Cruise reviews and sea stories ⚓ Sailors life at high seas and harbours | Seacitylife

What Can You Do on a Costa Cruises Ship During a Cruise?

2026-05-17T22:31:30.662+03:00

Costa Cruises is known for its versatile cruise experiences, offering passengers plenty to do throughout the journey. A cruise on a Costa ship is more than just transportation, it is a complete holiday experience that combines entertainment, relaxation, good food, and a wide range of activities.

During sea days, or whenever shore excursions and port visits are not of interest, passengers can spend time around the pool areas, exercise, participate in guided dance or fitness sessions, or relax in the spa area. Many Costa ships feature gyms, small sports courts, and activities for passengers of all ages. Families are offered kids’ clubs, water slides, and programs designed for young travelers, making cruising a popular option for people traveling with children of different ages.

Water slides on Costa Toscana deck

Passengers can also spend time shopping onboard. Costa ships include a variety of stores, such as duty-free shops, clothing boutiques, jewelry stores, and souvenir shops where travelers can make purchases during the voyage. Many passengers take advantage of the shopping opportunities by buying quality perfumes, cosmetics, clothing, and gifts to bring home.

In the evenings, entertainment becomes one of the main highlights onboard Costa ships. Large theaters host music and dance performances, acrobatics, and international-style shows. In addition, passengers can enjoy live music, bars, discos, and themed parties. The Italian atmosphere is also strongly reflected in the restaurants, where pasta, pizza, and other Mediterranean dishes are served.

Many ships also feature casinos and gaming areas, ensuring there is plenty to do during days spent at sea. The popularity of cruise travel is largely based on the fact that, besides the journey itself, ships offer many different ways to spend time. Every passenger can create a holiday experience that suits their own preferences, whether the goal is an active vacation, enjoying entertainment, or simply relaxing while admiring the sea views.

Costa Cruises Cabins – How to Choose the Right Cabin for Your Cruise?

2026-05-11T14:30:00.000+03:00

Costa Toscana cabin beds

One of the most important decisions when booking a cruise is choosing the right cabin type. Costa Cruises offers a wide variety of options, ranging from affordable inside cabins to luxurious suites. The best choice depends not only on your budget, but also on your travel style, travel companions, itinerary, and even the season.

Inside Cabins – An Affordable Choice

Inside cabins are the most affordable option and are ideal for active travelers who spend most of their time enjoying the ship’s public areas or exploring ports. Although these cabins do not have windows, they still include all the essential amenities. Inside cabins are especially popular on shorter cruises and among budget-conscious travelers.

Ocean View Cabins – Natural Light and Sea Views

Ocean view cabins provide natural light and sea views without a private balcony. For many passengers, they offer the perfect balance between comfort and price. These cabins are particularly well suited for cooler itineraries such as the Norwegian fjords or the Baltic Sea, where scenic views can still be enjoyed comfortably from inside the cabin. They are also popular among families with young children, as some parents feel more comfortable without a balcony.

Balcony Cabins – The Most Popular Option

Costa Toscana balcony cabin with sea view

Balcony cabins are currently the most popular choice. A private balcony adds a greater sense of space and allows passengers to enjoy sea views in privacy. Balcony cabins are especially ideal for warm-weather cruises such as the Mediterranean or the Caribbean. During summer enjoying morning coffee on the balcony or relaxing in the sun becomes part of the luxury of the cruise experience. Both couples and families frequently choose balcony cabins, especially when children are older. For parents, the balcony can provide a peaceful place to relax in the evening after the children have gone to sleep. However, when traveling with small children, balconies naturally require extra supervision, and children should never be left alone on the balcony.

Suites – Extra Space and Luxury

Suites offer more space, larger balconies, and additional services such as upgraded room service and exclusive dining options. They are particularly suitable for longer cruises, special occasions, or travelers who spend a lot of time in their cabin. Their prices are noticeably higher, but the cruise experience also becomes more private and luxurious.

The location of the cabin also affects comfort onboard. Midship cabins usually experience less motion, which can help travelers prone to seasickness. They also provide easy access to public areas such as restaurants, swimming decks and exits. Cabins located at high levels again offer more peace, while some lower-deck cabins may be subject to more noise depending on their location. Ultimately, the best cabin depends on the kind of cruise experience you are looking for. For some travelers, the cabin is simply a place to sleep, while for others it becomes an important part of the entire holiday experience.

