A Charming Voyage: Exploring the Baltic Sea on the M/S Gabriella Ferry

The Enchanting Voyage Begins

The celebration kicked off an hour before the M/S Gabriella ferry gracefully departed from the picturesque Stockholm harbor, embarking on its overnight journey to Helsinki. At the vibrant outdoor bar on Deck 9, a lively crowd of passengers gathered for the 4 p.m. sailing. The atmosphere was electric as conversations flowed over drinks, with everyone basking in the delightful Nordic summer weather — radiant sunshine, a refreshing breeze, and a brilliant azure sky adorned with fluffy, cotton-like clouds. A D.J. set the mood by blending bass-heavy Eurodance tracks with nostalgic disco hits, creating an irresistible party vibe. Children, filled with the excitement of summer vacation, dashed about, their laughter mingling with the music.

Ferry rides across the enchanting Baltic Sea, including the extensive 16-hour journey between Stockholm and Helsinki, have become a cherished summer tradition for many vacationers in the region. With premium cabins often booked months in advance, these ferries are famed — or perhaps infamous — for their lively atmosphere. Although the July to August high season leans towards a more family-friendly ambiance, the spirited adult festivities promise no shortage of fun, regardless of the time of year.

The Sandels Sundeck Bar is just one of several venues on board where passengers can unwind and socialize. Credit: Vesa Laitinen for The New York Times

During the summer months, a significant portion of the passengers comprises families from nearby regions. Credit: Vesa Laitinen for The New York Times

These ferry excursions across the Baltic Sea have become a beloved summertime ritual for countless vacationers. Credit: Vesa Laitinen for The New York Times

My husband, Mac, and I found ourselves amidst the cheerful crowd on Deck 9. After stowing our luggage in our cozy cabin, we made our way to the bar. With cold beers in hand, we quickly struck up a conversation with two friendly Stockholm locals, Hanna Bäckman and Anna Dahlman. “It’s hard to believe, but the last time we embarked on this journey was 29 years ago,” Anna, a real estate agent, reminisced, recounting a school trip from her past. “It was quite the adventure!” Hanna, a hydropower project manager, chimed in with a laugh, “Indeed! We’re determined to have just as much fun this time around.”

A palpable excitement rippled through the crowd as the impressive 11-deck ferry, carrying cargo, vehicles, and over 2,000 passengers, gently eased away from its berth. For the next few hours, the ship would navigate the stunning Stockholm Archipelago, a breathtaking collection of skerries and lush, forested islands, each adorned with charming barn-red wooden cabins and fluttering blue-and-yellow Swedish flags. Following this scenic route, the ferry would soon venture into the open waters of the northern Baltic Sea, where new adventures awaited.