tallink bubble cruise

Tallink Silja Line

Top ways to experience Tallink Silja Line and nearby attractions

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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Tallink Silja Line - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• (0.59 km) Hotel Fabian
• (0.73 km) Bob W Koti Katajanokka
• (0.78 km) Hotel F6
• (0.72 km) Hotel Lilla Roberts
• (0.60 km) Hotel U14
• (0.16 km) Boathouse
• (0.30 km) NJK
• (0.65 km) Spis
• (0.65 km) Soppakeittiö
• (0.77 km) Finlandia Caviar

Tallink Silja Line

Top ways to experience Tallink Silja Line and nearby attractions

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travellers

TALLINK SILJA LINE: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

• (0.37 mi) Hotel Fabian
• (0.46 mi) Bob W Koti Katajanokka
• (0.49 mi) Hotel F6
• (0.45 mi) Hotel Lilla Roberts
• (0.38 mi) Hotel U14
• (0.10 mi) Boathouse
• (0.18 mi) NJK
• (0.40 mi) Spis
• (0.41 mi) Soppakeittiö
• (0.48 mi) Finlandia Caviar

• By Niko Suominen 21 July 2023 - 15 min read
• Tags: ferry , review , cruise
• Destination: Finland , Estonia
• Read in Finnish

Common Questions

Review: our cruising experience on tallink m/s mystar.

• By Niko Suominen
• 21 July 2023 - 15 min read

The content on this page includes affiliate links. While clicking on these links won't cost you anything extra, we may earn a modest commission from any purchases you make.

We embarked on a cruise aboard m/s MyStar. In the article, we share our firsthand experiences, highlighting the services, amenities, and views that await us on this journey. From the delectable dining options to the Superstore, every aspect of the ferry was well-designed. The article also includes our rating of the ferry, If you're seeking a short but pleasant journey on the Baltic Sea, we recommend considering a trip with MyStar for your next cruise. Read more details from the article.

Covered in the Article

Helsinki - tallinn ferry route, the newest ferry from helsinki to tallinn, restaurants, other services, where to book, other ferries to tallinn, bottom line.

Tallinn is only 80 kilometres away from Helsinki which makes it a popular day trip destination for Finns and Finnish residents. The sail over the Baltic Sea takes only a few hours so you can easily travel to Tallinn and back to Helsinki on the same day. In addition to the continuous flow of passengers, a lot of cargo is transported between the cities every day. For travellers, the Helsinki-Tallinn route is a practical link between Finland and the Baltics.

There are several ferry companies to choose between in order to sail from Helsinki to Tallinn . Tallink is one of them. In this article, we'll be focusing on the newest addition to the Tallink's fleet, LNG-operated m/s MyStar . MyStar is a state-of-the-art ferry that offers a comfortable and enjoyable journey for passengers. With its spacious and fresh design, MyStar can accommodate almost 3000 passengers, making it an ideal choice for both travellers and commuters.

Ferries between Helsinki and Tallinn

Our MyStar Experience

We visit Tallinn often but this time, we only wanted to try the newest ferry . So we booked a cruise from Helsinki to Tallinn with an immediate return. We planned to enjoy a delicious buffet on board and explore the ferry's amenities.

It is common for Finns to have a cruise without leaving the ship in Tallinn. There is a lot to do onboard: For example, You can enjoy food, grab a drink and do shopping in the ship's superstore . And in the summer when the weather is good, it is a pleasure to enjoy the fresh sea air on the outer deck while sipping your favourite drink.

MyStar departed at 4.30 pm from Helsinki and returned at 9.30 pm on the same day. We boarded the ferry 30 minutes earlier because our prebooked buffet started already at 4 pm.

MyStar is the newest ferry between Helsinki and Tallinn. It is a modernised version of the older m/s Megastar . The ferry was manufactured in Finland so it is a true Finnish ship even though it is operated by an Estonian ferry company, Tallink. The ferry produces less pollution because it is run by LNG, a natural gas.

The sailing time between Helsinki and Tallinn is 2 hours one way. This makes MyStar almost the fastest ferry between the capitals.

Upon boarding MyStar, we were captivated by the modern premises. The spacious and bright design of the ferry was easily seen. The large windows allowed an abundance of natural light to flood in, creating an airy and open atmosphere. Compared to older ferries, the MyStar had fewer walls, giving it an even more expansive feel.

Decks 3, 5 and 6 were reserved for cargo and cars. Decks 7, 8 and 9 were for services like stores, pubs and restaurants. At Deck 10, you could find cabins and the sundeck was also there.

Since the travel time is short, not many passengers book cabins on this route. That is why there is only one deck for accommodation.

Baltic Princess Review

We found 4 restaurants on MyStar:

• Delight Buffet
• Chef's Kitchen
• Burger King

We had prebooked a fully inclusive buffet meal at the Delight Buffet which gave good value for the money. The buffet included a wide variety of options, such as salads, warm meals, desserts, drinks, wine, beer, and coffee/tea. Located on the bow of the ship, the restaurant provided stunning views of the sea.

