KARLSKRONA, SWEDEN

Starting from Kungsbron, which is the pier area and adjoining street to the south east of the town centre, we shall have some photo opportunities – looking over the Island of Stumholmen, the Bastion Aurora and the Governor's Residence to name a few.

Starting from Kungsbron, which is the pier area and adjoining street to the south east of the town centre, we shall have some photo opportunities – looking over the Island of Stumholmen, the Bastion Aurora and the Governor's Residence to name a few. We then travel a short distance and stop at the expansive Stortorget – main square, surrounded by the neo Classical Town Hall, the Baroque Frederiks Church, and the round Trinity Church, built for the area’s German community. We shall have the opportunity to take photos (internal visits are not made). Continuing by coach, we shall stop to visit the nearby Admiralty Church, built in 1685, which is the largest timber church in Sweden. In front stands the legendary figure of Old Rosenbom, his outstretched arm begging for alms. We will continue our drive and see the district of Björkholmen, with its picturesque little 17th century workmen’s houses. Our tour then takes us to the Old Naval Shipyard, where Sweden’s proudest sailing fleet was built and maintained, and more than 400 ships were launched. We will take a brief walk in the area, to admire the interesting 17th century buildings as well as the Polhem dock – one of the world’s oldest dry docks. We will witness and take part in the various stages of rope making, which was an essential part of ship construction during the era of the sailing navy. Our final visit will be to the Naval Museum, which houses a variety of interesting exhibits including a unique collection of late 18th century figureheads.

This tour involves a moderate amount of walking – approximately 100 metres (328 feet) to and from Admiralty Church, 1,000 metres (3,280 feet) at the Old Shipyard including the Rope Walk and 500 metres (1,640 feet) inside the Naval Museum. Our ship should be berthed within walking distance of the city, and it is possible to visit the sights independently, however, this tour is for those of us who appreciate the services of a knowledgeable, English-speaking guide. (The Old Naval Shipyard is only open to pre-arranged groups.) There will be toilet facilities at the Museum. The tour may operate in a different order to that described.

DESCRIPTION CORRECT FOR 2008 SCANDINAVIA & BALTIC CRUISES