longjie cruise

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3 天2夜和2天1夜 龍界 游轮海上逍遥游 大促销千万别错过 !!!

Singapore Longjie Cruise 3D2N & 2D1N cruise to nowhere special package !!!

船名                            : LONGJIE CRUISE 龍界 游轮

排水量                        : 18,455　　         

航行速度 / 海里          : 1 8 KNOTS

長度                            : 1 71 . 69 METRES 　　

阔 度                            : 24 . 000 METRES 　

层楼                           : 9　　

船 员                           : 300　　

载 客量                        : 6 00

Cruise facilities （邮轮设备）

左图: Deluxe room 豪华限量客房供给VIP和豪客, 位置在五楼层.

右图: Standard Cabin 标准双人间,  位置在四楼层.

Left picture : Deluxe staterooms measure from 245 sq. feet to 370 sq. feet, and are double the sizes of standard staterooms. Fully occupied with all the features that will simplify your stay, guests can enjoy a variety of practical and convenient amenities as well as a large, flat 20 " LCD plasma television (Deck 5). Right picture: Our contemporary standard staterooms present modern convenience for our passengers. Our staterooms accommodate up to 2 people (Deck 4)

Our Longjie Cruise fair held on Sep, 2007 at Harbourfront  

2天1夜行程包含:

海港税，船票，早， 午 ，晚餐，宵夜，下午茶和2晚住宿邮轮舱(两人一房).

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Tel : 65 - 6534 1378  Fax :  65 - 6534 4218  Email : [email protected]

Hotline enquiry: 96969796 KK Chan  and  Email : [email protected]

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What Are the Longest Cruises You Can Take?

By Sally Macmillan, Sue Bryant

Last updated: July 22nd, 2024

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Our longest cruises—those with itineraries of up to 19 nights—offer a wonderful opportunity to experience a variety of destinations in one memorable vacation. Some of these voyages are repositioning, transpacific or transatlantic cruises, depending on where they are sailing, while others are “one way”, from point to point, rather than starting and finishing at the same port.

You might board your ship in one continent and disembark in another, cross the world’s biggest oceans, and tick off an enviable wish list of different countries along the way. Leisurely days at sea allow plenty of time to make the most of your ship’s restaurants, spas, sporting facilities, and enrichment classes—or relax and do absolutely nothing.

Here’s a selection of our nine longest cruises and where they can take you.

19-Night Tahitian Treasures

Pearl Harbor National Memorial in Honolulu, Hawaii

Board your ship in Honolulu for a memorable voyage across the Pacific Ocean to Sydney in the land Down Under on some of our longest cruise itineraries. If you can spare a few hours before embarking, a visit to the Pearl Harbor National Memorial is a rewarding, if sobering experience.

After five days to enjoy the South Pacific sunshine, you’ll arrive in the lush islands of French Polynesia.  Papeete, the capital of French Polynesia on the idyllic island of Tahiti , is the place to admire vast mounds of tropical fruit at the open-air market and inspect or buy black pearls at the Robert Wan Pearl Museum.

Vaipahi Water Gardens in Tahiti, French Polynesia

There are ample opportunities to snorkel and swim in unbelievably clear tropical lagoons or explore the island’s lush interior. One driving tour of the breathtaking West Coast takes in Polynesian sacred sites, Tahiti’s biggest underwater cave, and a walk through the magical Vaipahi Water Gardens.

Dreamy Moorea is characterized by jagged green mountains and tumbling waterfalls, as well as sparkling black sand beaches. Lush Raiatea, meanwhile, is the place for dazzling white sand beaches, tiny islets, and superb snorkeling.

After more time at sea to soak up the sunshine, you’ll arrive in Tauranga , the location of hot, bubbling mud springs and dramatic geysers.

One of the best things about cruising into Auckland on New Zealand’s North Island is that your ship docks right in the center of town. Many major attractions are within walking distance of the wharf, including the instantly recognizable Sky Tower. Take a trip to the top for panoramic views and, if you’re exceptionally brave, sign up for the 630-foot Sky Jump.

Haruru Falls in Bay of Islands, New Zealand

The Bay of Islands is not only a haven for wildlife lovers and adventure-seekers; it also played a pivotal role in New Zealand’s history. A wonderful way to learn about Maori culture is by joining members of the Ngapuhi tribe on a river trip aboard a traditional war canoe. As you paddle the Waitangi River from the spectacular Haruru Falls, storytellers regale you with tribal tales and local legends.

This epic voyage ends in Sydney . You’ll want to be up early to enjoy the arrival in Sydney Harbour, surely one of the world’s most beautiful approaches to port. Without a doubt, you should extend your stay to explore this dynamic city.

16-Night Galapagos & Machu Picchu Cruise

Quito, Ecuador

Combine the thrill of exploring the extraordinary Galapagos Islands , a volcanic archipelago like nowhere else on Earth, with an in-depth tour to the Inca city of Machu Picchu, Cuzco, and the Sacred Valley.

There are multiple elements to this spectacular adventure, each one unique. Start your journey in Quito, the capital of Ecuador. One of the highest capital cities in the world, it’s surrounded with mountains on all sides, including the cone-shaped stratovolcano, Cotopaxi. Explore the Spanish colonial-era architecture and the cobbled squares of the city center.

You’ll fly to the Galapagos, 600 miles from the coast. Enter a world of active volcanoes, beaches of black, white, green, and sparkling red sand, and an astonishing array of wildlife .

Beach in the Galapagos

Huge colonies of marine iguanas bask on jagged black rocks, while sea lions and their pups are hauled out on what seems like every beach, completely unafraid of humans. You’ll see dragon-like land iguanas, too, as well as Galapagos penguins and all manner of bird species , including blue-footed boobies, pelicans, and frigate birds.