The salad table alone was a feast for the eyes, with a plethora of items that left little room for the main courses and desserts. The warm meal selection was more limited, but it still offered ample choices. As for desserts, you could choose from ice creams, strawberries, fruits, cakes, and mousses. According to our experiences, you can always trust the quality that Tallink's restaurants provide. There were staff constantly filling the trays promptly.

In addition to the delightful food, the buffet also covered coffee, tea, soft drinks, juices, wine, and beer. For those seeking other beverage options, there were additional choices available at an extra cost. With the buffet lasting a generous two hours, there was ample time to savour both the delicious food and the refreshing drinks. Overall, Delight Buffet on MyStar provided a perfect dining experience.

We think that Delight Buffet was an excellent choice because it was affordable and had a wide selection. We advise travellers to book the buffet together with the ticket to secure their spot, especially on busy days.

Next to Delight Buffet, there was Chef's Kitchen . It was the ship's fine dining option for those who wished to order the best food from the menu. A la carte dining is more romantic and a good option when evenings are getting darker.

For budget travellers or for those not seeking a big meal, the ferry had Fast Lane restaurant. Fast Lane is an affordable place to have a quick meal. We have tried the Fast Lane restaurants on other Tallink's ferries and they have always served tasty warm meals for decent prices. Fast Lane restaurants are self-service. You select food and drinks yourself and pay for them at the cashier.

Surprisingly, the famous fast-food chain Burger King had its branch at MyStar. Burger King is a popular choice for young travellers and families.

Silja Serenare Review

MyStar had 4 bars and pubs:

• Aperitif Bar

All of the MyStar pubs were conveniently located along the same corridor on Deck 8, providing easy access. While they shared a similar aesthetic, each pub had its unique touches in terms of decoration. However, Garden Bar stood out from the rest due to its location outside, adorned with lush green plants. Despite being outdoors, the clever design ensured that it was sheltered from the wind, making it the perfect spot to savour refreshing drinks during the summer months. Situated at the rear of the ferry, Garden Bar boasted breathtaking views that added to its allure.

Sea Pub and Nordic Bar were close to each other inside the ferry. Aperitif Bar was meant for people who planned to eat in Chef's Kitchen and enjoy a drink or two before the meal.

We are used to the ferries providing complimentary entertainment, so we were taken aback when we discovered that MyStar did not offer any onboard entertainment during this cruise. Perhaps, there is a variation in their offerings on weekends.

Food and alcoholic drinks still play a big role on the ferry routes between Finland and Estonia. People go to relax onboard. However, if you do not like drinking, MyStar has also a sauna for more healthy relaxation.

In addition to cosy bars and high-quality restaurants, MyStar had also cafes:

• Family Picnic
• Coffee & Co. Lounge

All the cafes were located on Deck 7. Since the cafes serve alcoholic drinks, it is difficult to define if a place is called a cafe, bar or pub. Perhaps the difference is, that the cafes had more non-alcoholic options and the atmosphere was more suitable for children.

We tried Coffee & Co. Lounge on Deck 7. It was a wide open space, like a lobby, which made it peaceful. You could order coffee products and alcoholic drinks. The area contained the ship's information desk and a small store. There was also a vending machine for cheaper products but unfortunately, it was broken during our visit.

Located on Deck 7, we found the expansive Tallink Superstore which is a haven for shoppers.

With its wide selection of products, ranging from cosmetics and clothes to alcohol, cigarettes, and candies, there was something for everyone in Superstore. What sets the store apart is its affordable prices, making it a budget-friendly option compared to shopping in Finland. We think Tallink Superstore is the perfect place to satiate your shopping desires.

We spent more than an hour in the Superstore and bought discounted brand clothes and tasty Finnish chocolate. The shopping experience was pleasant because the store was spacious, the selection was good and the cashiers were working fast.

Discerning business and quality-conscious travellers will appreciate the convenience and luxury of the paid lounge available on the ferry.

• Comfort Lounge
• Business Lounge
• Platinum Lounge

We did not visit them ourselves but we share here the basic facts of them. As frequent visitors of airport lounges, we believe that these exclusive spaces greatly enhance the travel experience by providing a heightened level of comfort and convenience.

The lounges are exclusive areas with additional amenities and services. Access to these premium spaces requires payment.

Comfort Lounge is not only the most affordable lounge option, priced at just 25 euros, but it also provides a serene and peaceful atmosphere. The exclusive area offers plenty of comfortable seating options and boasts a nice sea view. As a bonus, it provides complimentary snacks and a variety of non-alcoholic beverages. So, not only will you be able to relax in a quiet environment, but you can also enjoy some refreshments without any additional cost.

