SPECIAL HIGHLIGHTS

SAMPLE ITINERARY

DAY 1: RUSSIA
Arrive Russia

DAY 2: ARRIVE IN MOSCOW
EMBARKATION after 4 pm
Upon your arrival to Moscow, transfer to the vessel. A welcome cocktail and information meeting will either precede or follow dinner. Afterwards, enjoy your first night on your floating hotel. (Cruise only passengers with transfers on own - services begin with embarkation) (D

DAY 3: MOSCOW
Moscow, the capital of Russia, is situated between the banks of the rivers Oka and Volga. A metropolis of 8 million people, Moscow today is not only the seat of the Russian government but also home to many world renowned attractions. Your genuine introduction to this exciting city is our guided sightseeing tour by bus featuring Moscow's major sights such as the humongous Red Square, famous St. Basil's Cathedral and the impressive Kremlin. Get an inside look at the Kremlin and marvel at its fascinating Cathedrals, as well as the gargantuan Tzar Cannon and the giant Tzar Bell. Opional tour of the Armory Museum, the world renowned depository of Royal Russian riches including samples of weapons, carriages, thrones and the famous Faberge eggs will be available for purchase on board. In the evening optional Moscow by Night Tour. (B, BL, D)

DAY 4: MOSCOW
SET SAIL: PM
Another exciting day lies ahead for you in this bustling city. (B, L, D)

DAY 5: UGLICH
Walking tour of Uglich: Visit Russia's second oldest city (only one year younger than Moscow). The city is famous for the more troubled and violent side of Russian history. It was here that the Russian crown prince Dimitri was assassinated, which eventually led to Boris Godunov ascending the Russian throne. Here on the banks of the Volga, you can also find a rich collection of Russian Orthodox architecture which you will get to see, as well as the Church of St. Demitrius of the Blood and the Palace of Tsarevich Dmitri. Once back on board, sail on and in the afternoon enjoy a Classical Concert performed by one of Russia's most famous violinists! (B, L, D)

DAY 6: YAROSLAVL
Founded by Yaroslav the Wise in the 11th century, the city also ranks as one of the oldest in Russia. Its primary attractions are in the area around the main square anchored by the Governor’s Palace. Your city tour will include a visit to the Transfiguration of the Savior Monastery dating from the 13th century and the Church of Elijah the Prophet. Back on board our activities will be highlighted with a special folklore show performed by our on board entertainers! (B, L, D)

DAY 7: GORITZY
This morning, stop at a typical small Russian village along the Volga. Here you will visit an authentic peasant house where your host, Baba Valya (Grandma Valya) will welcome you to her home and treat you to some tasty homemade cakes and tea! An optional excursion to the Museum of Icons in St. Cyril’s Monastery will be offered. In the afternoon, as the ship continues sailing upstream, enjoy a Caviar tasting party on board, featuring blini pancakes with vodka and red caviar! (B, L, D)

DAY 8: KIZHI
Take a leisurley walking tour of this tale island, situated in the northern part of Lake Onega. Kizhi is unique as the site of an outdoor museum wich represents the picturesque rural wooden architecture of the region. Its most famous landmark, the Church of Transfiguration with its 22 cupolas, is an outstanding masterpiece of wooden architecture. Not only is it constructed without a single nail or piece of iron, but the only tools that were used for its construction were chisels and axes. Legend says that Master Nester, who built the church, threw away this tools when the work was finished saying, "This church was built by Master Nester. There is no church like this in the worl and there will be never one again." (B, L, D)

Day 9: MANDROGI(Green Station Stop)
After breakfast, enjoy a walking tour through this replica of an authentic 19 century Russian Village. Instead of lunch on board, you will enjoy a unique riverside picnic lunch in the village setting! The Russian shashlik barbecue will be accompanied with entertainment by our on-board musicians (In case of unforeseeable bad weather, the lunch will be served on board). Then, be sure to visit the unique Vodka Museum featuring over 2500 varieties of Russia’s national drink! But that’s not all! As you continue sailing in the afternoon, prepare for our Farewell Captain’s Gala Dinner as you approach our final destination: gorgeous St. Petersburg! (B, BBQ, D)

DAY 10: ST. PETERSBURG
This morning, arrive to St. Petersburg. This city, one of the most beautiful in the world, is located on the banks of the Gulf of Finland, in the delta of the river Neva. There are 65 rivers and canals flowing through St. Petersburg, as well as 42 islands. Peter the Great founded the city in 1703 and from 1712 until 1918 it was the capital of the Russian Empire. With its six million inhabitants, it is the second largest city in Russia and because of its many canals, bridges and architectural beauty,St. Petersburg is often referred to as the “Venice of the North”. (B, L, D)

DAY 11: ST. PETERSBURG
Today is a full free day to explore the sights and sounds of St Petersburg on your own, or to take advantage of one of our optional tours offered by our cruise managers.

DAY 12: ST. PETERSBURG
Disembarkation: 09:00 am
Bid your crew and fellow passengers goodbye as you disembark and transfer to the airport for your flights home. (B)