Russian Waterways: 14 Days Cruise Tour Enjoy a Grand Cruise from Moscow to St. Petersburg Enjoy a spectacular voyage through the heart of Russia along its colorful and historic waterways. Explore bustling and excitement-packed Moscow, then cruise north and visit the enchanting Golden Ring cities of Uglich, Kostroma and Yaroslavl. Continue along the Volga-Baltic Waterways and through Europe's two largest lakes, Onega and Ladoga to St. Petersburg, one of the world's most beautiful cities, spread over 101 islands and 66 canals. Inclusions Highlights Features Itinerary Dates Inclusions 12 nights cruise accommodations in an outside cabin aboard the Tolstoy All meals onboard; early-riser coffee, buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner Bottled water in every cabin Unlimited quality red & white wines or juice with every dinner on board the ship Cocktail Reception and Welcome Dinner Home visit and meal with a Russian family in Uglich Daily sightseeing programs as outlined in the itinerary Exclusive Ballet Performance at the Hermitage Theater, the Private Theater of the Czars Guest lectures on Russian History, Culture, Art, Politics and Economy On board music performances and Russian Language Classes All transfers with the purchase of cruise & air package All local taxes Special Notes Departures begin May 2007 through September 2007 from $3299.00. Please call for dates, rates and availability.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Depart USA
Board your overnight flight to Moscow.

Day 2 - Arrive in Moscow, Russia
Start discovering the city on your own, before meeting your fellow travelers at the Welcome Cocktail Reception.

Day 3 - Moscow
Today's sightseeing, of Russia's beautiful capital city which was founded in 1147, includes Red Square, St. Basils, the Lenin Hills, Tverskaya, Lubyanka Square (KGB building) and Arbat Street, followed by a visit to the Moscow Metro. Later, in the afternoon, you will visit Tretyakov Art Museum.

Day 4 - Moscow
This morning, your sightseeing continues with a tour inside the Kremlins Walls. Your tour will introduce you to the former royal residence of the Czar and main-centre of the Russian Orthodox faith. You will visit the Armory Museum, Russia's oldest museum, which houses the former royal collection, a wide collection of treasures, including jewels, crowns, armor and the world famous Faberge Eggs and royal carriages. The afternoon is free to explore further.

Day 5 - Uglich
On the banks of the Volga, Uglich was founded by merchants, in 1148. Rich in history you can admire some of Russia's most beautiful churches and cathedrals during your city tour. This will include the Transfiguration Cathedral and the magnificent Church of Dimitry on the blood, with its tragic story of dedication to Ivan the Terrible's son.

Day 6 - Kostroma
Located on the left banks of the Volga River, this Golden Ring city is as old as Moscow and Its picturesque suburbs have long been a source of inspiration for many Russian artists. It was here that the last Imperial dynasty, the Romanovs', came to power. Your tour will include the Ipatiev Monastery, the Museum of Wooden Architecture and much of the 18th century buildings beloved of Catherine the Great.

Day 7 - Yaroslavl
Founded in 1010 by Prince Yaroslav the Wise, it is one of Russia's oldest cities, tracing its roots back to the Viking Russ. The city stretches for miles along the confluence of Volga and Kotorosl rivers. Explore the cities history through its architecture, including the fortified 12th century Transfiguration Monastery and the Church of Elijah the Prophet, home to many beautiful icons.

Day 8 - Goritsy
Goritsy is a peaceful farming town and a typical Russian village. The tour will include the Monastery of St. Cyril on the White lake and the Museum of Icons.

Day 9 - Day 9, Kizhi Island
Kizhi is situated at the north end of Lake Onega and home to some of the most amazing wooden architecture in Russia. Forever linked to Novgorod the Great, the style of architecture reflects its early introduction to Christianity. In 1764 locals built the Church of Intercession, its towering walls and 22 domes without the use of a single nail. The walking tour will include the Museum of Wooden Architecture.

Day 10 - Mandrogui
Mandrogui is a recreated Russian village, built to relive the traditions and crafts of Russia's by gone age. Enjoy some free time strolling around this quaint village and maybe tour the museum of it's locally produced Vodka and even sample some yourself.

Day 11 - St. Petersburg
One of Russia's former capitals, this city rivals Paris or Venice for its romantic image. Dating from the beginning of the 18th century it was built on the express orders and construction direction of Peter the Great. Home to many museums, galleries, Palaces, impressive squares and streets. The sightseeing tour this beautiful city will show you Nevsky Prospect, Palace Square, St. Issacs Cathedral and the battle-cruiser Aurora. Later, tour the Hermitage museum, the former Palace of the Czars, which houses the royal art collection of over 3 million works of art; it is one of the biggest and most impressive art museums in the world.

Day 12 - St. Petersburg
Today you will tour perhaps St. Petersburg's most famous and spectacular Imperial Estate - Peterhof. Nestled on the shore of the Gulf of Finland, the palace was built by Peter the Great initially as a resting place en route to the Imperial naval base. But the Tsar (or Czar) was quick to recognize the attractiveness of the area and masterminded a vast estate intended to rival the famous gardens of Versailles. In your free time absorb the atmosphere of its vibrant cultural life. Tonight explore some more on your own, or come along for an optional folklore show.

Day 13 - St. Petersburg
This morning, stroll along one of the many picturesque canals or join the optional excursion tour to Pushkin and the Palace of Catherine the Great. This evening be our guest at a exclusive Ballet performance at the Hermitage Theatre. The former private theatre of the Czars.

Day 14 - Petersburg
Transfer to the airport for your onward flight.

Travel Dates & Rates, Ask Agent

• Note: From pricing is per person based on double occupancy and does not include airfare. Itineraries are subject to change due to waterways conditions and are at the sole discretion of the captain.

Prices subject to change without notice until time of deposit. All dollar values not denoted as US or CA are in US Dollars.