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7 Best RV Insurance Companies of 2024

Money’s main takeaways.

• RV insurance is essential for both full-time RV living and occasional trips.
• Premiums are based on factors like your driving record and RV type, age and condition.
• Our top picks include Good Sam, National General and Auto-Owners Insurance.

Why Trust Us?

Money’s editorial team has evaluated RV insurance providers since 2016. Our research and analysis take into account customer satisfaction, financial stability, coverage options and availability, among others. Read the full methodology to learn more.

• Reviewed 15+ companies
• Conducted over 1,000 hours of research
• Prioritized coverage, discounts, customer sentiment, the NAIC complaint index and financial stability

Our Top Picks for the Best RV Insurance Companies

• Good Sam – Best RV Insurance Agency
• RVInsurance.com – Runner-Up for Best RV Insurance Agency
• Nationwide – Best for Multiple Discounts
• National General – Best for Full Replacement Cost Coverage
• Progressive – Best for Disappearing Deductibles
• Roamly – Best for Renting Out Your RV
• Auto-Owners Insurance – Best for Customer Service

Best RV Insurance Reviews

• Offers full-timer coverage
• Manage your policy online without agent contact
• Discounts on campsites, gear stores, fuel, and more
• Not a direct insurer

Why we chose this company: Good Sam Insurance Agency is the best option for those who need help selecting coverage. It connects you with some of the best RV insurance companies to help you get the right coverage level for your needs.

Good Sam works with renowned insurance providers like Progressive, Foremost, Safeco, and National General to offer a range of standard coverage options. Additionally, through its partnership with MexicoInsuranceOnline.com, the agency connects clients to Mexico-based insurers and offers tailored add-ons for cross-border travel, whether for single-day or extended stays.

The company also extends a storage discount, allowing policyholders to suspend collision and liability coverage when their RV or trailer remains unused for over 30 days, reducing monthly premiums. Furthermore, Good Sam assists in crafting personalized policies for full-time RVers.

Learn more: Good Sam RV insurance review

See rates on Good Sam’s Secure Website >>

Why we chose this company: RVInsurance.com can help you find a suitable policy, whether you use your RV for vacationing or as your residence.

• Specialists can help you find a policy
• Policies available for all types of RVs

RVInsurance.com works with Foremost, National General and Safeco. These companies cover all RV types, from motorhomes to campers. They offer several policy add-ons, such as full replacement cost, full-timers liability coverage and roadside assistance.

You can get a quote online, but calling to speak with an insurance specialist lets you compare policies in more detail.

See rates on RVInsurance.com’s Secure Website >>

• Free annual reviews to reevaluate coverage and discounts
• Optional towing coverage includes lodging, transportation and meals
• Various policies available for easy bundling and savings
• Many customer complaints about the claims process

Why we chose this company: Nationwide Insurance offers over 10 different discounts, including discounts for staying claim-free during the previous policy period or installing safety devices, like smoke detectors.

Most RV insurers offer discounts, but Nationwide’s list is notably extensive. You can save by bundling your RV policy with home insurance, taking safety courses, joining an RV organization like the National RV Association, paying your annual policy upfront or opting for Nationwide’s full-time RV insurance package.

Note that not all discounts are listed on Nationwide’s website, and some only come up during the quoting process. For example, according to a customer service representative, the company also offers discounts to customers whose vehicles have safety features such as tire-pressure monitoring systems or fiberglass bodies.

Learn more: Nationwide RV insurance review

See rates on Nationwide’s Secure Website >>

• Coverage for specialized equipment like solar panels
• Pause your coverage when your RV is in storage
• Experts help you find a new RV after a total loss
• Low mileage discount
• Eligibility, benefits, coverage and discounts vary per state
• Limited information about policies on its website

Why we chose this company: Full replacement cost coverage can usually only be bought during an RV’s first model year. National General, on the other hand, lets you get the rider within an RV’s first five model years.

With full replacement cost coverage — also called total loss replacement — your RV is replaced with a new or similar one if it’s totaled or stolen, potentially reimbursing you for the original purchase price. This is typically only available for newly purchased motorhomes or travel trailers up to one or two model years old. If you buy a used RV or don’t insure your new one as soon as possible, you risk it being considered ineligible.

With National General, RVs are eligible during their first five model years, regardless of ownership (some companies limit this type of coverage to original owners). It also offers the flexibility to pause coverage during storage, helping you save on premiums while protecting against theft, fires, weather damage, and more.

