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RUSSIA

Adventures Afloat: Russian River Voyages between Moscow and St. Petersburg

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Program #14304RJ
15 Days | 14 Nights
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Road Scholar has thousands of educational adventures to choose from. A good way to narrow down our list is to browse our collection of "Most Popular" programs.
See all of our Most Popular programs.
EasyFor people looking to exercise their minds more than their bodies. There’s minimal walking and not too many stairs.
ModerateThese programs get you on your feet and include activities such as walking up to a mile in a day through a city and standing in a museum for a few hours.
ActiveFor people who enjoy walking as much as two miles a day, perhaps to explore historic neighborhoods or a nature trail.
Moderately ChallengingFor hardy explorers who enjoy a good physical challenge, spending most of their days on the go.
ChallengingGet ready to keep up with our highest-energy group. These demanding — and rewarding — programs are for seasoned outdoor enthusiasts.

Itinerary for Jun 6 — Jun 20, 2012

Expand all
Day One: Wednesday, June 06 - Departure from the USA to St Petersburg, Russia 
Note: Travel overnight, arriving the next day

Depart From: Depart USA via overning flight to St Petersburg. 2meals are served in flight.

Type: Four-Star Hotel

Description: The international class Park Inn Pulkovskaya Hotel is a conference style hotel, convenient for both, tourists and business related guests. It is located 3 miles away from the Pulkovo airport. about 5 miles to the heart of St Petersburg, and next to the Metro station. The hotel is located in 2 Buildings and has 840 guesrooms rooms and suites.

Ship Information: n/a

Contact info:
1 Pobedy Square
St Petersburg
RF, 196240 Russia
phone: +7 (81274) 039-00
web: www.parkinn.com/hotelpulkovskaya-stpetersburg

Room amenities: Standard guestrooms are spacious and air conditioned, all have telephone and TV, they are nicely furnished, have a small refrigerator in rooms, all have private baths and standard amenities including hair dryers. No WiFi service available in standard rooms

Facility amenities: The Park Inn Pulkovskaya Hotel has a pleasant newly updated lobby in the main Building, excellent conference facilities, a business center with Internet access, 3 restaurants, several bars, a theater desk, a nice spa and fitness center with solarium, sauna, swimming pool and a beauty salon. It offers various services, employs English speaking staff and has 24 hour security. All guest rooms for this program are reserved in Building 2.

Smoking policy: Yes
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Elevator: Yes

Additional nights before: not avaialble
Additional nights (if available) should be reserved independently by participants. Please note: All rooms for this program are reserved in Building 2 (of the hotel).


Day Two: Thursday, June 07 - Arrivals in St. Petersburg/Dinner at hotel/ Group orientation meeting 
Note: All who purchased airtickets from the Road Scholar Travel Services will be met and transferred to the program hotel. Independent travelers are welcome to join group transfer bus, subject to space availability. Look for the Road Scholar sign in the Arrival hall.

Afternoon: Arrival in St. Petersburg Pulkovo airports. Transfer to thePark Inn Pulkovskaya hotel. Rest.

Dinner: Dinner at hotel.

Evening: Group meeting. Introductions. Meet your group/study leader and the fellow program participants.

Lodging: Park Inn Pulkovskaya Hotel

Meals Included: Dinner
Type: Four-Star Hotel

Description: The international class Park Inn Pulkovskaya Hotel is a conference style hotel, convenient for both, tourists and business related guests. It is located 3 miles away from the Pulkovo airport. about 5 miles to the heart of St Petersburg, and next to the Metro station. The hotel is located in 2 Buildings and has 840 guesrooms rooms and suites.

Ship Information: n/a

Contact info:
1 Pobedy Square
St Petersburg
RF, 196240 Russia
phone: +7 (81274) 039-00
web: www.parkinn.com/hotelpulkovskaya-stpetersburg

Room amenities: Standard guestrooms are spacious and air conditioned, all have telephone and TV, they are nicely furnished, have a small refrigerator in rooms, all have private baths and standard amenities including hair dryers. No WiFi service available in standard rooms

Facility amenities: The Park Inn Pulkovskaya Hotel has a pleasant newly updated lobby in the main Building, excellent conference facilities, a business center with Internet access, 3 restaurants, several bars, a theater desk, a nice spa and fitness center with solarium, sauna, swimming pool and a beauty salon. It offers various services, employs English speaking staff and has 24 hour security. All guest rooms for this program are reserved in Building 2.

Smoking policy: Yes
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Elevator: Yes

Additional nights before: not avaialble
Additional nights (if available) should be reserved independently by participants. Please note: All rooms for this program are reserved in Building 2 (of the hotel).


Day Three: Friday, June 08 - Overview of the history of St Petersburg and the Romanovs... 
Overview of the history of St Petersburg and the Romanovs Dynasty/ Tsarskoye Selo/ the Memorial museum to the Defenders of Leningrad/ evening performance

Note: Walking in the park and in the museum. Comfortable shoes are a must. Rest areas are available.

Breakfast: Buffet breakfast in hotel's restaurant.

