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The Townships is a great cycling destination, because it’s designed for pedal power - slow, contemplative, challenging or sporty.

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Fill your pack with local flavours before setting off to explore the natural beauties that make our region so stunning.

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Tee off in the Townships and get into the swing of things with 9 or 18 holes. Fore!

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The only thing better than a day at the spa? Several days at the spa!

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Explore the region on two wheels and stay in one of the many accommodation options bearing the Bienvenue cyclistes icon.

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Don’t want to leave your four-legged friend behind? Book a stay in some of the region’s many dog-friendly digs and you won’t have to.

Accommodations

The Townships possess a rich heritage that you will discover everywhere on its nine territories, in its towns and villages, its Coeurs villageois, etc.

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• Cœurs villageois

Visit our Cœurs villageois – charming communities that truly characterize the spirit of our region.

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• Nine territories to discover

Each territory has a distinct personality and a wealth of hidden treasures just waiting to be discovered!

• The Townships at a glance

Here’s a glimpse of the region, a few historical notions, and numbers.

Tourist routes

Hit the road! The region has several tourist routes designed around different themes – heritage, scenic landscapes, wine….

• National and regional parks

Four national and two regional parks – an outdoor paradise in the fresh air, each and every one!

Taste the townships

Here, in so many ways, you’ll enjoy all kinds of gastronomical experiences! When you discover our unique products and our highly renowned tables, you’ll love us forever!

Every time you sit down at one of our tables, you’ll experience a truly special moment. Savour it!

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Visit our Cafés de Village and discover each one’s specialties while meeting the most welcoming and friendly people.

• Créateurs de Saveurs Products

You can rely on our food producers who put as much love as delicious flavours into everything they plant and produce.

The Route des vins de Brome-Missisquoi, the Route des vins de l’Estrie, and about twenty other vineyards… The Townships region proudly honours its title of being the first wine region of Quebec.

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The region counts more than twenty microbreweries! Just like the people who run them, each one has established their own strong, unique personality and … extremely inviting character!

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goat’s milk… Here you’ll savour rich artisanal cheeses. Some you already know, many others you’ll enjoy discovering.

• Public Markets

Purple peppers, fir honey, pineapple tomatoes … besides all the products you love, sometimes you also discover new, amazingly surprising ones!

• Pick-your-own

Pick-your-own farm-fresh fruits and vegetables.

• Restaurants Complices

These restaurants take to heart working with local producers and to offer dishes that integrate certified Créateurs de saveurs products.

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Brasseurs des Cantons and Têtes fromagères are two gastronomical circuits highlighting our microbreweries and cheese factories.

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Outings, restaurants, spas, weekend ideas… Suggestions for spending some precious moments together.

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Hiking, kayaking, beaches, cycling… Without a doubt, all outdoor enthusiasts are sure to find something to do here!

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Vineyards, mountain peaks, heritage sites… Our designated routes make for the most beautiful road trips!

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Whether for two, with your family or with friends, here you will find a ton of suggestions for planning perfect getaways!

• Experiences to Try

Our collaborators have tested several different adventures … and have approved!

• Coeur villageois
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See all 10 photos

Croisières l'AIR du lac

Welcome aboard! Navigate along the shores of Lake Memphrémagog, aboard L'Entre-gens II, a pontoon boat accommodating 12 passengers. Discover magnificent views and learn about the history through the anecdotes of the captain. We offer two guided cruises: La route du monstre (1 hr.) and The Happy Hour (2 hr.) at the end of the day. Several departures a day. For a personalized experience, enjoy a private outing: Sunset, corporate event, wedding, or other. Pontoon boat with washroom on board is approved by Transport Canada and allows you to move around safely on board. Bring your snacks and beverage. Number 1 on TripAdvisor 2016-2019. Welcome! Captain Jean-François.

Address Quai MacPherson, Pointe Merry, Magog Quebec J1X 7Z5

Phone 819-345-7450

Email [email protected]

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• Special schedule on request
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• Electric vehicle charging station

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Saint-Benoît-du-Lac

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Magog | Aug 28, 2024

Magog | Aug 30, 2024

Gourmet event

Magog | Aug 31, 2024 ~ Sep 2, 2024

Magog | Sep 12, 2024

Magog | Sep 13, 2024

Magog | Sep 13, 2024 ~ Sep 15, 2024

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OUR CRUISE OFFERINGS

2024 cruise schedule, scenic cruise .

You’ll be treated to stories of the incredible history of Lake Memphremagog and the greatest views this area has to offer over the course of each 2 hour adventure.  A f ull beverage service and light snacks are available during the cruise.  

Reservations are highly recommended as we do sell out.

The Scenic Cruise is $40 for Adults (12+ yrs) & $25 for children (3 to 11 yrs.) Children under age 3 are free!

May 24th – June 13th

Fridays – 2pm

Saturdays – 11am & 2pm

Sundays –   3pm & 6pm

June 14th – September 15th

Wed & Thur – 2pm & 6pm

Friday – 11am & 2pm

Saturday – 11am & 2pm

Sunday –   3pm & 6pm

September 16th – October 31st

Friday – 1pm

Saturday – 1pm

Sunday –  5pm

Dinner Cruise 

Join us on Friday and Saturday nights to enjoy dinner on the lake! We partner with local restaurants to bring you a special dinner, buffet style. Beer and wine is available for purchase in our pub aboard the Northern Star! 

Reservations are highly recommended as we do sell out. 

The Dinner Cruise is $75 for Adults (12+ yrs) & $40 for children (3 to 11 yrs.) Children under age 3 are free!

Friday – 6pm

Saturday – 6pm

Friday – 5pm

Saturday – 5pm

Sunday Brunch Cruise

Enjoy a delicious menu stocked with brunch favorites as you take in panoramic views of Lake Memphremagog!

Experience a buffet-style brunch with freshly prepared dishes by one of our partner restaurants from the area. Coffee, tea and juice is included with the brunch. Beer, wine, champagne and mimosas are available for purchase in our pub area.

Reservations are required as we do sell out!

The Sunday Brunch Cruise is $60 for Adults (12+ yrs) & $35 for children (3 to 11 yrs.) Children under age 3 are free!