Learn more: National General RV insurance review

See rates on National General’s Secure Website >>

• Accident forgiveness for claims under $500
• Horse trailer coverage up to $50k
• Pet injury coverage available
• Add-on coverage available for roof malfunction
• Standard plan excludes personal property and emergency expenses
• Rates differ based on whether you buy online or through an agent
• Discounts aren't available in all states

Why we chose this company: Progressive offers disappearing deductibles, accident forgiveness and an extensive array of discounts.

With Progressive, you can save on premiums if you’re the RV’s original owner or pay your policy in advance, among other discounts. However, Progressive stands out from competitors because it offers both disappearing deductibles and accident forgiveness.

Unlike competitors, Progressive doesn’t cap its diminishing deductible benefit at $500. Instead, it reduces your deductible by 25% each claim-free period, up to $0 after four periods. While it costs extra, the feature is included with comprehensive and collision coverage for vehicles valued at $25,000 or more. Accident forgiveness for claims of $500 or less is included at no cost.

See rates on Progressive’s Secure Website >>

• Specializes in RV insurance
• Coverage even when renting out your RV
• Policies for full-time RVers are available
• Covers Canada rentals
• Only offers RV policies

Why we chose this company: Insurers typically decline coverage if you rent your RV to someone else. With Roamly, you can rent out your RV and still be covered for liability and damage to the vehicle.

Rented RVs require comprehensive commercial insurance due to their higher risk exposure when compared to personal vehicles. Failing to insure your motorhome or camper when renting it out can lead to denied claims, especially if the renter lacks coverage.

With Roamly, your RV remains covered when listed on rental platforms like Outdoorsy (owned by Roamly). Renters booking your RV through Outdoorsy can opt for a renters protection package, including trip protection, interior damage and travel medical insurance. Roamly’s policies cover rented RVs for their actual cash value during the rental period and provide $1 million in liability insurance protection per trip.

Learn more: Roamly RV insurance review

See rates on Roamly’s Secure Website >>

• Premium reduction if RV is equipped with safety features
• Towing and roadside assistance in all 50 states and Canada
• Mobile app for Apple and Android
• No online quotes

Why we chose this company: Auto-Owners is our pick for personalized customer service because of its network of independent agents, online customer center and mobile app. Customers can access claims, billing and other important policy documents on their phone, tablet or computer.

Auto-Owners has an impressive customer service record, with fewer complaints with the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) than most competitors. It also ranked above average in the southeast region in J.D. Power’s 2022 Auto Insurance Customer Satisfaction study.

Unlike other companies, Auto-Owners only sells its insurance products through independent agents. Instead of contacting the company online, you work directly with local agencies that can better advise you regarding specific insurance requirements in your area. For example, bodily injury and property damage liability limits set by law vary by state.

Learn more: Auto-Owners RV insurance review

See rates on Auto-Owners’s Secure Website >>

Other RV Insurance companies we considered

During our research for the best recreational vehicle insurance providers, we narrowed down our initial list to 7 companies. The following didn’t make our final cut, not because they were lacking, but because other competitors had more standout features.

• Covers motorhomes, travel trailers and campers
• Includes roadside assistance, hotel discounts and more
• Coverage for lodging and transportation if your RV is damaged
• Coverage options are not standard across regions
• RV policy not available nationwide
• Limited information available online

AAA offers coverage for different types of RVs and some of its policies also cover personal effects such as electronics. However, it didn’t make our list because it doesn’t offer coverage in all 50 states.

See rates on AAA’s Secure Website >>

• Discount if you transfer from another insurance company
• Discounts for drivers 55 years or older
• Gas price locator to help you find the cheapest gas
• Limited information on company website
• Online quotes not available

Allstate’s policies include emergency travel expenses if you’re over 50 miles from home when your RV breaks down and the issue is covered under the policy. Allstate is not on our main list because it only provides quotes through its sales agents and the information on its website is limited.

See rates on Allstate’s Secure Website >>

• Total windshield replacement deductible is only $50
• Personal effects replacement limits up to $100,000
• Free accident forgiveness after 5+ years
• Offers limited information on its website
• Enhanced RV coverage unavailable in HI, MA, MI and NC
• Total loss replacement coverage availability varies

While Geico offers coverage options comparable to those of other companies on our list (such as total loss replacement, emergency expenses coverage and vacation liability), its policies aren’t available nationwide. Its website also lacks crucial details, such as available discounts.