Morning: Theme of the day: ?The Romanov Dynasty.. En route to Tsarskoye Selo and during the visit learn about the history of St Petersburg and the Romanov royal family who ruled Russia for over 300 years ( from 1613 to 1917). Enjoy an expert led field trip to Tsarskoye Selo-Pushkin (now a subburb of St. Petersburg) and see. a summer residence - Catherine's Palace -- an elaborate baroque Palace built in 1752 by Tzarina Elizabeth to honor the memory of her mother and first wife of Tzar Peter I, Katarina. This palace later was rebuilt to become the main summer residence of Tzarina Catherine (the Great). Here see the eighth wonder of the world-- the extraordinary Amber Room -- decorated with six tons of solid amber, carved and framed in gold leaf. The original room was stolen by the Nazis during WWII and lost, never found, and finally, meticulously reconstructed in 2003 by a team of the Russian restorating artists.

Lunch: Group lunch.

Afternoon: In the afternoon participate in an Expert led visit to the Memorial Museum dedicated to the defenders of Leningrad. See the museum collection of old documents and photographs and hear the story of the 300 day seige during WWII. Free time at hotel before the evening event.

Dinner: Dinner

Evening: Transfer to an Evening performance. Return to hotel for overnight.

Lodging: Park Inn Pulkovskaya Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Type: Cabin

Description: For 10 nights your floating hotel/study site will be your river cruiser. The ship, MS Vodohod/RUSS, built in Germany in 1986, was completely refurbished in 2002 and 2010 freshly painted, with new carpeting installed in cabins and in all public areas, and new furniture in the restaurants and bars. This ship and all cabins are updated every travel season. The all-Russian crew and cruise staff are trained to service western travelers.

Ship Information: Ship Type – a 4 passenger deck vessel. Length – 129 m. Width – 16,7 m. Draft – 2,9 m. Speed – 25,5 km per hour (approx.15 mph). Passenger capacity – 288. The ship has two suites (not offered for this program),120 standard twin cabins (approx.129 sq. feet) and 10 single cabins (approx.100 sq. feet). These are all outside cabins with large windows located on the 2nd, 3d and 4th decks. For this program we have reserved cabins with 2 twin lower beds on 2nd and 3 decks only. Same type of cabins are used for Single use. The ship is equipped with the latest navigational system and satellite phones. Communication: radio and mobile phones (used for emergencies only).

Contact info:
St Petersburg River Station. Utkina Zavod
Oktyabrskaya Naberezhnaya
St. Petersburg, RF Russia
phone: +00 0000-000-0000
web: www.vodohod.com

Room amenities: All outside cabins (129 sq. feet) with 2 lower beds, located on 2nd and 3decks; they are air conditioned with large windows, have private facilities, a built-in wardrobe,a table, a small refigerator. Cabins are clean and pleasant but modest by western standards. Bed linen is changed every 3 days, and towels are changed daily. No hairdryers are provided in cabins.

Facility amenities: There is ample sun deck space, a reception area, a hair salon, a gift shop, a reading lounge, a meeting/lecture room, two restaurants, two bars, and recreation lounges. The ship is fully air-conditioned. It must be remembered that this ship is comfortable, but it is a river cruiser, not a luxury ocean cruise ship. The ship will serve the needs of sailing along the rivers and canals with frequent stops for shore excursions along the way. The ship has medical facilities and a medical specialist on board.

Smoking policy: No
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.


Day Four: Saturday, June 09 - Visit to Peterhof/ free time / transfer to ship/evening free 
Note: Walking up to 2 miles in the park in Peterhof. Rest areas are available.

Breakfast: Buffet breakfast at hotel.

Morning: Continue exploration of the summer residences of the Romanovs. This morning drive to Peterhof, the stunning summer residence of the Tzar Peter the Great on the Baltic Sea. Have an expert led walk in the park and enjoy the famous fountains. Learn about the history of Peterhof, the Mon Plaisir Palace, the Grand Palace, and other buildings in Park (see the exterior only), all information is presented by a licensed expert. (note: Excursions to the Grand Palace and other museums on site are not part of the visit). Free time in the park.

Lunch: Time for Lunch on your own

Afternoon: Transfer to the ship. Check in.

Dinner: Dinner in ship's restaurant

Evening: Ship's Orientation, meet on board representative. Evening free on board

Lodging: MS Vodohod/RUSS

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Type: Cabin

Description: For 10 nights your floating hotel/study site will be your river cruiser. The ship, MS Vodohod/RUSS, built in Germany in 1986, was completely refurbished in 2002 and 2010 freshly painted, with new carpeting installed in cabins and in all public areas, and new furniture in the restaurants and bars. This ship and all cabins are updated every travel season. The all-Russian crew and cruise staff are trained to service western travelers.

Ship Information: Ship Type – a 4 passenger deck vessel. Length – 129 m. Width – 16,7 m. Draft – 2,9 m. Speed – 25,5 km per hour (approx.15 mph). Passenger capacity – 288. The ship has two suites (not offered for this program),120 standard twin cabins (approx.129 sq. feet) and 10 single cabins (approx.100 sq. feet). These are all outside cabins with large windows located on the 2nd, 3d and 4th decks. For this program we have reserved cabins with 2 twin lower beds on 2nd and 3 decks only. Same type of cabins are used for Single use. The ship is equipped with the latest navigational system and satellite phones. Communication: radio and mobile phones (used for emergencies only).

