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RUSSIA

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

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Program #14304RJ
14 Days | 13 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 Aug 28 — Sep 10, 2013

Expand all
Day One: Wednesday, August 28 - Departure from the USA to St. Petersburg, Russia 
Note: Travel overnight, arriving the next day

Depart From: Depart USA via overnight flight to St Petersburg. Two meals are served in flight.

Type: Three-Star Hotel

Description: The international-class Park Inn Pulkovskaya Hotel is a comfortable, conference-style hotel offering facilities for tourists and business guests. It is located 3 miles away from Pulkovo Airport, about 5 miles to the heart of St. Petersburg, and close to a Metro station (5-7 minute walk), on a direct line to the heart of the city. The hotel is located in two buildings and has total of 840 guestrooms and suites. For this program, rooms are reserved in Building 2 of the hotel.

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, are nicely furnished, have a small refrigerator, have private baths and standard amenities, including hair dryers. No WiFi service is available in standard rooms but is available in the hotel lobby.

Facility amenities: The Park Inn Pulkovskaya Hotel has a pleasant, newly updated lobby, excellent conference facilities, WiFi service in the hotel lobby, a business center with Internet access, 3 restaurants, several bars, a theater ticket desk, a fitness center with solarium, sauna, swimming pool and a beauty salon (fee applies). The hotel offers various services, employs English-speaking staff and has 24-hour security.

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

Elevator: Yes

Additional nights before: not available
Additional nights are subject to availability and should be booked independently by participants. Note: the rooms for the program dates are reserved in Building 2 of the hotel, which is adjacent to the main building. Please note that this hotel is not located in the city center and is chosen to best fit the program schedule for the first two days in St. Petersburg, which we spend outside the city.


Day Two: Thursday, August 29 - Arrival in St. Petersburg/Dinner at hotel/ Group orientation meeting 
Note: All who purchased air tickets from the Road Scholar Travel Services will be met and transferred to the program hotel. Independent travelers whose arrival time coincides with the group are welcome to join the group transfer bus, subject to space availability. Look for the Road Scholar sign in the Arrival Hall.

Afternoon: Arrival at St. Petersburg's Pulkovo Airport. Transfer to the Park Inn Pulkovskaya Hotel. Rest.

Dinner: Dinner at hotel.

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

Lodging: Park Inn Pulkovskaya Hotel

Meals Included: Dinner
Type: Three-Star Hotel

Description: The international-class Park Inn Pulkovskaya Hotel is a comfortable, conference-style hotel offering facilities for tourists and business guests. It is located 3 miles away from Pulkovo Airport, about 5 miles to the heart of St. Petersburg, and close to a Metro station (5-7 minute walk), on a direct line to the heart of the city. The hotel is located in two buildings and has total of 840 guestrooms and suites. For this program, rooms are reserved in Building 2 of the hotel.

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, are nicely furnished, have a small refrigerator, have private baths and standard amenities, including hair dryers. No WiFi service is available in standard rooms but is available in the hotel lobby.

Facility amenities: The Park Inn Pulkovskaya Hotel has a pleasant, newly updated lobby, excellent conference facilities, WiFi service in the hotel lobby, a business center with Internet access, 3 restaurants, several bars, a theater ticket desk, a fitness center with solarium, sauna, swimming pool and a beauty salon (fee applies). The hotel offers various services, employs English-speaking staff and has 24-hour security.

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

Elevator: Yes

Additional nights before: not available
Additional nights are subject to availability and should be booked independently by participants. Note: the rooms for the program dates are reserved in Building 2 of the hotel, which is adjacent to the main building. Please note that this hotel is not located in the city center and is chosen to best fit the program schedule for the first two days in St. Petersburg, which we spend outside the city.


Day Three: Friday, August 30 - Overview of the history of St. Petersburg and the Romanov... 
Overview of the history of St. Petersburg and the Romanov Dynasty/ Tsarskoye Selo/ Defenders of Leningrad Memorial Museum/ evening performance

Note: Walking in a park and a 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 suburb of St. Petersburg) and see a summer residence -- Catherine's Palace -- an elaborate baroque palace built in 1752 by Tsarina Elizabeth to honor the memory of her mother Katarina, first wife of Tsar Peter I. This palace later was rebuilt to become the main summer residence of Tsarina 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, lost, never found, and finally meticulously reconstructed in 2003 by a team of Russian restoration artists.

Lunch: Time for lunch on your own.

