Uppsala and the "Ferry" to Helsinki

Our final day in Sweden (Sunday, May 22nd), was spent outside of Stockholm in Uppsala.  There we saw the impressive Cathedral of Uppsala, which has changed dramatically in appearance several times since the 16th century.  We also visited the botanical gardens of Carl Linnaeus, and enjoyed lunch at the Cathedral Cafe.  After lunch, we returned to Stockholm to board the Silja Serenade (operated by Tallink Silja), to get settled in for our scenic archipelago-laden departure from Sweden.  I realized pretty quickly that calling the ship we were on a "ferry" was a bit ridiculous!  Though not as big as some cruise ships, our Serenade had a main promenade filled with shops, restaurants, and even a theater featuring live performances of "Grease" (though I was told it would be performed in Finnish!).

Cathedral in Uppsala.

Chapel at the head of the Cathedral.

The Cathedral has experienced many changes over time.

Botanical gardens of Carl Linnaeus - many flowers enjoy living among stone.

My quarters aboard the Silja Serenade.

Voyaging through the archipelago.

The Serenade's promenade level at night.