See rates on Geico’s Secure Website >>

• Loan or lease protection coverage available
• Deductibles diminish by $100 per year up to $500
• Insures motorhomes valued at up to $1 million
• Coverage available for custom equipment
• Only covers vehicles used 250 days or less per year
• Limited information available on website
• No online quotes available

Safeco covers class A, B and C motorhomes valued at up to $1 million, but only if used recreationally. It didn’t make our list because its website doesn’t offer much information and coverage is limited to vehicles used less than 250 days a year.

See rates on Safeco’s Secure Website >>

• Coverage for emergency expenses if camper is damaged or destroyed
• Pays for transportation of damaged RV to storage, repair shop or home
• Full-timer coverage for trailers, motor homes, luxury coaches and more
• Special policies for USAA members
• Not available in DC or Hawaii
• Limited information on website

Foremost, a subsidiary of Farmers Insurance, has policies for full-timers as well as stationary travel trailers. It also covers personal-use motor homes that you occasionally rent, lease or loan. Unfortunately, this policy doesn’t cover the vehicle while it’s rented, leased or loaned.

See rates on Foremost’s Secure Website >>

• Offers storage-only insurance during the off-season
• Policy extends to travel anywhere in Canada
• Insures equipment permanently attached to your RV
• No information regarding discounts

Despite offering coverage in Canada, Farmers Insurance fell short of our list due to limited information regarding specific coverages and discounts on its website . This lack of transparency makes it challenging for consumers to assess the scope and value of its policies.

See rates on Farmers’ Secure Website >>

• Multi-vehicle, safe driver and original ownership discounts
• Coverage for all RV classes, including slide-on campers
• Members get a 5% discount on policies
• Policies only available to military families
• 5% members discount not available in all states

USAA offers RV insurance through an alliance with Progressive, which covers almost all types of RVs. The drawback to USAA’s policies is that they’re only available to military families.

See rates on USAA’s Secure Website >>

Country Financial

• Multi-policy discount
• Mobile app for Apple and Android devices
• Only available through agents
• Operates in only 19 states

Country Financial’s RV insurance policies fall under home or auto insurance. That can be a drawback for consumers who already have a preferred auto or home insurer. Another notable snag in its coverage is that it’s available in only 19 states.

See rates on Country Financial’s Secure Website >>

National Interstate

• Options for RV full-timers
• 25% deductible discount for each consecutive claim-free year
• Windshield replacement coverage
• Coverage for commercial RVs
• Website lacks information about terms and discounts

National Interstate has policy options for RV full-timers and covers commercial RVs. This insurer is not featured on our main list because its website doesn’t provide details regarding policies or discounts.

See rates on National Interstate’s Secure Website >>

The Hartford

• Lifetime guarantee for repairs done in authorized repair shops
• 24/7 claims submission
• RV replacement if it's totaled in the first 15 months
• Only available to AARP members
• Not available in U.S. territories

The Hartford allows policyholders to customize their RV insurance coverage, and its lifetime guarantee for repairs in authorized shops is a highlight of its policies. However, coverage is only available to AARP members, which is a considerable drawback.

See rates on The Hartford’s Secure Website >>

RV Insurance Guide

Like auto insurance, RV insurance offers financial protection for accidents, injuries and other unforeseen events. It can cover repair costs, medical bills and liability expenses if you injure someone or damage their property.

While comprehensive policies covering collision, theft and personal belongings are widely available, occasional RV users may not need such extensive coverage. Read on for information on RV insurance costs, coverage options and tips for selecting the right policy for your needs.

Table of contents

How much is rv insurance, types of rvs, what type of insurance does an rv need.

• What does RV insurance not cover?
• How to buy RV insurance

Renting out your RV

According to Progressive, an RV insurance policy for a travel trailer (an RV you tow behind your vehicle) costs an average of $573 annually. In contrast, coverage for a motorhome costs an average of $958 per year.