Under the water is a miraculous world of canyons and rock walls teeming with fish in every color of the rainbow. You may see white-tipped sharks circling beneath you, or pop up for breath next to a sea turtle. For many, the Galapagos is a life-affirming expedition.

Machu Picchu, Peru

The final part of your adventure takes you to Lima, the cosmopolitan capital of Peru . From there, you’ll fly to Cuzco, high in the Andes, and travel to the emerald green Sacred Valley.

Visit Ollantaytambo, a colossal Inca fortress. The next day, take a scenic train to Machu Picchu , one of the world’s most iconic sights. You’ll have time in Lima, too, to check out the city’s thriving culinary scene and sample a few pisco sours.

16-Night Bermuda & Spain Transatlantic Cruise

Transatlantic cruises are among our longest cruises. This epic voyage departs from Tampa, Florida and sails to Rome, Italy over 16 nights, calling at four unforgettable destinations en route.

You’ll break the journey at Bermuda’s Royal Naval Dockyard , where you can explore the island’s military history, lounge on those famous pink sand beaches, and perhaps pick up a pair of Bermuda shorts as a souvenir.

Gibraltar, UK

Next, there’s a blissful seven days of crossing the Atlantic, the perfect chance to unwind, enjoy the many activities on board, and watch the rise and fall of the waves.

Your first glimpse of Europe will be craggy Gibraltar , clinging to the south coast of Spain, famed for its military installations and enduring colony of Barbary apes. A visit to the Great Siege Tunnels is one of the best things to do here.

Cartagena, Spain

Next, it’s to Spain, stopping at Cartagena , where a magnificent Roman amphitheater was uncovered in the city center in the 1980s. Once you’ve explored this fascinating site, head for the impressive National Museum of Underwater Archaeology.

Before your cruise ends in Rome , there’s a day in Barcelona, where a highlight is La Sagrada Familia, the astonishing basilica designed by the visionary architect Antoni Gaudí. After your visit here, visit the Picasso Museum, or wander the tangled alleys of the Gothic Quarter, stopping for tapas.

16-Night Panama Canal Cruise

Bridge of the Americas, Panama

Bookended by Los Angeles and Fort Lauderdale, Florida, a Panama Canal cruise is one of the most popular of our longest cruises. In between visiting ports in Mexico, Guatemala, Costa Rica, and the Caribbean, you’ll experience the engineering marvel that is the Panama Canal, as well as enjoy leisurely days at sea.

Los Arcos in Banderas Bay, Puerto Vallarta is an instantly recognizable landmark, a series of granite rock arches, caves, and tunnels, around which the snorkeling is superb. The bay’s 60-plus miles of coastline takes in Los Arcos Marine Park plus an intoxicating mix of beaches, old Spanish colonial districts, and the busy Malecon boardwalk.

From here, you’ll sail to Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala , where you can visit the gorgeous old colonial city of Antigua, famed for its vibrant colors, and learn about coffee on one of the country’s many plantations.

Cloud Forest Reserve in Monteverde, Costa Rica

Costa Rica is renowned for its exotic wildlife, eco-adventures, and rare cloud forests. A trek in Monteverde’s mist-shrouded Cloud Forest Reserve reveals an incredible diversity of lush rainforest, rare tropical plants, dramatic waterfalls, and brightly colored birds and butterflies. The cooler climate makes a refreshing change—just remember to pack a lightweight rain jacket.

Panama Canal

Sailing through the Panama Canal is the centerpiece of this cruise. Connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, the 50-mile, man-made canal opened in 1914 and revolutionized sea journeys by cutting hundreds of miles from the original routes, which took ships all the way around South America.

The vast freshwater Gatun Lake, 85 feet above sea level, forms a major part of the canal. Be sure to be on deck to take in the scene, especially as your ship passes through the enormous locks.

Cartagena, Colombia

Once you’re in the Caribbean, you’ll head to Cartagena, Colombia . This beautifully preserved walled city dates back to the 16th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The best way to explore its many cultural and architectural treasures is on foot, with a guide to fill you in on its fascinating history. Your final two ports of call in Jamaica and Grand Cayman offer a chance to unwind completely on glorious beaches, soaking up the Caribbean sunshine.

15-Night Australia Cruise

Sydney, Australia

Enjoy a leisurely, 15-night voyage from Sydney to Singapore, tracing the east and northern coasts of Australia and stopping in blissful Bali before heading north to Singapore.

Celebrity Solstice will glide out of Sydney Harbour and set a course north for Brisbane , the city’s skyscrapers gleaming in the sunshine of the Gold Coast. Check out some of the world-class art galleries, take a surfing lesson, or visit the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary for a close-up encounter with Australia’s cutest marsupials.

Great Barrier Reef, Australia

Airlie Beach is the gateway to the spectacular Great Barrier Reef , whether you choose to explore on a snorkel trip, a dive, or a glass-bottomed boat. Admire the scenery from the air on a sightseeing flight over exquisite Heart Reef. There are further chances to explore the reef from Cairns, head into the rainforest, or even try whitewater rafting.

There’s a day in Darwin to experience the red rocks and cascading falls of Litchfield Park, learn about Aboriginal culture, and taste the freshest imaginable barramundi.

Bali, Indonesia

Then it’s farewell to Australia as you sail to Bali for an overnight stay. Head inland to arty, spiritual Ubud to visit the Sacred Monkey Forest or fly on a swing high over the emerald rice fields. Admire intricate Hindu temples, or simply sunbathe on Bali’s glorious beaches.

15-Night Portugal to Argentina Transatlantic Cruise

Lisbon, Portugal

Embark on a thrilling Atlantic crossing aboard Celebrity Equinox, setting out from Lisbon , the Portuguese capital. There’s a stop in Tenerife to ascend Mount Teide, Spain’s highest mountain, or join a tapas tasting tour of Santa Cruz, the elegant capital.