Afternoon: In the afternoon participate in an expert-led visit to the Leningrad Defenders' Memorial Museum. See the museum's collection of old documents and photographs and hear the story of the 300-day siege during WWII. Free time at the hotel before the evening event.

Dinner: Dinner

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

Lodging: Park Inn Pulkovskaya Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Type: Cabin

Description: For 10 nights your floating hotel/study site will be your river cruiser. The ship, MS RUSS, run by Vodohod cruise operator, was built in Germany in 1986, and completely refurbished in 2002 and 2007 and freshly painted in 2010, with new carpeting installed in the cabins and all public areas, and with 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 and most of them speak English.

Ship Information: Ship Type 302 – 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: 260 -280. 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, 3rd, and 4th decks. For this program we have reserved cabins with 2 twin lower beds on the 2nd and 3rd decks only. The same cabin types are used for single occupancy as well. Single cabins are usually assigned on 2nd deck. 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, Russia Russia
phone: +011-7 916 641 0623
web: www.vodohod.com

Room amenities: All outside cabins (129 sq. feet) with 2 lower beds, located on the 2nd and 3rd decks; they are air conditioned with large windows, have private facilities, a built-in wardrobe,a table, and a small refrigerator. The 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 the cabins, but electrical outlets are available for hairdryers.

Facility amenities: There is ample sun deck space, a reception area, a gift shop, two bars, a large conference / meeting room, two restaurants, and recreation areas. The ship is fully air-conditioned. The ship has medical facilities and a medical doctor or trained nurse on board. Other services on board include laundry and a hair salon. There are no ATMs and no public phones on board.There is no WiFi service on board. Personal mobile phones suitable for use in Russia are recommended to bring along for possible personal emergency communication. It must be remembered that this ship is comfortable, but it is still a river vessel, 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. In inclement weather all passengers gather inside and attend various activities on board.

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

Additional nights after: n/a
Not available on board the ship

Check out time: 9:00 AM

Day Four: Saturday, August 31 - Visit to Peterhof/free time in the city/transfer to ship/evening free 
Note: Walking up to 2 miles in the Peterhof park. Rest areas are available.

Breakfast: Buffet breakfast at hotel.

Morning: Continue exploring the summer residences of the Romanovs. This morning en route to Peterhof hear the story of Tsar Peter the Great and his stunning summer residence by the Baltic Sea. Have an expert-led walk in the park and enjoy over 120 famous fountains and numerous other constructions here, now beautifully restored. All information is presented by a licensed expert. (note: inside visits 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 your on-board representative. Evening free on board

Lodging: MS RUSS

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Type: Cabin

Description: For 10 nights your floating hotel/study site will be your river cruiser. The ship, MS RUSS, run by Vodohod cruise operator, was built in Germany in 1986, and completely refurbished in 2002 and 2007 and freshly painted in 2010, with new carpeting installed in the cabins and all public areas, and with 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 and most of them speak English.

Ship Information: Ship Type 302 – 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: 260 -280. 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, 3rd, and 4th decks. For this program we have reserved cabins with 2 twin lower beds on the 2nd and 3rd decks only. The same cabin types are used for single occupancy as well. Single cabins are usually assigned on 2nd deck. 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, Russia Russia
phone: +011-7 916 641 0623
web: www.vodohod.com

Room amenities: All outside cabins (129 sq. feet) with 2 lower beds, located on the 2nd and 3rd decks; they are air conditioned with large windows, have private facilities, a built-in wardrobe,a table, and a small refrigerator. The 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 the cabins, but electrical outlets are available for hairdryers.

Facility amenities: There is ample sun deck space, a reception area, a gift shop, two bars, a large conference / meeting room, two restaurants, and recreation areas. The ship is fully air-conditioned. The ship has medical facilities and a medical doctor or trained nurse on board. Other services on board include laundry and a hair salon. There are no ATMs and no public phones on board.There is no WiFi service on board. Personal mobile phones suitable for use in Russia are recommended to bring along for possible personal emergency communication. It must be remembered that this ship is comfortable, but it is still a river vessel, 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. In inclement weather all passengers gather inside and attend various activities on board.

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

Additional nights after: n/a
Not available on board the ship

Check out time: 9:00 AM

Day Five: Sunday, September 01 - City's architectural highlights/Hermitage Museum/free evening  
Note: For city excursions we use air-conditioned motor coaches (whenever possible), with no facilities on board. Rest stops are made. At the Hermitage: walking up to 2 miles and standing in the museum can be unavoidable. Rest areas are available.