The following factors influence the cost of an RV insurance policy:

• The type of RV: Motorhomes are more expensive to insure than trailers (especially those with state-of-the-art components).
• Age and condition: Older trailers and motorhomes cost less to insure due to their reduced resale value.
• Type of RV insurance: A policy with just liability coverage is more affordable than a comprehensive one with collision and personal property coverage.
• Where you live: Your state and zip code affect your insurance rates. RVs in areas prone to extreme weather will be more expensive to insure.
• Driving experience and driving record: A first-time RV owner poses a higher risk than an experienced RVer. Insurers will also review your general driving record to determine an appropriate rate.
• Claims history: A lengthy claims history is a red flag to insurers. Drivers who have never filed a claim will get much better rates than those who have.
• Additional coverage: Purchasing add-ons such as roadside assistance, total loss replacement, vacation liability and full-timers coverage will increase your premium.

Recreational vehicles fall into four categories: Class A, Class B, Class C and towable RVs. The first three are motorhomes, drivable units with living quarters and appliances. Towable RVs, also called campers or trailers, may also have amenities, but some are designed to transport animals or cargo.

Here’s the rundown of the different types of RVs available:

Class A motorhomes

Class A motorhomes are the most luxurious and spacious, measuring 24 to 45 feet long and fitting as many as 12 passengers. However, their size can make driving tricky and limit their mileage to around 10 miles per gallon or less.

Class B motorhomes

Class B motorhomes, also known as “camper vans,” are the smallest (17 to 19 feet long) and least expensive type. These are standard-sized vans usually packed with a compact kitchen, bathroom and foldable or fixed bed. Their limited living space makes them suitable for four passengers or less who enjoy minimalist traveling.

Class B+ or B Plus motorhomes

Class B+ or B Plus motorhomes are the big siblings of Class B camper vans. These vehicles measure between 17 and 30 feet, fitting bigger beds and more spacious bathroom and kitchen areas.

Class C motorhomes

Class C motorhomes measure 21 to 41 feet long and are easily recognized by their over-cab sleeping or storage area. Compared to larger units, they have better gas mileage and maneuverability and are ideal for full-time living. Class C motorhomes can accommodate up to eight passengers and include a kitchen, dining area, bathroom and sleeping quarters.

Towable RVs

Towable RVs can be hitched to SUVs, pickup trucks or any capable vehicle. This category encompasses fifth wheels, toy haulers, travel trailers, and pop-up and truck campers, typically ranging from 10 to 30 feet. Other types of towable RVs include utility, cargo and horse trailers.

Since RVs can be vehicles and primary residences, insuring them requires special considerations. Some policies offer basic liability protection, while others provide broader coverage for personal effects and emergency expenses.

Keep in mind that if your RV is self-propelled, your coverage should meet your state’s minimum liability insurance requirements. This applies whether you use the vehicle occasionally or as a residence.

If your RV is towable, the insurance policy on the towing vehicle may extend to the RV. However, note that the towing vehicle’s policy usually only covers liability, not physical damage to the RV or attached accessories.

Best RV insurance features for part-time RVers

People who use their motorhomes for weekend getaways should at least have basic liability coverage that meets their state’s minimum requirements.

Other types of RV insurance for part-time RVers include:

• Property damage liability coverage: Pays for damages you cause to another person’s property or vehicle.
• Bodily injury liability coverage: Helps pay the medical expenses of those you injure in an at-fault accident.
• Collision coverage: Covers repairs to your RV after an accident with another vehicle, whether you’re at fault or not.
• Comprehensive coverage: Pays for damages caused by theft, vandalism, natural disasters, fire and other non-collision accidents.
• Uninsured/Underinsured motorist coverage: Covers the cost of repairs to your RV and your medical payments if you’re in an accident caused by a driver without insurance or insufficient coverage.
• Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Covers medical expenses for you and your passenger in the event of an accident, no matter who is at fault. It may also cover lost wages.
• Campsite/vacation liability coverage: Helps pay for legal expenses if you’re deemed responsible for injuries or losses incurred by a non-family member within your campsite or RV.
• Roadside Assistance: Offers around-the-clock repairs, towing and emergency assistance should your RV experience a flat tire, battery discharge or other malfunction.