What Kind of Cruise Options Does Costa Cruises Offer?

2026-05-03T11:00:00.001+03:00

A View from the Malaga Port

Costa Cruises offers voyages to destinations all around the world, with a wide variety of options in both duration and regions. The selection ranges from short weekend cruises to journeys lasting several weeks, making it easy for travelers to find an option that suits their needs. Seasonal differences also play a role: winter itineraries tend to include more long-haul destinations and longer cruises, while summer focuses more on European routes.

One of the clearest ways to understand Costa Cruises’ offerings is by looking at the length of the cruise. Short cruises typically last around 2–7 days. These may not always start and end in the same port, as they can also be partial segments of longer itineraries. They are especially suitable for first-time cruisers or those who want to try cruising in a lighter way. The most common option, however, is the one-week cruise, usually lasting 8 days, where the journey begins and ends in the same port. These cruises offer a good balance between days at sea and time spent in different destinations. Longer cruises can range from 9 to 16 days, allowing for a broader experience across multiple countries, ports, and even continents. The longest voyages, such as transoceanic or “Ocean Cruises,” can last several weeks or even months.

Another way to explore Costa’s cruise options is by destination. The most popular region, especially during summer, is the Mediterranean, which is divided into the Western and Eastern Mediterranean. Western Mediterranean cruises typically include destinations such as Spain, France, and Italy, while Eastern Mediterranean routes focus on the Greek islands and Turkey. For many travelers, the Mediterranean is the first cruise experience, as it offers a rich mix of historic cities, cultural landmarks, and beautiful scenery.

The Sagrada Familia Church in Barcelona

In addition to the Mediterranean, Costa also operates in Northern Europe, where highlights include the Norwegian fjords, Iceland, and various ports along the Baltic and North Seas. These cruises provide a completely different experience, with cooler climates, dramatic landscapes, and nature-focused exploration.

The Port of Gdynia in Poland

Costa’s portfolio also includes itineraries in Asia, with destinations such as South Korea, Japan, and China. These cruises combine modern metropolitan cities with unique and exotic cultures. Furthermore, there are cruises in the Caribbean and South America, where the focus is on warm weather, beaches, and a more relaxed holiday atmosphere.

The Jade Buddha Temple in Shanghai, China

A particularly interesting option is the so-called repositioning cruises, where ships are relocated between seasons—for example, from Europe to the Canary Islands or the Caribbean. These cruises emphasize sea days and a slower pace of travel, as port stops are fewer and the overall duration is longer. At the most extensive level, Costa even offers world cruises, which travel across multiple continents and visit numerous countries along the way. These are typically scheduled during the winter season.

Overall, Costa Cruises offers a highly diverse range of options, from short getaways to long adventures, and from European city destinations to more exotic parts of the world. The choice ultimately depends on how much time is available and what kind of experience is desired—whether it’s an active itinerary with many port stops and a touch of relaxation, or a long, unique journey at sea where even continents change along the way.

From the Mediterranean to the Atlantic – a week on the cruise ship Costa Toscana

2025-11-20T15:19:00.092+02:00

Costa Toscana cruise ship sailing in the Mediterranean Sea

Departing from the port of Barcelona already feels like stepping into another world. The city slowly fades into the distance, and with it, the rhythm of everyday life begins to dissolve somewhere along the Mediterranean horizon. Even though it is no longer peak season, this particular cruise still attracts plenty of passengers, and boarding takes time. The process moves forward step by step, and waiting becomes part of the experience just as much as stepping onboard itself. That is why arriving in the departure city in advance is not just a recommendation, but an essential part of a smooth journey. The ship will not wait if flights are delayed.

Once onboard the Costa Toscana, the scale is striking. The ship does not feel like a means of transport, but rather a floating city with its own streets, restaurants, and atmosphere. The first day is spent exploring and getting oriented before everything begins to make sense. A balcony cabin quickly becomes a personal sanctuary, where the sea is constantly present—and luckily, the November weather is kind, with sunshine warming the air. Gradually, a clear daily rhythm begins to form. Full board naturally structures the day: breakfast, lunch, snacks, and dinner create a framework without feeling restrictive. Meals take place within set time windows, leaving long stretches of time in between with no obligations. Sometimes a meal passes almost unnoticed, while at other times, a visit to the buffet or restaurant becomes the highlight of the day. The drinks package adds another layer of ease—there is no need to calculate or think twice, as drinks can simply be ordered and enjoyed as part of the experience. Time onboard fills up surprisingly easily. Mornings might begin at the gym or with a walk on deck, afternoons are spent by the pool or in guided activities, and evenings unfold with shows, live music, or simply watching the sea. Everything is available, yet nothing is mandatory. This balance between freedom and choice defines the uniqueness of the cruise, there is always something to do, yet never any rush. Port days break the onboard routine and offer unique experiences in places that might otherwise never be visited.