May 24th – June 13th 

Sunday –  11am

Sunday – 11am

International Long Distance Canadian Cruise

You are in for an extremely special, one of a kind excursion that can only be found here on International Lake Memphremagog. We’ll comfortably navigate a steady course due North over 20 miles into Canadian waters. The lake gets narrow and deep, the mountains get beautiful, the history is rich, the islands are numerous and the homes are majestic. You will pass by Owls Head Resort, Georgeville, Historic Perkins Pier, Molson Island and more. No where else in the country can you experience an International Cruise like this. 

Lunch included

4 Hours of breathtaking international sights 

Your personal on-board historian/storyteller

Adult beverages and non-alcoholic beverages available for purchase

No Passports Required – just drivers license or ID card

The International Long Distance Canadian Cruise is $105 for Adults (12+ yrs) & $46 for children (3 to 11 yrs.) Children under age 3 are free!

The Northern Star sails rain or shine! Please check booking information for any additional questions or email [email protected]

Partial Funding Provided by: North Country Federal Credit Union

Haunted Vermont, Folklore & much more…

Enjoy A Fascinating Lake Memphremagog Cruise

Lake Memphremagog Cruises are back!

by Scott Wheeler or Vermont's Northland Journal

The captain and the first mate for the Northern Star have arrived in Newport, and they are ready to bring tour boat service back to the U.S. end of Lake Memphremagog .

The Northern Star

Rick Desrochers: Working to Bring Boat Tours and Life Back to Newport

Rick Desrochers is working to bring boat tours back to the Vermont side of Lake Memphremagog, and renewed life to Newport’s downtown and beyond.

Rick Desrochers, the man behind bringing new life to the boat, invited me down to the boat yesterday to give Captain Cannon and first mate, Lucy, a briefing on the history of Newport and the greater Lake Mempremagog basin. They are very enthusiastic to begin this new chapter of their lives.

Tours will begin with a Friday night dinner dinner cruise on May 28, featuring food by Hoagies. Then Saturday night will be a pirate themed dinner cruise, with the T-Bar offering up food from their menu.

In earlier chapters of its history, Lake Memphremagog has been home to several tour boats, among them the Mountain Maid, Lady of the Lake, and the Anthemis. People flocked to the region by horse and buggy, train, and later by automobile, to enjoy the beauty of the lake.

Today Rick Desrochers is leading the charge to bring tour boat service back to the Newport end of the lake. In 2020 Desrochers accepted a job as the executive director of Memphremagog Community Maritime (MCM), a 501c3 organization, which includes ownership of the Northern Star, a 49-passenger, three-level cruise boat.

“I believe that the Northern Star will be a destination, not only for Newport but for the entire Northeast Kingdom, from scenic cruises to serving as a floating classroom. It’ll serve as a springboard into the wonders this area has to offer.”

A Newport Center farm boy by birth, the son of Richard “Joe” Desrochers and Jan Degre, his work ethic and his love of nature and photography were developed on the farm. As much as he loved his Kingdom, after graduating from North Country Union High School in 1988, he decided to spread his wings, living and working in the South and Midwest.

After experiencing the world, and with a deep yearning for the land of his birth, Desrochers didn’t just move home in 2013, he brought with him new, innovative ideas to improve life in Newport and the greater Kingdom. Since his return, he has worked to transform many of his ideas, through a collaborative community effort, into action, change, and progress. He is also the owner of Northern Dreams Photography. Using his camera, he captures the beauty of the region and its changing landscape.

Although he lives in Derby Line with his partner, Tricia, and her son, Jacob, a piece of Desrocher’s heart resides in Newport. He is not blind to the fact that the last few years have not been good to Newport, but having lived, worked, and experienced other parts of the country, he sees so much promise in the lakeside community and the Kingdom as a whole. He views the Northern Star as an integral part of bringing life back to the region, particularly downtown Newport. “We have endless possibilities here.”

The Northern Star arrived in Lake Memphremagog with great fanfare in 2012. However, the EB5 debacle and poor weather contributed to financial shortfalls, putting the future of the boat on the lake in jeopardy. Cruises came to an end in 2017, and for the next three years, it remained tethered to the city dock. Although, as of the fall of 2020, cruises had yet to restart, a group of area business people has purchased the Northern Star through the generosity of North Country Federal Credit Union Foundation and local donors who transformed it into a creative nonprofit business.

When Desrochers was hired as executive director of MCM in 2020, he and the rest of the members of MCM had big plans for the boat, including for the summer of 2020. They envisioned providing tours of the lake, including scenic, history, and dinner tours. And they planned to use the boat as a floating classroom and research facility for area students. Many of the group’s plans were scuttled for the summer when COVID-19 brought with it a worldwide pandemic, at least temporarily changing the group’s plans and how we live our lives.

Unable to set sail in 2020, Desrochers didn’t let the pandemic discourage him. He will use the extra year to create community partnerships with area businesses and organizations—valuable players in the future of passenger boat service and progress in the region. Because he understands the history of Newport, he knows the economic downturn of recent years is simply an evolutionary bump in the road of progress, like those experienced in past generations. For that matter, he said in the year or two before COVID-19, he was already seeing positive change coming to the city. Much of that change was coming as the result of area residents, business owners, and civic organizations. He said he is particularly heartened by the interest a growing number of young people are bringing to the table. They bring with them new ideas and youthful energy and enthusiasm.

“New groups are forming and activities involving music and art are happening,” Desrochers said. “New restaurants are opening. We have a beautiful lake, we have a beautiful area, and people with this new way of thinking will make this area that much more special. Let’s show the people of the world what the Northeast Kingdom is all about.”

Desrochers’ belief in Newport, and the rest of the Northeast Kingdom, is truly contagious. May more people catch his enthusiasm.

Another view of the Northern Star, with Lake Memphremagog serving as the backdrop. The rounded mountain in the distance is Owl’s Head, which is located in Quebec.

Throughout the history of Newport, several tour boats have provided tours on the lake. The last big one was the Anthemis. This steamer, designed to carry upwards of 300 people, was built in 1909. World War II changed and reshaped the world, including Newport. The Anthemis disappeared from the lake within a few years after the end of the war in 1945.

A colorized image of the Steamer Anthemis

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Volga River Cruise: Tsars Waterways of Russia

Duration 11 days

Price from USD $4,050 ? Currency Conversion Converted from USD based on the latest exchange rate. Final amount and payment will be in USD. Final conversion rate is determined by your bank.