Best RV insurance features for full-time RVers

For added peace of mind, full-time RVers should consider having a more comprehensive policy that includes some of the above-mentioned add-ons as well as any of the following:

• Personal property coverage: Covers the cost of replacing any damaged or stolen personal effects. This includes clothing, furniture, jewelry and computers, for example.
• Total loss replacement: Replaces your RV with an equal or similar model if your vehicle is stolen or totaled in an accident. The insurer may reimburse you for the original purchase price in other cases. Lenders may require this coverage if you finance your RV.
• Full-time RV liability coverage: Adds additional coverage for liability and medical expenses if you live in your RV for six months or more each year.
• Emergency expense allowance: Covers up to a specified amount of living and travel expenses like car rentals, lodging and food if your RV leaves you stranded, usually more than 100 miles away.
• Specialized coverage: Can replace appliances like awnings, satellite dishes, and solar panels and can even provide coverage for any pet injuries that happen in the vehicle.
• Loss assessment: Helps cover fees RV associations charge for damage to common areas in a campsite, for example.

What RV insurance doesn’t cover

RV insurance won’t cover the following:

• Normal wear and tear: RV insurance protects your vehicle against unexpected events, not routine maintenance or deterioration.
• Mold damage, fungi or rot: Insurers consider mold a sign of neglect and won’t cover damages unless it’s directly linked to water damage caused by a covered event.
• Certain types of water damage: RV insurance doesn’t cover water damage caused by regular wear and tear, freezing temperatures or manufacturer defects.
• Earthquake coverage: RV insurance covers most natural disasters, including floods, storms and fires, but earthquake coverage varies by insurer.

How to Buy RV Insurance

Here are some tips on how to find and purchase the right RV insurance coverage for you.

Determine the coverage you need

Your car insurance policy may extend to towable campers or trailers, but not motorhomes. And while auto insurance may cover you against liability and damages to the RV, it generally doesn’t cover belongings or appliances inside the vehicle. Homeowners insurance may also offer some coverage, but only when the RV is parked on the insured property.

Another option is umbrella insurance for your RV, which covers liability claims exceeding your primary auto, home or RV policy limits. However, coverage only kicks in if your RV is covered by an underlying policy that meets the umbrella policy’s liability requirements.

Take time to shop around for insurance quotes

RV insurance costs depend on your driving history, location, type of vehicle and usage and any optional riders you select. To get the most affordable premium for the coverage you need, compare quotes from multiple insurers. Consult an independent insurance agent if you don’t have time to shop around.

Consider bundling multiple policies

Most insurers offer multi-policy discounts, helping you save on premiums by combining your RV policy with auto, home, renters, boat or even life insurance policies . Bundling can also help you avoid the hassle of dealing with different companies when you have to file a claim.

Check for available discounts

While these may vary by company, most insurers offer rate discounts for:

• Paying the total annual policy upfront
• Making monthly payments on time
• Staying claim-free during the previous policy period
• Being the vehicle’s original owner
• Installing safety features in your RV
• Having a favorable record of insurance losses
• Staying accident-free for at least three years
• Taking safety courses
• Being a member of an RV association

Drivers aged 50 and up can snag a lower rate, as can parents or guardians who opt not to insure drivers under 25 on their policy.

Insurance when renting an RV

If you plan on renting an RV for a vacation, consider getting RV rental insurance. This type of policy usually provides liability, collision damage waiver, and coverage for personal accidents or personal effects.

You can purchase a policy through the rental company or your insurer. However, remember that your current car or RV insurance policy may already extend some rental RV coverage. Coverage may not be available in some states or for trips longer than 30 days, so call your insurer to verify before heading out.

If you rent your RV to others, it’s considered a commercial-use vehicle, and your insurance policy won’t cover the renter. The person must obtain their own rental insurance. If you’re merely lending your RV to a friend or family member, your existing coverage may extend to them, depending on your policy.

Note that some states — including Arkansas and Wisconsin — require drivers to get special licenses to drive RVs. If you live in one of these states and lend your RV to someone, that person must have the required license if you want your insurance policy to cover them.

What kind of insurance do I need to rent out my RV?

To rent out an RV, you’ll need at least liability coverage, which pays for damages or injury you may cause to other people and their property in an at-fault accident. Except New Hampshire, all states and the District of Columbia, require that vehicles, including RVs, have liability coverage.

Insurance for towable RVs is another matter. When you tow your RV behind another vehicle instead of driving it, you only have to worry about having enough coverage to protect your belongings, not additional liability insurance.

RV Insurance FAQs

What states require trailer insurance.

Trailer insurance requirements vary by state and by type of trailer. Most local governments require liability insurance, while others also require uninsured motorist coverage.