Business Lounge is more expensive costing about 65 euros. Since it is more expensive, it is also more peaceful. The lounge offers the same services as Comfort Lounge, but in addition, warm food and alcoholic drinks are available.

Platinum Lounge on the Tallink MyStar ferry offers a new and exclusive experience for travellers between. Unlike Comfort Lounge or Business Lounge, Platinum Lounge provides a private space with six seats, personal service from a butler, and the option to order food and drinks from any restaurant on board. The ticket also includes the convenience of shopping without leaving the lounge and a priority car parking spot for those travelling by car. However, this luxury comes for 500 euros per direction.

MyStar had a few other nice and useful services:

• Car Park for cruise travellers
• Kid's Area for families
• Slot machines for gambling
• Driver's Lounge for bus and truck drivers
• Sauna for relaxation
• Sitting Lounge for commuters

Especially, Sitting Lounge is practical for commuters between Tallinn and Helsinki. You can just sit in a quiet area watching movies or have a quiet rest. Frequent travellers may not want to enjoy the ferry's service but just to relax.

Review of Tallink m/s Megastar

MyStar is a modern ferry transporting cargo and passengers between Helsinki and Tallinn. With its excellent amenities and the price-to-quality ratio is good, we rate MyStar as a 5-star ferry. It is a comfortable way to travel between these two cities.

MyStar has plenty of services for business travellers, leisure travellers and commuters. You can eat, drink and enjoy the nice sea views. The shopping options are excellent. It is easy to spend a day on MyStar without getting bored.

From Helsinki to Stockhol by Ferry

Keeping in mind that MyStar is almost like a small luxury cruise ship, the tickets are surprisingly affordable. Oneway tickets cost from 20 to 50 euros. If you return on the same date, you will get a big discount.

We advise you to maximize your savings and convenience by booking the extra services along with your ticket. Not only are they often more affordable when bundled together, but you also eliminate the need to purchase them individually onboard.

When it comes to booking tickets, you have two good options: the Tallink website or Ferryscanner . Our recommendation is to book through Ferryscanner, as it allows you to compare prices and see the prices offered by competitors. This gives you the advantage of making an informed decision.

Tallink has two other ferries sailing to Tallinn. They are a little older but still of good quality. MyStar is the newest one and probably the best.

Viking Line and Eckerö Line also operate ferries to Tallinn from Helsinki. They are quite similar to Tallink's ferries but older. They tend to be a little cheaper so if you wish to save, check competitors' prices too. That is practical on Ferryscanner .

Port of Helsinki is one of the busiest in the world. A lot of cargo and passengers travel to Tallinn every day and back. The route is popular with commuters, travellers and just for cruise passengers.

MyStar is the newest ferry. It is modern and comfortable. Booking a ticket on MyStar is an excellent choice and we are sure you will enjoy your time on board.

Have you sailed already on MyStar? Did you like the ferry? Comment below.

Tags: ferry , review , cruise Destination: Finland , Estonia

How to Book a Ferry Ticket

Browsing between the offerings of various ferry operators on a single route can be a daunting task. Our suggestion is to use Ferryscanner for an overview of different fares available via one quick search. Remember to follow these crucial steps when booking:

• Search ferries for your intended route.
• Select the desired ferry service. Fill and double-check all booking information.
• Understand the terms for cancellation.
• Add any additional services you may require. The same service may cost more later.
• Finalize your booking using a payment card.

Head to Ferryscanner and book your sail.

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Prices of ferry tickets vary in the same way as flight prices. We recommend comparing options to save money. Head to Ferryscanner to find the best offer for your next ferry tour.

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Tallink Isabelle ferry

Former name: viking isabella.

Cruise line TALLINK-SILJA LINE (Ferries)

Tallink Isabelle ferry current position

Tallink Isabelle ferry current location is at North America West Coast (coordinates 49.17532 N / -123.90473 W) cruising en route to VANCOUVER ANCHORAGE. The AIS position was reported 6 minutes ago.

Specifications of Tallink Isabelle ferry

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•   Wiki

Tallink Isabelle ferry Review

Review of tallink isabelle ferry.

MS Tallink Isabelle ferry is a Ro-Ro passenger vessel operated by the Estonia-based company TALLINK-SILJA LINE . The ship has a max capacity of 2480 passengers and 364 cars plus 65 trucks/trailers. The vessel was launched in 1989 and currently operates on the Latvia-Sweden ferry route Riga - Stockholm (crossing time 17 hours).

As cruise ferry, Tallink Isabelle has double and quad cabins (max capacity 4 passengers) with a total of 2166 berths, all located on decks 2, 5, 6, 7 and 9. All staterooms are air-conditioned, with en-suite bathrooms and are both inside and outside. The ferry company provides bed linens, towels, and toiletries. Some staterooms are wheelchair-accessible (adapted for disabled passengers). Cabins for passengers with allergies and passengers traveling with pets are also available.

