Russia Tour – River Cruise
Russia Tour – River Cruise
There are two sides to Russia: her great cities and her ancient villages. Discover the History and culture of Russia’s heartland and capitals on this river cruise.
Suggested Itinerary:
Day 1: Moscow (D)
The cruise begins when you board your ship, or transfer from the airport, railway station or hotel (if booked in advance). This evening enjoy a welcome cocktail reception and dinner with an award-winning service and gourmet cuisine.
Day 2: Moscow (B, L, D)
Founded in 1147, Moscow is now the capital and thriving heart of Russia with more than 12 million inhabitants. During a city sightseeing tour you will gain an impression of the city’s imperial history through its architectural splendour. Return to the ship for lunch. The afternoon is free to explore Moscow on your own.
Day 3: Moscow (B, L, D)
Today depart on an excursion to the oldest part of town – the Kremlin, a fortress 20m in height and reinforced by 19 towers. On your guided walk you will marvel at the numerous cathedrals and palaces. Also visit the Armoury Museum with its spectacular collection of royal treasures, including jewels, crowns and royal armour. Enjoy dinner on board.
Day 4: Moscow (B, L, D)
Day at leisure. Optional Sergiyev Posad tour. Departure and cruising Moscow Canal.
Day 5: Uglich (B, L, D)
Morning arrival in the ancient Russian town of Uglich, founded in 1148 and containing some of Russia’s most beautiful churches and cathedrals including the magnificent Church of St Dmitry. On your guided walk through the town you also visit the local Kremlin. Return to the ship for an evening departure and dinner.
Day 6: Yaroslavl (B, L, D)
Founded in 1010, Yaroslavl is one of Russia’s oldest and best-known provincial cities located along the “Golden Ring.” During the coach and walking tour you explore Yaroslavl’s ancient history through its architecture. Return to the ship for lunch and cruise through the night.
Day 7: Goritzy & Volga-Baltic Waterway (B, L, D)
A typical Russian village, Goritzy is home to the 16th century Monastery of the Resurrection. Not far away is Russia’s famous Kirillo Belozersky Monastery which today houses an extensive museum. After a morning excursion, return to the ship for lunch and sail along the Volga-Baltic Waterway, a system of rivers and canals spanning 300km linking the Volga River with the Baltic Sea.
Day 8: Kizhi (B, L, D)
After cruising Lake Onega, you arrive in charming Kizhi. After lunch you tour the Open Air Museum of Architecture which has been added to the UNESCO World Heritage List for its unique ensemble of ancient houses, windmills and churches constructed in the traditional wooden style. The island’s showpiece is the Church of the Transfiguration and the Church of the Intercession, built in 1764 without a single nail. Depart during dinner and continue towards St Petersburg.
Day 9: Scenic Waterways & Mandrogy (B, L, D)
Cruise along the scenic Svir River, sailing the 139-mile “Blue Route” as it takes you southwest from Lake Onega. Stop in Mandrogy and take time to explore this model Russian community. Visit the vodka museum or shop for handmade Russian craft items. Continue along the Svir, then cross Lake Ladoga on your way to the Neva River. All meals served on board.
Day 10: St Petersburg (B, L, D)
On this morning’s excursion, tour the former aristocratic village of Pushkin, which includes the elegant Catherine Palace. After lunch on board, a city sightseeing tour will show you the marvellous architecture of this city founded by Peter the Great in 1703. Your tour of this beautiful city includes the venerable Peter and Paul Fortress and Cathedral with its lovely golden spire and the official burial site of many Russian Czars. This evening attend a ballet or opera performance at the Mussorgsky Theatre. A late dinner on board.
Day 11: St Petersburg (B, L, D)
Enjoy a free morning, then after lunch, visit the former Winter Palace, home of the last six Czars and now the famous Hermitage Museum which houses one of the world’s greatest collections of fine art. Return to your ship for dinner.
Day 12: St Petersburg (B, L, D)
Today is to be spent entirely at your leisure. While the day is yours to explore the city, lunch and a special dinner will be served on board.
Day 13: St Petersburg (B)
Your cruise ends in St Petersburg. Disembarkation time depends on your flight. Guests who have pre-booked transfers will be transferred to the airport, railway station or hotel.
Typical Inclusions:
• 12 nights river-view, outside accommodation
• All meals as per itinerary
• Welcome cocktail reception
• Captain’s farewell dinner
• English-speaking guides
• Port lectures and cultural highlights
• Gratuities for shipboard staff
• Return transfers by private vehicle
Note: A visa is required for this cruise
Prices vary with seasonality please contact your Concierge Traveller Advisor for more information.
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