Currently, only two states don't require any type of trailer insurance. You can drive an uninsured vehicle in Virginia if you pay an uninsured motorist fee. In New Hampshire, you can drive uninsured if you prove you have enough money to cover liability expenses in an at-fault accident.

Do you need trailer insurance?

You don't need insurance for a non-motorized trailer hooked to a towing vehicle. The vehicle's insurance coverage extends to the trailer attached to it. However, this coverage is typically limited to liability.

Talk to your auto insurance provider if you want to add property damage coverage for the trailer or purchase a separate RV insurance to ensure the trailer is insured against damage.

Who has the best RV insurance?

Does rv insurance cover water damage, what is vacation liability rv insurance, how we chose the best rv insurance.

• Coverage options and discounts: We picked companies that offer a comprehensive selection of coverage options and premium discounts.
• Customer satisfaction: We favored companies with above-average scores in J.D. Power’s U.S. Auto Insurance Study.
• Financial strength: We considered the financial strength of each insurer as evidenced by their A.M. Best rating. A.M Best is a credit rating agency that assesses the creditworthiness of insurance companies.
• Complaint index: We looked up every insurer’s complaint trend report from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) and favored those with few complaints.

Summary of Money’s Best RV Insurance of 2024

© Copyright 2024 Money Group, LLC . All Rights Reserved.

This article originally appeared on Money.com and may contain affiliate links for which Money receives compensation. Opinions expressed in this article are the author's alone, not those of a third-party entity, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed. Offers may be subject to change without notice. For more information, read Money’s full disclaimer .

• Travel Insurance
• Best Cruise Insurance

Best Cruise Insurance Plans Of June 2024

Fact Checked

Updated: Jun 1, 2024, 11:03am

Our analysis has found that WorldTrips, Nationwide and TravelSafe Insurance are the best cruise insurance companies.

Not all travel insurance policies provide top-notch coverage for cruises, so we scored policies based on cost,  medical expense, trip interruption and trip cancellation benefits. We evaluated 37 travel insurance policies with missed connection coverage to identify the best cruise insurance.

Why you can trust Forbes Advisor

Our editors are committed to bringing you unbiased ratings and information. Our editorial content is not influenced by advertisers. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate insurance companies, so all companies are measured equally. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and the methodology for the ratings below.

• 37 travel insurance plans evaluated
• 1,443 coverage details analyzed
• 259 rates scored
• 102 years insurance experience on the editorial team
• Best Travel Insurance Companies
• Cheapest Travel Insurance Plans
• Best Senior Travel Insurance
• Best Covid-19 Travel Insurance Plans
• Best Annual Travel Insurance
• Best Travel Medical Insurance

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Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Summary: best cruise insurance ratings, what is cruise insurance, what does cruise insurance cover, do i need cruise insurance, how much does cruise insurance cost, where and when to buy cruise insurance, how to shop for the best cruise insurance, is cruise insurance worth it, methodology, best cruise insurance frequently asked questions.

• WorldTrips – Atlas Journey Premier
• Nationwide – Cruise Luxury
• TravelSafe Insurance – Classic
• AIG – Travel Guard Preferred
• AXA Assistance USA – Platinum
• Generali Global Assistance – Premium
• HTH Worldwide – TripProtector Preferred Plan
• John Hancock Insurance Agency – Gold
• Nationwide – Cruise Choice
• Seven Corners – Trip Protection Choice
• Trawick International – Safe Travels First Class
• USI Affinity Travel Insurance Services – Diamond

Top-scoring plan

Atlas Journey Premier

Missed connection coverage per person

Medical & evacuation limits per person

$150,000/$1 million

The Atlas Journey Premier policy provides excellent missed connection coverage and medical evacuation benefits. Available upgrades include “cancel for any reason,” “interruption for any reason” and extra coverage for pets traveling with you, adventure sports, destination weddings, hunting and fishing equipment, and more.

More : WorldTrips Travel Insurance Review

• Lowest average cost among top-rated policies evaluated.
• Very good travel delay benefits of $2,000 per person after only 5 hours.
• Excellent missed connection coverage of $2,000 per person after 3 hours.
• Medical coverage level is low compared to some competitors evaluated.
• Baggage delay benefits have a 12-hour waiting period.

Cruise Luxury

Nationwide’s Cruise Luxury plan provides an array of extensive benefits at a decent price, including superior missed connection coverage and emergency and non-medical evacuation benefits.

