Embark Day — Despite its outsized reputation, Copenhagen is quite compact. In a country famous for healthy living, the city harbor and canals are clean enough for recreational swimming.
If you opt to arrive for Santana’s optional PreTour, we’ll explore the city by bike—the fastest and most flexible way to explore this cycling-friendly capital where a tour that features whimsical art and architecture can pause at legendary bakeries and refresh at Copenhagen’s landmark brewery.
Day 2 – At the center of the Prussian Empire, the ancient port city of Stralsund is known for brickwork architecture, medieval merchant houses, and Gothic monasteries.
Our first day of cycling starts by crossing a bike bridge to the adjacent island of Rugen. A highlight of Germany’s trendy Pomeranian Coast, Rugen is often compared to Martha’s Vineyard.
Our routes on Germany’s largest island pass palatial summer cottages, a royal hunting castle, and ancient fortifications to reach Jasmund National Park, which is known for white-tailed eagles and timeless beech forests.
Day 3 – Referred to as Denmark’s Crown Jewel, Bornholm is truly the “Pearl of the Baltic.” A summer playground frequented by Danes, Swedes, Germans, and Poles, the favorite vacationers’ challenge is to cycle the island’s 65-mile perimeter (a relatively easy ride that offers shortcuts across the island’s center).
A famous attraction is the 12th-century round church in Østerlars, where legends claim the Knights Templar returned from the crusades and buried the Ark of the Covenant beneath the stone floor.
No matter which route you choose, Bornholm is Denmark’s lightly-populated, traffic-free island with a record amount of annual sunshine.It’s no wonder that cyclists and artists both flock to the Baltic Sea’s “Island of Light.”
Day 4 – Arriving in Poland, our yacht-size cruise ship ties up at the dock where Lech Walesa and his fellow shipyard workers launched a decade-long revolt against communism. In the partially-free election of 1989, their Solidarity movement swept away Communist rule. It was the first domino in a rapid series of events that included the fall of the Berlin Wall and the dissolution of the Soviet Empire.
With centuries of tumultuous history, the city of Gdansk showcases a diverse array of architectural styles. The city is a veritable treasure trove of intriguing museums, colorful sidewalk cafes, and parks with beer gardens.
Today’s choice of routes leave Gdansk to discover dense stands of dark pines, vibrant green pastures, and small villages where fragrant bakeries perfume the air with the scent of sweet pastries and artisanal rolls.
Day 5 – Klaipeda is the ancient Lithuanian seaport where Baltic tribes came together to form the Teutonic League. Klaipeda’s 13th century castle withstood centuries of battles waged by warring Prussians and Russians.
While shorter and longer routes exist, our favorite route out of Klaipeda, traces a forest bike path through the heartlands of Lithuania to reach a chateau in Palanga (which now houses an amber museum).
After a short stop, the route passes through the small town of Gretinga and the lakeside village of Gargzdai before returning to port.
Day 6 – Our fifth day of cycling features Sweden. We’ll dock at Visby, a UNESCO World Heritage City that’s an outstanding example of a Hanseatic walled seaport. The entire island of Gotland is highly-regarded for its unspoiled landscapes and architecture that includes 90 medieval churches, most of which are still in regular use.
Concerned about riding in mountains? The hilliest cycling you’ll encounter during Santana’s 8-country tour occurs on Gotland, where the highest point on our routes of the Swedish island is only 269 feet above sea level.
Those who claim Swedes are cool and reserved clearly haven’t spent time on Gotland, an island with friendly smiles and warm greetings.
Scandinavia is a very bike-friendly environment where instead of bike lanes, many roads actually have a parallel bike path.
Day 7 – Our itinerary’s smallest non-island port is Ventspils, Latvia’s window to the Western World. Outside the small city we’ll stretch our legs on a web of paved lanes through a vast wilderness that includes stone barns, colorful fields of wildflowers in full bloom, and a luscious assortment of wild berries.
Back in town you’ll certainly want to spend some time exploring one of the World’s oldest castles. Built in 1290, the Castle of the Livonian Order is nearing the completion of a 30-year restoration. The final half-mile return to the ship passes a number of places where you’ll be tempted to sample a frothy Latvian brew.
Day 8 – Welcome to Estonia, where medieval castles, “onion-domed” orthodox cathedrals, and an exceptionally intact 13th century city plan, are hallmarks of Tallinn, one of Europe’s most glorious cities.
