Having gleaned much valuable information from the reviews and forums on CruiseCritic.com, I felt compelled to write this review as a payback, in hopes that it can be of help to somebody else.

This was only our second time on a cruise, the first being many years ago on a much smaller ship. One reason that I have been hesitant to cruise is the ease at which I will suffer motion sickness, but I could not pass up the opportunity to visit these ports of call. We were accompanied by another couple who are great friends who cruise often- 2 to 3 times per year.

The cruise originated and ended in Amsterdam, with stops at Warnemunde (Germany), Stockholm, Helsinki, 2 days in St. Petersburg, Tallinn, and Copenhagen. We decided to spend an extra day before and after the cruise in Amsterdam, and stayed at a wonderful B&B, located close to the port, called Boogaard's B&B. For Amsterdam, it was very well priced, 105 Euros including all taxes, with an excellent location on a quiet street located within the historic section, with immaculate rooms, a great host, and a delicious home-made breakfast- all in a renovated house that was built almost 400 years ago. We would highly recommend it if you enjoy B&Bs, as it was a great way to start the vacation in a relaxed atmosphere. Read more