Trip Style River Cruise

Time of year May - October

Home / Luxury Russia Tours / Volga River Cruise: Tsars Waterways of Russia

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A Volga River Cruise is for those who seek something truly unique,  and yes, Russia has so much to offer... Experience Russia's rich history and cultural intrigue. enjoy the natural wonders of a vast continent.

The onion-domed buildings and gilded churches of Moscow and St. Petersburg are truly iconic – but if you delve deeper, you’ll encounter more history, heart and soul than you’d ever imagined. And as you cruise between two inspiring cultural capitals (Moscow and St Petersburg), you’ll notice something else that’s special: Russia’s unforgettable landscape. Glimpse ice-blue waterfalls, tiny islands floating in seemingly endless glassy lakes, and hauntingly beautiful sunken ruins surrounded by grand mountains.

Brand new for 2020 and the newest luxury ship in Russia,  5-star Mustai Karim has been specially designed to showcase Russia at its most authentic – because the true magic of Russia is that it’s unlike anywhere else in the world.

Volga River Cruise Highlights:

• Speciality cuisine: creative menus highlight the best of regional and world cuisine, with special consideration for all dietary requirements. Why not indulge in vodka, Champagne and caviar on the top deck?
• Exclusive excursions and entertainment: passing under the drawbridges in St. Petersburg, VIP museum openings, classical music concerts, immersive theatre, Russian tea ceremonies, cuisine tastings and cooking classes – every moment is delightfully unique.
• Wellness:  a spa haven onboard, plus yoga, pilates and other fitness classes.

Two incredible routes that will whisk you away on an adventure like nothing you’ve ever experienced before. See Moscow to St. Petersburg in a new light with expert local knowledge, experience the delights of authentic Russian culture and art, and marvel at the luxury to be found around every corner – before returning to relax onboard the Mustai Karim, where your every expectation is exceeded.

The second incredible route lets you discover St. Petersburg to Moscow. Exclusive tours, authentic experiences, exquisite Russian culture and art, and grandeur like you’ve never seen before – this time from North to South, with an additional stop in the village of Mandrogi.

Accomodation

St Petersburg / Moscow

Moscow / St Petersburg

5* MS Mustai Karim

River Cruise

Action rating ?

Type of tour

11 days / 10 nights

up to 329 passengers

Guaranteed departures

Day 1 St Petersburg

Welcome to St Petersburg! You will be met by a representative directly upon landing, and transferred to your 5* hotel in the city center. Relax after the flight or take a walk nearby to explore the cosy streets on your own.

Day 2 St Petersburg

After check-out from the hotel, we enjoy a city center tour by bus, including Peter and Paul Fortress, the burial place of the Romanov monarchs, Nevsky Prospect, with its endless fine shops, cafes, and museums, St.Isaak’s Cathedral, and Smolny Cathedral.

Lunch is followed by a tour of the richest art collection of the Hermitage Museum, before boarding your 5-star floating hotel, the Mustai Karim. After a brief check-in, you’ll meet the ship’s crew at a delightful cocktail reception – a relaxing way to begin your adventure after a day’s travel.

Day 3 St Petersburg

A truly unique experience awaits as you pass under the drawn bridges and navigate the canals of St. Petersburg – a privilege exclusive to the guests on this cruise. 

After lunch, we travel to the magnificent Peterhof Palace, where the ‘Russian Versailles’ sparkles with golden fountains.

Day 4 Valaam

Today we depart early for the Valaam Archipelago, a group of 50 islands in the north of Lake Lagoda, the largest lake in Europe. We’ll spend the rest of the day exploring inside the walls of the Central Monastery Complex, dominated by the majestic Cathedral of the Transfiguration. Get acquainted with one of the most scared Orthodox sites in Russia and the site of numerous clashes between the Russians and Swedes in their struggle for power during the 16th century.

Day 5 Mandrogi

Experience a taste of Russia’s traditional heritage in Mandrogi: a unique village built upon a history of craftsmanship. Visit a traditional Russian village with typical wooden houses, numerous crafts exhibitions. Learn about wood painting, intricate beadwork and weaving, blacksmithing, pottery and more. Then, you’ll be treated to a traditional midday Russian picnic (BBQ) – and even have the option to take a trip to a real Russian bathhouse (banya).

Day 6 Kizhi

Prepare to be amazed at the unique beauty of Kizhi Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site, home to the ornate Church of the Transfiguration, with 22 domes built entirely from wood with no single nail. Enjoy a concert “Music of Northern Village” in a beautiful setting.

Day 7 Goritsy

A tiny Russian community with a unique medieval atmosphere, Goritsy reveals a storied past within the famous Ferapontov Monastery. Marvel at paintings over 500 years old, and delve into the lives of the royals who lived there.

Day 8 Uglich

Today you’ll arrive in Uglich, an ancient town filled with brightly coloured architecture. Its Kremlin and the Church of St. Dmitry are particularly famous – the church’s fascinating history is tied to the life and death of Ivan the Terrible’s son. In the afternoon, relax as the sounds of Kovcheg Choir wash over you, then spend a special moment of time in a local family home.

Day 9 Moscow

Today we reach our final destination - Moscow, the glorious capital of Russia. After you disembark from Mustai Kariml, you will be transferred to your centrally located 5* hotel.

Enjoy free time for self-discovery before dinner with your fellow travellers in one of the most popular restaurants.

Day 10 Moscow

Discover Moscow’s sights through the eyes of a local: the Kremlin with its iconic red-built walls; Red Square, home to the dazzling domes of St. Basil’s Cathedral, and Zaryadye Park with its impossible floating bridge. 

Day 11 Moscow

After breakfast, a comfortable transfer awaits you to take you directly to the airport for your flight back home or to your next destination. 

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5* luxury river cruise ship accommodation

5* hotel accommodation in St Petersburg and Moscow

Full board catering (three meals per day) while onboard the cruise ship, several meals while in Moscow and St Petersburg

All excursions according to the itinerary with professional English-speaking guides

Onboard entertainment including Russian language course and Russian songs lessons, live music concerts, etc

Lectures by a guest speaker

Russian visa support document

Travel insurance

Arrival and departure airport transfers

Russian visa and visa fees.  Russian visa can be arranged by 56th Parallel for an additional cost (for Australian citizens only). Apply for concierge visa service  here .