You’ll have six blissful days at sea to commune with the mighty Atlantic and look out for whales and dolphins before making landfall at Brazil’s Salvador de Bahia . The city is famed for its colorful center, the whole of which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its magnificent colonial architecture and 300 churches.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Glamorous Rio de Janeiro , the next port of call, needs little introduction. Take the cogwheel railway up Corcovado Mountain to gaze at the colossal Christ the Redeemer statue, or people-watch on the wide sweep of Ipanema Beach.

You’ll then cross the border into Uruguay with a day in Montevideo to feast on steak and red wine. Your journey ends in Buenos Aires, the cosmopolitan capital of Argentina , famed for its tango, passion for football, and legacy of Eva Peron.

14-Night India, Sri Lanka & Thailand Cruise

Immerse yourself in the many cultures of Southeast Asia on an in-depth, 14-night voyage from Mumbai to Singapore on Celebrity Millennium.

You’ll have a day in dreamy Goa to relax under the coconut palms or admire Portuguese colonial architecture before heading south to Cochin. This city was once the hub of India’s spice trade and brims with character. Browse the craft shops in the historic center and snap a shot of the traditional Chinese fishing nets on the beach.

Colombo, Sri Lanka

There’s an overnight stay in Colombo, Sri Lanka , giving you plenty of time to explore the beaches, learn about Buddhism, and admire the architecture of the city center. Hambantota, meanwhile, is the gateway to Bundala National Park, where you could spot elephants, buffalo, and a dazzling array of birds.

Phi Phi Island, Thailand

Thailand enjoys spectacular natural beauty. From Phuket , you could visit Phi Phi Island, with its movie-star looks, or dramatic Phang Nga Bay, dotted with otherworldly, jungle-tufted limestone towers.

Penang is your second overnight stay, where you can sample the multi-layered Malaysian cuisine. Explore UNESCO-protected George Town, where Christian churches sit alongside ornate mosques and Buddhist, Taoist, and Hindu temples.

Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Port Klang, your final stop, offers yet another contrast, with a chance to explore energetic Kuala Lumpur and whizz up the Kuala Lumpur Tower to photograph the city from above.

14-Night Antarctica Cruise

Paradise Bay, Antarctica

Gaze in awe at the most pristine wilderness on earth, the White Continent, on a 14-night adventure from Buenos Aires on Celebrity Equinox.

The excitement mounts in Ushuaia , the world’s most southerly city, with the feel of a frontier town as it’s hemmed in between the snow-draped Martial Mountains and the island-speckled Beagle Channel.

Cape Horn, Chile

You’ll set sail between the rocky islands that make up the scattered jigsaw of Tierra del Fuego to windswept Cape Horn , guarded by a lonely lighthouse. Then, it’s out into the Drake Passage, where you could spot graceful albatross skimming the waves as you keep a lookout for the first icebergs.

Once the white mountains, rock-strewn shorelines, and vast icebergs of Antarctica are in sight, you’ll see all kinds of wildlife, from bustling penguin colonies to giant humpback whales. The landscapes are incredible; huge, creaking glaciers and icebergs shot with sapphire, their undersides a brilliant turquoise.

You’ll pass Elephant Island , where Shackleton’s crew were famously stranded for an entire winter, waiting for help after their ship became trapped in the ice.

Port Stanley, Falkland Islands

There’s more wildlife to admire around Port Stanley , the capital of the Falkland Islands. Encounter penguins and sea lions, learn about the islands’ military history, and stop in one of the British-style pubs. Then, it’s back to Argentina, with a day in Puerto Madryn, one of the world’s top whale-watching spots.

14-night Tokyo to Singapore Cruise

Sensō-ji Temple in Tokyo, Japan

Trace the coastline of east Asia on a two-week voyage from Yokohama, the port for Tokyo , to Singapore on Celebrity Millennium, taking in five countries.

After you’ve explored Japan’s high energy capital, head south to Kagoshima, overlooked by the steaming Sakurajima volcano. Explore ornamental parks, serene gardens, and hot springs before setting a course for Taipei.

From here, take a trip through towering mountain landscapes to Chiufen, a historic village clinging to an impossibly steep slope. Back in Taipei , taste dim sum, learn about herbal medicine, and admire intricate temples.

In Hong Kong , your next stop, there’s an overnight stay, so don’t miss the chance to take a night tour to admire the glittering city lights and browse for souvenirs in Temple Street Night Market.

Hoi An, Vietnam

Finally, you’ll have two exciting days in Vietnam . Wander around the exquisitely pretty town of Hoi An and join a Vietnamese cookery class, or explore the temples and pagodas at Chan May, the former seat of the 17th century Nguyen Dynasty.

In vibrant Ho Chi Minh City , learn about the legacy of the Vietnam War and explore the Cu Chi Tunnels.

Celebrity Eclipse

Ready to plan your escape to sea? Browse itineraries on our website and start planning your time ashore and those long, relaxing days at sea.

Sally Macmillan

Sally Macmillan is a Sydney-based cruise and travel writer. Her cruise-writing career launched in 2008, editing Cruise Passenger magazine, and in 2013 she started writing a page on all things cruise for The Sun-Herald’s weekly Traveller section (‘temporarily’ paused). She has visited all seven continents on 60-plus cruises and her work has appeared in numerous print and digital publications.

Sue has been writing about cruising for 20 years and is lucky enough to have sailed all seven continents. She lives in London, where she is cruise editor of The Times and The Sunday Times newspapers, as well as a freelance contributor to magazines and websites worldwide.

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Life at sea: the longest cruise journeys in the world

With the popularity of cruises growing, some companies are offering increasingly longer journeys to capitalise on this heightened interest. What are the longest cruises available on the market right now?