Breakfast: Buffet breakfast on board the ship

Morning: Theme of the day: "History and architecture of St. Petersburg". This morning take an expert-led motor coach excursion and learn about the city's architectural and cultural treasures. Stops are made at major architectural sites: the Peter & 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 sites. Drive along 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 the 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 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 activities on board

Lodging: MS 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 RUSS, run by Vodohod cruise operator, was built in Germany in 1986, and completely refurbished in 2002 and 2007 and freshly painted in 2010, with new carpeting installed in the cabins and all public areas, and with 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 and most of them speak English.

Ship Information: Ship Type 302 – 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: 260 -280. 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, 3rd, and 4th decks. For this program we have reserved cabins with 2 twin lower beds on the 2nd and 3rd decks only. The same cabin types are used for single occupancy as well. Single cabins are usually assigned on 2nd deck. 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, Russia Russia
phone: +011-7 916 641 0623
web: www.vodohod.com

Room amenities: All outside cabins (129 sq. feet) with 2 lower beds, located on the 2nd and 3rd decks; they are air conditioned with large windows, have private facilities, a built-in wardrobe,a table, and a small refrigerator. The 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 the cabins, but electrical outlets are available for hairdryers.

Facility amenities: There is ample sun deck space, a reception area, a gift shop, two bars, a large conference / meeting room, two restaurants, and recreation areas. The ship is fully air-conditioned. The ship has medical facilities and a medical doctor or trained nurse on board. Other services on board include laundry and a hair salon. There are no ATMs and no public phones on board.There is no WiFi service on board. Personal mobile phones suitable for use in Russia are recommended to bring along for possible personal emergency communication. It must be remembered that this ship is comfortable, but it is still a river vessel, 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. In inclement weather all passengers gather inside and attend various activities on board.

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

Additional nights after: n/a
Not available on board the ship

Check out time: 9:00 AM

Day Six: Monday, September 02 - Free time in the city/lecture on board/SET SAIL 
Breakfast: Buffet breakfast on board

Morning: Spend this morning on Nevsky Prospekt -- the main street of St Petersburg, center of shopping, commerce, and culture. Consider a visit to the House of Books -- a magnificent art nouveau building -- or consider a visit to a nearby museum of your choice (the Russian Museum, St. Isaac's Cathedral, the Cathedral of the Resurrection, the Ethnography Museum). Transfer to the ship.

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), followed by a Q&A session. Program on board. Welcome cocktail. Meet the ship's crew and staff. SET SAIL

Dinner: Dinner in ship's restaurant

Evening: At leisure to enjoy the on-board activities.

Lodging: MS 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 RUSS, run by Vodohod cruise operator, was built in Germany in 1986, and completely refurbished in 2002 and 2007 and freshly painted in 2010, with new carpeting installed in the cabins and all public areas, and with 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 and most of them speak English.

Ship Information: Ship Type 302 – 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: 260 -280. 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, 3rd, and 4th decks. For this program we have reserved cabins with 2 twin lower beds on the 2nd and 3rd decks only. The same cabin types are used for single occupancy as well. Single cabins are usually assigned on 2nd deck. 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, Russia Russia
phone: +011-7 916 641 0623
web: www.vodohod.com

Room amenities: All outside cabins (129 sq. feet) with 2 lower beds, located on the 2nd and 3rd decks; they are air conditioned with large windows, have private facilities, a built-in wardrobe,a table, and a small refrigerator. The 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 the cabins, but electrical outlets are available for hairdryers.

Facility amenities: There is ample sun deck space, a reception area, a gift shop, two bars, a large conference / meeting room, two restaurants, and recreation areas. The ship is fully air-conditioned. The ship has medical facilities and a medical doctor or trained nurse on board. Other services on board include laundry and a hair salon. There are no ATMs and no public phones on board.There is no WiFi service on board. Personal mobile phones suitable for use in Russia are recommended to bring along for possible personal emergency communication. It must be remembered that this ship is comfortable, but it is still a river vessel, 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. In inclement weather all passengers gather inside and attend various activities on board.

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

Additional nights after: n/a
Not available on board the ship

Check out time: 9:00 AM

Day Seven: Tuesday, September 03 - Mandrogy Village / lecture on board 
Breakfast: Breakfast in ship's restaurant.