Optional excursions

St Petersburg / Moscow to Moscow / St Petersburg

*Price is "from" per person, based on twin share/double accommodation in the Upper Deck Standard Suite.

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Dowlnload comprehansive info-kit for this tour, FAQ’s and extras

Why travel to Russia with 56th Parallel?

Destination Specialists

Our team offers over 18 years of experience travelling and planning travel in Russia. Delivering outstanding travel experiences in Russia’s capitals and in some of the most stunning & remote locations takes experience, special access and the right connections. We make sure that all the fine details are handled perfectly so you can enjoy your Russia travel experience.

Group & Private Tours

The choice to join a small group on a guaranteed departure or chose to travel on your own dates with your own mates. Each destination we travel to in Russia offers an option between private tours and small group tours. Please note: on our adventure tours in remote destinations, we mostly run group tours to keep the cost down.

Bonded & Licensed

56th Parallel is a fully licensed, insured and accredited travel provider.

From USD $4,050

Day 1: St Petersburg

Day 2: st petersburg, day 3: st petersburg, day 4: valaam, day 5: mandrogi, day 6: kizhi, day 7: goritsy, day 8: uglich, day 9: moscow, day 10: moscow, day 11: moscow, not included, start planning your tour.

A destination specialist will follow up on you enquiry shortly. Prefer to chat? Call us on +61 412 587 785 we will be delighted to be of service.

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If you have any urgent questions or enquiries, please give us a call +61 412 587 785

Russian River Cruise – Waterways of the Tsars

Updated December 14, 2017

// By Margherita

Back to Russia! Did you follow our Russian river cruise in August and September? We travelled between Moscow and St Petersburg on the Waterways of the Tsars Viking River Cruise – here’s what we got up to!

We both share a deep connection with Russia. I was named after the heroine of Master and Margarita , one of the best Russian books of the 20th century. Nick is actually of Russian ancestry – his maternal great-grandparents were from St Petersburg, and spent the best part of 50 years wandering around Europe escaping wars and revolutions, before settling in Australia .

Russia has been at the top of our travel dreams for several years , but somehow something always came up whenever we made plans to visit. Once we couldn’t get a visa on time. Another time we couldn’t get time off. Winter is too cold, summer is too hot.

This year, Russia was one of our travel resolutions . Our desire was for the trip to be special – something different from what we’d done so far. We wanted a higher level of comfort, help with visa arrangements, and a trip that would help us understand the country we longed to visit for so many years . The Waterways of the Tsars river cruise with Viking ticked all boxes, so we made arrangements for a departure from Moscow in late August.

Things to Know Before a Russian River Cruise with Viking

When we announced our friends we would be travelling on a Russian river cruise , some of them were really surprised. A CRUISE? You guys are such hardcore independent travellers! What are you doing ON A CRUISE with all those OLD PEOPLE? True, the average age on a Viking river cruise might be a fair bit higher than 35 – but really, who is to say we wouldn’t enjoy the experience?

This awesome post by One Modern Couple  really nails the point – a Viking river cruise is an experience that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. In their words ‘River cruises are cultural, experiential, educational and scenic. Enjoy the ride, take in the surroundings, learn about the countries you are visiting – from history to local life, food to language – and experience the destinations in a thoughtful way.’ 

Whether you’re 30, 60 or 90, it doesn’t really matter.

Secondly,  who’s to say that travelling in a group is not ‘real’ travel? We have always been (and continue to be) lovers of independent travel, but sometimes you just can’t beat the insights given to you by a local guide . Viking River Cruises offer plenty of guided tours included in the cruise price, all led by experienced local guides.

Meals were always excellent – breakfast and lunch included a combination of buffet and à la carte specialties, while dinner was always à la carte. Every day we were given the choice to sample some Russian specialties, like beef stroganoff, borsch, pelmeni, solyanka and lots of delicious desserts.

Another great plus of a Russian river cruise with Viking is that during sailing time lots of cultural activities are on offer – things like cooking demonstrations, Russian language lessons and lectures about Russian history and culture, led by the local tour escorts who were with us for the whole duration of the trip. On top of that, every day we received a briefing detailing the following day’s activities, optional excursions and that night’s menu.

Whenever we passed points of interest on the boat, such as Mother Volga statue or the sunken Kalyazin Cathedral, we were always called out on the loudspeaker to make sure we wouldn’t miss them. There was no pressure to join in any of the activities – we could spend the whole day chilling on the deck or on our veranda, looking at the beautiful colourful churches built on the riverbank, surrounded by nothing but nature.

Waterways of the Tsars – the Itinerary

The Waterways of the Tsars cruise is 13 days long, starting either in Moscow or in St. Petersburg . Most Russian river cruises had always been described to me as ‘Volga Cruises’ – in fact, our boat cruised along a variety of waterways, including the Moscow Canal, the Volga-Baltic Waterway, the Rybinsk Reservoir, Lake Onega and Ladoga (the two largest lakes in Europe) and the Neva River (the shortest in Europe!)

Here’s a map to give you an idea of the route.

Days 1-4 Moscow

Three days were barely enough to get an idea of how amazing Moscow is. Our days were packed from morning to night with tours and activities – from visiting Moscow must visits like Red Square, the Kremlin, the Moscow Metro and the Arbat, to quirky locations like the Museum of Cosmonautics , located in one of Moscow’s best districts for Communist architecture (one of our passions!)

Even though our itinerary was packed full, we managed to spend half a day touring Moscow independently , visiting some of the sights mentioned in The Master and Margarita – Patriarch’s Ponds, both Bulgakov Museums and Sparrow Hill. Let’s just say that we need to get back to Moscow soon to explore more! Meanwhile, here’s our things to do in Moscow for first timers article, detailing our Moscow visit with Viking.

Day 5 Uglich

After setting sail from Moscow, our first stop was Uglich , a cute town on the Volga River, famous for its pretty churches and for being the location of one of the darkest chapters in Russian history .

After the death of Ivan the Terrible, his youngest son and heir to the throne Dmitry was exiled to Uglich, where he was murdered at the age of 10. Suspicion fell on the tsar’s chief advisor, but Dmitry’s cause of death (i.e. throat slitting) was ruled to be an accident. This episode started a period of political unsettlement, that ended with the start of the Romanov dynasty.