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The popularity of the ‘grand expedition’ genre of cruise is growing, and with the total number of passengers carried by the cruise industry projected to reach 27.6 million by 2020, several companies are capitalising on this growth by offering longer and longer voyages.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises recently announced its 117-night round-the-world journey aboard the Seven Seas Mariner , setting sail in 2021. But even this mammoth journey is dwarfed by several options already on offer through competing cruise operators.

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Oceania cruises s de rl llc, regent seven seas cruises.

Oceania Cruises, for example, dominates the market. While the company might not have the title of ‘longest cruise’, Oceania has the widest array of journeys available to travellers.

Oceania Cruises: Around the World in 180 Days (180 nights)

Announced for January 2019 aboard Oceania’s Insignia vessel, the Around the World in 180 Days cruise is set to visit 96 UNESCO World Heritage sites, stopping at 90 ports over five continents, with 14 overnight stays.

Playing off Phileas Fogg’s famous adventure contained within Jules Verne’s ‘Around the World in Eighty Days’, Oceania describes the journey as one “perfectly designed for the seasoned traveller”, which invites passengers to “discover a more profound connection with cultures spanning the globe”.

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Oceania Cruises: Connoisseur’s Collection (182 nights)

Described as for the traveller who has “seen it all”, the Connoisseur’s Collection from Oceania is designed to show off parts of the world passengers might not have thought to visit, in addition to the more traditional cruise ports.

As well as San Francisco, Cape Town, Hong Kong and Tokyo, the cruise liner is scheduled to stop at the less-well-known Japanese ports of Oarai, Aomori and Hakodate, as well as Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky in Russia – an area so remote it cannot even be reached by car. The Connoisseur Collection cruise sets sail in late January 2020.

Oceania Cruises: Global Quest (200 nights)

You can travel from Miami to New York in three hours, says Oceania, but you can also do it in 200 days. The Global Quest cruise really is just that – a round the world journey via 40 countries and over 100 unique destinations.

The cruise includes overnight stays in Rio de Janeiro, Cape Town, Singapore, San Francisco, Hong Kong, Kyoto and more, on top of day visits to an even wider array of destinations. Also taking place on-board Oceania’s Insignia mid-sized vessel, Global Quest is set to begin on 8 January 2020.

Viking Cruises: Ultimate World Cruise (244 nights)

Winning the prestigious title for the longest continuous cruise currently available anywhere in the world, the Ultimate World Cruise spans 113 ports in 59 countries, on six continents.

Taking place on-board the Viking Sun – Viking’s newest vessel – the trip is set to begin in London on 31 August 2019, and will mark Viking’s third voyage around the globe. The journey will nearly double the length of any cruise Viking has offered thus far. If the offering feels a touch too long, Viking does offer passengers the option for joining for specific legs of the trip – 127 days for the Viking World Treasures section, or 119 days for the Viking World Wonders leg.

Mundy Cruising: the 357 day package

Despite not being a continuous journey, the 357 World of Travel itinerary offered by speciality cruise-holiday storefront Mundy Cruising in 2017 surely deserves an honourable mention. The package deal promised travel on seven different cruise ships, featuring journeys to seven different continents.

Each leg of the journey was separate, allowing passengers to go home and re-pack, though the longest stints were across South America and Europe, which respectively took 94 and 92 nights.

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Moscow to St. Petersburg River Cruise

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Moscow to Astrakhan River Cruise

Your River Cruise on the luxurious MS Volga Dream takes you from Moscow along Russia’s grand Volga River to the legend that is Volgograd (formerly Stalingrad) and Astrakhan on the Caspian Sea. Along the way, you’ll discover the treasures of Yaroslavl, the oldest city on the Volga, medieval Nizhniy Novgorod and beautiful Kazan, the ancient Tatar capital. We plan our tour carefully to combine the very best of Moscow with a world-class Volga River cruise.

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We love hearing from guests about their time in Russia and one comment often hear is how surprised people are by the Russian capital. We can’t say for certain what people expected but we do know that it’s always far removed from what they imagined! It’s been called a modern metropolis, a cosmopolitan city, an historic gem, an architectural treasure and a cultural powerhouse, among other descriptions. Majestic Moscow has always surprised our guests and left them with lasting and fond memories.

Russia’s famous Golden Ring is an archipelago of historic towns surrounding Moscow. Uglich is one of the oldest and was founded under Igor, the last Varangian prince. It once resisted the Mongol invasion and its ancient walls saw the grisly murder of young Dmitri, son of Ivan the Terrible. The impressive Church of St. Dmitri on the Blood, with its classic onion domes and blood red walls, is a fine example of classic Russian architecture. The tour ends with an enchanting choral concert.

This, the oldest city on the Volga River, and now a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts a wealth of ancient orthodox treasures. The impressive Transfiguration of the Savior, adorned with murals depicting St. John’s apocalyptic visions can be seen in the Spassky Monastery. The Church of St. Elijah the Prophet is decorated with an awe-inspiring selection of rich frescoes. For a real taste of pre-revolutionary Russia, visitors are entertained by a costumed reception at the Governor’s House.

Close to the shores of White Lake once were the ‘tsar’s fishing grounds’. It lies in a place so serene that ancient monks chose to build no fewer than three holy sites here, including the Ferapontov Monastery. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, its chapels boast magnificent frescoes by Dionysius, one of Russia’s most renowned icon painters. The Kirillo-Belozersky Monastery was a refuge for many nobles during tumultuous times and later a fortress that successfully repelled invading armies.