Morning: Participate in a presentation on various aspects of life in Russia today, followed by a Q&A session. Arrival in Mandrogy village. Enjoy the Lake region and beautiful nothern forest. Take a stroll in Mandrogy -- a quaint riverside village dotted with wooden cottages (a reproduction of a typical rural Russian settlement). Free time.

Lunch: Lunch ashore

Afternoon: Cruise the 139-mile long Svir River and then along the southern shores of Lake Onega, the second largest lake in Europe and one of the world's purest, then along 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 along the way to admire the sandy and rocky beaches and beautiful shores overgrown with graceful willows, tall alder trees, and stately pines.

Dinner: Dinner in ship's restaurant

Evening: On-board entertainment

Lodging: MS 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 RUSS, run by Vodohod cruise operator, was built in Germany in 1986, and completely refurbished in 2002 and 2007 and freshly painted in 2010, with new carpeting installed in the cabins and all public areas, and with 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 and most of them speak English.

Ship Information: Ship Type 302 – 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: 260 -280. 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, 3rd, and 4th decks. For this program we have reserved cabins with 2 twin lower beds on the 2nd and 3rd decks only. The same cabin types are used for single occupancy as well. Single cabins are usually assigned on 2nd deck. 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, Russia Russia
phone: +011-7 916 641 0623
web: www.vodohod.com

Room amenities: All outside cabins (129 sq. feet) with 2 lower beds, located on the 2nd and 3rd decks; they are air conditioned with large windows, have private facilities, a built-in wardrobe,a table, and a small refrigerator. The 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 the cabins, but electrical outlets are available for hairdryers.

Facility amenities: There is ample sun deck space, a reception area, a gift shop, two bars, a large conference / meeting room, two restaurants, and recreation areas. The ship is fully air-conditioned. The ship has medical facilities and a medical doctor or trained nurse on board. Other services on board include laundry and a hair salon. There are no ATMs and no public phones on board.There is no WiFi service on board. Personal mobile phones suitable for use in Russia are recommended to bring along for possible personal emergency communication. It must be remembered that this ship is comfortable, but it is still a river vessel, 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. In inclement weather all passengers gather inside and attend various activities on board.

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

Additional nights after: n/a
Not available on board the ship

Check out time: 9:00 AM

Day Eight: Wednesday, September 04 - Russian customs and traditions/ wooden architecture of Kizhi Island /... 
Russian customs and traditions/ wooden architecture of Kizhi Island / on-board program

Note: Walking excursion. Comfortable shoes are a must.

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 is 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 Church of the Transfiguration, 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: On-board program.

Dinner: Dinner in ship's restaurant

Evening: On-board entertainment.

Lodging: MS 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 RUSS, run by Vodohod cruise operator, was built in Germany in 1986, and completely refurbished in 2002 and 2007 and freshly painted in 2010, with new carpeting installed in the cabins and all public areas, and with 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 and most of them speak English.

Ship Information: Ship Type 302 – 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: 260 -280. 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, 3rd, and 4th decks. For this program we have reserved cabins with 2 twin lower beds on the 2nd and 3rd decks only. The same cabin types are used for single occupancy as well. Single cabins are usually assigned on 2nd deck. 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, Russia Russia
phone: +011-7 916 641 0623
web: www.vodohod.com

Room amenities: All outside cabins (129 sq. feet) with 2 lower beds, located on the 2nd and 3rd decks; they are air conditioned with large windows, have private facilities, a built-in wardrobe,a table, and a small refrigerator. The 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 the cabins, but electrical outlets are available for hairdryers.

Facility amenities: There is ample sun deck space, a reception area, a gift shop, two bars, a large conference / meeting room, two restaurants, and recreation areas. The ship is fully air-conditioned. The ship has medical facilities and a medical doctor or trained nurse on board. Other services on board include laundry and a hair salon. There are no ATMs and no public phones on board.There is no WiFi service on board. Personal mobile phones suitable for use in Russia are recommended to bring along for possible personal emergency communication. It must be remembered that this ship is comfortable, but it is still a river vessel, 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. In inclement weather all passengers gather inside and attend various activities on board.

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

Additional nights after: n/a
Not available on board the ship

Check out time: 9:00 AM

Day Nine: Thursday, September 05 - 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 in the ship's restaurant

Morning: Attend a presentation on 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 the history of these old settlements and visit the monastery, led by a licensed expert. Goritsy is a small, picturesque village located about 4 miles from the Kirillo-Belozersky Monastery, 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 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 RUSS, run by Vodohod cruise operator, was built in Germany in 1986, and completely refurbished in 2002 and 2007 and freshly painted in 2010, with new carpeting installed in the cabins and all public areas, and with 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 and most of them speak English.

