Birka Gotland

Birka Gotland is a cruise ship jointly owned by Rederi AB Gotland and Viking Line, built in 2004 by Aker Finnyards in Rauma, Finland. Carrying around 1,800 passengers, she's a mid-sized ship and the Baltic Sea's sole purpose-built cruise ship. Originally launched as Birka Paradise for Birka Line, she sailed under that name until 2013, then as Birka Stockholm until 2024, when she entered service for Gotland Alandia Cruises.

She was designed from the outset as a genuine cruise ship, without a car deck, a deliberate departure from the cruise ferries that dominated Baltic routes at the time. Following a naming competition that drew 3,500 proposals, the original Birka Paradise was named to reflect her design, reminiscent of a Caribbean cruise ship. What truly sets her apart is that she remains the world's only passenger liner featuring a real sand beach with artificial sunlight, an unusual and characterful touch that has stayed with her through each of her identities.

The 2024 refurbishment by Gotland Alandia Cruises brought a full renovation of every passenger cabin, new cabin categories including bow facing suites, a redesign of several public spaces, and upgrades to the wellness complex, now renamed Archipelago Spa. The sundeck was completely refurbished, and the ship now offers nine dining and beverage venues, spanning bars, cafes, and restaurants, representing an investment of more than 6 million US dollars.

Cabin styles range from compact inside rooms to spacious suites, all refreshed to modern standards. The atmosphere onboard feels more intimate than a large ocean-going cruise ship, yet still delivers thoughtful touches and proper cruise amenities throughout.

Birka Gotland suits passengers after shorter Baltic cruises with real Scandinavian character, couples wanting a quieter alternative to bigger ships, and families drawn to the distinctive archipelago routes she sails.

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