We spent an afternoon around Uglich , starting with a home visit of a local family where we had the chance to try homemade grain vodka (the best we’ve had in Russia) and a variety of pickled vegetables, tea and cakes. Then, we toured the Kremlin – the word ‘kremlin’ actually means fortified city, and several Russian cities have one. Moscow’s Kremlin just happens to be the best known!

Day 6 Yaroslavl

The following morning we reached Yaroslavl , a much larger city compared to Uglich. It looked like the perfect Russian city – large enough not to get bored (there was even a cat cafe!) but small enough not to get frustrated with the traffic and crowds found in Moscow or St. Petersburg.

Our Yaroslavl visit was centred around four points of interest . The centre of Yaroslavl is located on the Strelka, a promontory formed at the confluence of the Volga and Kotorosl rivers. Our first stop was the covered market , where we tasted some local products, and then we headed to the Church of Elijah the Prophet , where we had a guided tour (and played with some cute cats). Afterwards, we visited the Governor’s Mansion , now an art gallery. We were welcomed by some beautiful ladies in period costumes, and treated to a music concert. Our final stop was the Yaroslavl Kremlin , where we admired the façade of the Dormition Cathedral, destroyed by the Bolsheviks and rebuilt and reopened in 2010 in time for Yaroslavl’s millennium celebrations.

Before heading back to the ship, we stopped at the lookout over the Millennium of Yaroslavl Park at the end of the Strelka – the flowerbed right in the centre displays a bear (Yaroslavl’s coat of arms) and the city’s age – 1006 at the time of our visit. Looking good!

Day 7 Kuzino

Kuzino is a small village in in the middle of nowhere – we visited on a chilly and rainy morning, to visit the stunning Kirillo-Belozersky Monastery , the largest in Europe. The Monastery is surrounded by walls and located on the shores of Severskoye Lake, with waters so pure that boat traffic is prohibited.

Kirillo-Belozersky was founded at the end of the 14th century, and had its heyday between the 15th and 17th century, when Russia’s tsars and noblemen (including Ivan the Terrible!) paid frequent visits and showered the monks with icons and precious gifts. Luckily the Bolsheviks spared the monastery from destruction, turning it into a museum instead. The day we visited was the feast of the Assumption and the churches were crowded with locals, but we had a lovely guided tour of the museum and time to appreciate its beautiful icons.

Day 8 Kizhi (Sailing)

Whenever travelling, you always need a plan B. Autumn was well on its way by the time we reached the northernmost section of our cruise, and we were held at a lock for the best part of one night due to thick fog . This meant we had to sail the whole day and miss out on Kizhi , a tiny island on the northern side of Onega Lake, famous for its spectacular wooden churches.

We were all disappointed when boat staff made the announcement – personally, Kizhi was one of the stops I was looking forward to the most, after reading about it on the Guardian and knowing that the site is very difficult to visit without a river cruise. However, we didn’t mind too much because we were both suffering the consequences of the previous night’s vodka tasting , organised by Frank, the hotel manager who also happened to be a real vodka connoisseur!

Viking staff were really amazing at keeping us busy during the sailing day with activities like guided tours to the wheelhouse, the room where the captain and sailors pilot the ship.

Day 9 Mandrogy

The last stop before reaching St. Petersburg was Mandrogy , a village on the banks of the Svir River, built in 1996 as a replica of a village destroyed during WW2. A Russian businessman had the idea of ‘rebuilding’ Mandrogy to provide a stop to river cruise passengers before reaching St. Petersburg. So, the village is not actually ‘real’ – it’s more of an open air museum. Cute little painted houses were built around a little forest, with people in traditional dress showcasing traditional crafts and selling souvenirs.

Those in search of souvenirs loved Mandrogy – the quality of matrioshka dolls, icons and other handicrafts was far higher than anywhere else we had been. We are not into souvenirs, but if there was a place to get something, Mandrogy would be it. The village was pretty, but it felt a bit fake for us – kind of like a tourist amusement park. Which in a way, it is.

However, we did enjoy Mandrogy for two reasons – the first was the chance to attend matrioshka painting workshop  where we decorated our own matrioshka dolls. That’s the best kind of souvenir in my opinion! The second was the delicious piroshki place where we had some delicious buttery pastries filled with green onion and egg. Just ask Viking staff and they’ll point you the way to the piroshki place!

Days 10-13 St. Petersburg

After 6 days spent cruising, covering a distance of 1800 kilometers, we made it to Saint Petersburg . We had three gorgeous sunny days, and the city dazzled us with its beauty and artistic wealth – after all, it’s UNESCO-listed ! There’s no way I can convey everything we saw and did in three days in just a couple of paragraphs, so watch this space – a St. Petersburg article is coming soon!

There are several St. Petersburg experiences already included by Viking in the tour price – a visit to the Hermitage Museum, a ballet performance, a visit to Catherine Palace in the village of Pushkin and a St. Petersburg city tour, either on foot or by bus. On top of that, we also joined some optional tours – a river cruise, a morning tour to amazing Peterhof Palace and my very own favourite, a Cossack performance!

Things to Know Before Travelling to Russia

• Make sure you sort out your Russian Visa on time . Viking Cruises helps with an invitation letter that you can use to apply for your own Russian visa at your closest consulate – the process is pretty straightforward, provided you are applying in your own country, and takes approximately 2-3 weeks.
• You can also ask Viking to sort out your Russian visa for an additional charge . This is especially convenient if you live in the US or if your hometown doesn’t have a Russian consulate.
• River cruises of Russia only run between April and October, when the waterways are not frozen. The weather can be change dramatically between Moscow and Saint Petersburg , the latter usually being much colder than the former. Make sure you check the weather reports before packing!
• English isn’t widely spoken around Russia , not even in the main cities. If you’re planning to spend some time travelling independently, learning a bit of Russian is a VERY good idea. The Russian language classes we had on board came in very handy!
• Russia’s currency is the rouble , which fluctuates quite a bit. Larger cities are full of moneychangers, and some souvenir shops (like those in Mandrogy) also accept euro and USD.

We would like to thank Viking Cruises for having welcomed us aboard the Waterways of the Tsars cruise.