The first stop, Malaga, reveals a vibrant city where the Moorish fortress Alcazaba and the Picasso Museum provide insight into its history. Their location within walking distance makes the visit effortless, leaving time for a café stop and some shopping. The following day, the ship docks in Cadiz, one of the oldest cities in Europe. Its compact size makes it ideal for exploring on foot, and the atmosphere in its streets is calm and unhurried—at times, it almost feels as though time stands still. The Cadiz Cathedral serves as the city’s focal point, and climbing its tower turns into a small physical challenge, with what feels like an endless ascent. Good shoes prove essential throughout the visit.

A view from the Cadiz Cathedral

After a day at sea, the ship approaches Santa Cruz de Tenerife. With the snow-capped peak of Teide visible in the distance, both the atmosphere and the climate shift noticeably. Now at the latitude of Western Sahara, November feels almost like summer. Instead of heading into the city center, the day is spent at Playa de las Teresitas, where a few hours pass effortlessly in the sun—swimming, relaxing, and enjoying the warmth. There is still time for a brief city visit and to admire the striking architecture of the Auditorio de Tenerife. A trip to Teide National Park remains out of reach on this itinerary, as both time constraints and weather conditions limit the possibility.

Arrival in Santa Cruz de Tenerife and the view of the snow-capped Teide

Next, the ship set course toward North Africa and Agadir. The city immediately felt different from European destinations. Here, an organized excursion was tempting, and Costa’s own tour, “All of Agadir – Unexpected Contrasts,” began at Kasbah Oufella, where the towering walls above the city and the shimmering Atlantic created a breathtaking view. After taking in the scenery, we headed back down to modern Agadir, where cafés and boutiques, along with the sounds, colors, and scents, created a distinctive atmosphere for the final leg of the cruise. The day was crowned with a stop in front of the Mohamed V Mosque—although we couldn’t go inside, its impressive architecture and intricate details left a lasting impression.

When the cruise finally returns to Barcelona, the feeling is not one of travel fatigue, but rather a shift in rhythm. A week at sea has formed its own self-contained world, where days have been structured yet flexible, filled with options from which to choose freely. Full board and the ship’s constant offerings define daily life onboard, while the port stops bring variation and new perspectives. Perhaps this is what makes cruising so unique, the seamless combination of movement and ease, where traveling from one fascinating destination to another is made as effortless and enjoyable as possible.

What Is the Best Way to Book a Cruise

2025-11-15T15:49:00.044+02:00

Gangway leading to the Costa Toscana cruise ship

A cruise is for many the idea of a dream vacation, but before you can enjoy the sea views, you need to decide how to book your trip. The right option depends mainly on how much you want to plan yourself and how much effort you’re willing to put in.

There are several different ways to book a Costa cruise, as outlined below.

Do-it-yourself – freedom to plan

Often the most affordable option is to plan and build the trip entirely on your own. In this model, you book flights separately, choose your preferred cruise, and, if needed, arrange hotels in the departure and arrival ports.

Costa offers various cruise packages, such as cruise-only deals that include accommodation, meals, and onboard entertainment. Drink packages are not usually included in the base price and must be purchased separately, as do excursions at ports. Everything else such as flights, transfers, and hotels remains the traveler’s responsibility. The biggest advantage of this approach is flexibility. You can choose flights and schedules that suit you, combine the cruise with a city break before or after, compare prices, and tailor every detail to your preferences.

On the downside, all responsibility lies with you. If something goes wrong like a delayed flight, you risk missing the ship, and the cruise line is not responsible in such cases. This option is best suited for experienced travelers and those who want full control over their itinerary.

Semi-package directly from Costa – an easier option

Another option is to book a semi-package directly from Costa. In this case, the selected cruise package also includes flights to and from the departure port on the cruise start and end dates.