All cabins are with bunk beds (wall-mounted), en-suite bathrooms (angled sink, wall-mounted toilet, shower cubicle, hairdryer). Baby crib and potty (1 per cabin), as well as bedsides/rails (2 per cabin), are provided complimentary upon request. Room service can be ordered 4 days prior departure.

Cabin categories include:

• (Deck 9) Executive Suite / double cabin (size 34 m2) - slanted windows, separate bedroom (double bed / non-convertible to twins) and living room, sofa, armchairs, WC, shower, TV, phone, minibar, refrigerator, mirrored vanity table (writing desk with chair). Special breakfast and refreshments (soft drinks, fruits) are included in the "Europa 22 hour" mini-cruise fares.
• (Deck 9) Junior Suite / double cabin (size 16 m2) - slanted windows, double bed (non-convertible to twins), WC, shower, TV, phone, minibar, refrigerator, mirrored vanity table (writing desk with chair). Special breakfast and refreshments (soft drinks, fruits) are included in the "Europa 22 hour" mini-cruise fares.
• (Decks 5-6) Deluxe / double cabin (size 11 m2) - double bed (non-convertible to twins), WC, shower, TV, phone, refrigerator, mirrored vanity table (writing desk with armchair). Special breakfast and refreshments (soft drinks) are included in the fares.
• (Decks 5-6) A-Class Cabin (Quad Outside, size 8 m2) - bay window, 1 sofabed, 1 lower bunk bed, 2 upper bunk beds, WC, shower, TV. Cabins for allergic and disabled passengers are also available.
• (Decks 5, 6, 7 and 9) B-Class Cabin (Quad Inside, size 8 m2) - no window, 1 sofabed, 1 lower bunk bed, 2 upper bunk beds, WC, shower, TV. Cabins for allergic and disabled passengers are also available.
• (Decks 5, 6 and 9) B2-Class Cabin (Double Inside, size 7 m2) - no window, 1 sofabed, 1 upper bunk bed, WC, shower, TV.
• (Deck 2) C-Class Cabin (Quad Inside, size 8,4 m2) - no window, 2 lower bunk beds, 2 upper bunk beds, WC, shower, TV. Cabins for allergic and disabled passengers are also available.
• (Deck 5) Handicap Cabins (for disabled passengers) are sized 14 m2, each fitted with 3 beds (1 lower fixed, 1 sofabed, 1 upper bunk), WC, shower, TV, wider doors (for wheelchair access), near-elevator location. Disabled cabins are available in categories A-Class Outside (2x) and B-Class (2x).
• (Deck 5) Allergy Cabins (capacity 2-4 persons) are in categories B-Class Inside (2x) and A-Class Outside (2x), each with WC, shower, TV.
• (Deck 5) Pet Cabins (for passengers with pets) have capacity 2-4 persons, WC, shower, TV. Pet cabins are available in categories A-Class (4x) and B-Class (5x), each with WC, shower, TV, linoleum flooring.

All passengers must vacate their staterooms 30 min prior to homeport arrival. Passenger registration ends 1 hour prior to ferry departure.

Shipboard dining and entertainment options

As facilities, the Tallink Isabelle ferry offers:

• (Deck 8) Grande Buffet (Self-Service Restaurant) offers Scandinavian and international dishes, soft drinks, tea, coffee, wine, and beer, which are all included in the buffet meals price. The buffet restaurant has several theme-food stations, including Grill, Cold Table (meats, seafood), Green Market (Salads), Warm Dishes, Desserts.
• (Deck 8) The Chef's Kitchen (A La Carte Restaurant) is a premium eatery with an open kitchen.
• (Deck 8) The Dining Room is the main a la carte restaurant which serves classics and Russian specialties.
• (Deck 8) The Pub offers various beverages, classic pub snacks, small stage (for live performances by guest musicians).
• (Deck 8) Tapas & Wine Bar offers an extensive selection of hot and cold tapas. Late night meals are also served here.
• (Deck 7) Sea Side Cafe (Cafeteria / Patisserie / Coffee Bar) offers cold and warm beverages, light snacks (including fresh-baked pastries, yogurts, fruit smoothies, sweet crepes) and meals (made-to-order food and ready-made options). Coffee drinks are fresh-brewed (from freshly ground beans). The Cafe also has a takeaway desk.
• (Decks 8-9-10) Conference Center (opening hours 9 am - 9 pm) has different conference rooms with a combined capacity of 180 seats. All rooms are fitted with the latest technology presentation equipment. there is a separate lobby area. Conference facilities are closed during peak season (mid-June through mid-August) as the area is built into "Summer Center" (play area for kids-themed activities).
• (Deck 7) Children's Playroom is the ship's indoor playground area fitted with TV (for watching cartoons), Ball Pit Pool, craft tables. It is connected with the Sea Side Cafe. On each cruise, kids here meet the dog girl Lotte. Also here is the PlayStation Lounge (separate room for video games and arcade machines).
• (Deck 7) Supermarket / Tax Free Shop is a duty-free store selling special occasion gifts and souvenirs, alcohol (brand spirits, wines), tobaccos, luxury-brand perfumes and cosmetics, jewelry, watches, sunglasses, leather goods, confectionery, fashion clothing and accessories, toys, electronics and gadgets, gourmet sweets, Deli food, handmade teas and spices. Special offers (shopping promotions) are offered on each ferry crossing. Payments can be made in cash or via bank cards (VISA, MasterCard, EuroCard).
• (Deck 6) Hera Salongid (Beauty Salon) offers professional services by certified cosmeticians, hairdressers and masseuses (face and body treatments, hair styling and coloring, manicure, pedicure). Reservations are required 24 hours prior departure.
• (Deck 6) Sauna Department has 2 reserved saunas, unisex public saunas, swimming pool, whirlpool baths (for kids and adults).
• (Deck 7) Driver's Club is an exclusive bar lounge for truck drivers only.
• (Deck 7) Seating Lounge is fitted with large TVs and airline-type reclining seats (fully reclining Pullman seats).
• (Lobby Deck 7) Wi-Fi service, ATM / cash machine (next to Information Desk / Reception). A nurse can be also reached via the Reception. Small lockers are available for valuables.
• (Deck 8) The casino has gaming tables (roulette, poker) and slot machines.
• (Decks 9-10) Club Heaven / Disco Nightclub offers DJ hits, club music, party quizzes, large dance floor, grand stage (lower level) and a panoramic lounge with floor-ceiling windows (upper level).
• (Deck 11) Sky Bar offers local dance music and karaoke.
• (Deck 11) Sun Deck (outdoor deck area)
• (Deck 12) Wheelhouse/Navigation Bridge.

Midship on the top deck (Heli Deck 12) there is a helipad - helicopter landing area used in cases of emergency.

All onboard emergency instructions are displayed in staterooms, on the TV screens and at the ship's assembly stations (aka muster stations). Life jackets are issued at the assembly stations. In case of emergency, the use of elevators/passenger lifts is forbidden.

TALLINK-SILJA LINE deals

2-day cruise deals ("Europa 22 hour") are offered only shuttle ferries with departures from Helsinki (embarkation 8 am) to Tallinn (disembarkation 12:10 pm on the next day).

On all Tallink-Silja ships (excepting shuttle ferries) is available Room Service with a la carte priced special occasion gifts, sweets, and beverage menus. However, cabin services must be ordered 4 days prior departure.

Onboard Conference Rooms are equipped with data projectors and white screens, and available for booking with group rates (extra charge pp). The room must be booked for at least 2 hours, and for a minimum of 10 persons. Catering (snack package or buffet meals, also refreshments) can be booked additionally.

Smoking on the ship is prohibited in all cabins, restaurants, bars and lounges, corridors, elevators, stairwells. Smoking on the ship is allowed at designated areas and only on outdoor decks (look for "Smoking Area" signs).

"Collect and Save" program is based on collecting stickers with onboard purchases (on all Tallink-Silja ships stores). The program allows purchasing of selected products at up to 57% discount prices. With every purchase (min value EUR 10), the passenger receives 1 sticker (to be glued inside a campaign folder). By the "Collect and Save" campaign, passengers can buy different products after collecting 10, 20 or 30 stickers. These products are handed out and paid at the Info Stand or at the ship's shops. The "Collect and Save" offers are limited to a time period, or until select products are out of stock.

"Club One" is the company's loyalty program rewarding passengers traveling frequently with Tallink-Silja ferries. By the program are accrued bonus points - based on ferry tickets and onboard purchases), but also on Tallink Hotels rooms booked via Tallink-Silja. The program has 3 levels (Bronze, Silver, Gold) determined by the bonus points. Bonus points can be used for booking voyages, getting onboard shopping and dining discounts, Tallink Hotels ( Tallinn and Riga ) 10% discount plus benefits, Tallink Takso (Tallinn) 5% discount, Europark (Helsinki) 15% car parking discount.

Garage Decks are numbers 3, 4 and 5. On Deck 1 are the Engine Room (extending to Deck 2) and other technical rooms. On Deck 2 are the ferry's technical rooms, C-class Inside passenger cabins, crew cabins and facilities (dining/bar lounge, mess hall), the Brig (ship jail). Car Deck 4 has a hydraulic mobile platform, which (when lowered) divides it horizontally and doubles its passenger car capacity.

