In August, the shipping companies Viking Line and Gotlandsbolaget presented a brand new joint venture in cruise traffic between Stockholm, Mariehamn and Visby. Now it is clear that the Baltic Sea's new pleasure cruiser will be called Birka Gotland. Under the leadership of CEO Susanne Kaarnimo-Knight, Birka Gotland will offer cruises from the end of March 2024.
Around Easter 2024, the premiere cruise will depart from Stockholm to Mariehamn on the ship Birka Gotland, and during the spring and summer it will also go via Visby on selected departures. After that, the destinations will be gradually expanded during the summer months with several popular destinations such as Härnösand, Ystad, Bornholm and Riga.
–We are based on the two most beautiful islands in the Baltic Sea and the love of the sea, the archipelago and the unique local environment. There is a great demand for both shorter and longer cruises in the region. We are especially proud to be able to present the opportunity to go to beautiful Visby during the spring and summer, which gives travelers the chance to discover Gotland when it is at its most beautiful, says Susanne Kaarnimo-Knight, CEO of the new company.
The entertainment options on board Birka Gotland will include several restaurants, shopping, spas and entertainment.
“We offer an attractive alternative for the everyday traveler. We know that many are curious about the onboard experience, and we look forward to presenting the details soon,” says Susanne Kaarnimo-Knight.
Tickets for the Birka Gotland cruises will go on sale in January 2024. Birka Gotland has connecting services from 78 Swedish locations. The cruises will be sold both via Birka Gotland's new website and Viking Lines and Destination Gotland's channels.
Traffic plan Birka Gotland 2024:
Stockholm-Mariehamn-Stockholm: Daily departures except for the dates below
Stockholm-Mariehamn-Visby-Mariehamn-Stockholm: 26 departures during the period March-August
Stockholm-Härnösand-Mariehamn-Stockholm: 7 departures in May, June and September
Stockholm-Riga-Mariehamn-Stockholm: 4 departures in September and December
Stockholm-Bornholm-Visby-Mariehamn-Stockholm: 3 departures in May and August
Stockholm-Ystad-Visby-Mariehamn-Stockholm: 2 departures in May and August.
According to the press release.
