From Stockholm to Helsinki: An Amazing Ferry Cruise Experience

Travelling by sea is an experience like no other, and our overnight ferry cruise from Stockholm to Helsinki aboard the Silja Symphony proved to be extraordinary. It was not just a means of transportation but a journey filled with excitement, comfort, and unforgettable memories. If you’re looking to discover two incredible cities in one trip, this is the perfect option.

Choosing the Ferry Over Flights

Initially, we had planned to fly from Stockholm to Helsinki, but during our search, we stumbled upon the Tallink Silja Line website. They offer ferry cruises between Stockholm and Helsinki aboard their impressive ships, the Silja Serenade and Silja Symphony. The idea of a 16-hour cruise, departing in the afternoon and arriving at 10:30 the next morning, intrigued us. Plus, we had never been on a cruise before, so this was our chance to experience something new!

The booking process was seamless, with all options clearly outlined on their website.

Here’s what we paid:

·       A-class cabin for 2 people: €145

·       2 Dinner Grand Buffets: €104

·       2 Breakfast Grand Buffets: €38

·       Other charges (emission fees, fuel surcharges, etc.): Totaling €306 for 2 people

For a 16-hour journey filled with amenities and entertainment, this price was an incredible deal.

Boarding the Silja Symphony

We arrived at the port terminal in Stockholm to board the Silja Symphony, a massive ship accommodating up to 2,852 passengers. Check-in was a breeze with self-service kiosks—all we had to do was enter our reservation number, and we received printed cards. These cards served as our room keys, meal tickets, and onboard identification. After a short wait, boarding began, and we followed the other passengers into the gigantic ship.

The moment we stepped inside, we were awestruck. It didn’t feel like a ship at all! The Silja Symphony was like a floating city, complete with shops, restaurants, elevators, and entertainment areas. Nim and I felt like kids at Disneyland, eager to explore every corner of this colossal vessel.

Settling Into Our Cabin

Our cabin was located on Level 9. Though compact, it was perfectly comfortable for two people, with enough space for our luggage and a fold-out bed that converted into a double. The best part? A window with a stunning sea view. We dropped off our bags, changed into more relaxed clothes, and set out to explore the ship.

Exploring the Ship

We started our exploration in the area with shops and restaurants. From children’s stores to branded outlets like Tommy Hilfiger and a convenience shop selling snacks and drinks, there was plenty to browse. Toward the rear of the ship, we found a cozy bar with large bay windows overlooking the sea. It was the perfect spot to relax. Nim ordered a gin, and I, being a prosecco enthusiast, couldn’t resist a glass (or two… or three). Watching the ship set sail while sipping our drinks was an unforgettable experience.

Dinner at the Grand Buffet

At 7:30 PM, we headed to the Grand Buffet for dinner. Reservations are required when booking the cruise, so our table was ready upon arrival. Scanning our cards, we entered a dining area filled with an impressive spread of hot and cold dishes: fresh seafood, meats, salads, vegetables, and desserts. It was a feast for the senses, and we indulged in everything the buffet had to offer.

After dinner, we made our way to the entertainment area, where live performances were scheduled. The night’s lineup featured a rock band with international dancers and a South African singing group. The atmosphere was electric, and we celebrated with a bottle of prosecco, enjoying the vibrant performances until midnight. We also explored the casino and the onboard duty-free shop, which offered discounted alcohol, cigarettes, and other products. Many passengers were stocking up—it’s a great perk of the cruise.

The Morning After

Waking up the next morning was a challenge, especially since we had booked breakfast for 7:30 AM. Still, the promise of another incredible buffet motivated us to crawl out of bed. Once again, the variety of options didn’t disappoint, from warm pastries to eggs, bacon, fresh fruits, and more. It was the perfect way to start the day before arriving in Helsinki.

A Perfect Conclusion

Our arrival in Helsinki at 10:30 AM marked the end of an extraordinary journey. The Silja Symphony provided an experience that was far more than just a mode of transportation. From exploring the ship to enjoying gourmet meals, live entertainment, and breathtaking views, this ferry cruise was a highlight of our trip.

Travelling by ferry is not just about reaching your destination—it’s about enjoying the journey. If you’ve never experienced an overnight cruise, we highly recommend the Tallink Silja Line. It’s a unique and magical way to connect two beautiful cities while creating memories that will last a lifetime.