I chose this cruise because it gave us more time in Copenhagen before the cruise, and in Stockholm at the end of the cruise. Both cities are fantastic with a lots to see and do. We spent 3 days in Copenhagen, and used Free Walking tours guides, they were fantastic! Everybody speaks excellent English and people were generally friendly. Be prepared however for a very expensive city! The port is far from the city, we took a taxi to get there. Embarkation went very well, however, the assigned boarding times don't make any difference, you can go whenever you wish. I was a bit worried about the ship comfort level, but I was pleasantly surprised by its comfort level and appearance. This cruise is extremely port intensive, so be prepared for long days, and little time on the ship. My main disappointment was with the level of service in general and especially in the main dining room. My time dining was a total disaster: no respect of reservations, rude greeting at the reception, and unexperienced waiters. The food was good at the main dining room and in Windjammer, but very average at the Park Café As for the other ports: Arhus is a very nice town, easy to walk around, with VERY friendly people and volunteers available to help us from the ship into town. Warnemunde: we did not go to Berlin, too far, we rented a car and visited Shwerin and Rostock. Helsinki: we did a fantastic guided tour by bike, a beautiful city. St-Petersbourg: booked a private tour, everything went well, don't be afrait NOT to take the ship excursions. We enjoyed being able to spend 3 days, there is so much to see. Tallin: used also Free Walking tours. We spent an extra 2 nights in Stockholm, we loved the city, RCI was telling us taxis were rare at the port, which was not true, we had no problem finding one. The weather overall was great, but be prepared for windy days and variations from one hour to the other. Overall a fantastic but tiring trip! Scandinavia is great to discover, and St-Petersbourg brings you in a very different atmosphere. Its a cruise for people who like to learn and experiment!