Contact info:
St Petersburg River Station. Utkina Zavod
Oktyabrskaya Naberezhnaya
St. Petersburg, RF Russia
phone: +00 0000-000-0000
web: www.vodohod.com

Room amenities: All outside cabins (129 sq. feet) with 2 lower beds, located on 2nd and 3decks; they are air conditioned with large windows, have private facilities, a built-in wardrobe,a table, a small refigerator. Cabins are clean and pleasant but modest by western standards. Bed linen is changed every 3 days, and towels are changed daily. No hairdryers are provided in cabins.

Facility amenities: There is ample sun deck space, a reception area, a hair salon, a gift shop, a reading lounge, a meeting/lecture room, two restaurants, two bars, and recreation lounges. The ship is fully air-conditioned. It must be remembered that this ship is comfortable, but it is a river cruiser, not a luxury ocean cruise ship. The ship will serve the needs of sailing along the rivers and canals with frequent stops for shore excursions along the way. The ship has medical facilities and a medical specialist on board.

Smoking policy: No
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.


Day Five: Sunday, June 10 - City's architectural highlights/ Hermitage museum/ free evening  
Note: For all city excursions we use airconditioned motorcoaches(whenever possible), with no facilities on board. Rest stops are made. At the Hermitage: walking up to 2miles and standing in the museum can be unavoidable.Rest areas are available.

Breakfast: Buffet breakfast on board the ship

Morning: Theme of the day: ?The history and architecture of St. Petersburg?. This morning take an xpert led motor coach excurion and learn about the city's architectural and cultural highlights. Stops are made by major architectural sites: the Peter and Paul Fortress and Cathedral ? the birthplace of the city, and the burial place of the Romanovs, St. Isaac's Cathedral, the Bronze Horseman statue, the Summer Garden, St. Petersburg University and other places. Drive along the glamorous Nevsky Prospekt and pass by splendid palaces, numerous statues, and elegant bridges over rivers and canals before returning on board the ship.

Lunch: Lunch in city's restaurant

Afternoon: This afternoon enjoy a Field trip to the Hermitage Museum, one of world?s greatest art galleries. Take pleasure viewing the dazzling collection of the Old Masters and French Impressionists and Post-Impressionists, as well as numerous items of all eras, including various newly revealed collections of masterpieces now on display (2, 5 hours with a licensed expert).

Dinner: Dinner in ship's restaurant

Evening: At leisure to enjoy the activities on board

Lodging: MS Vodohod/RUSS

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Type: Cabin

Description: For 10 nights your floating hotel/study site will be your river cruiser. The ship, MS Vodohod/RUSS, built in Germany in 1986, was completely refurbished in 2002 and 2010 freshly painted, with new carpeting installed in cabins and in all public areas, and new furniture in the restaurants and bars. This ship and all cabins are updated every travel season. The all-Russian crew and cruise staff are trained to service western travelers.

Ship Information: Ship Type – a 4 passenger deck vessel. Length – 129 m. Width – 16,7 m. Draft – 2,9 m. Speed – 25,5 km per hour (approx.15 mph). Passenger capacity – 288. The ship has two suites (not offered for this program),120 standard twin cabins (approx.129 sq. feet) and 10 single cabins (approx.100 sq. feet). These are all outside cabins with large windows located on the 2nd, 3d and 4th decks. For this program we have reserved cabins with 2 twin lower beds on 2nd and 3 decks only. Same type of cabins are used for Single use. The ship is equipped with the latest navigational system and satellite phones. Communication: radio and mobile phones (used for emergencies only).

Contact info:
St Petersburg River Station. Utkina Zavod
Oktyabrskaya Naberezhnaya
St. Petersburg, RF Russia
phone: +00 0000-000-0000
web: www.vodohod.com

Room amenities: All outside cabins (129 sq. feet) with 2 lower beds, located on 2nd and 3decks; they are air conditioned with large windows, have private facilities, a built-in wardrobe,a table, a small refigerator. Cabins are clean and pleasant but modest by western standards. Bed linen is changed every 3 days, and towels are changed daily. No hairdryers are provided in cabins.

Facility amenities: There is ample sun deck space, a reception area, a hair salon, a gift shop, a reading lounge, a meeting/lecture room, two restaurants, two bars, and recreation lounges. The ship is fully air-conditioned. It must be remembered that this ship is comfortable, but it is a river cruiser, not a luxury ocean cruise ship. The ship will serve the needs of sailing along the rivers and canals with frequent stops for shore excursions along the way. The ship has medical facilities and a medical specialist on board.

Smoking policy: No
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.


Day Six: Monday, June 11 - Free time in the city center/ Lecture on board SET SAIL 
Note: For all city excursions we use airconditioned motorcoaches(whenever possible), with no facilities on board. Rest stops are made.

Breakfast: Buffet breakfast on board

Morning: Transfer to the city center. Morning free in Nevsky Prospekt. Time for independent discoveries and independent museum visits.

