Tallink Silja

We took the overnight ferry from Stockholm to Tallinn, and it was a lot of fun, like being on a mini-​cruise. The ferry terminal itself was easy to get to, and to navigate through (honestly, security was pretty lax, based on what we’re used to here in America, but there were no problems, so they seem to know what they’re doing), and we booked a private cabin complete with queen bed and outside view, which I do recommend paying a bit more for. As we got on the ferry a bit early, we relaxed on the upper deck with some cocktails and snacks prior to leaving, which was fun. (It was a nice day, so tables on the deck did fill up quickly, but the view leaving Stockholm was gorgeous and worth braving the crowd for).
We also booked the buffet, which was perfectly decent, and I would recommend it, especially if you want to try some different dishes, like a variety of herring. (Not kidding, some of the herring options were excellent.) If you don’t want the buffet, though, there are other dining options, or the duty free shop if you just want snacks and drinks. After dinner we wandered around the ship for awhile, bought some wine and gummy bears in duty free, and then went to one of the lounges to see a musical act and have a few drinks.
Our cabin was pretty small (as can be expected), and in some need of updating, but as we were only there for one night, it was just fine and certainly not the worst place we’ve ever stayed! The view was great, though the sea did get pretty choppy late at night, so we didn’t have the most restful sleep. Also, there is supposed to be a quiet time/​curfew imposed after a certain hour, 11pm, I think — but apparently the party cabin full of dudebros across the hallway didn’t get the memo, as they literally drank and partied until dawn or so. Oh well, again, it was one night, and a fun experience.
Departing the ferry was a bit of a cluster, as everyone literally crowds into a hallway with all of their luggage and it felt like a crowded cattle drive, but the ferry landed promptly and when the unloading door opened the mass exodus was fairly orderly.
I honestly would take the ferry again, and suggest it for anyone looking to travel from Stockholm to Tallinn or Helsinki — it’s a different experience, and ends up being more cost effective than a quick flight, especially as the ticket is for transport and a hotel all in one.

SKIP THE BUFFET
the ferry is basic but do yourself a favor and eat before boarding the ferry. I paid about 35 euros for the buffet that had very limited number of dishes (~10−15) and they were cold. The shrimp were small and not fresh at all. There were 3 hot dishes. In addition, the desserts tasted so terrible, like being made days ago. They had wine on tap but it is very basic box red or white wine. I would not be joining this buffet the next time.

We took our first trip to Helsinki and made it special with a ferry ride from Stockholm. Well worth it! Yes, it is a touristy and even cheesy kind of thing to do, but if you don’t do this kind of thing once in a while, what do you do with yourself? Take a chance on a ferry ride. This one had a fairly decent selection of restaurants. Great for kids and adults. We loved it.