This is a good compromise for many travelers, as Costa coordinates the flights with the cruise schedule, providing a ready-made itinerary without the need for extra hotel nights unless necessary. In case of issues, you can also contact the cruise company directly. These packages can also be competitively priced, as cruise lines often have agreements with airlines and access to so-called “bulk fare” prices.

The downside is reduced flexibility: you may not be able to choose the most convenient flights, and making changes can incur additional costs. Not all cruises offer this option, and availability may depend on your departure country. Still, it’s a solid choice for travelers who want convenience without needing a fully customized trip.

Through a travel agency – a complete package

The third option is to book the entire trip through a travel agency. In this case, flights, hotels, the chosen cruise, and often transfers to the port are all included in one package. The travel agency acts as an intermediary, putting together a complete travel package and handling the practical arrangements for you.

The main advantage here is ease. With a single point of contact, managing any issues becomes simpler. Travel agency packages are also often pre-tested and well-structured. The downsides are a higher price and less flexibility. However, they are especially suitable for first-time cruisers or those who value a stress-free holiday without any hassle.

Flying to the Cruise Departure Port

In the end, there is no single right way to book a Costa cruise or any cruise for that matter. The decision always comes down to factors like flexibility, cost, and convenience.

What matters most is choosing the option that matches what you’re looking for in your trip, whether it’s a carefully planned adventure or a carefree escape from everyday life.

Sailing Toward the Sunset: A Summer Evening Voyage Across the Gulf of Finland

2025-10-31T23:41:33.195+02:00

A sailboat with a blue spinnaker gliding across the Gulf of Finland, Baltic Sea, at sunset

A Golden Finnish Evening at Sea

The evening sun hovered low above the horizon, bathing the Gulf of Finland in molten gold. The sea shimmered like liquid glass, reflecting shades of rose, amber, and deep blue. Our sailboat rocked gently in the calm July breeze, her white hull slicing silently through the water. Above us, the blue spinnaker billowed proudly—our summer flag against the fading light.

It was one of those Nordic evenings that never truly end. The sun lingered stubbornly at the edge of the world, stretching time itself. We had cast off from Helsinki earlier that afternoon, bound for Tallinn. The idea had been simple: to follow the wind, chase the light, and sail into the summer night.

Under the Blue Spinnaker

When the spinnaker unfurled, it caught the wind like a secret whispered between the sea and the sky. Its deep sapphire color mirrored the Baltic waters below and the endless heavens above. The sail filled gracefully, pulling us forward with effortless strength.

The rhythm of the journey became hypnotic—waves lapping, rigging humming softly, and the occasional laughter carried away by the wind. We sat on the deck barefoot, the teak still warm from the day’s sun. A thermos of coffee and a small basket of strawberries passed between us. The scent of salt and summer berries mixed in the air—simple, perfect, and fleeting.

The Romance of the Horizon

As the Finnish coastline faded behind us, the world grew wide and open. The sea turned silver in the low light, and Tallinn appeared ahead like a faint promise—a silhouette of towers and spires waiting in the dusk.

The journey was more than a crossing; it was a quiet confession between two souls. Out there, in the hush of the open sea, every look carried meaning, and every touch felt infinite. Words seemed unnecessary. The sails spoke for us, whispering stories of freedom, trust, and love unbound.

Arrival at Twilight

When we finally reached the harbor lights of Tallinn, the first stars began to appear. The city glowed softly at the edge of the sea, its reflections rippling like candlelight on the darkening water. We lowered the spinnaker—our blue wing of the night—and let the boat drift quietly into the marina.

The day had melted into night, but the warmth of that sail remained—an eternal July memory etched into the rhythm of the sea.

MSC Meraviglia Departs from the Port of Helsinki – A Majestic Cruise Ship Journey Begins

2025-10-28T17:23:00.004+02:00

MSC Meraviglia cruise ship departing from the Port of Helsinki

Departing from the Port of Helsinki

On a calm August afternoon, under a partly cloudy Nordic sky, the MSC Meraviglia slowly departed from the Port of Helsinki, marking another grand beginning of her northern voyage. The air was filled with excitement as passengers gathered on deck, waving towards the harbor while the ship’s deep horn echoed across the Baltic Sea.

Built to impress, MSC Meraviglia is one of the most modern and elegant vessels in the MSC Cruises fleet. With a length of 315 meters and capacity for over 5,000 guests, she combines innovative design, sustainable technology, and Italian style. From the waterfront of Helsinki’s South Harbor, spectators admired the ship’s graceful lines as it glided past the islands towards the open sea.