Lunch: Lunch in ship's restaurant

Afternoon: This afternoon attend a Lecture on board:" Russia Today": an overview of current issues of nationalities, ethnicity, religion and modern social issues. (presented by a university professor). Q&A ****************************************** Program on board. Welcome reception. Meet the crew and on board staff. SET SAIL

Dinner: Dinner in ship's restaurant

Evening: At leisure to enjoy the on board activities.

Lodging: MS Vodohod/RUSS

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Type: Cabin

Description: For 10 nights your floating hotel/study site will be your river cruiser. The ship, MS Vodohod/RUSS, built in Germany in 1986, was completely refurbished in 2002 and 2010 freshly painted, with new carpeting installed in cabins and in all public areas, and new furniture in the restaurants and bars. This ship and all cabins are updated every travel season. The all-Russian crew and cruise staff are trained to service western travelers.

Ship Information: Ship Type – a 4 passenger deck vessel. Length – 129 m. Width – 16,7 m. Draft – 2,9 m. Speed – 25,5 km per hour (approx.15 mph). Passenger capacity – 288. The ship has two suites (not offered for this program),120 standard twin cabins (approx.129 sq. feet) and 10 single cabins (approx.100 sq. feet). These are all outside cabins with large windows located on the 2nd, 3d and 4th decks. For this program we have reserved cabins with 2 twin lower beds on 2nd and 3 decks only. Same type of cabins are used for Single use. The ship is equipped with the latest navigational system and satellite phones. Communication: radio and mobile phones (used for emergencies only).

Contact info:
St Petersburg River Station. Utkina Zavod
Oktyabrskaya Naberezhnaya
St. Petersburg, RF Russia
phone: +00 0000-000-0000
web: www.vodohod.com

Room amenities: All outside cabins (129 sq. feet) with 2 lower beds, located on 2nd and 3decks; they are air conditioned with large windows, have private facilities, a built-in wardrobe,a table, a small refigerator. Cabins are clean and pleasant but modest by western standards. Bed linen is changed every 3 days, and towels are changed daily. No hairdryers are provided in cabins.

Facility amenities: There is ample sun deck space, a reception area, a hair salon, a gift shop, a reading lounge, a meeting/lecture room, two restaurants, two bars, and recreation lounges. The ship is fully air-conditioned. It must be remembered that this ship is comfortable, but it is a river cruiser, not a luxury ocean cruise ship. The ship will serve the needs of sailing along the rivers and canals with frequent stops for shore excursions along the way. The ship has medical facilities and a medical specialist on board.

Smoking policy: No
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.


Day Seven: Tuesday, June 12 - Mandrogy Village / Lecture on board 
Breakfast: Breakfast in ship's restaurant.

Morning: Arrival in Mandrogy village. This morning enjoy the Lake region and beautiful nothern forest. During free time ashore take a stroll in Mandrogy- a quaint riverside village dotted with wooden cottages ( a reproduction of a typical rural Russian settlement). Later cruise the 139-mile long Svir River and then along the southern shores of the Lake Onega, which is the second largest lake in Europe, and one of the world’s purest, then along the Lake Ladoga, Europe’s largest lake. Both lakes are more like inland seas and can experience waves as high as 3-4 feet during inclement weather. Take time to admire along the way the sandy and rocky beaches and beautiful shores overgrown with graceful willows, tall alder trees, and stately pines.

Lunch: Lunch in ship's restaurant

Afternoon: This afternoon participate in the presentation dedicated to various aspects of life and corrent politics in "Russia today". Q&A session.

Dinner: Dinner in ship's restaurant

Evening: On-board entertainment

Lodging: MS Vodohod/RUSS

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Type: Cabin

Description: For 10 nights your floating hotel/study site will be your river cruiser. The ship, MS Vodohod/RUSS, built in Germany in 1986, was completely refurbished in 2002 and 2010 freshly painted, with new carpeting installed in cabins and in all public areas, and new furniture in the restaurants and bars. This ship and all cabins are updated every travel season. The all-Russian crew and cruise staff are trained to service western travelers.

Ship Information: Ship Type – a 4 passenger deck vessel. Length – 129 m. Width – 16,7 m. Draft – 2,9 m. Speed – 25,5 km per hour (approx.15 mph). Passenger capacity – 288. The ship has two suites (not offered for this program),120 standard twin cabins (approx.129 sq. feet) and 10 single cabins (approx.100 sq. feet). These are all outside cabins with large windows located on the 2nd, 3d and 4th decks. For this program we have reserved cabins with 2 twin lower beds on 2nd and 3 decks only. Same type of cabins are used for Single use. The ship is equipped with the latest navigational system and satellite phones. Communication: radio and mobile phones (used for emergencies only).

Contact info:
St Petersburg River Station. Utkina Zavod
Oktyabrskaya Naberezhnaya
St. Petersburg, RF Russia
phone: +00 0000-000-0000
web: www.vodohod.com

Room amenities: All outside cabins (129 sq. feet) with 2 lower beds, located on 2nd and 3decks; they are air conditioned with large windows, have private facilities, a built-in wardrobe,a table, a small refigerator. Cabins are clean and pleasant but modest by western standards. Bed linen is changed every 3 days, and towels are changed daily. No hairdryers are provided in cabins.

