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Russia Expedition Cruises

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Adventure Life's Russia expedition cruises give you a full access pass to the Arctic beauty of the top of the world. Experience Russia's Far East, as you witness some of the most remote & forgotten corners of the planet, like the Kamchatka Peninsula and the isolated Chukotka (where you'll see the most bird species in the Eurasian Arctic). If you sail across the famed Northeast Passage, you'll find yourself in the untamed lands of Alaska and Canada. As you explore the world's largest country, hike across the beautiful Bukhta Natalii fjord or trek through the dramatic volcanic landscapes of the Ring of Fire. Even venture to the North Pole. In south Russia, cruises include circumnavigations of the Black Sea and the White Sea, featuring exclusive access to Turkey, Georgia, Ukraine, & Bulgaria. Start planning your trip today. 
All Russia Cruises

3 Best Cruises to Russia for 2024-2025

Russia Cruises

1 Best Travel Deals to Russia for 2024-2025

Trip NameSaveFromDaysNext DepartureSummary
Traversing the Northwest PassageSavings$4439529Aug 27, 2025Join this 29-day Northwest Passage expedition aboard Sylvia Earle and encounter enigmatic Arctic wildlife, including walrus, beluga whale, polar …
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Russia Cruises

3 Best Luxury Cruises of Russia for 2024-2025

Trip NameFromDaysNext DepartureSummary
Lofoten, Bear Island & Svalbard$629011May 3, 2025Join this 111-day expedition cruise aboard M/S Quest to Lofoten, Bear Island, and Svalbard. It's a busy time of year for wildlife in northern Norway! …
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Traversing the Northwest Passage$5099529Aug 20, 2026Join this 29-day expedition from Toronto to Anchorage aboard the Greg Mortimer. Navigate the Northwest Passage, explore historic sites, meet locals, …
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Traversing the Northwest Passage$4439529Aug 27, 2025Join this 29-day Northwest Passage expedition aboard Sylvia Earle and encounter enigmatic Arctic wildlife, including walrus, beluga whale, polar …
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Russia Ships

Top 5 Expedition Ships Cruising Russia in 2024-2025

Ship NameMax PassengersFromSummary
National Geographic Orion102$9800The creation of the National Geographic Orion in 2003 heralds a new breed of expedition ship: a state-of-the-art vessel which combines the latest …
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Ocean Adventurer (Sea Adventurer)132$4995Designed to carry travelers in comfort to the most remote corners of the world, the Ocean Adventurer (Sea Adventurer) is the perfect expedition ship …
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Le Jacques Cartier188$6960Indulge in an intimate cruise with the opportunity to visit an ever-expanding choice of destinations in an ethnic-chic ambiance with luxury service. …
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Russia's Cruising Regions

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Russia Travel Guide

Come see a part of our globe that is largely unknown to most travelers. As your icebreaker crosses through the frozen Arctic waters, you will traverse tundras through a land born of fire and ice.

Since most people don't think of Russia as a cruise destination, you'll see remote regions, where sweeping landscapes and isolated villages dot the sparse environment.

On your trip, you will likely:
  • Hike volcanic landscapes in the Pacific Ring of Fire, which is one of the most active plate boundaries in the world.
  • Tour St. Petersberg For over 200 years, this was the capital of the Russian Empire, home to Pavlovski Palace, Peter & Paul Fortress, the Pushkin Museum,Saint Isaac’s Cathedral. Even today, it is considered Russia's major cultural center.
  • Visit the Kamchatka PeninsulaThis is one of the most pristine wildernesses in all of Russia, home to brown bears, magnificent bird species, protected wilderness reserves, and incredible marine life around the Aleutian chain, including several species of whales, sea lions, and otters.
  • Explore Siberiawhere secluded villages offer incredible birdwatching opportunities.
One of the great advantages of a Russian cruise is how easily it combines with cruises to other destinations in Eastern Europe & the Arctic, such as:
  • Journey ​Across the Bering Sea to Alaska.
  • Visit Turkey, Georgia, Ukraine, Romania, and Bulgaria as you circumnavigating the Black Sea
  • Cross the Northeast Passage on an icebreaker ship.
Arriving to your destination in Russia
Our cruises and expeditions through Russia visit a diversity of destinations, so we're happy to help you arrange your flights or transportation.

Cruises through Russia often originate in other countries in Europe, and some even start in Japan. Scandinavia is a common embarking point for many Russian expeditions, including ports in Helsinki, Finland; Copenhagen, Denmark; and other major coastal cities. Several originate in Tokyo, Japan. 

You will have to get a flight to the city where your cruise departs. We recommend booking your flight with at least one day to spend in the city before your cruise departs. 

A fair portion of our tours also start in Russia. Considering the country's immesne size and vast expanses of Arctic tundra, it's important to fly into the closest international airport. Common destinations include:
  • St. Petersburg
  • Siberia
  • Kamchatka Peninsula

Russia Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a visa to travel to Russia?
Yes, if you are traveling from the United States, most countries in western Europe, Australia & New Zealand, and South Africa. This list is not exhaustive, and you should check with your local government department of state. You will likely also need a Visa Support Letter (Letter of Invitation) to file for a visa. Let us know if you would like guidance with this process. 

Is tipping customary in Russia?
Tipping is not required, but if you would like to leave spare change that is up to you. You may find a 10% service charge on your restaurant bill. Otherwise it is at your discretion. 

What is the internet access like in Russia?
Unless you're in a big city like Moscow or St. Petersburg, where cyber cafes are common, it is not likely that you will have internet access. While some cruise ships offer WiFi, it isn't common and they are often out of range anyway. There is not generally coverage in the more rural areas.

Can I use my cell phone while in Russia?
You can find coverage in the major cities and destinations of Russia, but in the more rural areas and on most cruises you will be out of range. Before leaving home, talk with your service carrier about activating global roaming.

Do I need a power adapter/ converter?
Russia has 220-240 volt electricity with Europlug or Schuko sockets. You will need to have an adapter for Type C & Type E/F European CEE sockets. If your appliances are not equipped for 220+ volts, then you will need to bring a power converter as well, so make sure to check.

What are the toilets like in Russia?
Toilets in Russia vary  - if you are in the major cities or on a cruise ship, you will have modern flushing toilets. In the rural areas and remote visitor sites, it is possible that you will only have access to squat toilets. It's advisable to always be prepared with hand sanitizer and a small amount of toilet paper in case it is not provided. Some public restrooms do charge a small fee for use. 

Approximately what will it cost for:
Public transportation - $0.50
Internet access - $2/hour
Bottle of beer - $0.80
Snack - $4.00
Dinner - $22.00

Can I drink the water in Russia?
You should not drink the tap water in Russia, and avoiding bottled water helps reduce waste. You will always have access to clean, filtered water throughout your Adventure Life itinerary, but if you plan independent day trips, remember to peel all fruit and ask for your drinks without ice.

What is the most common way of paying for things in Russia?
Russia's currency is the Rouble (ECB), and 1USD is approximately 59 ECB. Most hotels, restaurants, and shops will accept international credit cards, and ATMs are common and reliable in the bigger cities. However in smaller or more remote towns or in small shops and vendors, you might not be able to use your credit card or find an ATM. It's good to have some cash on hand in these situations.

Should I purchase travel insurance for my trip?
We always recommend that you purchase travel insurance before traveling. Check out this page for more information on Travel Insurance.

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