We chose Princess because of the stops and also our familiarity with the service of the cruise line. We arrived in Copenhagen 3 days prior to our cruise and only wished I had arrived a week earlier, this place is worth returning, loved the city, the people, the atmosphere. We stayed at the Scandic Palace hotel next to city hall, location, location ideal however noise level from the bells of the church and city hall each 30 minutes till midnight can get a little tiring. Hotel does provide ear plugs, rooms are great and buffet is splendid as is the staff. Embarkation compared to the US was easy, quick and enjoyable. Ship was great, food was good we ate at the buffet most nights ,entertainment was good, lots to do however very tired from long days of excursions. Waited an hour and 45 minutes to do customs in Russia, and 50 minutes on the return to the boat. A couple of excursions like in St.Petersburg called it a cruise, I called it 20 minute turn around in a boat, not worth the money and the water cruise in Stockholm in my opinion fell short of expectations. That city is beautiful however you dock at 7 and back on boat by 1:30, way too short. Pack warm clothes, the best we got was about 65F, never wore shorts and could have used more jeans. Would I recommend this cruise yes and no, a little disappointed too port heavy and not enough time in most but happy we seen it.