Facility amenities: There is ample sun deck space, a reception area, a hair salon, a gift shop, a reading lounge, a meeting/lecture room, two restaurants, two bars, and recreation lounges. The ship is fully air-conditioned. It must be remembered that this ship is comfortable, but it is a river cruiser, not a luxury ocean cruise ship. The ship will serve the needs of sailing along the rivers and canals with frequent stops for shore excursions along the way. The ship has medical facilities and a medical specialist on board.

Smoking policy: No
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.


Day Eight: Wednesday, June 13 - Wooden architecture of the island of Kizhi/On board program 
Note: extensive walking

Breakfast: Buffet breakfast in ship's restaurant.

Morning: Arrival in Kizhi This afternoon take an expert-led walking excursion of the open-air museum and wooden churches, led by a licensed expert. Kizhi Island ? one of 1650 islands on Lake Onega. The fairytale-like structures found on this island represent a superb example of traditional Russian wooden architecture. Most spectacular is the Transfiguration Church, with 22 domes built in 1714 without a single nail, and which is also famous for its icons and iconostasis. This Island has been declared a major site for preservation by UNESCO.

Lunch: Lunch in ship's restaurant

Afternoon: Enjoy various activities on board.

Dinner: Dinner in ship's restaurant

Evening: On-board entertainment.

Lodging: MS Vodohod/RUSS

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Type: Cabin

Description: For 10 nights your floating hotel/study site will be your river cruiser. The ship, MS Vodohod/RUSS, built in Germany in 1986, was completely refurbished in 2002 and 2010 freshly painted, with new carpeting installed in cabins and in all public areas, and new furniture in the restaurants and bars. This ship and all cabins are updated every travel season. The all-Russian crew and cruise staff are trained to service western travelers.

Ship Information: Ship Type – a 4 passenger deck vessel. Length – 129 m. Width – 16,7 m. Draft – 2,9 m. Speed – 25,5 km per hour (approx.15 mph). Passenger capacity – 288. The ship has two suites (not offered for this program),120 standard twin cabins (approx.129 sq. feet) and 10 single cabins (approx.100 sq. feet). These are all outside cabins with large windows located on the 2nd, 3d and 4th decks. For this program we have reserved cabins with 2 twin lower beds on 2nd and 3 decks only. Same type of cabins are used for Single use. The ship is equipped with the latest navigational system and satellite phones. Communication: radio and mobile phones (used for emergencies only).

Contact info:
St Petersburg River Station. Utkina Zavod
Oktyabrskaya Naberezhnaya
St. Petersburg, RF Russia
phone: +00 0000-000-0000
web: www.vodohod.com

Room amenities: All outside cabins (129 sq. feet) with 2 lower beds, located on 2nd and 3decks; they are air conditioned with large windows, have private facilities, a built-in wardrobe,a table, a small refigerator. Cabins are clean and pleasant but modest by western standards. Bed linen is changed every 3 days, and towels are changed daily. No hairdryers are provided in cabins.

Facility amenities: There is ample sun deck space, a reception area, a hair salon, a gift shop, a reading lounge, a meeting/lecture room, two restaurants, two bars, and recreation lounges. The ship is fully air-conditioned. It must be remembered that this ship is comfortable, but it is a river cruiser, not a luxury ocean cruise ship. The ship will serve the needs of sailing along the rivers and canals with frequent stops for shore excursions along the way. The ship has medical facilities and a medical specialist on board.

Smoking policy: No
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.


Day Nine: Thursday, June 14 - Talk on famous Russians of the Volga and Lake region/excursion in... 
Talk on famous Russians of the Volga and Lake region/excursion in Goritzy

Breakfast: Breakfast at ship's restaurant

Morning: Attend a presentation on the famous Russians whose lives and work were connected to the Volga and Lake region.

Lunch: Lunch in ship's restaurant

Afternoon: Arrival in Goritzy. A walking excursion of the village. Learn of the history of these old settlements. Visit the monastery. All led by a licensed expert. Goritsy ? a small, picturesque village located about 4 miles from the famous Kirillo-Belozersky Monastery, which is famous for its collection of rare icons. Goritsy is also known for its convent, a place of exile for politically unpopular ladies of nobility, including Maria Nagaya [see story about Uglich], who was sent there by Boris Godunov, the notorious ruler of Russia in the late 16th-early 17th centuries.

Dinner: Dinner in ship's restaurant

Evening: On-board activities

Lodging: MS Vodohod/RUSS

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Type: Cabin

Description: For 10 nights your floating hotel/study site will be your river cruiser. The ship, MS Vodohod/RUSS, built in Germany in 1986, was completely refurbished in 2002 and 2010 freshly painted, with new carpeting installed in cabins and in all public areas, and new furniture in the restaurants and bars. This ship and all cabins are updated every travel season. The all-Russian crew and cruise staff are trained to service western travelers.