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2 thoughts on “Russian River Cruise – Waterways of the Tsars”

Truly amazing place & photography! I loved the view of church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, looks awesome. I enjoyed reading. Thanks for sharing your experience.

Thank you for reading! It was a fab trip!

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VIKING RIVER CRUISES 13 Days | Waterways of the Tzars Southbound

ST. PETERSBURG TO MOSCOW D ay 1 | St. Petersburg, Russia. Embark Ship. Arrive in St. Petersburg, “The City of 300 Bridges,” then transfer to your ship. After boarding, you have free time to relax before dinner. (D) Day 2 | St. Petersburg. This morning, proceed to the Winter Palace to visit the legendary Hermitage Museum, where you marvel at the vast collection of art, antiquities, jewelry and sculptures. After a picnic lunch, the rest of the day is at leisure to further explore St. Petersburg. Enjoy an early dinner, followed by an evening performance of traditional Russian ballet or opera. For a unique, privileged access experience, consider booking the Behind the Scenes at the Ballet excursion. For a video preview, click here. Or, spend additional time at the Hermitage, visit the vaults and learn from a Hermitage art expert on the Hermitage Behind Closed Doors excursion. Catch a glimpse here. (These excursions are optional and can be booked in advance, no later than 30 days prior to sailing. Limited space may be available for onboard booking, but cannot be guaranteed. Since these excursions run at the same time, it is not possible to book both.) (B, L, D) Day 3 | St. Petersburg.  Today’s excursion goes to the Pushkin area where you visit Catherine’s Palace, the elegant rococo 18th-century summer residence of the Russian Czars named for Catherine I (widow of Peter the Great). Tour its various halls, including the storied Amber and Agate Rooms, and see the ornate décor throughout. After lunch, embark on a city tour; see noted sights including St. Isaac’s Cathedral, Peter & Paul Fortress and Nevsky Prospekt. Dine aboard and enjoy an optional Russian folkloric performance this evening. (B, L, D) Day 4 | St. Petersburg.  Most of the day is free to see the sights that interest you. Visit one of the many palaces, churches or museums, or take an optional morning tour to Peterhof Palace, with its landscaped gardens, beautiful fountains and French Gothic interiors. In the afternoon, explore more of the city or take an optional tour including Yusupov Palace (where Grigori Rasputin met his dramatic end) and a relaxing canal cruise. Lunch and dinner served aboard; ship departs early evening. (B, L, D) Day 5 | Scenic Waterways. Mandrogy. Spend a relaxing day cruising along Russia’s intricate waterways. Sail on the Neva River, then cross Lake Ladoga, Europe’s largest lake. Cruise the Svir River to Mandrogy where you have some time to explore this museum village. Visit the vodka museum or shop for handmade Russian craft items. For a truly immersive experience, try an optional visit to a banya (traditional Russian bath house). Continue along the Svir’s 139-mile “Blue Route” toward Lake Onega. (B, L, D) Day 6 | Kizhi.  Cruise through the early morning, admiring the tranquil waters of Lake Onega, Europe’s second largest lake. Arrive during breakfast at the island village of Kizhi. Set out on a walking tour through the Open Air Museum of Architecture, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, see a collection of wooden houses, windmills and churches representing ancient Russian architecture, highlighted by the famous three-tiered Preobranzhenskaya (Transfiguration) Church—a fairytale-like structure built in 1714 without a single nail. Depart late morning and cruise through the night. (B, L, D) Day 7 | Kirillo-Belozersky Monastery. Continue cruising along the Volga-Baltic Waterway. This system of rivers and canals, spanning 229 miles and seven locks, links the Volga River with the Baltic Sea. Arrive in Kuzino, a typical Russian village. Take a guided walk through the historic Kirillo-Belozersky Monastery, founded by Saint Cyril in 1397; see several small wooden chapels, the Assumption Cathedral and a museum. Or, see the Monastery and then visit a children’s art school and restoration workshop. Return aboard for an afternoon departure. (B, L, D) Day 8 | Yaroslavl.  Arrive mid-afternoon in Yaroslavl, one of the Golden Ring cities—ancient towns that preserve the memory of Russia’s historical events. Visit the Church of St. Elijah the Prophet, featuring detailed frescoes and icons. Here, you are treated to a stirring à capella choir performance. Then, take a guided stroll through the covered food market. Or, join an excursion to the Governor’s Palace, a living museum of Russian art, history and culture. Shop for handcrafted souvenirs before returning aboard for dinner and evening departure. (B, L, D) Day 9 | Uglich. After breakfast, disembark for a walking tour through the provincial village of Uglich, another Golden Ring city. See the former Kremlin of Uglich and visit the Church of St. Dmitry on the Blood, built on the site where Ivan the Terrible’s son Dmitry was mysteriously killed. Then a local family invites you into their home for tea and friendly conversation. Lunch served aboard; cruise through the night. (B, L, D) Day 10 | Moscow Canal. Moscow.  This morning, cruise along the Moscow Canal, approaching Moscow during lunch. Disembark for a half-day city tour. See the famed Bolshoi Theater and stop at Red Square for a view of the colorful onion domes of St. Basil’s Cathedral. You will also get the chance to explore the famous GUM Department Store and experience the city’s Metro. Enjoy an evening performance of traditional Russian folkloric music followed by a late dinner on board. (B, L, D) Day 11 | Moscow.  Today you have a full day to further explore Moscow’s many buildings, parks and monuments. Or you may choose from two optional experiences—a full-day excursion to Sergiev Posad, a Golden Ring city named for the greatly venerated St. Sergius of Radonezh, to see one of the four most important Russian Orthodox monasteries in Russia; or an engaging optional morning tour to the Military Museum where you visit with Red Army veterans as you explore Russia’s military history. Lunch is served aboard, or included in your full-day excursion. Dine aboard, then relax—or take an optional Moscow by Night tour. (B, L, D) Day 12 | Moscow. After breakfast, travel to the city’s famous red brick enclosure known as the Kremlin. See its many tall towers and elegant palaces, and tour inside one of the brightly colored cathedrals. The afternoon is free to relax and explore—you may wish to spend some time people-watching in Red Square or visit Lenin’s Tomb. Or, you may take an optional afternoon tour to Tretyakov Gallery, the world’s foremost museum of Russian fine art. Return aboard for a farewell dinner. (B, L, D) Day 13 | Moscow. Disembark Ship. After breakfast, disembark and proceed to the airport for your return flight. Or take some extra time in Russia with a 2-night Moscow extension. (B) NOTE: Itinerary is subject to change without notice. For the most up-to-date information, please refer to the itinerary schedule you receive with your final documents.