Follows a list of car deck-related safety procedures:

• Disabled passengers or those requiring specific assistance should visit the ship's Information Desk (open 24-hours).
• Apply handbrake and place the vehicle in park or 1st gear position. Switch off the ignition, alarm, electrical equipment, headlights. Gas cylinders, if any, must be switched off. Lock the vehicle.
• From your vehicle take only valuables and essential hand baggage.
• Make a note of your vehicle's location and garage deck number/stairway before leaving the car deck.
• Access to the ship's vehicle (cargo) decks during the voyage is prohibited.
• Smoking on vehicle decks, as well as in cabins and passenger lounges is forbidden.
• Wait for the onboard announcement before returning to your vehicle.

In order to avoid air pollution, don't start the engine until instructed.

The shipowner Tallink ( fleet , 1989-founded, headquartered in Tallinn, Estonia ) is an Estonian shipping company that operates Baltic Sea cruise ferries and RoPax vessels with direct services connecting Estonia with Finland and Sweden. and Sweden with Finland and Latvia.

Tallink Isabelle ferry - user reviews and comments

Photos of tallink isabelle ferry.

Tallink Isabelle ferry ship related cruise news

TALLINK-SILJA LINE cruiseferries resume passenger shipping on the Riga-Stockholm route

Estonian ferry operator TALLINK-SILJA LINE announced it would resume passenger shipping on the Riga (Latvia)-Stockholm (Sweden) route with just one...

•   show more news

Other TALLINK-SILJA LINE cruise ships

• Baltic Princess ferry
• Baltic Queen ferry
• Silja Europa ferry
• Silja Galaxy ferry
• Silja Serenade ferry
• Silja Symphony ferry
• Tallink Megastar ferry
• Tallink MySTAR ferry
• Tallink Romantika ferry
• Tallink Victoria I ferry

Tallink Isabelle ferry Wiki

The shipbuilding contract for Tallink Isabelle (as MS Isabella) was signed on February 4, 1986. The vessel's construction started on September 15, 1987 (keel-laying Brodosplit shipyard in Split Croatia ). The ship was launched on August 13, 1988, christened on June 5, 1989, and delivered to SF LINE (now VIKING LINE ) on June 15, and entered service on July 4.

The ship is powered by 4x Wartsila marine diesel engines (model PIELSTICK 12PC2-6V, combined output 23,8 MW). The propulsion system includes 2x shafts with controllable-pitch propellers. Ship's hull is ice-strengthened (classed "1A Super") allowing shipping operations in icy waters without icebreaking vessel assistance. Sisterships are Crown Seaways , Pearl Seaways , Viking Amorella , Viking Gabriella .

In the period 1989-1992, the ferry served the Finland-Sweden route Naantali-Stockholm (during summer) and operated 24-hour (2-day) mini-cruises roundtrip from Helsinki Finland during the rest of the year. In 1992, it was deployed on roundtrip Helsinki cruises the whole-year round. In 1994-1997 was operated the Helsinki-Stockholm service.

During the drydock refit in 1992 at Naantali shipyard, to the vessel was added a new sky bar (deck 11), new passenger cabins (decks 2 and deck 5). During the September 2007 major drydock refit and refurbishment (Naantali), the onboard tax-free store, pub and disco nightclub were completely rebuilt, and 2 new restaurants replaced the old. All passenger cabins were also fully refurbished. The refit resulted in increased GT tonnage (34,386 to 35,154 tons) and decreased passenger capacity (200 to 2166) and cargo capacity (970 to 850 lane meters, and 410 to 364 cars).

In 2012-2013, the vessel was put on sale. It was sold to TALLINK on April 5, 2013, entering service on May 6 on the Latvia-Sweden route Riga-Stockholm.

During drydock refurbishment , 2019 (at Klaipeda Shipyard, Lithuania ) were done complete renovations of all cafes, bars, and restaurants (including new furniture and carpeting). Renovations also received the kids' playground, shopping areas, corridors-stairways-hallways (new carpeting), Business Lounge (carpets, TVs), all Public Restrooms. Along with general maintenance works, the ship's propulsion system was upgraded. To the propellers were added EnergoProFin - Wartsila-made propeller cap with fins rotating together with the propeller. The unit serves as an additional screw and reduces energy loss and underwater noise-vibrations. The cruise ship was also fitted with a latest-generation navigation system. By Tallink Grupp's Ship Renewal Programme are regularly refurbished all vessels in the fleet. The program's budget for the period 2013-2018 was nearly EUR 80 million.

The vessel's  flag-state/registry in 2020 was changed from Finland (MMSI 230159000,  Port Helsinki ) to Estonia (MMSI 275430000, Port Tallinn ).

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DESTINATIONS , ESTONIA , EUROPE

Visiting tallinn on a cruise: a 1-day itinerary that works.

Tallinn is a popular port of call on Baltic Sea cruises . Founded in 1154, this historic city lies on the northern coast of Estonia and is the country’s hub for culture and tourism, as well as its capital.

But what are the best things to see if you are visiting Tallinn on a cruise?

