8 Reasons to Spend the Summer in Scandinavia & Northern Europe


The Scandinavia and Northern Europe sailing region stretches from the historic British Channel Islands through scenic Scandinavia, with a sailing season from early May through August. It’s then that you’ll experience long hours of daylight under the mythical midnight sun, verdant forests in full flower, and comfortable, summer temperatures ideal for discovering the best of the region.  

SeaDream’s Scandinavia and Northern Europe voyages offer a dramatic mix of mountains, seas, forests and fjords, quaint villages, graceful castles, and celebrated Old Town centers. Come yacht Scandinavia and Northern Europe with us during our new 2026 season. 

DISCOVER ITINERARIES 

The Norwegian Fjords  

The Norwegian Fjords 

Nowhere are there fjords to match the grandeur of those in Norway, where the clear water reflects the mountains like a mirror. Sail between soaring granite cliffs and spy mountainside farms, charming villages, and an array of wildlife along this stunning coastline.  

Lofoten Islands 

Lofoten Islands

Norway’s celebrated archipelago is heralded for its dramatic scenery, with peaks like the Svolvaergeita pinnacle jutting up into the sky. This is where majestic mountains meet brilliantly white sandy beaches, fishing villages dot the coastlines, and hiking trails crisscross their way through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Europe. Against the backdrop of the midnight sun and small villages, SeaDream overnight in Lofoten. 

Bergen, Norway 

Bergen, Norway

Oslo is capital, but Bergen is the quintessential Norwegian city. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Bryggen (“old town”) is filled with carefully preserved wooden homes. Restored as shops, cafés and guesthouses, the attractive district looks as though it was lifted from another century. Stroll across Fisketorget, the open-air fish market and allow your senses to take it all in (and be sure to sample some fresh shrimp or smoked peppered mackerel!). Ride the funicular to the top of Mount Fløien and admire the sweeping view before heading off to visit composer Edvard Grieg’s birth home. 

Ålesund, Norway  

Ålesund, Norway 

Perched at the entrance of the Geirangerfjord, itself featured on the UNESCO World Heritage list, Ålesund is the gateway to some of the region’s most spectacular fjords. Jugendstil, or Art Nouveau, was very popular at the turn of the twentieth century when designers incorporated it into the city’s architecture. Ålesund's Museum houses photos and a model of the 1898 town layout, offering a glimpse into the city’s past. SeaDream anchors overnight here to enable guests to fully enjoy this beautiful port town on Norway’s west coast, with ample time for strolling, kayaking, and hiking. 

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Enjoy the Yachting Lifestyle 

From the moment you are welcomed aboard, your crew’s smiling faces make you feel as if you are with friends aboard your own private yacht. Be as relaxed or as active as you like. With SeaDream, it is all about personal choice.  

* Experience intimate yachting harbors and celebrated maritime cities 

* Linger longer overnight in port to enjoy an exciting nighttime element 

* Dine al fresco on deck or in the elegant Dining Salon 

* Play with the water toys or swim from the yacht’s Marina 

* Relax on the spacious Pool Deck or in one of several hot tubs 

* Biking or hiking? Join a shoreside activity with the crew 

* Luxuriate at the SeaDream Spa 

* Enjoy the Top of the Yacht Bar with 360° panoramic views 

* Sleep under the stars on a Balinese Dream Bed 

* Watch Starlit Movies® on deck 

* Visit the bridge with clearance from the Captain 

 


 

Copenhagen, Denmark  

Copenhagen, Denmark 

Reputed to be the happiest city in the world and home to fairytale author Hans Christian Andersen, Copenhagen is defined by its canals, waterside cafés, and beautiful Tivoli Gardens. Indre By, the city's historic center, houses Frederiksstaden, an 18th-century rococo district, home to the royal family’s Amalienborg Palace. Nearby Renaissance-era Rosenborg Castle is a sight to behold, surrounded by gardens and home to the crown jewels. 

 

Antwerp, Belgium  

Antwerp, Belgium 

One of the world’s major seaports sitting pretty on the Scheldt River, Antwerp gained fame as the center of the diamond industry as well as its longstanding history for celebrating the fine arts. Its celebration of art and design can be seen in almost every corner of the city, including its museums, art galleries, and architecture. Because Antwerp is home to over 150 different nationalities, making it ethnically rich, it is home to incredible Napalese, Moroccan and Arabic cuisine. Of course, chocolate, coffee, and frites (fries, served up in your favorite frituur) are staples in this lovely, strollable city. 

 

Bordeaux, France  

Bordeaux, France 

France’s Atlantic shore between Pointe de Grave (at the mouth of the Gironde River) and Biarritz (at the foot of the Pyrenées), is known as Côte d’Argent. Cooler than its Côte d’Azur cousin, its fine beaches are far less crowded. The river narrows near Bordeaux, centered on one of the world’s most celebrated wine-producing regions. More than 10,000 vineyards dot the countryside providing most of the epicurean nation’s Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Sémillon, Savignon Blanc, and Muscadelle grapes. Visit one of the region’s legendary chateaux, such as: Margaux, Mouton-Rothschild or Haut-Brion. 

 

Dramatic Sailing Through the Kiel Canal  

Dramatic Sailing Through the Kiel Canal 

It’s just a short distance between Brunsbüttel and Kiel on a map, but the 98.7-kilometer Kiel Canal saves mariners a full day’s journey around the long Jutland Peninsula. The channel winds across Germanys’ pastoral Schleswig-Holstein Region–in places where the fields seem so close, you could almost touch the cows. Friendly German residents with homes along the route wave to passing marine sailors and would clearly invite guests for fresh baked goods and tea if they would only stop for a visit.  

EXPLORE

Are you ready to explore the secrets of Scandinavia and Northern Europe yourself? SeaDream provides you with an intimate view of these destinations unlike any other boutique travel line. SeaDream provides you with an intimate view of these destinations unlike any other boutique travel line. Click here to check availability and reserve your next voyage. 

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