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Russia is again welcoming travelers!

• A negative PCR test is all that's needed to enter Russia
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Explore authentic Russian cities. Enjoy premium service and engaging activities as you sail the Volga River.

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Join our signature small group journeys and cruise in luxury along the Russian Volga river!

The Russian Odyssey

An extended 'South to North' view of Russia from Astrakhan to St. Petersburg through Moscow.

Explore Moscow, St. Petersburg and Russia’s Golden Ring in greater depth. Stay at gorgeous Four Seasons hotels. Enjoy special access to iconic cultural sites.

Lower Volga

Treat yourself to an unforgettable experience cruising the Volga river from Moscow to Astrakhan. The tour includes 2 nights in Moscow.

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A Volga river cruise is more than a geographical voyage; it’s also a journey through Russia’s rich and captivating history. No other experience takes you so completely to another place and time. The Volga is Europe’s longest and largest river; it meanders through the stories of Ivan the Terrible and his rise to power, the two historic ‘Greats’ Peter and Catherine, and then on into today. It’s a unique opportunity to see modern Russia in the context of its intriguing history, ably assisted by friendly and professional academics and tour guides. A Volga Dream Russian river tour promises to leave you with an unforgettable afterglow of fond memories.

Moscow to St. Petersburg River Cruise

Moscow and St. Petersburg are Russia’s best-known cities, but the towns of Russia’s historic Golden Ring are delightful too. The luxurious Volga Dream offers a unique opportunity to visit these Russian gems by sailing gently along the Volga River on an unforgettable cruising experience. In small, exclusive groups you’ll enjoy preferential access to some of Russia’s most significant cultural sites.

Moscow to Astrakhan River Cruise

Your River Cruise on the luxurious MS Volga Dream takes you from Moscow along Russia’s grand Volga River to the legend that is Volgograd (formerly Stalingrad) and Astrakhan on the Caspian Sea. Along the way, you’ll discover the treasures of Yaroslavl, the oldest city on the Volga, medieval Nizhniy Novgorod and beautiful Kazan, the ancient Tatar capital. We plan our tour carefully to combine the very best of Moscow with a world-class Volga River cruise.

Discover Russia with MS Volga Dream - Click-through map

We love hearing from guests about their time in Russia and one comment often hear is how surprised people are by the Russian capital. We can’t say for certain what people expected but we do know that it’s always far removed from what they imagined! It’s been called a modern metropolis, a cosmopolitan city, an historic gem, an architectural treasure and a cultural powerhouse, among other descriptions. Majestic Moscow has always surprised our guests and left them with lasting and fond memories.

Russia’s famous Golden Ring is an archipelago of historic towns surrounding Moscow. Uglich is one of the oldest and was founded under Igor, the last Varangian prince. It once resisted the Mongol invasion and its ancient walls saw the grisly murder of young Dmitri, son of Ivan the Terrible. The impressive Church of St. Dmitri on the Blood, with its classic onion domes and blood red walls, is a fine example of classic Russian architecture. The tour ends with an enchanting choral concert.

This, the oldest city on the Volga River, and now a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts a wealth of ancient orthodox treasures. The impressive Transfiguration of the Savior, adorned with murals depicting St. John’s apocalyptic visions can be seen in the Spassky Monastery. The Church of St. Elijah the Prophet is decorated with an awe-inspiring selection of rich frescoes. For a real taste of pre-revolutionary Russia, visitors are entertained by a costumed reception at the Governor’s House.

Close to the shores of White Lake once were the ‘tsar’s fishing grounds’. It lies in a place so serene that ancient monks chose to build no fewer than three holy sites here, including the Ferapontov Monastery. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, its chapels boast magnificent frescoes by Dionysius, one of Russia’s most renowned icon painters. The Kirillo-Belozersky Monastery was a refuge for many nobles during tumultuous times and later a fortress that successfully repelled invading armies.

The Karelia region is a vast and naturally beautiful wilderness that spreads all the way from St. Petersburg to the Arctic Circle. The glorious island village of Kizhi consists almost entirely of the traditionally styled wooden buildings of ‘Old Russia’. Among them is the famous Transfiguration Church built in 1714. Remarkably, and in testament to the craftsmen of the time, not a single nail was used in its construction! Kizhi is one of the favorite stops on the river cruise to St. Petersburg.

A typical rural hamlet brought to life by warm and welcoming villagers. Volga Dream guests are invited into local homes to enjoy classic Russian fare, tea with jam and ‘pirozhki’ (pies). Enthusiastic hosts share Russian traditions and the appeal of village life while proudly showing off their scrupulously kept homes and kitchen gardens. The tour continues with a brief bus ride to see a unique World War II memorial and then, for a real glimpse of Russian life, a visit to a local primary school.

Nizhny Novgorod

This was once a wealthy city thanks to its proximity to rich eastern trading routes. During the Soviet era, the city was closed to outsiders because of its military importance. It’s also where many political prisoners were sent to live out their days in exile. The 16th-century Kremlin ramparts offer spectacular views and the city is known for its elaborately decorated churches. For Volga Dream cruise guests, the highlight of the day is an evening folk concert performed by local children.

Sailing along the Volga river, the riverbank gradually ceases to be dominated by Orthodox churches. Instead, beautiful mosques appear as the river crosses into Tatarstan where the first stop is scenic Kazan, the region’s capital. Inside the white walls of the citadel, the famous Kul Sharif mosque and the old Cathedral of Peter and Paul stand side-by-side symbolizing the two faiths’ long and peaceful coexistence in the region. A concert of traditional Tatar music ends the Volga Dream tour in Kazan.

Passing the Zhigulevskie Mountains offers wonderful views from the sundeck before touring the city. One of the key attractions is the fascinating Space Museum, which offers a revealing glimpse of how the Soviet Union pursued its ambitious journey to the cosmos. The town is also noted for its beautiful esplanade, perfect for a relaxed stroll beside the Volga river. This in turn leads to the Samara State Art Museum. Founded in 1897, it is home to a collection of more than 16,000 works of art.