To help you make the most of your day on-shore, here’s my tried and tested Tallinn itinerary. It includes essential practical tips, including how to get from the cruise terminal as well as my pick of what to see and where to eat.

Some articles on this website contain affiliate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . Read the full disclosure here .

IN THIS ARTICLE

How I Visited Tallinn on a Cruise

Tallinn was the second port of call on my 2-week  Baltic Capitals cruise

• Cruise operator :  Celebrity Cruises
• Cruise ship : Celebrity Silhouette
• Time in port : 10 am – 6 pm

I spent the morning exploring the Old Town on a walking tour. After lunch, I walked across the railway tracks to explore Telliskivi and Kalamaja.

Language – Estonian

Currency – Euro. However, cards are widely accepted.

Tipping – Tipping is voluntary. However, if the service was satisfactory, adding a 10% tip to the bill is considered polite.

One Day Tallinn Itinerary

Think of your day in Tallinn as one of two halves.

Visitors justifiably swoon over this city for its perfectly intact  medieval centre . But there is more to Tallinn’s charms than its UNESCO-listed Old Town.

Cross its railway tracks and you will discover a very different side of the city.  Telliskivi Creative City  with its street art, craft beer and designer studios, and the iconic wooden buildings of  Kalamaja  offer a refreshing alternative to the cutesy appeal of Tallinn’s medieval centre.

I joined the  Tallinn in a Nutshell  free walking tour.  Over two hours, Kadri showed us the highlights of Tallinn and took us through her country’s history from medieval times, through the Soviet period right up to modern Estonia.

There is no charge for this walking tour although tips are welcome.

Tallinn’s Lower Town wall

Tallinn’s Old Town is split into the Lower Town and its Upper Town, 20 – 30 meters above the Lower Town.

We started our walking tour at Tallinn’s  Lower Town  city wall. 

Originally 2.5 km long, this once boasted 45 defensive towers. However, it fell victim to bombing raids in 1944 that destroyed more than half of Tallinn’s city centre and around 10% of its Old Town.

More than half of Tallinn’s Lower Town wall has been magnificently preserved as a city wall, including 26 towers and two gates.

Danish King’s Garden

According to local legend, this is where a flag descended from the sky during the Danish invasion. It was this flag that made fortune smile upon King Valdemar II, and it became the national flag of Denmark.

The sculptures of three monks standing in the garden are a recent addition. They were a present to the city from an Estonian businessman who thought that Tallinn did not have enough statues.

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

This elaborate Russian Orthodox church was completed in 1900 during a period of Russification across the Baltic states.

Following Estonia’s first independence in 1918, there was an intensive program of de-Russification. Although it was relatively easy to strip out statues and monuments, de-Russifying buildings such as  Alexander Nevsky Cathedral  wasn’t quite so straightforward.

By the time Estonia’s second independence came around, there was an acceptance that this was the country’s cultural heritage. This is the main church for Russians living in Tallinn.

• Entry to Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is free
• Photography is not allowed inside the cathedral
• As this is a place of worship you need to be respectful. Women are advised to dress demurely and to cover their heads if possible.

St Mary’s Lutheran Cathedral

Although Lutheranism is the main religion of Estonia, it is not the biggest. At the last count, 96% of the country’s Russian population were regular churchgoers.

This contrasts with just 10% of ethnic Estonians attending church regularly. In other news, did you know that 69% of Estonians believe that trees have souls?

Compared to the grandeur of Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, St Mary’s Lutheran Cathedral is plain inside and out. However, it is noted for the elaborate wooden coats of arms of Estonian nobility covering its whitewashed walls.

You can step inside for the price of a small donation.

Tallinn’s Upper Town Wall

Linking nine of the city’s remaining 26 towers, this is the classic Tallinn photo stop. Have your camera ready for those sweeping views over the Old Town’s red rooftops.

You should also have a chance to say hello to one of Tallinn’s most famous residents,  Steven Seagull  (geddit?). He even has his own Instagram hashtag (#steventheseagull).

Tallinn Town Hall Square

Descending to the Lower Town, pass by enticing shops and cafes to reach Tallinn’s beating heart, its Town Hall Square.

Dating from the 14 th  Century, the southern side of Tallinn Town Hall Square is dominated by the Gothic town hall, the only surviving example in Northern Europe.

The Town Hall Square is also home to a market and is a great place to pick up souvenirs .

Town Hall Pharmacy

As a pharmacist, I felt that it would be unprofessional not to pay a visit to what is thought to be the oldest operating pharmacy in Europe. The Town Hall Pharmacy has been concocting cures since 1422 and is still going.

In addition to displaying historic pills and potions – black cat’s blood anyone? – it is here that you can pick up a  cure for a broken heart . This candy-topped piece of marzipan is guaranteed to make the break-up pain go away. Or so they say.

Kadri had advised us to steer clear of the tourist traps on Tallinn’s Town Hall Square. Instead, she recommended trying one of the restaurants on nearby Rataskaevu.

