Enjoy a spectacular river cruise through the heart of Russia along its colorful and historic waterways. Explore bustling and excitement packed Moscow, then cruise north and visit the enchanting Golden Ring cities of Uglich and Yaroslavl. Continue with your luxury cruise to the Volga-Baltic Waterways and through Europe’s two largest lakes, Onega and Ladoga to St. Petersburg, one of the world’s most beautiful cities, spread over 101 islands and 66 canals.
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
Arrive in Moscow and embark the ship. Relax in your stateroom or explore the city before meeting your fellow travelers at the Welcome Cocktail Reception. (D)
Day 2: Moscow
After breakfast, visit Russia's beautiful capital city, founded in 1147, which includes the Red Square, the GUM Department Store, St. Basil Cathedral, Tverskaya, Sparrow Hill and Lubyanka Square (KGB building). After your city tour, enjoy lunch on a day boat as you cruise the Moscow River. Late this afternoon, you will visit Poklonnaya (Bow) Hill and its monument to WWII, and tour the city’s amazing Metro, quite possibly the world’s most extravagant subway system – many of the stations are adorned with chandeliers, sculptures and elaborate frescoes. The ship moors overnight in Moscow. (B,L,D)
Day 3: Moscow
This morning, venture beyond the walls of the Kremlin for a fascinating guided tour of the former residence of the Czars and center of the Russian Orthodox faith. Your tour includes a visit to the Kremlin Armory, one of Moscow’s oldest museums, with a vast collection of weaponry, jewelry, and historical artifacts. The ship departs this evening for Uglich. (B,L,D)
Day 4: Uglich
Located on the banks of the Volga, Uglich was founded by merchants in 1148. Rich in history, Uglich is home to some of Russia’s most beautiful churches and cathedrals, and you’ll see a sampling during your city tour. The most noteworthy include the Chambers of Prince Dimitry and the magnificent Church of Dimitry on the Blood, dedicated to the tragic story of Ivan the Terrible's son. The ship departs later tonight for Yaroslavl. (B,L,D)
Day 5: Yaroslavl
Founded in 1010 by Prince Yaroslav the Wise, it is one of Russia's oldest cities, tracing its roots back to the Vikings. The city stretches for miles along the confluence of the Volga and Kotorosl Rivers. Explore the city’s history through its architecture, including the fortified 12th-century Transfiguration Monastery and the Yaroslavl Museum of Russian Art, the former residence of the Governor of Yaroslavl. The ship departs this afternoon and cruises overnight. (B,L,D)
Day 6: Goritsy
Goritsy is a peaceful farming town and a typical Russian village. The tour includes the Monastery of St. Cyril on the White Lake and the Museum of Icons. Return to the ship to sail for Kizhi. (B,L,D)
Day 7: Kizhi
Kizhi is an island that is situated at the north end of Lake Onega and home to some of the most amazing wooden architecture in Russia. Forever linked to Novgorod the Great, the style of architecture reflects its early introduction to Christianity. In 1764 locals built the Church of Intercession, its towering walls and 22 domes, without the use of a single nail. Your walking tour includes the Museum of Wooden Architecture. (B,L,D)
Day 8: Svirstroy
At noon today the ship arrives in Svirstroy, a town 100 miles from St. Petersburg with a population of only a thousand people. During your visit, you will have an opportunity to sample grilled shashlyk, Russia’s very popular (and delicious) version of shish kebab. You’ll also be treated to a private visit to the home of a local Russian family, where you will gain new insights into everyday life in Svirstroy and experience warm Russian hospitality first-hand. Depart mid-afternoon and cruise overnight to St. Petersburg. (B,L,D)
Day 9: St. Petersburg
One of Russia’s former capitals, dating from the early 18th-century, St. Petersburg was built to Peter the Great’s exact specifications. After breakfast, disembark the ship and travel by hydrofoil to the Hermitage, one of the oldest, largest, and most awe-inspiring museums in the world. Founded by Catherine the Great, the museum is a complex of six buildings, including the former Winter Palace, and houses nearly three million works of art. After your visit, relax a bit with an enjoyable lunch in a local restaurant. This afternoon, your sightseeing tour of this splendid city includes the Peter & Paul Fortress, Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, and St. Isaacs Cathedral. The ship moors overnight in St. Petersburg. (B,L,D)
Day 10: St. Petersburg
Visit the nearby town of Pushkin today, where Catherine’s Palace was once the summer residence of the Russian Czars. This excursion includes a tour of the Cameron Gallery, which features formal state rooms and dining rooms embellished with baroque and neoclassical furnishings and décor. Also visit the reconstructed Amber Room, considered by many to be the Eighth Wonder of the World, with its dazzling amber-covered walls. The remainder of the day is at your leisure. This evening, experience a traditional Russian ballet performance at the Hermitage Theater, or opt for a colorful and lively "Russian Folklore Show." The ship moors in St. Petersburg overnight. (B,L,D)
Day 11: St. Petersburg
This morning, depart by hydrofoil for Peterhof, St. Petersburg’s most spectacular Imperial Estate. Also known as the "Russian Versailles," the palace was built on the shore of the Gulf of Finland by Peter the Great, initially as a resting place en route to the Imperial Naval base. Your tour includes the Lower Gardens, the Grand Cascade and Samson Fountain, which commemorates Russia’s victory over Sweden during the Great Northern War. The ship moors in St. Petersburg overnight. (B,L,D)
Day 12: St. Petersburg
Your Russian cruise comes to an end as you prepare for your homeward flight. (B)
Dates & Prices
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The trip might have been the absolute best of our lifetime (thus far). We particularly want to commend our guide Peter in the Guilin area-he was so incredibly attentive, energetic, enthusiastic-and absolutely dedicated to ensuring that our meals were 100% vegetarian.