Sorry your first cruise was disappointing. We visited teh Baltic two years ago on Ocean Majesty. We had a lovely trip. Stockholm was a bit disappointing, but no where looks good in the rain! The Vasa museum was very impressive. Russia is just 'Russia' Queue to get in, queue to get out and queue for everything while you are there. Peterhof was worth the wait. Ocean Majesty is now a 'no smoking' ship, with smoking only allowed on deck. Don't give up on crusing. Perhaps a larger ship might suit you better? We love the friendliness of the small ships, but obviously they have their limitations. Try Norway.

Ships cannot ban smoking they are not under the UK smoking laws. The smoking issue actually falls under the United Nations. So until the UN changes the rules on international shipping no amount of views on this website is going to change it.

Went to the baltics on another cruise line and that was our first cruise. We had a fabulous time - apart from St Petersburg we did all ports via shuttle bus and on foot and could not find any real faults. We loved Oslo also and although a little expensive there was lots to look at. Think maybe you picked the wrong ship as we found the itinerary on our P&O cruise was faultless.

Surprised that you found Oslo disappointing. Granted it's very expensive, but there's plenty to see.

Maybe you just chose the wrong ship and wrong itinerary? Try something completely different next time. Happy cruising.