I can recommend  Von Krahli Baar , at Rataskaevu 10, a relaxed restaurant with friendly service. I enjoyed an excellent seafood crepe washed down with a local Kosk beer.

Exploring Kalamaja and Telliskivi

Sated from lunch, it’s time to explore a different side of Tallinn. On the other side of the train station is  Kalamaja , hipster central.

This up-and-coming Bohemian district – literal translation ‘fish house’ – was founded in the 14 th  Century as a fishing village. Sandwiched between Tallinn’s Old Town and the coast, this contains some real architectural gems.

Kalamaja’s candy-coloured wooden buildings built during Estonia’s brief first period of independence are typical Tallinn houses.

At the heart of Kalamaja is  Telliskivi , a former industrial area used in Soviet times to produce war equipment for trains, planes and ships. Today, the renovated old factory buildings are home to a thriving restaurant scene, shops and co-working spaces for start-ups.

This is also a great area to hunt down street art.

Getting to Tallinn’s Old Town from the Cruise Terminal

Most cruise ships dock at the Old City Harbour (Tallinn Passenger Port) in the downtown area of the city. It’s an easy 1 km walk to the edge of the Old Town.

Also, as most of Tallinn’s highlights are contained in a relatively compact area, it is very walkable. Your two feet are the best way to get around and see the sights.

Here are your options for getting from the cruise terminal to Tallinn’s Old Town.

Option 1: Walk from the cruise terminal to Tallinn’s Old Town

I walked from the cruise terminal to the Old Town. At an easy pace, this took me around 15 minutes.

The walk is clearly signposted and – trust me – you won’t be the only person taking this stroll.

Option 2: Use public transport to get from the cruise terminal to Tallinn’s Old Town

Public transport is of limited use here.

Although  Bus #2  will bring you to the city centre it does not stop at the cruise terminal. You will need to pick it up at the closest public transport stop on Sadama Street in front of Terminal A. The service runs 2 – 4 times an hour.

Option 3: Use the Cruise Shuttle Service

Most cruise lines offer a frequent shuttle service for a small charge.

Option 4: Use the hop-on-hop-off bus

Inevitably, there is also a  hop-on-hop-off (HOHO) bus . Given the size of Tallinn’s Old Town, this is likely to be of value only if you plan to visit the city’s suburbs.

Is the Tallinn Card Worth Buying?

The Tallinn Card  is a discount card that gives you free admission to over 50 of Tallinn’s tourist attractions as well as free public transport and discounts on sightseeing tours, shops and restaurants. As I was in Tallinn for just one day, and would not have time to visit any of the city’s museums, I felt that I would not get value out of the card. However, depending on how long you are in port and your sightseeing plans, you might arrive at a different conclusion. Think about where you might be able to visit and how much individual tickets and transport will cost compared with the cost of the Tallinn Card.

Enjoy your day in Tallinn

Tallinn is sightseeing heaven and it was one of the highlights of my Baltic Sea cruise. Although I had just seven hours there, I felt that I got a lot out of it. With good reason, most people visit Tallinn for its rich history and perfectly preserved cobblestoned medieval centre. The streetscapes of the Old Town are ridiculously photogenic, crammed with merchants’ houses and picturesque churches.

However, in their own way, Kalamaja and Telliskivi were equally compelling and their urban cool offered a contrasting experience. In my view, they are an essential part of any 1-day Tallinn itinerary. This hipster district wasn’t on my radar before I arrived in Tallinn and was a recommendation from Kadri, our walking tour guide. You can’t beat local knowledge. But there’s one more reason why you should consider visiting Kalamaja and Telliskivi. Estonia is a popular stop for cruise ships and there were four in port when I visited Tallinn. That is a lot of people in the city’s historic centre. On the other side of the railway tracks, it was a different story. I saw, at the very most, ten other tourists when I was wandering the streets of Kalamaja.

Packing a good guidebook to allow you to explore the ports of call on a Baltic Sea cruise independently is a wise move. I can recommend the excellent  Lonely Planet Cruise Ports Scandinavia & Northern Europe  that I used when I was visiting these ports.

If you have found this itinerary helpful, take a look at my guides to the other ports of call on this cruise:

• One Day in Rostock & Warnemünde, Germany: A Perfect DIY Cruise Excursion
• Visiting St. Petersburg on a Cruise Ship: The Ultimate Guide
• One Day in Stockholm, Sweden
• One Day in Helsinki from a Cruise: A Walking Tour
• One Day in Copenhagen: 6 Best Things to Do On a Cruise Stop

Finally, if you are new to cruising, I also have a guide to planning your first cruise  and advice on which cruise cabins to avoid . If you are cruising solo , take a look at my lowdown on single cabins .

About Bridget

Bridget Coleman has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.

Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.

To get in touch, email her at [email protected] or follow her on social media.