Ship Information: Ship Type – a 4 passenger deck vessel. Length – 129 m. Width – 16,7 m. Draft – 2,9 m. Speed – 25,5 km per hour (approx.15 mph). Passenger capacity – 288. The ship has two suites (not offered for this program),120 standard twin cabins (approx.129 sq. feet) and 10 single cabins (approx.100 sq. feet). These are all outside cabins with large windows located on the 2nd, 3d and 4th decks. For this program we have reserved cabins with 2 twin lower beds on 2nd and 3 decks only. Same type of cabins are used for Single use. The ship is equipped with the latest navigational system and satellite phones. Communication: radio and mobile phones (used for emergencies only).

Contact info:
St Petersburg River Station. Utkina Zavod
Oktyabrskaya Naberezhnaya
St. Petersburg, RF Russia
phone: +00 0000-000-0000
web: www.vodohod.com

Room amenities: All outside cabins (129 sq. feet) with 2 lower beds, located on 2nd and 3decks; they are air conditioned with large windows, have private facilities, a built-in wardrobe,a table, a small refigerator. Cabins are clean and pleasant but modest by western standards. Bed linen is changed every 3 days, and towels are changed daily. No hairdryers are provided in cabins.

Facility amenities: There is ample sun deck space, a reception area, a hair salon, a gift shop, a reading lounge, a meeting/lecture room, two restaurants, two bars, and recreation lounges. The ship is fully air-conditioned. It must be remembered that this ship is comfortable, but it is a river cruiser, not a luxury ocean cruise ship. The ship will serve the needs of sailing along the rivers and canals with frequent stops for shore excursions along the way. The ship has medical facilities and a medical specialist on board.

Smoking policy: No
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.


Day Ten: Friday, June 15 - On board discussion/ Excursion of Yaroslavl  
Note: Excursion by motor coach and by foot.

Breakfast: Buffet breakfast at ship's restaurant

Morning: This morning attend a Lecture on: "Medieval Russia: The reign of the Ruricks"(presented by an expert) Q&A.

Lunch: Lunch in ship's restaurant

Afternoon: Arrival in the ancient town of Yaroslavl. This morning take a motorcoach excursion of the city and the Spassky Monastery. Stretching along both banks of the Volga, Yaroslavl is an important river port with a population of 600,000. It was founded in the 11th century by Prince Yaroslavl the Wise and today retains many noteworthy monuments of its rich history. Of special interest are the 13th-century Spassky Monastery ensemble, a group of 17th-century cathedrals, an elegant rotunda, and remnants of an ancient trading center. Loveliest of all is the Church of Elijah the Prophet in the town?s central square. The frescoes on the walls and vaulting inside the church represent a valuable collection of old Russian paintings. The second-largest city in Russia in the 17th century, Yaroslavl was the de facto capital of Russia during the Polish occupation of Moscow in 1612 (the so-called Time of Troubles?).

Dinner: Dinner in ship's restaurant.

Evening: On board concert

Lodging: MS Vodohod/RUSS

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Type: Cabin

Description: For 10 nights your floating hotel/study site will be your river cruiser. The ship, MS Vodohod/RUSS, built in Germany in 1986, was completely refurbished in 2002 and 2010 freshly painted, with new carpeting installed in cabins and in all public areas, and new furniture in the restaurants and bars. This ship and all cabins are updated every travel season. The all-Russian crew and cruise staff are trained to service western travelers.

Ship Information: Ship Type – a 4 passenger deck vessel. Length – 129 m. Width – 16,7 m. Draft – 2,9 m. Speed – 25,5 km per hour (approx.15 mph). Passenger capacity – 288. The ship has two suites (not offered for this program),120 standard twin cabins (approx.129 sq. feet) and 10 single cabins (approx.100 sq. feet). These are all outside cabins with large windows located on the 2nd, 3d and 4th decks. For this program we have reserved cabins with 2 twin lower beds on 2nd and 3 decks only. Same type of cabins are used for Single use. The ship is equipped with the latest navigational system and satellite phones. Communication: radio and mobile phones (used for emergencies only).

Contact info:
St Petersburg River Station. Utkina Zavod
Oktyabrskaya Naberezhnaya
St. Petersburg, RF Russia
phone: +00 0000-000-0000
web: www.vodohod.com

Room amenities: All outside cabins (129 sq. feet) with 2 lower beds, located on 2nd and 3decks; they are air conditioned with large windows, have private facilities, a built-in wardrobe,a table, a small refigerator. Cabins are clean and pleasant but modest by western standards. Bed linen is changed every 3 days, and towels are changed daily. No hairdryers are provided in cabins.

Facility amenities: There is ample sun deck space, a reception area, a hair salon, a gift shop, a reading lounge, a meeting/lecture room, two restaurants, two bars, and recreation lounges. The ship is fully air-conditioned. It must be remembered that this ship is comfortable, but it is a river cruiser, not a luxury ocean cruise ship. The ship will serve the needs of sailing along the rivers and canals with frequent stops for shore excursions along the way. The ship has medical facilities and a medical specialist on board.

Smoking policy: No
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.