The Karelia region is a vast and naturally beautiful wilderness that spreads all the way from St. Petersburg to the Arctic Circle. The glorious island village of Kizhi consists almost entirely of the traditionally styled wooden buildings of ‘Old Russia’. Among them is the famous Transfiguration Church built in 1714. Remarkably, and in testament to the craftsmen of the time, not a single nail was used in its construction! Kizhi is one of the favorite stops on the river cruise to St. Petersburg.

A typical rural hamlet brought to life by warm and welcoming villagers. Volga Dream guests are invited into local homes to enjoy classic Russian fare, tea with jam and ‘pirozhki’ (pies). Enthusiastic hosts share Russian traditions and the appeal of village life while proudly showing off their scrupulously kept homes and kitchen gardens. The tour continues with a brief bus ride to see a unique World War II memorial and then, for a real glimpse of Russian life, a visit to a local primary school.

Nizhny Novgorod

This was once a wealthy city thanks to its proximity to rich eastern trading routes. During the Soviet era, the city was closed to outsiders because of its military importance. It’s also where many political prisoners were sent to live out their days in exile. The 16th-century Kremlin ramparts offer spectacular views and the city is known for its elaborately decorated churches. For Volga Dream cruise guests, the highlight of the day is an evening folk concert performed by local children.

Sailing along the Volga river, the riverbank gradually ceases to be dominated by Orthodox churches. Instead, beautiful mosques appear as the river crosses into Tatarstan where the first stop is scenic Kazan, the region’s capital. Inside the white walls of the citadel, the famous Kul Sharif mosque and the old Cathedral of Peter and Paul stand side-by-side symbolizing the two faiths’ long and peaceful coexistence in the region. A concert of traditional Tatar music ends the Volga Dream tour in Kazan.

Passing the Zhigulevskie Mountains offers wonderful views from the sundeck before touring the city. One of the key attractions is the fascinating Space Museum, which offers a revealing glimpse of how the Soviet Union pursued its ambitious journey to the cosmos. The town is also noted for its beautiful esplanade, perfect for a relaxed stroll beside the Volga river. This in turn leads to the Samara State Art Museum. Founded in 1897, it is home to a collection of more than 16,000 works of art.

This city is best known for its close associations with cosmonaut, Yuri Gagarin. The Russian hero who achieved worldwide fame as the first man in space lived and studied here. Saratov used to be home to a large German community, a heritage that can still be seen in the local architecture. The Volga Dream tour visits the Radishchev State Art Museum, the first picture gallery in Russia outside Moscow and St. Petersburg.

Originally called Tsaritsyn, the city was renamed Stalingrad from 1925 to 1961 in honor of the USSR’s leader. During World War II, the city’s residents put up a heroic defense, repelling an advancing Nazi invasion. The battle for Stalingrad has gone down in history as a pivotal moment in the bloody conflict on the eastern front. The most ferocious and deadly fighting took place on Mamayev Hill, where an imposing memorial now stands close to the excellent Battle of Stalingrad Panorama Museum.

Saint Petersburg

If Moscow surprises, then St Petersburg delights. Peter the Great founded the city to showcase Russia’s newfound enlightenment. He wanted to show the modern world a cultured and advanced society. In short, he built the city to impress and in that he succeeded splendidly! The striking buildings were designed by some of the finest architects Europe had to offer and even now, the ‘Venice of the North’ never fails to enchant with its spectacular buildings and impressive canal network. It is a city of true grandeur.

Cocktails with the Captain

Commanding any ship is a complex role that calls for a long list of skills. Captains know their vessels inside out as well as well as the routes they sail and when things don’t go to plan, they have to make instant decisions. Above all though, the most important part of the job, underpinning everything they do, is to keep the ship and everyone aboard safe. The Captain’s cocktail party is a great and a wonderful opportunity for passengers and crew to get acquainted as the gets underway.

Matryoshka doll painting

There is nothing more typically Russian than a Matryoshka. It embodies the fact that there’s always something deeper to be found in every aspect of Russian life. Learning the traditional designs and techniques used to decorate these iconic dolls offers a pleasant diversion and some cathartic creativity!

Superb Service & Dining

Our restaurant serves the highest standard of international cuisine, freshly made by our Cordon Bleu Chef. Choose either a sumptuous buffet or set menu for lunch while dinner is always four or five courses with full service. High praise for the exquisite quality of meals is yet another constantly recurring feature in feedback from our guests.

Meet the Professor

From the Mongol hordes to Soviet times, Russia’s history is, like all of Europe’s, a complex web of political intrigue, war and peace, trade and treaties, as well as heroes and villains. Academics devote whole lifetimes to studying Russia’s long past and one of them presents a series of lectures shedding light on everything from Gorbachev to Chekhov, Khrushchev to Ivan the Terrible and of course, contemporary Russia. Our Professor is on board throughout the river cruise for informal conversation.

Beginner’s Russian

The Russian language can be rather beautiful and poetic and we know that many seasoned travelers enjoy trying their hand at different languages. Our onboard teachers provide an introduction to the riches of Russian, so guests can try out a few useful words and phrases on real Russians during the exciting river tours from Moscow to St. Petersburg or from Moscow to Volgograd!

Russian tea tasting

The drink we tend to associate with Russia is vodka, but tea, in fact, is the much more universal beverage of choice throughout the country. Guests will get acquainted with the Russian tea etiquette, a fundamental component of the country's social culture, and enjoy the traditional tea ceremony while cruising from St. Petersburg to Moscow or taking a Grand Volga river tour.

Russian Dinner & Vodka Tasting

All our dining is international but for Russian Dining night, the Chef includes a selection of traditional Russian dishes: Chicken Kiev, Kulebyaka and no Russian table is complete without Borsch. To add to the ‘Taste of Russia’ optional Russian dress, or at least a touch of Russian style, is provided along with enthusiastic help from our staff!