Ship Information: Ship Type 302 – 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: 260 -280. 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, 3rd, and 4th decks. For this program we have reserved cabins with 2 twin lower beds on the 2nd and 3rd decks only. The same cabin types are used for single occupancy as well. Single cabins are usually assigned on 2nd deck. 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, Russia Russia
phone: +011-7 916 641 0623
web: www.vodohod.com

Room amenities: All outside cabins (129 sq. feet) with 2 lower beds, located on the 2nd and 3rd decks; they are air conditioned with large windows, have private facilities, a built-in wardrobe,a table, and a small refrigerator. The 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 the cabins, but electrical outlets are available for hairdryers.

Facility amenities: There is ample sun deck space, a reception area, a gift shop, two bars, a large conference / meeting room, two restaurants, and recreation areas. The ship is fully air-conditioned. The ship has medical facilities and a medical doctor or trained nurse on board. Other services on board include laundry and a hair salon. There are no ATMs and no public phones on board.There is no WiFi service on board. Personal mobile phones suitable for use in Russia are recommended to bring along for possible personal emergency communication. It must be remembered that this ship is comfortable, but it is still a river vessel, 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. In inclement weather all passengers gather inside and attend various activities on board.

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

Additional nights after: n/a
Not available on board the ship

Check out time: 9:00 AM

Day Ten: Friday, September 06 - Lecture on board/ Excursion of Yaroslavl  
Note: Excursion by motor coach and by foot.

Breakfast: Buffet breakfast in the ship's restaurant

Morning: This morning attend a lecture on "Medieval Russia: the reigns of the Rurick Tsars" (presented by an expert), followed by a Q&A session.

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 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 RUSS, run by Vodohod cruise operator, was built in Germany in 1986, and completely refurbished in 2002 and 2007 and freshly painted in 2010, with new carpeting installed in the cabins and all public areas, and with 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 and most of them speak English.

Ship Information: Ship Type 302 – 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: 260 -280. 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, 3rd, and 4th decks. For this program we have reserved cabins with 2 twin lower beds on the 2nd and 3rd decks only. The same cabin types are used for single occupancy as well. Single cabins are usually assigned on 2nd deck. 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, Russia Russia
phone: +011-7 916 641 0623
web: www.vodohod.com

Room amenities: All outside cabins (129 sq. feet) with 2 lower beds, located on the 2nd and 3rd decks; they are air conditioned with large windows, have private facilities, a built-in wardrobe,a table, and a small refrigerator. The 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 the cabins, but electrical outlets are available for hairdryers.

Facility amenities: There is ample sun deck space, a reception area, a gift shop, two bars, a large conference / meeting room, two restaurants, and recreation areas. The ship is fully air-conditioned. The ship has medical facilities and a medical doctor or trained nurse on board. Other services on board include laundry and a hair salon. There are no ATMs and no public phones on board.There is no WiFi service on board. Personal mobile phones suitable for use in Russia are recommended to bring along for possible personal emergency communication. It must be remembered that this ship is comfortable, but it is still a river vessel, 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. In inclement weather all passengers gather inside and attend various activities on board.

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

Additional nights after: n/a
Not available on board the ship

Check out time: 9:00 AM

Day Eleven: Saturday, September 07 - Excusion of Uglich/Captain's Farewell Dinner/ on-board program 
Breakfast: Breakfast in ship's restaurant

Morning: Arrival in the town of Uglich. Walking exursion of the town and its 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 1591 and where the Church of St. Dmitry on the (Spilled) Blood stands today. Located within the kremlin walls is the oldest building in Uglich, the Palace of Tsarevich Dmitry.

Lunch: Lunch on board.

Afternoon: On-board program.

Dinner: Dinner in ship's restaurant.

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

Lodging: MS 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 RUSS, run by Vodohod cruise operator, was built in Germany in 1986, and completely refurbished in 2002 and 2007 and freshly painted in 2010, with new carpeting installed in the cabins and all public areas, and with 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 and most of them speak English.

Ship Information: Ship Type 302 – 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: 260 -280. 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, 3rd, and 4th decks. For this program we have reserved cabins with 2 twin lower beds on the 2nd and 3rd decks only. The same cabin types are used for single occupancy as well. Single cabins are usually assigned on 2nd deck. 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, Russia Russia
phone: +011-7 916 641 0623
web: www.vodohod.com

Room amenities: All outside cabins (129 sq. feet) with 2 lower beds, located on the 2nd and 3rd decks; they are air conditioned with large windows, have private facilities, a built-in wardrobe,a table, and a small refrigerator. The 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 the cabins, but electrical outlets are available for hairdryers.