While the Soviet subjugation of the Baltic Republics lasted far too many decades, Tallinn is a uniquely proud capital where the drab communist facade was torn away to reveal nine centuries of vibrance and color.
Tallinn is nothing less than the Prague of the Baltics—the perfect place to explore on our seventh day of cycling.
Day 9 – Did we save the best for last? Of the Scandinavian countries, Finland is too often overlooked. After centuries of Russian and Swedish rule, the Finns with their distinct language and mannerisms gained independence in 1917 and protected their homeland against Soviet and German armies during WWII. In international rankings for happiness, the Finns outscored all other countries in 2017, 2018 and 2019.
Our final day of cycling is centered on Turku. A hidden jewel that is largely unknown to Americans, Finland’s oldest city has a medieval center and bridges to adjacent forested islands with miles of low-traffic lanes.
After witnessing the verdant forest islands and bike friendly design of the city, it’s no wonder it has one of the highest livability scores in Europe. In a city where everyone departs for rural winter skiing, a favorite summer activity is cycling the city’s greenbelts.
Day 10 – On disembark morning we’ll cruise through the island archipelago surrounding Stockholm. Built on 14 islands, central Stockholm is 30% waterways and 30% green space.
The city’s surprising downtown seaport is a two-hour cruise from the Baltic. If you’re short on time or have previously explored Scandinavia’s largest capital, our disembark shuttle can take you straight to the airport.
MS Star Legend
Baltic Sea 2025
10-Days & 8-Countries
Copenhagen to Stockholm
Santana has chartered Windstar’s all-suite Star Legend for our Baltic Sea Cycling Cruise!
The Star Legend is an ALL-SUITES motor yacht!
The smallest suite, at 277 sq.ft., is twice as large as staterooms found on other new cruise ships.
Every single suite on the ship is brand new!
Beautiful new bathrooms in every suite
10 different suite categories makes it easy to find one that’s right for you.
Owner’s Suite
Deluxe Suite
Balcony Suite
Ocean View Suite
The Star Legend has a 1:1.5 crew-to-passenger ratio to provide award winning service.
A total of 5 gourmet restaurants provide a variety of fresh culinary options. Jan wants you to know that 24-hour room service is a no-cost extra!
Amphora Restaurant
Candles Restaurant
Santana has worked with Windstar since 2010. With this win-win relationship, Santana obtains the lowest pricing and best availability. Their yacht-sized fleet allows Santana’s charters to use small ports that are better suited for cycling. We’ve now worked with Windstar to create custom-for-cycling itineraries in the Mediterranean, Tahiti, Japan, British Isles, Australia, & New Zealand.
Nearly twelve years ago Santana asked Windstar for n Baltic Sea charter. Until recently their answer was “We only go to a few countries there.” In 2021 we finally convinced Windstar to create Bill’s Magnum Opus itinerary with 10-Days & 8-Countries. As part of their entry into this exciting new market Santana received prime dates and preferential pricing for the original version and 2025’s encore!
Santana and our participants love the intimate size of Windstar’s yachts, as does the cruising public and industry critics. Year after year, Windstar wins all the major awards for small ship cruising, and scores the highest return-client loyalty.
In 2020, the Star Breeze was withdrawn from service to take part in Windstar’s “Star Initiative Project”—a quarter billion dollar stretch of their 3 motor yachts (they’re triplets). After cutting the Star Breeze into front and rear halves, a precursor to the installation of quieter new eco-friendly motors and generators, they replaced the entire ship’s decor and furnishings—Every single suite has been rebuilt better than new. Before buttoning things up, they slid in a new 84-foot midsection.
This 90 second video shows the process –
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OTpVxCOjmPY&feature=youtu.be
Before
After
The Star Legend we’ve chartered for the Baltic Sea is essentially a new ship with larger additional public areas, a tripled-size ocean-view swimming pool, new tenders, new lifeboats, and a fleet of expedition-worthy zodiacs.
The new Sun Deck & Pool
The new main Lounge
Existing suites have all been completely rebuilt, will obtain enhanced soundproofing, and feature all-new bathrooms. Added suites include new categories at both ends of the price range. After relaunch you’ll not only have a wider range of staterooms to choose from, the Star Legend will have five gourmet dining venues to provide a wider range of fresh cuisine.
Owner’s Suite (Living Room)
Star Balcony Suite
Star Ocean View Suite
Star Porthole Suite
The new Star Grill
The Yacht Club & Cafe
The Cafe
The new Cuadro 44 Restaurant
Frequently Asked Questions
Baltic Sea 2025
10-Days & 8-Countries
Copenhagen to Stockholm
Q: What are the exact dates?
