This was our second cruise, after a 17-day PanCan aboard the Island Princess last Feb. We chose this cruise based on itinerary, as it was the only one in our time frame going to Klaipeda (where I have family roots) and Visby (an interesting and unusual destination). I didn't expect RCL to surpass Princess, but I thought it might be a reasonable equivalent.
Not exactly.
The good: our deluxe balcony cabin was surprisingly spacious, with abundant storage set up in clever ways. The transporter-pod shower was fine. Lots of counter space in the bathroom a definite plus. No problem with the bed. Didn't use the balcony much, but when we did it was satisfying. One note, though: although this was a covered balcony, there isn't much privacy. People above us and to the right (forward) could look down and see us. This was a comparatively far-forward cabin, but the Baltic was like glass throughout, and we experienced very little ship movement (too little, maybe? Rocking motion at night is very soothing).
Large, as large as our minisuite on Princess. Comfortable. Plenty of storage space. Lots of counter space in bathroom. Not always as clean as it should have been, but never a problem.
Took public transportation at least part of the way. Took boat to Suomenlinna Fortress. Lovely, but not much to do. Surprisingly shabby in parts, considering this is a very rich country. The only place where we saw drunks and bums on the street.
Charming, walkable, magnificent views, captivating little place.
Pricey, pricey, pricey! Saw a wedding procession on bicycles: bride was swigging chmpagne as she rode. Tivoli made a good impression, but it was freezing.
Private excursions with SPB. Very warm, considerate guide. Enjoyed the Neva boat ride. Amber Room mind-blowing, Winter Palace more bling than 10 Vegases. Saw only the most affluent, Westernized parts of the city (not an accident, I'm sure). Crowds at St Isaac's made it almost impossible to see. Fun shopping stops.
Cute, small, not much to see beyond the architecture and the touristy central market. Took a HoHo bus and saw a little more, however, this was a short stop and not particularly meaningful.
Beautiful city, not too big but not too small. Very green, with lots of parkland. Saw the Vasa Museum, which was worthwhile. Stayed one night aftr disembarking and went to Skansen Outdoor Museum - highly recommended. Easy to get around via public transportation. We would go back here, not necessarily on a cruise.