Russian Cooking Class

A plate of pelmeni might not look like much to the untrained eye, but it forms the heart of Russian cuisine and culture. Basically, it's a type of dumpling: small portions of meat and onion wrapped in a thin sheet of unleavened dough and boiled, a little like ravioli. Guests can join a Russian cooking class onboard the MS Volga Dream to learn how to cook this delicious Russian dish.

Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninov Piano Recital

Some of the greatest classical music ever written comes from Russia. It’s hard to imagine a more fitting stage for a virtuoso solo recital by our resident concert pianist than the mighty Volga or a better backdrop than the heart of Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninov’s own serene homeland.

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MS Volga Dream is Russia’s only family-owned river cruise ship. She can accommodate up to 100 guests, far fewer than most other cruise ships on the river making for a uniquely friendly and intimate atmosphere aboard.

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We at Volga Dream are completely convinced that, our guests should stay in great 5-star hotels in Moscow and St. Petersburg within comfortable walking distance of all the major attractions, theaters and restaurants, rather than having to waste time in traffic.

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The MS Volga Dream is the most intimate and elegant 5-star cruise vessel in Russia. She boasts 56 cabins, all river facing, ranging from comfortable Standard Cabins to spacious Junior Suites and the luxurious forward facing Owner's Suite.

Russian Cultural Experience

Explore Russia's past with the help of professional tour guides. Our on-board program includes fascinating talks on Russian history and politics, Russian language lessons, a festival of Russian cuisine (including vodka tasting!), and much more.

Gourmet Dining

Our on board restaurant serves international cuisine to the highest standard, all freshly made by our Cordon Bleu Chef. For Russian Dining night, he prepares a selection of traditional Russian dishes: Chicken Kiev, Kulebyaka and Borsch.

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Russian River Cruise – Waterways of the Tsars

Updated December 14, 2017

// By Margherita

Back to Russia! Did you follow our Russian river cruise in August and September? We travelled between Moscow and St Petersburg on the Waterways of the Tsars Viking River Cruise – here’s what we got up to!

We both share a deep connection with Russia. I was named after the heroine of Master and Margarita , one of the best Russian books of the 20th century. Nick is actually of Russian ancestry – his maternal great-grandparents were from St Petersburg, and spent the best part of 50 years wandering around Europe escaping wars and revolutions, before settling in Australia .

Russia has been at the top of our travel dreams for several years , but somehow something always came up whenever we made plans to visit. Once we couldn’t get a visa on time. Another time we couldn’t get time off. Winter is too cold, summer is too hot.

This year, Russia was one of our travel resolutions . Our desire was for the trip to be special – something different from what we’d done so far. We wanted a higher level of comfort, help with visa arrangements, and a trip that would help us understand the country we longed to visit for so many years . The Waterways of the Tsars river cruise with Viking ticked all boxes, so we made arrangements for a departure from Moscow in late August.

Things to Know Before a Russian River Cruise with Viking

When we announced our friends we would be travelling on a Russian river cruise , some of them were really surprised. A CRUISE? You guys are such hardcore independent travellers! What are you doing ON A CRUISE with all those OLD PEOPLE? True, the average age on a Viking river cruise might be a fair bit higher than 35 – but really, who is to say we wouldn’t enjoy the experience?

This awesome post by One Modern Couple  really nails the point – a Viking river cruise is an experience that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. In their words ‘River cruises are cultural, experiential, educational and scenic. Enjoy the ride, take in the surroundings, learn about the countries you are visiting – from history to local life, food to language – and experience the destinations in a thoughtful way.’ 

Whether you’re 30, 60 or 90, it doesn’t really matter.

Secondly,  who’s to say that travelling in a group is not ‘real’ travel? We have always been (and continue to be) lovers of independent travel, but sometimes you just can’t beat the insights given to you by a local guide . Viking River Cruises offer plenty of guided tours included in the cruise price, all led by experienced local guides.

Meals were always excellent – breakfast and lunch included a combination of buffet and à la carte specialties, while dinner was always à la carte. Every day we were given the choice to sample some Russian specialties, like beef stroganoff, borsch, pelmeni, solyanka and lots of delicious desserts.

Another great plus of a Russian river cruise with Viking is that during sailing time lots of cultural activities are on offer – things like cooking demonstrations, Russian language lessons and lectures about Russian history and culture, led by the local tour escorts who were with us for the whole duration of the trip. On top of that, every day we received a briefing detailing the following day’s activities, optional excursions and that night’s menu.

Whenever we passed points of interest on the boat, such as Mother Volga statue or the sunken Kalyazin Cathedral, we were always called out on the loudspeaker to make sure we wouldn’t miss them. There was no pressure to join in any of the activities – we could spend the whole day chilling on the deck or on our veranda, looking at the beautiful colourful churches built on the riverbank, surrounded by nothing but nature.

Waterways of the Tsars – the Itinerary

The Waterways of the Tsars cruise is 13 days long, starting either in Moscow or in St. Petersburg . Most Russian river cruises had always been described to me as ‘Volga Cruises’ – in fact, our boat cruised along a variety of waterways, including the Moscow Canal, the Volga-Baltic Waterway, the Rybinsk Reservoir, Lake Onega and Ladoga (the two largest lakes in Europe) and the Neva River (the shortest in Europe!)

Here’s a map to give you an idea of the route.

Days 1-4 Moscow

Three days were barely enough to get an idea of how amazing Moscow is. Our days were packed from morning to night with tours and activities – from visiting Moscow must visits like Red Square, the Kremlin, the Moscow Metro and the Arbat, to quirky locations like the Museum of Cosmonautics , located in one of Moscow’s best districts for Communist architecture (one of our passions!)

