A few more hours in Helsinki and an overnight ferry to Stockholm -- 8/4/17

We awoke to a downpour of rain in Helsinki to begin our second day.  We usually don't let weather hold us back from getting out to see the sights, but this was a steady downpour for hours.

This morning was a total wash out, so we didn't make it out to the Sibelius Monument, which honors the famous composer of Finlandia, among lots of other music.  It required several tram changes and a 10 minute walk from the final tram stop, so it just wasn't in the cards for this trip.

The rain did clear up in time for us to ride the tram back to Market Square to do a little souvenir shopping before preparing to board the ferry.

Here is a picture of the tram system and a picture of our family riding in a tram.

The kids and I stopped in a grocery store to get snacks for the ferry while Dan checked out of the hotel.  I love going in grocery stores overseas.  It is just so interesting to see what they offer.  One of the main differences from grocery stores in the States is that they are about a fifth of the size, as they don't feel the need to offer 10 different varieties of the same item.  We did pick up some Moomin crackers.  This is a popular character in Finland and Sweden that the kids and I think is adorable.

Here is a picture showing the view from the hotel.  As you can see, the weather cleared up nicely just in time for us to head to the ferry.

This ferry can definitely be described as more of a cruise ship.  It had multiple shops and restaurants. They had entertainment and a kids play area. Jack found some Moomin characters in one of the shops.

The ferry also had a casino.  Dan thought this sign was funny.

This was our room for the next 18 hours.  Cozy and perfect for a family of 6!

Here are some pictures of the kids on deck as we left the harbor.

This was a view of Helsinki after the ferry began its run.

Jack and I stood at the front of the boat as it was about to clear the final barrier islands before heading out to sea.

After dinner, we went back on deck to see how light it still was outside.  This was around 10 PM, and you can see that it is still daylight.  Helsinki is about the same latitude as Anchorage, Alaska, to give you an idea of our positioning.

We returned to our cabin and prepared for bed.  Here is a picture with all of the bunks pulled out.

Time for lights out!