The partly cloudy sky created a perfect scene for photographers and cruise enthusiasts. The sunlight occasionally broke through the clouds, reflecting off the white hull and glass balconies, making the Meraviglia shimmer as she passed by island of Pihlajasaari and the iconic Helsinki skyline. Many locals and tourists stopped along the piers and observation decks to capture the moment.

Departures like this have become small celebrations in the Finnish capital. Helsinki’s port is an increasingly popular stop for major cruise lines, connecting Northern Europe’s most scenic destinations — from Stockholm to Tallinn, and onwards to Copenhagen or Hamburg. The sight of a ship like the MSC Meraviglia leaving the harbor is not only a reminder of summer travel but also a symbol of connection between nations across the Baltic Sea.

For travelers onboard, this journey promises unforgettable experiences: elegant dining, world-class entertainment, and serene views of the Northern European coastline. For those watching from ashore, it is a glimpse of adventure and the timeless beauty of maritime travel.

As the ship’s lights faded into the horizon and the sound of the engines softened, the August evening settled over Helsinki. The partly cloudy sky glowed with hues of gold and blue — a fitting farewell for the MSC Meraviglia, sailing once again towards her next destination.

The photo was taken in August 2009, on a partly cloudy afternoon when MSC Meraviglia departed from Helsinki.

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Tallink Megastar sailing from the Port of Helsinki to Tallinn, Estonia

2021-08-15T09:00:00.032+03:00

Tallink Megastar sailing in a stormy sea from the Port of Helsinki to Tallinn, Estonia.

SS Stockholm sailing in the straits of Stockholm, Sweden | Summer of 2021

2021-08-14T18:06:00.017+03:00

SS Stockholm sailing in the straits of Stockholm, Sweden in August 2021.

Steam Ship Stockholm

IMO number: 5193890
Call Sign: SGLD
MMSI: 265514680
Gross tonnage: 658 (before 2001)
Type of ship: Passenger Ship (during 1931)
Builder: Oskarshamns Varv
Year of build: 1931
Flag: Sweden
Port of registry: Stockholm
History: Launched 2th on Janunary 1931, delivered 28th of September 1931, in Service since 1th of November 1931.

Port of Helsinki Ship Arrivals and Departures online | MS Megastar, MS Silja Europa and MS Rotterdam at the Port of Helsinki, Finland

2020-11-20T20:08:00.004+02:00

MS Megastar, MS Silja Europa and MS Rotterdam at the West Port of Helsinki, July 2019

MS Rotterdam was the ship of Holland America Line, she sailed for them 22 years. In 2020, the ship was sold to Fred Olsen Cruise Lines, they renamed her as Borealis.

⚓ Port of Helsinki Ship Arrivals and Departures online ⚓

Cruise Ship Le Dumont D'urville departing Helsinki, Finland

2019-08-13T15:30:00.000+03:00

Cruise Ship Le Dumont D'urville departing Port of Helsinki, Finland

Built 2019. Flag state Wallis and Futuna.

Builder VARD shipyards (Tulcea Romania and Soviknes-Alesund Norway)
Class Ponant Explorers (ice-strengthened expedition Mega Yacht / Superyacht)

Owner Groupe Artemis, Financiere Pinault.
Operator Compagnie du Ponant Cruises Speed 18 kn

Length 131 m / 430 ft Beam (width) 18 m / 59 ft. Tonnage 9900 gt
Passengers 184 Crew 110 Decks 6 Decks with cabins 4 Cabins 92

Sister-ships Le Bellot, Le Bougainville, Le Champlain, Le Laperouse, Le Jacques Cartier (Surville).

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Celebrity Reflection departing Port of Helsinki

2019-07-24T18:00:00.000+03:00

Celebrity Reflection, a Solstice-class cruise ship departing Helsinki, Finland.

Owned and operated by Celebrity Cruises.

Length 319 m (1047 ft) Beam 37 m (123 ft) Draught: 8.6 m (28 ft).

Builder Meyer Werft, Papenburg, Germany. Launched 2012. Decks 17.

IMO number: 9506459 MMSI number: 229074000 Call sign: 9HA3047

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Norwegian Getaway departing Helsinki

2019-07-19T16:30:00.000+03:00

Norwegian Getaway departing port of Helsinki, Finland.

Norwegian Cruise Line, NCL. Port of registry Nassau, Bahamas.