Even though our itinerary was packed full, we managed to spend half a day touring Moscow independently , visiting some of the sights mentioned in The Master and Margarita – Patriarch’s Ponds, both Bulgakov Museums and Sparrow Hill. Let’s just say that we need to get back to Moscow soon to explore more! Meanwhile, here’s our things to do in Moscow for first timers article, detailing our Moscow visit with Viking.

Day 5 Uglich

After setting sail from Moscow, our first stop was Uglich , a cute town on the Volga River, famous for its pretty churches and for being the location of one of the darkest chapters in Russian history .

After the death of Ivan the Terrible, his youngest son and heir to the throne Dmitry was exiled to Uglich, where he was murdered at the age of 10. Suspicion fell on the tsar’s chief advisor, but Dmitry’s cause of death (i.e. throat slitting) was ruled to be an accident. This episode started a period of political unsettlement, that ended with the start of the Romanov dynasty.

We spent an afternoon around Uglich , starting with a home visit of a local family where we had the chance to try homemade grain vodka (the best we’ve had in Russia) and a variety of pickled vegetables, tea and cakes. Then, we toured the Kremlin – the word ‘kremlin’ actually means fortified city, and several Russian cities have one. Moscow’s Kremlin just happens to be the best known!

Day 6 Yaroslavl

The following morning we reached Yaroslavl , a much larger city compared to Uglich. It looked like the perfect Russian city – large enough not to get bored (there was even a cat cafe!) but small enough not to get frustrated with the traffic and crowds found in Moscow or St. Petersburg.

Our Yaroslavl visit was centred around four points of interest . The centre of Yaroslavl is located on the Strelka, a promontory formed at the confluence of the Volga and Kotorosl rivers. Our first stop was the covered market , where we tasted some local products, and then we headed to the Church of Elijah the Prophet , where we had a guided tour (and played with some cute cats). Afterwards, we visited the Governor’s Mansion , now an art gallery. We were welcomed by some beautiful ladies in period costumes, and treated to a music concert. Our final stop was the Yaroslavl Kremlin , where we admired the façade of the Dormition Cathedral, destroyed by the Bolsheviks and rebuilt and reopened in 2010 in time for Yaroslavl’s millennium celebrations.

Before heading back to the ship, we stopped at the lookout over the Millennium of Yaroslavl Park at the end of the Strelka – the flowerbed right in the centre displays a bear (Yaroslavl’s coat of arms) and the city’s age – 1006 at the time of our visit. Looking good!

Day 7 Kuzino

Kuzino is a small village in in the middle of nowhere – we visited on a chilly and rainy morning, to visit the stunning Kirillo-Belozersky Monastery , the largest in Europe. The Monastery is surrounded by walls and located on the shores of Severskoye Lake, with waters so pure that boat traffic is prohibited.

Kirillo-Belozersky was founded at the end of the 14th century, and had its heyday between the 15th and 17th century, when Russia’s tsars and noblemen (including Ivan the Terrible!) paid frequent visits and showered the monks with icons and precious gifts. Luckily the Bolsheviks spared the monastery from destruction, turning it into a museum instead. The day we visited was the feast of the Assumption and the churches were crowded with locals, but we had a lovely guided tour of the museum and time to appreciate its beautiful icons.

Day 8 Kizhi (Sailing)

Whenever travelling, you always need a plan B. Autumn was well on its way by the time we reached the northernmost section of our cruise, and we were held at a lock for the best part of one night due to thick fog . This meant we had to sail the whole day and miss out on Kizhi , a tiny island on the northern side of Onega Lake, famous for its spectacular wooden churches.

We were all disappointed when boat staff made the announcement – personally, Kizhi was one of the stops I was looking forward to the most, after reading about it on the Guardian and knowing that the site is very difficult to visit without a river cruise. However, we didn’t mind too much because we were both suffering the consequences of the previous night’s vodka tasting , organised by Frank, the hotel manager who also happened to be a real vodka connoisseur!

Viking staff were really amazing at keeping us busy during the sailing day with activities like guided tours to the wheelhouse, the room where the captain and sailors pilot the ship.

Day 9 Mandrogy

The last stop before reaching St. Petersburg was Mandrogy , a village on the banks of the Svir River, built in 1996 as a replica of a village destroyed during WW2. A Russian businessman had the idea of ‘rebuilding’ Mandrogy to provide a stop to river cruise passengers before reaching St. Petersburg. So, the village is not actually ‘real’ – it’s more of an open air museum. Cute little painted houses were built around a little forest, with people in traditional dress showcasing traditional crafts and selling souvenirs.

Those in search of souvenirs loved Mandrogy – the quality of matrioshka dolls, icons and other handicrafts was far higher than anywhere else we had been. We are not into souvenirs, but if there was a place to get something, Mandrogy would be it. The village was pretty, but it felt a bit fake for us – kind of like a tourist amusement park. Which in a way, it is.

However, we did enjoy Mandrogy for two reasons – the first was the chance to attend matrioshka painting workshop  where we decorated our own matrioshka dolls. That’s the best kind of souvenir in my opinion! The second was the delicious piroshki place where we had some delicious buttery pastries filled with green onion and egg. Just ask Viking staff and they’ll point you the way to the piroshki place!

Days 10-13 St. Petersburg

After 6 days spent cruising, covering a distance of 1800 kilometers, we made it to Saint Petersburg . We had three gorgeous sunny days, and the city dazzled us with its beauty and artistic wealth – after all, it’s UNESCO-listed ! There’s no way I can convey everything we saw and did in three days in just a couple of paragraphs, so watch this space – a St. Petersburg article is coming soon!

There are several St. Petersburg experiences already included by Viking in the tour price – a visit to the Hermitage Museum, a ballet performance, a visit to Catherine Palace in the village of Pushkin and a St. Petersburg city tour, either on foot or by bus. On top of that, we also joined some optional tours – a river cruise, a morning tour to amazing Peterhof Palace and my very own favourite, a Cossack performance!