Facility amenities: There is ample sun deck space, a reception area, a gift shop, two bars, a large conference / meeting room, two restaurants, and recreation areas. The ship is fully air-conditioned. The ship has medical facilities and a medical doctor or trained nurse on board. Other services on board include laundry and a hair salon. There are no ATMs and no public phones on board.There is no WiFi service on board. Personal mobile phones suitable for use in Russia are recommended to bring along for possible personal emergency communication. It must be remembered that this ship is comfortable, but it is still a river vessel, 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. In inclement weather all passengers gather inside and attend various activities on board.

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

Additional nights after: n/a
Not available on board the ship

Check out time: 9:00 AM

Day Twelve: Sunday, September 08 - Informal discussions/ Moscow's architectural highlights/evening... 
Informal discussions/ Moscow's architectural highlights/evening performance

Breakfast: Buffet breakfast in the ship's restaurant

Morning: Attend a round-table discussion on "Russia Today", followed by a 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 during a motorcoach excursion with stops at major architectural and historic sites: Moscow University, Manezh Square, Novodevichi Convent (exterior only), the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, and other important sites, all presented by a licensed expert.

Dinner: Dinner on board the ship.

Evening: Evening performance

Lodging: MS 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 RUSS, run by Vodohod cruise operator, was built in Germany in 1986, and completely refurbished in 2002 and 2007 and freshly painted in 2010, with new carpeting installed in the cabins and all public areas, and with 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 and most of them speak English.

Ship Information: Ship Type 302 – 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: 260 -280. 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, 3rd, and 4th decks. For this program we have reserved cabins with 2 twin lower beds on the 2nd and 3rd decks only. The same cabin types are used for single occupancy as well. Single cabins are usually assigned on 2nd deck. 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, Russia Russia
phone: +011-7 916 641 0623
web: www.vodohod.com

Room amenities: All outside cabins (129 sq. feet) with 2 lower beds, located on the 2nd and 3rd decks; they are air conditioned with large windows, have private facilities, a built-in wardrobe,a table, and a small refrigerator. The 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 the cabins, but electrical outlets are available for hairdryers.

Facility amenities: There is ample sun deck space, a reception area, a gift shop, two bars, a large conference / meeting room, two restaurants, and recreation areas. The ship is fully air-conditioned. The ship has medical facilities and a medical doctor or trained nurse on board. Other services on board include laundry and a hair salon. There are no ATMs and no public phones on board.There is no WiFi service on board. Personal mobile phones suitable for use in Russia are recommended to bring along for possible personal emergency communication. It must be remembered that this ship is comfortable, but it is still a river vessel, 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. In inclement weather all passengers gather inside and attend various activities on board.

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

Additional nights after: n/a
Not available on board the ship

Check out time: 9:00 AM

Day Thirteen: Monday, September 09 - Excursion to the Kremlin compound/free time in the city/evening free 
Note: extensive walking

Breakfast: Buffet breakfast in ship's restaurant

Morning: Drive to the city center. Participate in a field trip to the legendary Kremlin compound led by an expert. Visit the Kremlin grounds inside the Kremlin walls, learn about the medieval history of Moscow and see the intact medieval fortress: the walls, cathedrals and the palace. Take pictures of the legendary Tsar Cannon and Tsar Bell. (expected walking up to 2 miles). .

Lunch: Lunch

Afternoon: Free time. Spend the afternoon in Red Square: have a walk in UNESCO-listed Krasnaya Ploshchad (Red Square), where all rulers of Russia left traces of their reigns. Admire the striking Kremlin Clock Tower, the Lenin 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.

Dinner: Dinner on board the ship.

Evening: Evening free on board to pack.

Lodging: MS RUSS

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day Fourteen: Tuesday, September 10 - Program ends. Departures 
Note: All those 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 provided there is space available on the bus and the departure airport is the same.

Breakfast: Buffet Breakfast on board .

Morning: Check out. Program ends. Transfers to airport.

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 ...
12 nights of accommodations
33 meals: 12 breakfasts, 9 lunches, 12 dinners
5 Expert-led lectures
11 Field trips
5 Performances

Ratings

4.6
Ratings are determined by participant evaluations.

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