Builder Meyer Werft, Papenburg, Germany. Launched 2 November 2013.

Maiden voyage 8 February 2014. Call sign: C6ZJ4

IMO number: 9606924 MMSI number: 311050900

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Brilliance of the Seas departing Helsinki

2019-07-13T17:10:00.000+03:00

Brilliance of the Seas departing Helsinki

Brilliance is a Radiance class cruise ship by the Royal Caribbean International, RCI.

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Serenade of the Seas departing Helsinki | Cruise Ship drone video

2019-07-13T16:00:00.000+03:00

Serenade of the Seas departing Helsinki

Serenade of the Seas is a Radiance class cruise ship by the Royal Caribbean International, RCI.

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MS Europa, Cruise Ship by Hapag-Lloyd departing Helsinki Finland

2019-06-20T17:00:00.000+03:00

MS Europa, Cruise Ship by Hapag-Lloyd cruises departing Helsinki Finland.

Length: 198.60 metres (651.6 ft). Beam: 24 metres (79 ft). Draught: 6 metres (20 ft). Decks: 11 (7 for passangers). 408 passengers in 204 suites, crew 275.

MS Europe has a atrium, casino, cinema, swimming pools and a gym, spa and a designated nude sunbathing deck.

Mavic 2 drone & GoPro video. Suomenlinna sea fortress, Helsinki, Finland. MS Europa is cruise ship owned by Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, Kreuzfahren. Port of registry: Nassau, Bahamas. Builder Kvaerner Masa-Yards Hietalahti shipyard, Helsinki, Finland. Completed 9th of September 1999. Length: 198.60 metres (651.6 ft). Music credits: Latin Lover and Love or Lust: Quincas Moreira.

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Regal Princess in Port of Tallinn, Estonia

2018-08-11T20:32:00.000+03:00

Cruise ship MS Regal Princess in port of Tallinn, Estonia. Regal Princess is a Royal-class cruise ship. Operated by Princess Cruises.

Owner, Carnival plc. Port of registry, Hamilton, Bermuda.
Builder: Fincantieri, Monfalcone, Italy. Maiden voyage: 20 May 2014
Call sign: ZCEK6 IMO number: 9584724 MMSI number: 310674000
Tonnage: 142,714 GT Length: 330 m (1,083 ft) Beam: 38.27 m (126 ft) Height: 66 m (217 ft) Draft: 8.57 m (28 ft)
Decks: 19 Capacity: 3 560 passengers Crew: 1 346

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Cruise ship Regal Princess and cruise ferry Finlandia at Port of Helsinki, Finland

2018-07-12T14:30:00.000+03:00

Cruise ship Regal Princess, Princess Cruises and cruise ferry Finlandia, Eckerö Line.

West Terminal, Port of Helsinki, Finland. Summer 2018.

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Cruise Ship Zuiderdam Holland America Line at port of Helsinki

2017-06-16T14:07:00.000+03:00

Cruise Ship Zuiderdam Holland America Line at port of Helsinki, Finland.

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Tall Ship Suomen Joutsen in Turku, Finland | Museum ship

2016-09-14T16:30:00.031+03:00

Tall Ship Suomen Joutsen in Turku, Finland

Museum ship in Turku, Finland

Built in 1902 by Chantiers de Penhoët in St. Nazaire, France.
Names
Laënnec 1902-1922
Oldenburg 1922-1930
Suomen Joutsen 1930- (in Swedish Finska Svan)

Builder 1902 Chantiers de Penhoët, Saint-Nazaire, France. Maiden voyage 23 October 1902. Sold to Germany in 1922.
IMO number: 8640349
Call sign: OHIT
Nickname Ankka (The Duck)

Cruise Ship Costa Fortuna in storm at East China Sea | Big waves

2016-05-06T00:40:00.000+03:00

Cruise Ship Costa Fortuna in storm at East China Sea. Cruising through the storm at East China Sea 2016. Cruise through the big waves from Kagoshima, Japan to Shanghai, China. Ship Costa Fortuna, Costa Cruises, Costa Crociere. Builder: Fincantieri, 2003.

