Volga Dream (Cruise and Hotel Packages)

Cruise and Hotel 'Gold' Package - Moscow to St Petersburg (12 Days)

The Volga Dream has been sailing the vast network of Russian waterways since spring 2007. This elegant ship originally carried 200 passengers but was totally rebuilt and now accommodates just 100, making it one of the smallest and most intimate ships on the river. The result of this overhaul is a splendid and spacious vessel which offers the most superior accommodation and services in the region. Guests will enjoy a relaxed cruise in her well-appointed cabins all of which offer individually controlled air-conditioning and heating, direct dial telephone, satellite flat screen television and minibar. On board facilities include a single sitting dining room where complimentary wine is served with lunch and dinner, a luxurious lounge and bar, fitness centre, sauna, massage, library, internet access and many more.

Info

Embark

A transfer from Moscow Airport to the hotel is included and embarkation of the Volga Dream is in Moscow on day 3.

Day 1: Moscow

Upon arrival at Moscow Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel, where you will spend the next two nights. If you wish the rest of the day can be spent exploring Moscow or relaxing after your flight.

Day 2: Moscow

This morning, take an orientation tour of Moscow with a ride on Moscow’s famous metro. After lunch in a local restaurant, the afternoon will be spent at the world-famous Tretyakov Art Gallery which houses the largest collection of Russian art, from early icons to Russian avant-garde works.

Day 3: Moscow

This morning you will enjoy a half day guided tour of Moscow including a visit to the Kremlin to see the Assumption and Archangel Cathedrals and the Armoury Museum, which dates back to 1485. After lunch you will transfer to the luxurious Volga Dream to begin your journey on the Russian waterways. Your Captain will host a welcome reception and dinner as you begin your cruise.

Day 4: Uglich

Today’s port of call is one of Russia’s most beloved towns, Uglich. Here you will visit the Church of St Dmitry and the five-domed Church of the Transfiguration, noted for its beautiful iconostasis. Enjoy a concert of choral music in Uglich before boarding the ship to continue your journey.

Day 5: Yaroslavl

The oldest city on the Volga River, Yaroslavl has many churches dating from the 13th to 17th centuries, including the Savior Transfiguration Monastery and 17th century Church of Elijah the Prophet with frescoes painted by renowned artists of ancient Russia.

Day 6: Goritsy

Today you will cruise the White Lake, once known as the “Tsar’s fishing grounds” before mooring in Goritsy. Take a tour of the Kirillov Belozersky Monastery, founded in 1397. The monastery contains the 13th-century Cathedral of the Assumption, which is famous for its superb frescoes. A late lunch will be served on board the Volga Dream.

Day 7: Kizhi

Enjoy the scenery today as the Volga Dream cruises across beautiful Lake Onega. You will arrive on the tiny island of Kizhi for a tour which will take you into the open air Museum of Architecture and the Church of the Transfiguration, the ultimate in Russian fairytale architecture.

Day 8: Mandrogi

Spend a relaxing day cruising along the Svir River with its densely forested banks and small settlements. In the afternoon the ship docks at the picturesque wooden village of Mandrogi where you can enjoy a brief experience of daily life in this unique setting.

Day 9: St Petersburg

This morning the Volga Dream arrives in the captivating city of St Petersburg where you disembark for an orientation tour, including a visit the Peter and Paul Fortress, a family shrine of the Romanovs. After lunch visit the famous Hermitage Museum. Each of the four hundred rooms contain exquisite works of art, including a collection by the French impressionists. After the tour, check in to your hotel for a three night stay.

Day 10: St Petersburg

Today begins with an excursion out to Peterhof. Known as the 'Versailles of Russia’, Peterhof is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit authentic Bath Cottage and the vast Lower Park with its 176 fountains and four cascades before returning to St Petersburg.

Day 11: St Petersburg

This morning you will be taken to Pushkin for a visit to Catherine’s Palace, named after Catherine I, the wife of Peter the Great, who ruled Russia for two years following her husband's death. Here you can stroll through the gardens and visit the restored Amber Room. Lunch will be held in a tradition Russian log house where you can enjoy a vodka tasting session.

Day 12: St Petersburg

After a final breakfast in the hotel, it is time to check out and take your transfer back to the airport in St Petersburg.

Disembark

Services end in St Petersburg and a transfer from the hotel to the airport is included.

Includes

Arrival and departure transfers in Moscow and St Petersburg
6 Nights' accommodation on board the Volga Dream on a full board basis
2 Nights' accommodation at the Mariott Royal Aurora (or similar) in Moscow on bed and breakfast basis
3 Nights' accommodation at the Hotel Kempinski Moika, or similar, in St Petersburg on bed and breakfast basis
All lunches in Moscow and St Petersburg
House wine and soft drinks with lunch and dinner on board the Volga Dream
Sightseeing and excursions as detailed in the itinerary
Full programme of activities and entertainment on the ship
Port taxes