A: The Cruise Dates are June 20 to 29, 2025. In a region where winter temperatures are below freezing, June assures short-sleeve cycling, extended hours of sunshine and daily highs in the 70s. Additionally, June has the least rain of any Summer month in the Baltic region.
Q: What’s the cost?
A: Due to the current strength of the dollar and the wonderful offer Windstar gave us for Santana’s encore Baltic Sea cycling cruise, our pricing for this 10-day cycling cruise starts at $6,499 per-person. Booking early is easy and RISK FREE. Our reservations page shows pricing of available staterooms.
Q: What about tipping?
A: Jan and I don’t accept tips. A comprehensive “cruise extras” fee of $700 per-person includes a long list of off-ship activities, admissions, interpretive guides, sight fees, and ride support (gps route files, morning shuttles to give casual riders a head start, and SOS vans driven by pro mechanic). Note that this is less than the average cruise passenger pays for a week of “deluxe excursions.” Government mandated Port Taxes and Facilities Fees are $400 per-person. Mandatory shipboard gratuities of $180 per-person includes valet bike handling.
Q: All Suites?!
A: Every stateroom is an exterior suite. About 40% have balconies. Pricing varies by location and floor plan (see the Stateroom Reservations section below for pricing details).
Q: Are there differences between the suites?
A: Certainly. The Star Legend features deluxe bedding and spacious floor plans. The suites have a private bathroom with a double-vanity & double-sinks, air-conditioning with adjustable thermostat, and are soundproofed. All Star Legend staterooms are located on the exterior, and offer exquisite views or balconies. The smallest room on the ship is 277 square feet.
Q: How are suites assigned?
A: In any sub-category all rooms are virtually identical. Using the reservation timestamp, those who reserve earliest get the conveniently located staterooms closest to the heart of the ship. If friends desire a pair of adjacent staterooms the timestamp of the first reservation determines the location of both rooms. Out of fairness to all our guests, we will not take requests for specific room numbers. Those who book early obtain prime positioning.
Q: Are rental bikes available? Are e-bike rentals available?
A: Yes. If you own a nice bike that fits, however, bringing it with you is relatively easy and inexpensive. More info on this in Bill’s Travel Tips. Lightweight road bike rentals are about $450 per-person for the duration of the cruise, and E-Bike rentals are about $200 more. Corsica rentals include delivery on embark day and retrieval at the end of the final ride. More info on our “Welcome Aboard” page.
Q: How do we get to and from the tour?
A: Detailed info by July ’24. Those who arrive and leave on the embark and disembark days will receive FREE Airport transfers.
Q: How many miles each day?
A: A look at our relief map will show you that the Baltic, unlike most oceans, is surrounded by remarkably gentle terrain. In addition to our daily pair of zero-mile options (remaining on the ship or reaching prime attractions via Santana’s non-rider coach), every day has multiple cycling routes. Anyone who can ride 35 flat miles will be able to enjoy multiple days of easy. Longer routes are available, and typically allow 60 or more miles. At each morning’s breakfast you’ll get a map charting the day’s cycling routes and recommended stops. During a brief route talk you’ll hear about each route’s attractions. Santana’s vets have learned to love and rely on their handlebar-mounted GPS units. Available for less than $170, these touch-screen marvels prevent the age-old problem of getting lost or riding unplanned miles. Want to use your smartphone? Use the tips in our GPS Guide to make sure you’re ready to go. Santana supplies free electronic mapping and route files. Simply select the route and follow the highlighted map.
Q: What’s the next step?
A: A near-immediate sell-out of this event is anticipated. Early-in pricing is limited to the first few rooms in each category. Pricing listed on the Stateroom Reservations section is the current pricing. Refresh your browser to see any changes that may have occurred if you delay booking after loading this page. To lock-in availability and the lowest pricing on a RISK-FREE basis, reserve your space through our Online Reservations portal. Santana’s secure website is open 24 hours per day, accepts all major credit cards, and automatically adjusts for remaining stateroom availability. Reserving your spot is RISK-FREE. In each category the prime location staterooms will be assigned in the same order as the time stamp of your booking.
Q: What do you mean by RISK-FREE?