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Chinese Cruise Ship Taishan in Jeju, South Korea

2016-05-05T10:00:00.000+03:00

Cruise Ship Chinese Taishan in the port of Jeju, South Korea.
Chinese Taishan, Panama

Previous names: Olympic Voyager 2000-2004, Voyager 2004–2005, Grand Voyager 2005–2011, Costa Voyager 2011–2014, Chinese Taishan 2014 -

Call sign: ICSW, IMO number: 9183506, MMSI number: 247312800

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Christian Radich – The Legendary Norwegian Tall Ship in Belfast Harbour - Tall Ships Races 2015

2015-07-04T22:40:00.003+03:00

The Norwegian tall ship Christian Radich docked in Belfast Harbour during the 2015 Tall Ships Races, a living emblem of Norway’s maritime tradition.

Christian Radich – The Legendary Norwegian Tall Ship in Belfast Harbour
Tall Ships Races 2015

Few sailing vessels capture the romance of the sea quite like the Christian Radich, a magnificent full-rigged Norwegian tall ship that has inspired generations of sailors and captivated audiences around the world. When she graced Belfast Harbour during the Tall Ships Races 2015, her presence was a living reminder of Norway’s rich maritime heritage and the timeless elegance of traditional sailing craft.

A Masterpiece of Norwegian Shipbuilding

The Christian Radich was launched in February 1937 from the Framnæs Mekaniske Værksted shipyard in Sandefjord, Norway. Weighing 1,050 tonnes, she measures 62.5 meters (205 feet) in length—or an impressive 73 meters (240 feet) when including her bowsprit. With a beam of 9.7 meters (32 feet) and a height of 37.7 meters (124 feet), she is a breathtaking example of naval craftsmanship.

Her 27 sails cover a total area of 1,360 square meters (14,600 sq ft), allowing her to reach speeds of up to 14 knots (26 km/h) under sail, or 10 knots (19 km/h) when powered by her Caterpillar 900 HP engine. Operated by a dedicated crew of 18 and capable of hosting 88 trainees or passengers, Christian Radich continues to combine adventure, education, and maritime tradition on every voyage.

From Training Vessel to Global Icon

Built as a training ship for the Norwegian Merchant Navy, Christian Radich’s mission has always been to educate young sailors and preserve seamanship traditions. Over the decades, she has participated in numerous Tall Ships Races, symbolizing both the endurance of Norway’s maritime culture and the spirit of youth who train aboard her.

However, her fame extends far beyond the oceans. In the late 1950s, Christian Radich gained international recognition as the star vessel in the BBC television series “The Onedin Line”, where her striking silhouette became an icon of 19th-century maritime adventure. She also appeared in several documentaries and films, bringing the romance of sailing ships to a global audience.

A Living Legend at Sea

Today, Christian Radich remains active and vibrant, participating in sailing events across Europe and welcoming trainees from all over the world. When she entered Belfast Harbour in 2015 for the Tall Ships Races, thousands gathered to admire her elegant rigging and polished decks. The sight of her majestic masts rising above the waterline evoked both nostalgia and awe—an enduring testament to human craftsmanship and the lure of the open sea.

Technical Specifications

• Type: Full-rigged ship
• Tonnage: 1,050 tonnes
• Builder: Framnæs Mekaniske Værksted, Sandefjord
• Launched: February 1937
• Length: 62.5 m (205 ft)
• Length overall (incl. bowsprit): 73 m (240 ft)
• Beam: 9.7 m (32 ft)
• Height: 37.7 m (124 ft)
• Draught: 4.7 m (15 ft)
• Sail area: 1,360 m² (14,600 sq ft)
• Engine: Caterpillar 900 HP
• Speed: 14 knots under sail, 10 knots under power
• Crew: 18
• Passengers: 88
• IMO: 5071729
• Callsign: LJLM
• MMSI: 258373000

Have you been on board Christian Radich? How was your experience? Share your story in the comments below — we’d love to hear it!

Le Soleal, Cruise Ship by Compagnie du Ponan at Helsinki

2015-06-12T14:52:00.000+03:00

Le Soleal, Cruise Ship by Compagnie du Ponan in Helsinki

Le Soleas is a Le Boreal-class cruise ship, started in service July 2013.
Tonnage: 10 992 GT Length: 142.1 m (466 ft)

Beam: 18.0 m (59 ft) Draught: 4.9 m (16 ft)
Decks: 7, 264 passengers, crew 139
Call sign: FIHV MMSI number: 578000200 IMO number: 9641675

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Sea buoy in Poland, Baltic Sea.

2014-09-01T03:00:00.000+03:00

Sea buoy in Poland, Baltic Sea.