On a calm August afternoon, under a partly cloudy Nordic sky, the MSC Meraviglia slowly departed from the Port of Helsinki, marking another grand beginning of her northern voyage. The air was filled with excitement as passengers gathered on deck, waving towards the harbor while the ship’s deep horn echoed across the Baltic Sea.
Built to impress, MSC Meraviglia is one of the most modern and elegant vessels in the MSC Cruises fleet. With a length of 315 meters and capacity for over 5,000 guests, she combines innovative design, sustainable technology, and Italian style. From the waterfront of Helsinki’s South Harbor, spectators admired the ship’s graceful lines as it glided past the islands towards the open sea.
The partly cloudy sky created a perfect scene for photographers and cruise enthusiasts. The sunlight occasionally broke through the clouds, reflecting off the white hull and glass balconies, making the Meraviglia shimmer as she passed by island of Pihlajasaari and the iconic Helsinki skyline. Many locals and tourists stopped along the piers and observation decks to capture the moment.
Departures like this have become small celebrations in the Finnish capital. Helsinki’s port is an increasingly popular stop for major cruise lines, connecting Northern Europe’s most scenic destinations — from Stockholm to Tallinn, and onwards to Copenhagen or Hamburg. The sight of a ship like the MSC Meraviglia leaving the harbor is not only a reminder of summer travel but also a symbol of connection between nations across the Baltic Sea.
For travelers onboard, this journey promises unforgettable experiences: elegant dining, world-class entertainment, and serene views of the Northern European coastline. For those watching from ashore, it is a glimpse of adventure and the timeless beauty of maritime travel.
As the ship’s lights faded into the horizon and the sound of the engines softened, the August evening settled over Helsinki. The partly cloudy sky glowed with hues of gold and blue — a fitting farewell for the MSC Meraviglia, sailing once again towards her next destination.
The photo was taken in August 2009, on a partly cloudy afternoon when MSC Meraviglia departed from Helsinki.