More : Nationwide Travel Insurance Review

• “Cancel for any reason” upgrade available and “interruption for any reason” upgrade available.
• Includes $25,000 in non-medical evacuation benefits.
• Pretty good baggage delay benefits of $1,000 per person.
• Good travel delay benefits of $1,000 per person covered after only a 6-hour delay.
• Medical coverage is lower than some other top-rated plans but might be sufficient for your needs.
• 24-hour delay required for hurricane and weather coverage, compared to some competitor policies with only a 6- or 12-hour delay requirement.

TravelSafe Insurance

Classic Plan

$100,000/$1 million

TravelSafe’s Classic plan provides the highest limits for missed connection and evacuation benefits among top-rated plans. It also has very good trip interruption and hurricane and weather coverage at a competitive price.

More : TravelSafe Travel Insurance Review

• Provides coverage for non-medical evacuation at $25,000 per person.
• “Cancel for any reason” upgrade available.
• Excellent baggage loss coverage limits of $2,500 per person.
• $100,000 in medical benefits is on the low side compared to top competitors but might be sufficient for your needs.
• Baggage delay coverage is a little skimpy at $250 per person after a 12-hour delay.

Travel Guard Preferred

$50,000/$500,000

AIG’s Travel Guard Preferred plan provides solid benefits at a very low average price. Optional pet, wedding, security, baggage, medical, adventures sports and travel inconvenience upgrades allow you to customize a policy to fit your needs.

Additionally, the Travel Guard Preferred plan includes benefits if (under certain conditions) you must start your trip earlier than planned—a feature not found in all policies.

More : AIG Travel Insurance Review

• Provides up to $750 for “travel inconveniences,” such as flight delay to your return destination, runway delays and cruise diversions.
• Reimburses up to $2,500 for meals, accommodations and transportation if you must begin your trip earlier than scheduled due to inclement weather or common carrier changes.
• Offers “cancel for any reason” upgrade.
• Very low travel medical insurance limits compared to other policies we evaluated, but you can increase coverage with an upgrade.
• Missed connection benefits of $1,000 are low compared to some competitors.

AXA Assistance USA

$250,000/$1 million

AXA’s Platinum plan hits all the high points for coverage that you’ll want if you’re looking for top-notch protection, including non-medical evacuation coverage and baggage insurance.

More : AXA Assistance USA Travel Insurance Review

• Generous medical and evacuation limits.
• Top-notch baggage loss coverage of $3,000 per person.
• Provides excellent non-medical evacuation coverage of $100,000 per person.
• Travel delay and baggage coverage kicks in only after a 12-hour delay.
• “Interruption for any reason” upgrade not available.

Generali Global Assistance

Premium plan

Medical and evacuation limits per person

Generali’s Premium policy provides very good benefits at a decent average price. It has excellent trip interruption insurance and medical coverage, and includes generous benefits for rental car damage and accidental death.

More : Generali Global Assistance Travel Insurance Review

• You can qualify for coverage of pre-existing medical conditions if you buy the policy prior to or within 24 hours of making your final trip payment, as opposed to a deadline of 10 to 20 days after making your first trip deposit, which is typical from top competitors.
• Excellent hurricane and weather coverage with no waiting period.
• Top-notch emergency evacuation coverage of $1 million per person.
• If you want “cancel for any reason” coverage you must buy it within 24 hours of making your initial trip deposit, compared to 10 to 20 days from top competitors.

HTH Worldwide

TripProtector Preferred Plan

$500,000/$1 million

HTH’s TripProtector Preferred policy provides luxury-level benefits, including superior medical and evacuation benefits and trip interruption coverage, but it also comes with a high average price.

More : HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance Review

• Top-notch coverage limits for medical expenses and evacuation.
• Excellent trip interruption coverage of 200% of the trip cost.
• Very good travel delay coverage of $2,000 per person after a 6-hour delay.
• Highest average cost among top-rated companies, but you’re getting robust benefits.
• Baggage delay coverage requires a 12-hour delay.

John Hancock Insurance Agency

Missed connection coverage

John Hancock’s Gold policy is worth checking out if you want high medical and evacuation limits. It also includes very good trip interruption, baggage and missed connection coverage.

More : John Hancock Travel Insurance Review

• Good missed connection coverage of $1,000 per person after 3-hour delay.
• Travel delay benefits kick in after only a 3-hour delay.
• Pricey among the plans we analyzed but you buy top-tier benefits.
• Baggage delay benefits require a 12-hour delay.

