Experience Russian splendor and historic treasures on a river cruise.

Ever wondered what it is like to travel on a luxury boat from St. Petersburg to Moscow on the Volga river? It is indeed a magical journey, where adventurous travelers can discover a wealth of historic treasures and picturesque splendors. A river cruise is affordable and relaxing.

Benefits of choosing a river cruise.

A couple of weeks ago I received an email from Peter and his wife. They are from the United Kingdom and want to take a trip to Russia. It is not their first visit and they wanted to know if I could recommend an adventurous yet stress-free option. Peter explained that their previous tour was hectic and left them feeling exhausted with no free time.

I immediately thought about russian river cruises where you can travel stress-free in a friendly environment and calm waters. River cruises is a complete travel experience that will not leave you feeling exhausted. There is ample time to laze on the deck and watch the imperial cities drift by. During the day you will have opportunities to enjoy city tours by hand-picked guides.

Boats are much smaller than cruise ships and you will be in the company of no more than 170 people. This creates and friendly environment with a well balanced staff-passenger ratio.

Tours are all-inclusive which means you only need to bring spending money and cater for meals on land.

How to choose a tour that suits your style and budget?

It is important to do your homework and choose a tour that suits your style and budget. Best russian river cruises are normally 5-star floating hotels and offer all-inclusive services. What does all inclusive mean?

• Free roundtrip airfares to Russia if you fly from New York or Dubai. A 900 USD credit is given if you reside in another country.
• Airport transfer worth 150 USD with a dedicated driver to transfer you to the boat. This includes a return transfer to the airport.
• Russian Visa service is available for customers living in the USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. The Visa application is prepared on your behalf and send to you for signing. The completed application form with the Invitation letter is then presented at the Russian Embassy where your Visa will be issued. Customers from other countries will receive an official invitation and detailed instructions.
• Suites with private bathrooms, Air-conditioning, balconies or large panoramic windows are available on some riverboats.
• Standard Cabins and Junior suites are available on some riverboats.
• Luxury hotel accommodation in Moscow and St. Petersburg.
• All meals onboard are included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Drinks during meals, including beer and wine are also included. Coffee and tea are served 24/7.
• They provide lunch during land tours as per the itinerary.
• The tour includes a full onboard entertainment program.
  • Entrance fees according to the program;
  • Captain’s reception and farewell dinners;
  • English-speaking guides in each port of call;
  • Nightly entertainment;
  • Short classes in Russian history, language, and singing.
  • Tour of the ship’s bridge.
• Full sightseeing program including a detailed tour of Kremlin, Hermitage, Catherine’s Palace and Peter and Paul’s Fortress.

How much time will I have on land for sightseeing?

Programs are well thought through and allow for enough time in port. Generally speaking, the boat moor for most of the day and sailing normally takes place through the night. Most of the sightseeing on land takes place when the boat moor. Sightseeing tours include a wide variety of the most important sights. You will return home not feeling that you have missed out on something important.

What does a typical itinerary look like?

A typical 12-day itinerary would look something like this:

1: Arrival in Moscow and a free day to explore the spectacular architecture and city center. (Hotel stay included).

2: Moscow city tour with the focus on the most important sights including Red Square, St. Basil’s Cathedral, famous GUM department store, Cathedral of Christ the Savior, Sparrow Hills, Tretyakov Gallery.

3: Transfer to your boat with onboard entertainment and more sightseeing in Moscow.

4: Organized sightseeing in Moscow including Novodevichy Convent and Cemetery, Moscow Metro decorations, and ride.

5: Sailing during the night with sightseeing in Uglich.

6: Guided on land tour including Monastery of St. Cyril in Goritsy.

7: Open-Air Museum of Kizhi, Ancient Russian wooden houses, and the Transfiguration Church.

8: Mandrogi walking tour and evening entertainment program on the boat.

9: Pushkin Museum, a visit to the Hermitage and Catherine’s Palace in St. Petersburg.

10: St. Petersburg City Tour with guided visits to Spit of the Basil Island, Peter and Paul Fortress, St. Isaac’s Cathedral, Church of Savior on Spilled Blood and Nevsky Prospect.

11: A trip to Peterhof, Lower Park, and Peterhof Bath Cottage.

12: Departing from St. Petersburg and final day of the tour.

A Russian river cruise is ideal for travelers who want to experience Russia at a leisurely pace. Adventure travelers will enjoy sailing the waters of Russia’s great rivers and lakes. This is a unique opportunity to see world-class cities, UNESCO World Heritage sites, museums and gorgeous architecture. Experience Russia in all its glory and splendor.