A: When you use your credit card and book through our website, we’ll give you 14 risk-free days to think it over and clear your schedule. If you change your mind, send an email to Cancellations@SantanaAdventures.com within two weeks to cancel the transaction and obtain a full refund. Here is a full listing of Santana Adventures’ Terms & Conditions.
Q: What if we change our minds after 14 days?
A: Because full-boat charters are binding, non-cancelable contracts, Jan and I will only enter into this charter based on your confirmed-through-PayPal commitment. In effect, we undertake a huge risk by guaranteeing full payment on your behalf. After entering into this obligation, we cannot afford for you to back out—for any reason. This is no different than the clear written policy that existed for all except one of Santana’s prior chartered-ship cruises (this charter will be our 85th!). While preparing for our 2009 Danube event I neglected to include the following proviso. That’s the year a group of friends, after verbally agreeing to pay in full and then stringing Jan along for many months, decided to cancel their plans. Lesson learned! Here it is (again) in writing:
Santana’s acceptance of your registration and non-refundable deposit for this event is subsequent to your agreement to pay the remaining balance in full. While Santana allows limited refunds on rallies and tours, Santana’s cruises are non-cancelable and non-transferable. When the possibility of paying yet not attending is unacceptable, Jan and I recommend Travel Guard trip insurance. For the past 25 years hundreds of our clients have relied on Travel Guard coverage without complaint. An informative application will be mailed with your invoice; and further information is available online. Here is a full listing of Santana Adventures’ Terms & Conditions.
Q: Have you ever relaxed your refund policy?
A: Jan and I have willingly resold a number of fully prepaid staterooms for a fee of $1,000 per room—which was waived when a vacating couple found someone to take their place. When there has been more than one pending resell request, those who paid-in-full earliest had their space resold next. Using this non-guaranteed method (which is grossly inferior to trip insurance) Jan and I have cheerfully refunded over $700,000 in otherwise non-refundable and non-transferable cruise fares. Here is a full listing of Santana Adventures’ Terms & Conditions.
Q: What’s the difference between a SAG-wagon and Santana’s SOS/treasure vans?
A: Most tour companies use SAG-wagons that haul luggage and “sweep” the route between overnight stops. The drivers refill water-bottles, fix flat tires, and retrieve riders who can’t manage the easiest route between the widely spaced hotels. The problem, of course, is that the roving vans tend to be annoying until you actually need help. At that point it’s common to wait for two or more hours until one shows up. Although SAG drivers can fix a flat, they don’t have the tools or know-how to handle serious mechanical problems. Instead, they drive you to a bike shop (which explains why SAG-wagons disappear for hours at a time). This tour’s SOS vans are driven by pro bike mechanics who bring tools and spares. When you phone our drivers with the coordinates from your GPS, they’ll arrive in a flash to get you back in the saddle. Because Santana expects participants to fill their own bottles, fix their own flats, and choose a ride they can finish, our SOS drivers are underworked, and have time to retrieve your shopping treasures.
Q: Are beverages included?
A: Normally extra, on Santana’s Baltic charter a glass of beer or wine are included at our evening route talk. Additional alcohol is not included, but can be charged to your room. Soft drinks, coffee, espresso drinks, and juice are always complementary.
Q: Which meals are included?
A: During Santana’s earlier charters of Windstar cruises the culinary staff appreciated our appetites as much as we appreciated their multi-course gourmet meals. A 5-star chef will curate a new menu for each meal, and will always include a surprising selection of local fruits and produce, regional specialties, the freshest-possible seafood, vegetarian options, and grilled-to-order meats. A changing assortment of desserts and pastries are produced aboard each day. Breakfast and Lunch are served nouvo-buffet style, perfect for active cyclists. Dinners are served by knowledgeable and attentive waiters who can help you to make choices from each evening’s delightful menu of gourmet selections.
Q: Does the Star Legend offer laundry service?
A: The Star Legend does offer an optional laundry service for your cycling wear. Additionally, Windstar’s experts have always taken great care of our expensive cycling wear.
Q: Does the Star Legend have WiFi?
A: Satellite based WiFi is available at extra cost.
Q: Will there be menu selections for vegetarians, vegans and picky eaters?
A: Yes to all of the above.
Q: Does the Star Legend have Room Service?
A: Yes, all food served on board is complimentary, including 24-hour room service.
Q: Does the Star Legend have Elevators?
A: Yes.
Q: What if we have more questions?
A: The quickest and easiest way to get help is to use Santana’s Contact Form. One of our team members will follow up with you as soon as possible.
