The Atrium
The Verandah

Crow’s Nest
Entertainment Team
Live Bands
Neptune Lounge
Night Club
Theatre

Description

Other

Art Gallery
Boutique
Culinary Arts Center
Future Cruise Sales
Hair Salon
Laundry Service
Medical Centre
Photo Gallery
Reception
Shops
Shore Excursion Office

Recreational

Card Room
Club HAL
Table Tennis
The Loft and The Oasis

Relaxation

Beauty Salon
Greenhouse Spa & Salon
Lido Pool
Massage
Sauna
Spa
Thermal Suite
Whirlpool

Fitness

Aerobics
Basketball
Fitness Center
Gym
Tennis Court

Food and Drink

Entertainment

Crow’s Nest
Entertainment Team
Live Bands
Neptune Lounge
Night Club
Theatre

Staterooms

suite

With a teak-lined verandah, floor-to-ceiling windows and comfortable sitting area, these comfortabl ... e suites are filled with light. They include two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner’s Dream bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, plus a shower, mini-bar and refrigerator.

balcony

Filled with light from floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, these staterooms in ... clude a sitting area, two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner’s Dream bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, and bath tub with premium massage showerheads.

outside

Perfect for guests traveling solo, these staterooms feature one queen-size Signature Mariner’ ... s Dream bed with plush Euro-top mattress, plus a shower with premium massage head an array of modern amenities.

inside

Two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner’s Dream™ bed with plus ... h Euro-Top mattresses, premium massage shower heads and a host of amenities are featured in these comfortable staterooms. Amenities Daily housekeeping Complimentary 24-hour room service Elemis Aromapure soap, lotion, shampoo Luxurious bathrobes Generous storage Fresh fruit upon request Safe Shoeshine TV with On Demand movies, programming