We're taking a cruise in June with a stop in Warnemunde. I understand it's a long drive to Berlin but would like to give this a shot. I appreciate receiving information on reputable private car service for this excursion.

It's a three hour trip by train. (Driver is free with a ticket)

Driving time will be at least 2:45 - without congestions.

The train takes over 3 hours.

If you do not take the ship's tour, it is your responsibility to be back on the ship on time, regardless what reason might cause a delay.

Berlin is worth a weeklong trip. You won't see much of the city if you spend half of the day with traveling. I would rent a car in Warnemünde and explore the vicinity. Schwerin has a gorgeous palace, and there is more in the region.

In 2007 we arranged an excursion through Berlin Walks. We were 4 traveling together and the cost was less than half that of the ship's excursion. We were met at the port by a driver with a rented VW transit Van (it easily could have carried 6, possibly 8 passengers.)

We were driven to Berlin (the driver touched the ground several times) and met our guide, a language student working on a Doctorate, at the Charlottenbourg Palace. She spent nearly 8 hours with us, including lunch at a restaurant in the former east zone, got us to the places we particularly wanted to see, and sent us back to ship in time for a late dinner.

If you are not already in a group, you likely could find companions for the day on the role call portion of cruise critic.

Jeff - did you do a custom tour with Berlin Walks? Can you elaborate on what you saw that day and what impressed you. Thanks!