Day Eleven: Saturday, June 16 - Excusion of Ouglich/ Captain's farewell dinner/ on board program 
Breakfast: Breakfast in ship's restaurant

Morning: Arrival in the town of Ouglich. Walking exursion of the town of Uglich and cathedrals. Founded in 1148, Uglich is one of the most beloved towns in old Russia. The view of the city from the Volga River is especially lovely, with the blue-domed Cathedral of the Resurrection and St. John?s Church looming on the horizon. At the end of the 16th century, Maria Nagaya, the seventh wife of Ivan the Terrible, lived in exile in the Kremlin [fortress] at Uglich. It was here that Tsarevich Dmitry, son of the deceased Ivan the Terrible, met his ?mysterious? death in 1591and where the Church of St. Dmitry on the (Spilled) Blood stands today. Located within the Kremlin (fortress) walls is the oldest building in Uglich, the Palace of Tsarevich Dmitry.

Lunch: Lunch on board.

Afternoon: On board program.

Dinner: Captain's Farewell dinner to celebrate the last sailing night on board the ship before arrival in Moscow.

Evening: on board program

Lodging: MS Vodohod/RUSS

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Type: Cabin

Description: For 10 nights your floating hotel/study site will be your river cruiser. The ship, MS Vodohod/RUSS, built in Germany in 1986, was completely refurbished in 2002 and 2010 freshly painted, with new carpeting installed in cabins and in all public areas, and new furniture in the restaurants and bars. This ship and all cabins are updated every travel season. The all-Russian crew and cruise staff are trained to service western travelers.

Ship Information: Ship Type – a 4 passenger deck vessel. Length – 129 m. Width – 16,7 m. Draft – 2,9 m. Speed – 25,5 km per hour (approx.15 mph). Passenger capacity – 288. The ship has two suites (not offered for this program),120 standard twin cabins (approx.129 sq. feet) and 10 single cabins (approx.100 sq. feet). These are all outside cabins with large windows located on the 2nd, 3d and 4th decks. For this program we have reserved cabins with 2 twin lower beds on 2nd and 3 decks only. Same type of cabins are used for Single use. The ship is equipped with the latest navigational system and satellite phones. Communication: radio and mobile phones (used for emergencies only).

Contact info:
St Petersburg River Station. Utkina Zavod
Oktyabrskaya Naberezhnaya
St. Petersburg, RF Russia
phone: +00 0000-000-0000
web: www.vodohod.com

Room amenities: All outside cabins (129 sq. feet) with 2 lower beds, located on 2nd and 3decks; they are air conditioned with large windows, have private facilities, a built-in wardrobe,a table, a small refigerator. Cabins are clean and pleasant but modest by western standards. Bed linen is changed every 3 days, and towels are changed daily. No hairdryers are provided in cabins.

Facility amenities: There is ample sun deck space, a reception area, a hair salon, a gift shop, a reading lounge, a meeting/lecture room, two restaurants, two bars, and recreation lounges. The ship is fully air-conditioned. It must be remembered that this ship is comfortable, but it is a river cruiser, not a luxury ocean cruise ship. The ship will serve the needs of sailing along the rivers and canals with frequent stops for shore excursions along the way. The ship has medical facilities and a medical specialist on board.

Smoking policy: No
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.


Day Twelve: Sunday, June 17 - On board discussions/ Moscow's architectural highlights/ Free... 
On board discussions/ Moscow's architectural highlights/ Free evening

Breakfast: Buffet breakfast in the ship's restaurant

Morning: On board program: Informal round table discussion on "Russia today" , Q&A session

Lunch: Lunch on board.

Afternoon: Arrival in Moscow . Theme of the Day: History and Architecture of Moscow: Explore Moscow's cultural and historical treasures. Enjoy a motorcoach excursion with stops at major architectural and historic sites: Moscow University, Manezh Square, Novodevichi Convent (see the exterior only), the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, and other important sites. All to be presented by a licensed expert.

Dinner: Dinner on board the ship.

Evening: Evening free for independent discoveries.

Lodging: MS Vodohod/RUSS

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Type: Cabin

Description: For 10 nights your floating hotel/study site will be your river cruiser. The ship, MS Vodohod/RUSS, built in Germany in 1986, was completely refurbished in 2002 and 2010 freshly painted, with new carpeting installed in cabins and in all public areas, and new furniture in the restaurants and bars. This ship and all cabins are updated every travel season. The all-Russian crew and cruise staff are trained to service western travelers.

Ship Information: Ship Type – a 4 passenger deck vessel. Length – 129 m. Width – 16,7 m. Draft – 2,9 m. Speed – 25,5 km per hour (approx.15 mph). Passenger capacity – 288. The ship has two suites (not offered for this program),120 standard twin cabins (approx.129 sq. feet) and 10 single cabins (approx.100 sq. feet). These are all outside cabins with large windows located on the 2nd, 3d and 4th decks. For this program we have reserved cabins with 2 twin lower beds on 2nd and 3 decks only. Same type of cabins are used for Single use. The ship is equipped with the latest navigational system and satellite phones. Communication: radio and mobile phones (used for emergencies only).