Things to Know Before Travelling to Russia

• Make sure you sort out your Russian Visa on time . Viking Cruises helps with an invitation letter that you can use to apply for your own Russian visa at your closest consulate – the process is pretty straightforward, provided you are applying in your own country, and takes approximately 2-3 weeks.
• You can also ask Viking to sort out your Russian visa for an additional charge . This is especially convenient if you live in the US or if your hometown doesn’t have a Russian consulate.
• River cruises of Russia only run between April and October, when the waterways are not frozen. The weather can be change dramatically between Moscow and Saint Petersburg , the latter usually being much colder than the former. Make sure you check the weather reports before packing!
• English isn’t widely spoken around Russia , not even in the main cities. If you’re planning to spend some time travelling independently, learning a bit of Russian is a VERY good idea. The Russian language classes we had on board came in very handy!
• Russia’s currency is the rouble , which fluctuates quite a bit. Larger cities are full of moneychangers, and some souvenir shops (like those in Mandrogy) also accept euro and USD.

We would like to thank Viking Cruises for having welcomed us aboard the Waterways of the Tsars cruise.

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2 thoughts on “Russian River Cruise – Waterways of the Tsars”

Truly amazing place & photography! I loved the view of church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, looks awesome. I enjoyed reading. Thanks for sharing your experience.

Thank you for reading! It was a fab trip!

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Viking Longships Tour

With their innovative patented design, al fresco Aquavit Terrace and understated elegance, Viking Longships provide the most rewarding way to explore Europe. Find out more on this short tour.

Viking Onboard Experience

Tour our stylish ships, designed with understated elegance and comfort in mind. Spacious staterooms, indoor and outdoor dining venues and panoramic views enrich your travel experience.

The Original Longships

Delve into the past for a look into the art of building a Viking longship. Meet a master boatbuilder and learn about the role these vessels played in Viking society centuries ago.

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2024-2027 RIVER CRUISE AND AIR FARES:  Offer applies to bookings made from August 1-31, 2024. Terms & conditions for select promotions may vary. $25 deposit is applicable to all River itineraries. Special fares plus up to FREE International airfare valid on select departures of Grand European Tour, Lyon Provence & the Rhineland, European Sojourn and Capitals of Eastern Europe, Paris to the Swiss Alps, Cities of Light, London DDAY & Paris, Rhine & Main Explorer. Airfares may vary on other gateways & departures. Airfare does not have to be purchased to get cruise\cruisetour offer. All prices are in US dollars and for US residents only. Additional restrictions may apply. 2024 : Pay in full by August 31, 2024 or at time of booking if within 120 days of departure. 2025 : Pay in full by September 30, 2024. 2026 : Pay in full by March 31, 2025. 2027 : Pay in full by November 30, 2025. Offers expires August 31, 2024.

$25 DEPOSIT:  $25 DEPOSIT: For itineraries 35 days or less, a $25 deposit applies to January 2025 & onward departures; for itineraries greater than 35 days, a $25 deposit applies to March 2025 & onward departures; World Cruise products excluded; call for details.

AIR UPGRADE:  Upgrade to Premium Economy air from $799 per person or Business Class air from $3,499 per person based on select gateways and dates. Additional airline-imposed baggage charges may apply; for more information visit  Airline Luggage Restrictions  . Air prices are per person based on cruise/cruisetour check-in date and include transfers plus all government taxes/fees of approximately $160 and air fuel surcharges. Air seats are limited; airfares are subject to change and are not guaranteed until full payment of air is received. For more information about customized air services and US gateways, visit the Viking Air Plus page.

GENERAL RESTRICTIONS:  Cruise fares listed are cruise only in U.S. dollars, per person, based on double occupancy. Single supplement savings are off applicable rates. Cruise fares listed are valid for U.S. residents only. All fares and offers are for new bookings only and are subject to availability, may not combinable with other offers except Viking Explorer Society Travel Credits and Viking Referral Rewards, are capacity-controlled and may be withdrawn at any time without prior notice. Special fares are based upon published full brochure fares; cruise fares do not include pre-paid charges, optional facilities, and personal charges, as defined in the terms and conditions of the  Passenger Ticket Contract  which may be viewed elsewhere on this website. Full brochure fares may not have resulted in actual sales in all stateroom categories and may not have been in effect during the last 90 days. Promotional fares may remain in effect after the expiration date. Air promotion applies to roundtrip flights only from select Viking Cruises U.S. gateways and includes airport-to-ship or hotel transfers, air taxes and air fuel surcharges. Roundtrip airport transfers are included when air is purchased with a cruise or cruisetour package; if air is not purchased from Viking, transfers may be purchased separately. All transfers must be in conjunction with a Viking-purchased cruise, cruisetour, land extension or extra hotel nights. Viking reserves the right to correct errors or omissions and to change any and all fares at any time. For up-to-date prices, please call Viking or your Travel Agent. Additional terms and conditions may apply. Complete terms and conditions may be found in the  Passenger Ticket Contract .

AIR OFFER RESTRICTIONS:  Offer expires August 31, 2024.

NOTE: U.S. flights depart one day prior to check-in date. Paid Business or Premium Economy Class may require travel in economy on flights within North America or Europe. Premium economy is limited to specific airlines and we may not be able to accommodate based on aircraft type and availability. Roundtrip airport transfers are included when air is purchased with a cruise or cruisetour package; if air is not purchased from Viking, transfers may be purchased separately. All transfers must be in conjunction with a Viking-purchased cruise, cruisetour, land extension or extra hotel nights. Air prices are per person based on cruise/cruisetour check-in date and include transfers plus all government taxes/fees of approximately $160 and air fuel surcharges. Air seats are limited; airfares are subject to change and are not guaranteed until full payment of air is received.