This city is best known for its close associations with cosmonaut, Yuri Gagarin. The Russian hero who achieved worldwide fame as the first man in space lived and studied here. Saratov used to be home to a large German community, a heritage that can still be seen in the local architecture. The Volga Dream tour visits the Radishchev State Art Museum, the first picture gallery in Russia outside Moscow and St. Petersburg.

Originally called Tsaritsyn, the city was renamed Stalingrad from 1925 to 1961 in honor of the USSR’s leader. During World War II, the city’s residents put up a heroic defense, repelling an advancing Nazi invasion. The battle for Stalingrad has gone down in history as a pivotal moment in the bloody conflict on the eastern front. The most ferocious and deadly fighting took place on Mamayev Hill, where an imposing memorial now stands close to the excellent Battle of Stalingrad Panorama Museum.

Saint Petersburg

If Moscow surprises, then St Petersburg delights. Peter the Great founded the city to showcase Russia’s newfound enlightenment. He wanted to show the modern world a cultured and advanced society. In short, he built the city to impress and in that he succeeded splendidly! The striking buildings were designed by some of the finest architects Europe had to offer and even now, the ‘Venice of the North’ never fails to enchant with its spectacular buildings and impressive canal network. It is a city of true grandeur.

Cocktails with the Captain

Commanding any ship is a complex role that calls for a long list of skills. Captains know their vessels inside out as well as well as the routes they sail and when things don’t go to plan, they have to make instant decisions. Above all though, the most important part of the job, underpinning everything they do, is to keep the ship and everyone aboard safe. The Captain’s cocktail party is a great and a wonderful opportunity for passengers and crew to get acquainted as the gets underway.

Matryoshka doll painting

There is nothing more typically Russian than a Matryoshka. It embodies the fact that there’s always something deeper to be found in every aspect of Russian life. Learning the traditional designs and techniques used to decorate these iconic dolls offers a pleasant diversion and some cathartic creativity!

Superb Service & Dining

Our restaurant serves the highest standard of international cuisine, freshly made by our Cordon Bleu Chef. Choose either a sumptuous buffet or set menu for lunch while dinner is always four or five courses with full service. High praise for the exquisite quality of meals is yet another constantly recurring feature in feedback from our guests.

Meet the Professor

From the Mongol hordes to Soviet times, Russia’s history is, like all of Europe’s, a complex web of political intrigue, war and peace, trade and treaties, as well as heroes and villains. Academics devote whole lifetimes to studying Russia’s long past and one of them presents a series of lectures shedding light on everything from Gorbachev to Chekhov, Khrushchev to Ivan the Terrible and of course, contemporary Russia. Our Professor is on board throughout the river cruise for informal conversation.

Beginner’s Russian

The Russian language can be rather beautiful and poetic and we know that many seasoned travelers enjoy trying their hand at different languages. Our onboard teachers provide an introduction to the riches of Russian, so guests can try out a few useful words and phrases on real Russians during the exciting river tours from Moscow to St. Petersburg or from Moscow to Volgograd!

Russian tea tasting

The drink we tend to associate with Russia is vodka, but tea, in fact, is the much more universal beverage of choice throughout the country. Guests will get acquainted with the Russian tea etiquette, a fundamental component of the country's social culture, and enjoy the traditional tea ceremony while cruising from St. Petersburg to Moscow or taking a Grand Volga river tour.

Russian Dinner & Vodka Tasting

All our dining is international but for Russian Dining night, the Chef includes a selection of traditional Russian dishes: Chicken Kiev, Kulebyaka and no Russian table is complete without Borsch. To add to the ‘Taste of Russia’ optional Russian dress, or at least a touch of Russian style, is provided along with enthusiastic help from our staff!

Russian Cooking Class

A plate of pelmeni might not look like much to the untrained eye, but it forms the heart of Russian cuisine and culture. Basically, it's a type of dumpling: small portions of meat and onion wrapped in a thin sheet of unleavened dough and boiled, a little like ravioli. Guests can join a Russian cooking class onboard the MS Volga Dream to learn how to cook this delicious Russian dish.

Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninov Piano Recital

Some of the greatest classical music ever written comes from Russia. It’s hard to imagine a more fitting stage for a virtuoso solo recital by our resident concert pianist than the mighty Volga or a better backdrop than the heart of Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninov’s own serene homeland.

Russian River Cruise Aboard Volga Dream

Moscow to St. Petersburg

Why Volga Dream

Family Owned & Operated

MS Volga Dream is Russia’s only family-owned river cruise ship. She can accommodate up to 100 guests, far fewer than most other cruise ships on the river making for a uniquely friendly and intimate atmosphere aboard.

Five-Star Central Hotels

We at Volga Dream are completely convinced that, our guests should stay in great 5-star hotels in Moscow and St. Petersburg within comfortable walking distance of all the major attractions, theaters and restaurants, rather than having to waste time in traffic.

Luxurious Accommodation

The MS Volga Dream is the most intimate and elegant 5-star cruise vessel in Russia. She boasts 56 cabins, all river facing, ranging from comfortable Standard Cabins to spacious Junior Suites and the luxurious forward facing Owner's Suite.

Russian Cultural Experience

Explore Russia's past with the help of professional tour guides. Our on-board program includes fascinating talks on Russian history and politics, Russian language lessons, a festival of Russian cuisine (including vodka tasting!), and much more.

Gourmet Dining

Our on board restaurant serves international cuisine to the highest standard, all freshly made by our Cordon Bleu Chef. For Russian Dining night, he prepares a selection of traditional Russian dishes: Chicken Kiev, Kulebyaka and Borsch.

Tailored Service

All our service crew members are native Russians who are fluent in English and handpicked by the Owner. Proudly, the Volga Dream is famous for her hard working and very hospitable personnel who take care of every aspect of your life aboard.

Download Our Brochure

It's never been easier to plan your next holiday in Russia. Download our free brochure to learn more about authentic Russian river cruises.

Escape the hassle and bustle and add a satisfyingly informative element to your trip and bring together a colorful mosaic of people, history, traditions,  religion, music and art. These are the many strands that time has woven into what is known today as Russia.

What people are saying

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