Russian River Cruise - Itinerary

On this unique river cruise, you will journey between St. Petersburg and Moscow among both imposing imperial cities and small rural villages. In the majestic city of St. Petersburg, you will visit the world-renowned Hermitage Museum; have opportunity to shop or dine along the popular Nevsky Prospect; or opt to visit Peterhof, the opulent palace and gardens built by Peter the Great. Russia’s countryside provides a variety of unique opportunities – you’ll savor local cuisine such as a traditional Shashlik barbecue along the shore, experience an authentic Piroshki tea party, make a visit to the well-preserved Kirill Belosersk Monastery, and enjoy a home-hosted visit with a local family.

Continue on to Moscow, Russia’s capital and center for education, finance, politics, and transportation. With over 10 million people, it is the most populous city in Europe. Here you will view breathtaking sites: Red Square – the central square of Moscow that served as the site for many military parades and now houses Lenin’s Tomb; St. Basil’s Cathedral – with its colorful and picturesque onion domes; and the Kremlin – ceremonial home of the president. Complemented with daily entertainment and delectable meals aboard your cruise ship, you will be immersed in Russian culture from the moment you embark!

The sequence of touring and days may be altered to adjust to religious holidays, special closings of sites, air schedule changes, etc. Hotels listed subject to availability. Meal inclusions may vary by departure.

Day 1 - Overnight Flight
Today you board your overnight flight en route to St. Petersburg, Russia. (meals aloft)

Day 2 - St. Petersburg, Russia - Ship Embarkation
This morning you arrive in St. Petersburg, Peter the Great’s magnificent creation and one of Europe's loveliest cities. Transfer to the m/v Mayakovskiy, your home for the next nine nights. This evening, spend time getting acquainted with your fellow passengers and the ship. (D)

Day 3 - St. Petersburg
Your morning tour of this fabled city of canals will take you to Palace Square, the historic heart of St. Petersburg, and along Nevsky Prospect, the city’s main boulevard lined with shops and restaurants. You’ll see the monumental St. Isaac’s Cathedral, Admiralty Tower and other great buildings that stand as monuments to the extravagant splendors of Imperial Russia. This afternoon enjoy a guided tour through the world-famous Hermitage Museum, the crown jewel of St. Petersburg, located in the Winter Palace, former home of Catherine II. No museum rivals the Hermitage in size, grandeur and holdings, including masterpieces by Da Vinci, Rembrandt, Rubens and Picasso. (B,L,D)

Day 4 - St. Petersburg - Cruising
Today, take an excursion to Tsarskoye Selo (formerly known as Pushkin) and tour the magnificent Catherine Palace. Marvel at the blazing robin’s egg blue of the exterior and tour its distinctive rooms, including the Hall of Lights, with its intricately painted ceiling, and the recently restored Amber Room. After your visit, enjoy lunch at a nearby folk restaurant featuring delicious local cuisine. The remainder of the afternoon is free for individual pursuits. There will be an optional excursion to Peterhof, the opulent palace and gardens built by Peter the Great. Early evening, set sail through the countryside of Russia and enjoy nightly entertainment on board, along with unique samplings of local cuisine such as Blini and Caviar. Tonight, enjoy a welcome cocktail reception, followed by the Captain's welcome dinner. (B,L,D)

Day 5 - Svir River - Green Stop on Mandroghi or Svirstroy
Today, cruise through the 119-mile Svir River which connects Lake Ladoga with Lake Onega. Pause for a few hours in a quaint riverside settlement where you may explore various buildings which represent country life in Russia. As you continue on your journey, you will enjoy a traditional Shashlik barbecue, a traditional meal in Russia. (B,L,D)

Day 6 - Lake Onega - Kizhi Island
Enjoy cruising through picturesque Lake Onega, the second largest lake in Europe and one of the world’s purest. This morning arrive at Kizhi Island, located at the northern end of Lake Onega. Kizhi is renowned for its open-air museum, fascinating buildings of northern wood architecture including the remarkable Church of the Transfiguration. This spectacular church has 22 domes in three tiers and is the ultimate in Russian fairytale architecture. During your cruise you will enjoy an authentic Piroshki tea party and learn about local tea traditions. (B,L,D)

Day 7 - Goritsy
Enjoy breathtaking scenery as you sail south to Goritsy, a peaceful farming community. An optional walking tour is offered, featuring visits to the well-preserved, fortress-like Kirill Belosersk Monastery, and the House of Culture for an opportunity to experience the traditions of Russian hospitality. You will also view arts and crafts created by children. Later, sail in the vast White Lake, once known as the Tsar’s fishing grounds. As you continue cruising, enjoy one of the many daily on-board discussions. (B,L,D)

Day 8 - Uglich
As you approach the picturesque Golden Ring city of Uglich, be on deck for a lovely view and panorama of the magnificent architectural monuments. Your walking tour includes the historic Transfiguration Cathedral, where a local choir brings the church's acoustics to life during a brief demonstration. Also see the blue domed Church of Prince Dimitry on the Blood. Visit a local handicraft market where you will see the talent of the locals and learn about the Chaika watches. Continue along the mighty Volga River through unspoiled forests and rural villages. This evening, enjoy a festive Captain's dinner. (B,L,D)

Day 9 - Moscow, Russia
Today you arrive in Moscow, the grand capital of Russia and its most dynamic city. Moscow is one of the largest cities in the world and home to more than nine million people. Enjoy a highlights tour of many of the historic and famous landmarks viewing Red Square, Sparrow Hill and St. Basil’s Cathedral. Travel on Tverskaya Street, the grand boulevard of central Moscow, lined with shops and restaurants. This afternoon, enjoy an exciting lunch at the KGB Restaurant and learn about this mysterious organization. The balance of your day is at leisure. You may choose an optional tour to the Tretyakov Art Gallery, which features a magnificent collection of Russian icons, as well as the largest collection of Russian art in the world. (B,L,D)

Day 10 - Moscow
This morning, take the Moscow Metro, also known as the "Underground Palace", to visit the 15th century Kremlin. Each Metro station was designed by a Russian architect, sculptor or artist. Arrive at the incredible Kremlin and view the priceless collection of Imperial treasures in the Armory Museum. This museum, filled with crown jewels, bejeweled royal scepters, icons, ancient weapons and armor, is sure to be a highlight of your trip. (B,L,D)

Day 11 - Moscow - Disembark Ship - Tour Concludes
Your tour ends, leaving you with many pleasant memories of a wonderful vacation. (B,meals aloft)