In August 2023, passenger shipping companies Viking Line and Gotlandsbolaget launched a completely new joint venture in cruise traffic between Stockholm, Mariehamn and Visby. In December they announced that the Baltic Sea's new year-round cruise vessel will be called Birka Gotland. Under the leadership of CEO Susanne Kaarnimo-Knight, Birka Gotland will offer cruises from the end of March 2024.

Around Easter 2024, the maiden voyage departs from Stockholm to Mariehamn with the ship Birka Gotland, to also go via Visby on selected departures during the spring and summer. After that, the destinations are gradually expanded during the summer months with several popular destinations such as Härnösand, Ystad, Bornholm and Riga.

"We start from the two most beautiful islands in the Baltic Sea and the love for the sea, the archipelago and the unique local environment. There is a great demand for both shorter and longer cruises in the region. We are extra proud to be able to present the opportunity to go to beautiful Visby during the spring and summer, which gives travelers the chance to discover Gotland at its most beautiful," says Susanne Kaarnimo-Knight, CEO of the new company, Gotland Alandia Cruises.

The entertainment on board Birka Gotland will include several restaurants, shopping, spa and entertainment. "We offer an attractive alternative for the everyday traveler. We know that many are curious about the onboard experience, and we look forward to presenting the details shortly," says Susanne Kaarnimo-Knight.

The tickets for the cruises with Birka Gotland go on sale in January 2024. Birka Gotland has connecting traffic from 78' Swedish locations. The cruises will be sold both via Birka Gotland's new website as well as Viking Line's and Destination Gotland's channels.