YOUR ITINERARY
(A) St. Petersburg to Moscow

Day 1: Depart USA. Your fascinating voyage to Russia begins as you depart New York this evening on your overnight flight.

Day 2: Arrive St. Petersburg. Today arrive St. Petersburg, one of Europe’s most magnificent cities, often called “Venice of the North”. You’ll be met at the airport and escorted to the pier where you board your riverboat with the balance of the day at leisure to rest and unpack. This evening enjoy dinner onboard followed by an orientation reception. (D) MS Kronstad

Day 3: While docking in St. Petersburg for the next two days, experience the architecture, natural beauty and rich culture of the city. St. Petersburg, the former capital of Czarist Russia, was founded by Peter the Great in 1703. On this morning’s guided tour drive along the famous Nevsky Prospect and see Peter and Paul’s Fortress and St. Isaac Cathedral as well as other city highlights. After lunch, an expert guide leads you on a tour of the priceless art collection presented at the famous Hermitage Museum, located at the Winter Palace. Return to the ship for dinner and overnight. (B,L,D)

Day 4: Optional Palaces Excursion/Depart St. Petersburg. A day at leisure. We recommend a full day optional excursion outside the city to Peterhof Palace, the summer residence of the Czar. It was built to rival Versailles and is surrounded by magnificent gardens. You’ll also visit the impressive Pavlovsk Palace, the riverside summer residence of Paul I containing numerous art masterpieces. Return to St. Petersburg and set sail. (B,L,D)

Day 5: Mondraga. Over the next few days sail along the scenic Volga River en-route to Moscow and get a close-up view of rural and traditional Russia as you make several stops at unspoiled and rarely visited local villages along the river. After a morning of sailing, arrive at the charming town of Mondraga where you tour the vodka museum and delight in an outdoor shashlik barbecue with wine and entertainment! Return to the boat and continue your sail down river. Tonight, a violin ensemble performs for your pleasure. (B,L,D)

Day 6: Kizhi Island. Awake this morning at the fairy tale Island of Kizhi, situated in the northern part of Lake Onega. Kizhi boasts a delightful open-air museum highlighting the picturesque architecture of the region. A guided walking tour will include the Church of Transfiguration, a truly outstanding masterpiece of wooden structure! Back on-board tonight, a folklore concert is included. (B,L,D)

Day 7: Goritzi. Today, stop at the quaint riverside town of Goritzi, typical of the charming villages along the river. You’ll have an opportunity to disembark and explore on foot. Later, you’ll be our guest for a caviar and blini party. (B,L,D)

Day 8: Yaroslavl. Today’s port of call is Yaroslavl, founded in the 11th century. Its main attractions are in the area around the main square anchored by the impressive Governor’s Palace. A guided tour includes the ancient monastery and the Church of Elijah, renowned for its precious frescoes. (B,L,D)

Day 9: Uglich. Today, dock in Uglich, Russia’s second oldest city and one of its most beloved. You’ll have an opportunity to visit the imposing Cathedral and see the fine collection of Russian Orthodox architecture. Tonight, the Captain invites you to celebrate at a Gala Dinner. (B,L,D)

Day 10: Arrive Moscow. Morning arrival in Moscow, the historic Russian capital where your riverboat docks for the next two days. Disembark and enjoy a guided afternoon tour introducing you to the city’s major highlights: Red Square, St. Basil’s Cathedral with its colorful mushroom domes and the Kremlin, the seat of the Russian government and the center of the Russian Orthodox church. Tonight, your Cruise Director may assist in arranging tickets for a mesmerizing performance at the renowned Moscow Circus. (B,L,D)

Day 11: On a guided walking tour of the Kremlin's grounds see the Czar’s Cannon, the 200 ton Czar’s Bell and the architecturally striking Cathedral. Leisure time for independent pursuits and last minute souvenir shopping. You may also wish to visit Moscow's ornate Metro system and stroll along Arbat pedestrian street. (B,L,D)

Day 12: Moscow/New York. After breakfast disembark and transfer to the airport for your return flight. Your memorable journey ends as you arrive New York this afternoon. (B)

• Round trip airfare from New York (JFK) via Finnair
  
• Airline fuel surcharge
  
• 10-nights aboard the first class
  MS Kronstad cruise boat in an outside cabin on the Lower Deck, with private bath
  
• 29 meals: 10 full buffet breakfasts(B), 9 lunches(L), 10 dinners(D)
  
• Comprehensive sightseeing tours and shore excursions
  
• English-speaking tour guides throughout