Ferry from St. Petersburg to Helsinki on Princess Anastasia
Embarking on a journey through the captivating Baltic capitals is an adventure that should not be missed. Among these vibrant cities, St. Petersburg and Helsinki stand out as two jewels waiting to be explored. While traveling between them can be accomplished by train or bus, the most enchanting option is undoubtedly the overnight ferry. This article delves into the delightful experience of taking the ferry from St. Petersburg to Helsinki, with a focus on the luxurious Princess Anastasia cruise. Ready to set sail?
Booking your ferry from St. Petersburg to Helsinki
Our journey aboard the Princess Anastasia ferry began at 7:00 PM, departing from the beautiful city of St. Petersburg and arriving in Helsinki at 8:00 AM the following day. Operated by MOBY, this cruise offers a unique blend of relaxation and adventure. Reservations can be conveniently made on their official website: https://stpeterline.com/.
When booking, you’ll find a variety of cabin types available, all ensuring a private experience. Options range from the budget-friendly interior cabins with bunk beds to more spacious rooms with sea views. Each cabin is equipped with a private bathroom, linens, and towels. We opted for an interior cabin with separate beds, costing us around €80. Given that our journey was overnight, we decided that a window view wasn’t necessary, especially since we could enjoy the sunset from the upper decks and the bar.
To ensure a smooth boarding experience, it’s essential to arrive no later than one hour before departure. However, arriving two to three hours in advance is advisable, as we found people already dining in the restaurant upon our arrival. If you prefer to settle in early and wait inside the ship, it’s a good idea to contact the ferry company for specific boarding times.
At the St. Petersburg cruise terminal (location here), you’ll need to check in at the designated counters, similar to airport boarding. Present your passport and reservation, and in return, you will receive a boarding pass that also acts as your electronic cabin key.
For those traveling from Helsinki to St. Petersburg and planning to stay for less than 72 hours, there is a visa exemption program available. To qualify, you must participate in organized tours offered by the ferry company. For further details, check the visa exemption information here.
Once checked in, proceed to the boarding gate for the passport control. Make sure to keep your boarding pass handy! Our initial concern about the visa was related to the date we should enter on our application. If you’re traveling on a night cruise, remember to input the date you leave the port, not the date of arrival at your destination.
After passing through the passport control, you can finally board the ship, where you’ll be greeted and escorted to your cabin, along with access to the ship’s amenities.
Experience aboard the ferry from St. Petersburg to Helsinki
We anticipated a standard ferry experience, perhaps reminiscent of a modest cruise, but the Princess Anastasia exceeded our expectations! This ship is a full-fledged cruise vessel, equipped with fantastic amenities such as restaurants, a spacious lounge bar, a game room, a theater/cinema, and even a spa area. It felt like stepping onto a retro cruise ship, charming and a bit nostalgic, but still full of life.
As we brought our own food, we didn’t check out the restaurant menus. However, we did indulge in a few beers at the bar while soaking in the sunset views. Despite the slightly higher fare compared to bus or train travel, we found it to be a delightful splurge. A large beer (0.5L) cost €5.50, while the smaller version (0.3L) was €4, and cocktails started at €7.50.
For more details about the services offered on the Princess Anastasia, check their website.
Traveling without a visa: Is it possible?
Many travelers wonder about the visa requirements when crossing from Helsinki to St. Petersburg. For those who plan to stay in St. Petersburg for less than 72 hours and depart on the same ferry, there are ways to avoid the cumbersome visa process. By joining organized tours, you can take advantage of the visa-free entry. This option not only simplifies your travel arrangements but also opens up opportunities to explore the city with guided assistance.
- Confirm your eligibility for the visa exemption program.
- Book a tour with the ferry company upon arrival.
- Enjoy St. Petersburg without the hassle of a visa.
Where to catch the ferry in Helsinki
Once you arrive in Helsinki, knowing where to catch the ferry is crucial. The ferry terminal is conveniently located close to the city center, making it easily accessible. Here’s a brief guide on how to get there:
- Take the tram from the city center directly to the terminal.
- Use local buses that connect major points in Helsinki to the ferry terminal.
- Consider a taxi or rideshare service for convenience.
The terminal is well-signposted and provides various amenities for travelers, including shops and cafes, ensuring a pleasant wait before your journey.
As you can see, taking the ferry from St. Petersburg to Helsinki aboard the Princess Anastasia is not just a mode of transport but an integral part of your Baltic adventure. With its comfortable cabins, wide array of amenities, and the scenic views, this cruise is undoubtedly a memorable experience.
Whether you're a first-time traveler or a seasoned explorer, this journey promises a blend of relaxation and excitement, making it a perfect addition to your travel itinerary. Happy sailing!
Deja una respuesta