Northern Europe Cruises

Few corners of the continent reward curiosity quite like the north. On a cruise to Northern Europe with Fred. Olsen, you sail from a UK port to the harbours, capitals and coastlines that larger ships often have to pass by. From the canals of Amsterdam and the old towns of the Baltic to the fjords of Norway and the islands of the Arctic, our hand-crafted itineraries are shaped around the places our guests most want to explore, and our smaller ships carry you right into the heart of them. [ReadMoreMob][ReadMoreDesk]

Why cruise Northern Europe with Fred. Olsen

Our ships are smaller, and in Northern Europe that makes all the difference. They navigate scenic rivers such as the Seine, tie up within walking distance of a city centre, and call at characterful ports the larger fleets cannot reach. On board, the welcome is warm, friendly and sincere, with talks and workshops that bring each place to life before you step ashore. Many of our Northern Europe cruises sail directly from Southampton, Liverpool, Newcastle and Rosyth, so your holiday begins the moment you board, with no airport queues and no early flights.

Where our cruises to Northern Europe take you

A cruise to Northern Europe covers a great deal of ground, and each region has its own character. Trace the Norwegian Fjords and their glaciers, head above the Arctic Circle in search of the Northern Lights, or follow the Baltic coast through its Hanseatic old towns. For sailings centred on the region's capitals and islands, explore our Scandinavia and the Baltic cruises. You can also discover individual countries in more detail, from Estonia, Latvia and Poland to Germany, the Netherlands and Belgium.

Northern European city escapes

The cities of Northern Europe are made for unhurried days ashore. In Antwerp, tour the diamond district and its centuries of craftsmanship. In Hamburg, take in the lines of the Elbphilharmonie concert hall and the warehouses of the Speicherstadt. Sail the North Sea canal into Amsterdam to walk the waterways on foot, then call at the smaller Dutch towns along the way. Because our ships reach the quieter berths, you spend less time travelling in and more time in the places themselves.

Festive cruises in Northern Europe

Northern Europe is also one of the most rewarding regions to visit as winter sets in. Cities such as Bruges and Hamburg fill their squares with wooden stalls, lantern light and the scent of glühwein. To plan a festive sailing, see our Christmas market cruises and our wider Christmas and New Year cruises.