MSC Opera Pool Area

Historically rich St Petersburg, Estonia’s Tallinn, Amsterdam and its interesting network of canals, and Copenhagen with its royal links to Australia are among a host of fascinating ports on MSC Cruises’ ever-expanding Northern Europe program.

From the ancient routes of the Vikings to the breathtaking Norwegian fjords and the heritage-listed sites in the Baltic, the leading family-owned cruise line has a range of cruises to delight Australian fans looking to add or seek alternative programs to the more traditional Mediterranean cruises.

The 2012 Northern Europe program runs from April until October, four-night cruises beginning at a bargain $509 per person, twin share – a little more than $125 a night.

Seven-night cruises begin at $869pp, twin share while 11 nights start from $1489.

For holidaying families, children under 18 years cruise free, providing they share a cabin with two adults, a policy adopted by MSC Cruises on all its cruises (children need only pay port charges).

“When you consider the impressive ports of call and how well cruises are priced, the Northern Europe program is an exciting one,” said Lynne Clarke, managing director of MSC Cruises (Australia and New Zealand).

”The itineraries provide cruise fans with the opportunity to explore a new region and experience something glorious and wonderful,” she said. “With this region renown for expense as a holiday opportunity, to cruise these exciting waterways is certainly good value for money.

“Northern Europe and such colourful destinations as Bergen (Norway), St Petersburg, Stockholm and Copenhagen are sure to appeal to passengers who have before holidayed on the Mediterranean and are seeking new ports and experiences.

“Our cruises introduce passengers to a beautiful and very fascinating part of the world.”

Four of MSC Cruises’ 11-strong fleet (to expand to 12 in May, 2012 when the MSC Divina is launched in Marseille) are engaged in the Northern Europe program: MSC Lirica, MSC Magnifica, MSC Opera and MSC Poesia. Cruises range from four nights to grand 14-night cruises.

Beginning in Copenhagen is a 14-night Norwegian Fjords and Baltic Capitals cruise aboard MSC Poesia, prices starting from $2218 per person per night.

Prices are inclusive of on-board meals and entertainment, invitations to a Captain’s cocktail party and gala dinner, and port charges.