Russian River Cruising Detailed Itinerary


Russian Waterways - Moscow to St Petersburg

Multiple departures.


DAY 1 ARRIVE IN MOSCOW, RUSSIA - EMBARKATION:
Arrive in Moscow and embark the ship. Relax in your stateroom or explore the city before meeting your fellow travelers at the Welcome Cocktail Reception. (D)

DAY 2 MOSCOW:
This morning, tour within the walls of the Kremlin introduces you to the former royal residence of the Czars and main center of the Russian Orthodox faith. Then enjoy lunch on a day boat as you cruise the Moscow River past the Kremlin. Late this afternoon, your city tour includes the Red Square where you will see the Kremlin and Lenin's Tomb. During free time, visit the iconic St. Basil's Cathedral or perhaps the GUM, the vast Soviet-Era main department store. (B,L,D)

DAY 3 MOSCOW:
You will tour the Moscow Metro system, easily the most architecturally extravagant subway system in the world. Many of the stations are adorned with chandeliers, sculptures and frescoes more reminiscent of a palace than a metro station. You will also visit Poklonnaya (Bow) Hill, where you will see the WWII monument. Tonight, you can enjoy an optional visit to the Moscow Circus. (B,L,D)

DAY 4 UGLICH:
Located on the banks of the Volga, Uglich was founded by merchants in 1148. Rich in history, Uglich is home to some of Russia's most beautiful churches and cathedrals, and you'll see a sampling during your city tour. The most noteworthy include the Chambers of Prince Dimitry and the magnificent Church of Dimitry on the Blood, dedicated to the tragic story of Ivan the Terrible's son. Uglich is also the site of an AMAWATERWAYS exclusive shore excursion. You'll visit the home of a local Russian family, learning about everyday life in Uglich and experience Russian hospitality first-hand. (B,L,D)

DAY 5 YAROSLAVL:
Founded in 1010 by Prince Yaroslav the Wise, it is one of Russia's oldest cities, tracing its roots back to the Vikings. The city stretches for miles along the confluence of the Volga and Kotorosl Rivers. Explore the city's history through its architecture, including the fortified 12th-century Transfiguration Monastery and the Yaroslavl Museum of Russian Art, the former residence of the Governor of Yaroslavl. (B,L,D)

DAY 6 GORITSY:
Goritsy is a peaceful farming town and a typical Russian village. The tour includes the Monastery of St. Cyril on the White Lake and the Museum of Icons. Return to the ship to sail for Kizhi. (B,L,D)

DAY 7 KIZHI:
Kizhi is an island that is situated at the north end of Lake Onega and home to some of the most amazing wooden architecture in Russia. Forever linked to Novgorod the Great, the style of architecture reflects its early introduction to Christianity. In 1764 locals built the Church of Intercession, its towering walls and 22 domes, without the use of a single nail. Your walking tour includes the Museum of Wooden Architecture. (B,L,D)

DAY 8 SVIRSTROY:
Svirstroy is 100 miles from St. Petersburg with a population of only1,000. During your visit, you will sample Russia's popular grilled shashlyk, a form of shish kebab. Afterwards, you will have some free time to stroll through this unspoiled Russian village and browse for irresistible handmade trinkets. This is the best place to do souvenir shopping before reaching St. Petersburg. (B,L,D)

DAY 9 ST. PETERSBURG:
One of Russia's former capitals, this city rivals Paris or Venice for its romantic image. Dating from the beginning of the 18th-century it was built to the exact specifications ordered by Peter the Great. After breakfast, enjoy a hydrofoil journey to The State Hermitage, one of the oldest and largest Museums in the world. Founded by Catherine the Great, the museum is a complex of six buildings, including the former Winter Palace, and houses nearly 3 million works of art including the largest collection of paintings in the world. After your visit, enjoy a lunch in a local restaurant. This afternoon, a sightseeing tour of this beautiful city shows you Nevsky Prospect, Palace Square and St. Isaacs Cathedral. You will also see the Peter & Paul Fortress. (B,L,D)

DAY 10 ST. PETERSBURG:
This morning, depart by hydrofoil for Peterhof, St. Petersburg's most spectacular Imperial Estate. Also known as the "Russian Versailles," the palace was built on the shore of the Gulf of Finland by Peter the Great, initially as a resting place en route to the Imperial Naval base. Your tour includes the Lower Gardens, the Grand Cascade and Samson Fountain, commemorating Russia's victory over Sweden during the Great Northern War. This evening, you will experience a night of traditional, Russian ballet at the Hermitage Theater or choose to attend a folkloric show. (B,L,D)

DAY 11 ST. PETERSBURG:
Today visit the nearby town of Pushkin, where Catherine's Palace was the summer residence of the Russian Czars. This optional excursion includes a tour of the interior of the Cameron Gallery which features state rooms and dining rooms in baroque and neoclassical style. You will also visit the reconstructed Amber Room, considered to be the Eighth Wonder of the World, and features and room covered with panels of amber. The remainder of the day is at your leisure. (B,L,D)

DAY 12 ST. PETERSBURG - DISEMBARK:
Transfer to the airport for your homeward flight. (B)

Tour Dates 2012:
May 10, May 21, Jun 1, Jun 12, Jun 23, Jul 4, Jul 15, Jul 26, Aug 6, Aug 17, Aug 28, Sep 8, Sep 19, Sep 30
AMA Katarina

Included Features

11-night Cruise Accommodation in an Outside Stateroom - most with balconies

Daily Sightseeing Programs as outlined in the Itinerary

All Meals on board; Early-riser Coffee, Buffet Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Free-flowing Wine and juice with every Dinner on board the Ship

Bottled Water in every stateroom replenished daily

Cocktail Reception & Welcome Dinner

Home Visit with Russian Family

Ballet Performance at the Hermitage Theater, the Private Theater of the Czars

Special highlights including lectures, Russian language classes, theme dinners, cooking demonstration, onboard music performances and afternoon/evening piano

Physician on board

All English Language onboard in a non-smoking Environment (except Sun Deck)

All Transfers with the Purchase of Cruise & Air package

All local Taxes

Duration: 12 Nights

Max Group Size: 160

Accomodations: Ship Cabin

Price: From $3,499 CAD Per person Cat E and Port Charges of $231 CAD