The Baltic was northern Europe's best kept secret – but word has got out to sailors from across the continent and beyond.

The lively seaside towns, beautiful wild coastlines that stretch for miles, serene and secluded bays, remote islands, and friendly people are driving a boom in cruising and chartering.

This is the perfect cruising guide for anyone who wants to explore the Baltic Sea, whether pottering around Denmark and Germany, crossing to Sweden or cruising further afield, into Eastern Europe. It includes suggested routes for trips of all lengths, from short trips in the Sly Firth or Flensburg Fjord suitable for those with less time or experience, to longer cruises to beautiful locations like Svendborg or Marstrand, visits to busy cities like Aarhus, Copenhagen and Stockholm, and more adventurous tours to islands like Anholt, Bornholm or Gotland.

Lavishly illustrated with gorgeous photography, and as inspirational as it is practical, this guide covers all the best destinations to explore, and features navigation advice, including landmarks, lights, bearings, depths and approaches, as well as detailing local facilities and attractions.