In Finland, taking a short cruise is a beloved summer tradition. This summer, my family and I decided to embrace this tradition with a spontaneous trip on the Tallink Silja Line from Turku. It was an impromptu decision that turned out to be a delightful escape, filled with family time, good food, shopping, and the serene beauty of the Baltic Sea.
A Finnish Summer Tradition
Every summer, many Finns choose to embark on a short cruise, seeking a refreshing break from their daily routines. Whether it’s a planned vacation or a spur-of-the-moment adventure, these cruises offer a perfect way to lift spirits and enjoy the season. We found ourselves with a free week and decided to make the most of it with a spontaneous cruise.
Multiple Destinations to Choose From
Tallink Silja Line offers various routes from Helsinki or Turku to destinations like Tallinn or Stockholm. You can also opt for an overnight cruise without landing, which is what we chose: the Turku-Stockholm-Turku route. This route provides a wonderful mix of relaxation and adventure, all while staying aboard the ship.
A Memorable Family Experience
Our cruise turned out to be a fantastic experience for the whole family. Here are some highlights of our trip:
Quality Family Time: The cruise allowed us to spend quality time together, away from the distractions of daily life. We enjoyed playing games, exploring the ship, and simply being together.
Delicious Food: Tallink Silja Line offers a variety of dining options to suit every taste. We indulged in delicious meals at the ship’s restaurants, savoring both local and international cuisine.
Shopping: The ship’s duty-free shops provided a great shopping experience. We found everything from souvenirs to luxury items at attractive prices, making it a fun activity during the journey.
Sea Air and Scenic Views: One of the most refreshing parts of the cruise was enjoying the fresh sea air and the beautiful scenery of the Baltic Sea. The views were stunning!
Why Choose a Spontaneous Cruise?
Choosing a spontaneous cruise can be an exhilarating experience. The unplanned nature of the trip adds a sense of adventure and excitement. It’s a perfect way to break away from the routine and create lasting memories with your loved ones.
Tips for a Successful Spontaneous Cruise
- Stay Flexible: Be open to different routes and departure times. Flexibility can lead to unexpected and delightful experiences.
- Pack Light: Since it’s a short trip, packing light will make the journey more convenient.
- Enjoy the Moment: Embrace the spontaneity and enjoy every moment of the trip, from the departure to the return.
Conclusion
A spontaneous cruise is a wonderful way to embrace the Finnish summer tradition of short cruises. Whether you choose to explore destinations like Tallinn or Stockholm or simply enjoy an overnight journey without landing, the experience promises relaxation, adventure, and quality family time. This summer, take a break from your routine and set sail on a refreshing and memorable cruise on the Baltic Sea.