Contact info:
St Petersburg River Station. Utkina Zavod
Oktyabrskaya Naberezhnaya
St. Petersburg, RF Russia
phone: +00 0000-000-0000
web: www.vodohod.com

Room amenities: All outside cabins (129 sq. feet) with 2 lower beds, located on 2nd and 3decks; they are air conditioned with large windows, have private facilities, a built-in wardrobe,a table, a small refigerator. Cabins are clean and pleasant but modest by western standards. Bed linen is changed every 3 days, and towels are changed daily. No hairdryers are provided in cabins.

Facility amenities: There is ample sun deck space, a reception area, a hair salon, a gift shop, a reading lounge, a meeting/lecture room, two restaurants, two bars, and recreation lounges. The ship is fully air-conditioned. It must be remembered that this ship is comfortable, but it is a river cruiser, not a luxury ocean cruise ship. The ship will serve the needs of sailing along the rivers and canals with frequent stops for shore excursions along the way. The ship has medical facilities and a medical specialist on board.

Smoking policy: No
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.


Day Thirteen: Monday, June 18 - Visit to the Kremlin compound/ Lecture on US-Russia relations.Evening... 
Visit to the Kremlin compound/ Lecture on US-Russia relations.Evening free

Note: Walking up to 2 miles.

Breakfast: Buffet breakfast in ship's restaurant

Morning: Participate in a field trip to the legendary Kremlin compond. An expert-led visit to the Kremlin grounds: Learn of the Medieval history of Moscow and see the medieval fortress in tact, its cathedrals and the palace. Take pictures of the legendary Tzar Cannon and Tzar Bell. Explore the Kremlin grounds and admire the Cathedral of the Annunciation and other cathedrals inside the Kremlin walls. Transfer back to the ship.

Lunch: Lunch on board the ship

Afternoon: Lecture on board: "US-Russia relations" Q&A.

Dinner: Dinner on board the ship.

Evening: Evening free.

Lodging: MS Vodohod/RUSS

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Type: Full Service Hotel

Description: Cosmos Hotel is modern complex on the north side of Moscow, a 25-story comfortable tourist class hotel, located next to the VDNKH exhibit compound and the Soviet Space Monument. Built by the French in 1980 for the Moscow Olympics, it is located about a 2-hour drive from DME or SVO airports and about 30 minutes drive from Red Square. VDNKH Metro station is next door, 6 stops to the Red Square area.

Contact info:
150 Prospect Mira
Moscow
Moscow, RF Russia
phone: +011-7-495-234-1000
web: www.hotelcosmos.ru

Room amenities: Standard rooms are spacious, have 2 twin beds TV, Telephone and all modern amenities; however, no hairdryers are provided in bathrooms in standard rooms.

Facility amenities: The Cosmos Hotel offers various services, including a currency exchange office in the hotel lobby, a beauty salon, post office, theater ticket desk, bars and restaurants. There is a fitness center and a well-equipped business center with access to the Internet. All common areas are air-conditioned. It has 24-hour security and English-speaking staff.

Smoking policy: Yes
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.

Elevator: Yes


Day Fourteen: Tuesday, June 19 - The Armory Chamber/ Free time in central Moscow / Evening performance 
Note: Expected walking up to 2miles.

Breakfast: Breakfast on board the ship .

Morning: Check out. Transfer to the city center. Participate in an expert led visit to the Armory Chamber located inside the Kremlin compound. Explore the unique collection of arms and armaments used through the ages, admire the Russian royal jewels and other treasures on display including the famous Faberge eggs.?

Lunch: Time for lunch on your own

Afternoon: Free time in the city. Take a Moscow Metro ride (if desired). Explore the UNESCO-listed Krasnaya Ploshchad (Red Square), where all rulers of Russia left traces of their reign. Admire the ancient Kremlin wall, the striking Kremlin Clock Tower, Lenin's Mausoleum, and see the exterior of the ornate, multi-colored architectural grandeur of the 16th century - St Basil?s Cathedral - commemorating Russia?s victory over the Tatars. Enjoy this politically-charged architectural wonder reflecting the mysterious Russian soul. Transfer to the Cosmos hotel.

Dinner: Early Group Dinner

Evening: Attend Evening performance.

Lodging: Cosmos Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Type: Cabin

Contact info:
x
x, NY 000 USA
phone: 000-000-
Smoking policy: No
Smoking policies vary by facility. During all group events and activities, smoking is prohibited.


Day Fifteen: Wednesday, June 20 - Program ends. Departures. 
Note: All who purchased air tickets from the Road Scholar Travel Services will be transferred to airports. Independent travelers are welcome to join the group transfer bus.

Breakfast: Buffet breakfast at hotel restaurant. Departure transfers.

Lodging: In Flight

Meals Included: Breakfast

Important information about your itinerary:
Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information featured on this website. Itineraries are based on our best information at this time. Circumstances beyond our control may require us to adjust itineraries or other details. We regret any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding. Information will be sent to you from your Program Provider approximately three weeks prior to the program start date.

Our Value Promise To You

You won't find a better value.

Included
at no additional cost on this date ...
14 nights of accommodations
36 meals: 13 breakfasts, 10 lunches, 13 dinners
6 Expert-led lectures
12 Field trips
5 Performances

Ratings

4.6
Ratings are determined by participant evaluations.

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