Cruise Choice

$100,000/$500,000

Nationwide’s Cruise Choice plan provides solid benefits at a good average price. It includes non-medical evacuation coverage and offers a trip interruption upgrade.

More: Nationwide Travel Insurance Review

• Decent missed connection coverage of $1,500.
• Provides benefits if you miss out on a prepaid activity or event because your cruise ship changes its itinerary, or if your cruise ship has a fire or mechanical breakdown that delays arrival at the next port of call for two or more hours.
• Medical coverage is lower than most other top-rated policies in our analysis but might be adequate for your needs.
• “Cancel for any reason” upgrade not available.

Seven Corners

Trip Protection Choice

Seven Corners’ Trip Protection Choice plan has great upgrade options and benefits across the board to cruise goers, including unrivaled medical coverage limits and very good missed connection benefits.

More : Seven Corners Travel Insurance Review

• Highest medical expenses and medical evacuation coverage limits among top-rated plans.
• “Cancel for any reason” and “interruption for any reason” upgrades available.
• Very good travel delay coverage of $2,000 per person.
• Includes $20,000 for non-medical evacuation.
• Hurricane and weather coverage has a 48-hour delay, compared to some competitors’ plans that require only 6-, 12- or 24-hour delays.

Trawick International

Safe Travels First Class

Trawick’s Safe Travels First Class policy provides solid benefits at a great average cost, including high medical evacuation limits and good missed connection coverage.

More : Trawick Travel Insurance Review

• Top-level medical evacuation coverage of $1 million.
• Excellent baggage loss coverage of $2,000 per person.
• Medical coverage is lower than most other top-rated plans but might be sufficient for your needs.

USI Affinity Travel Insurance Services

While pricing is higher than most other top plans, USI’s Diamond plan provides a solid range of top-level benefits, including first-rate medical and evacuation benefits and very good missed connection coverage.

More : USI Affinity Travel Insurance Review

• Superior coverage levels for medical expenses and evacuation.
• Very good travel delay coverage of $1,500 per person.
• High baggage loss coverage of $2,500 per person.
• Baggage delay coverage is good at $500 per person but requires a 12-hour delay for benefits to start.
• Has the second-highest average cost among top-scoring plans.

Cruise insurance can be any travel insurance policy that has the coverage features you want. It does not have to be a travel insurance policy with “cruise” in the policy name. It’s helpful to have missed connection coverage included in a cruise insurance policy, as the cost of catching up to a cruise can be significant.

Cruise insurance generally covers the following—up to your policy limits— if the expense is caused by a reason listed in your policy or not excluded from coverage:

• Medical expenses
• Emergency medical evacuation
• Trip cancellation
• Trip interruption
• Missed connections
• Lost, stolen, damaged or delayed baggage and personal items

A cruise travel insurance policy may also compensate you if your cruise ship is disabled and you’re stuck on board without power, food or water for a specified amount of time listed in your policy. For example, the WaveCare plan from Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection provides a flat $500 reimbursement for cruise disablement if you’re stuck on the ship for five hours or more without one of these: power, food, water or a restroom.

Typically, cruise insurance also provides a 24/7 hotline for travel emergencies. You can also get a pre-existing medical condition exclusion waiver if you buy coverage within a certain period, usually within 14 to 21 days of your initial trip deposit. This means medical expenses related to pre-existing conditions that arise during your trip will be covered.

Cruise insurance is worth considering if you can’t afford to lose the money you paid in advance for nonrefundable trip costs if you have to cancel your cruise.

Cruise insurance can also pay for costs associated with medical treatment during your trip, emergency medical evacuation, trip delays, lost luggage and more.

The average cost of cruise insurance is $457 per trip , based on Forbes Advisor’s analysis of rates for 37 cruise travel insurance plans.

Cruise insurance costs will generally depend on your age and the cost and length of your trip.

Below you’ll see examples of cruise insurance costs for the best cruise insurance policies.

You can buy cruise insurance from your cruise line, through a travel agent or from a travel insurance agent or company.

Although you can purchase a policy right up to your departure, there are advantages to buying travel insurance right after booking your trip . One is that you can maximize the length of your trip cancellation coverage. For example, if you buy a travel insurance policy three months before your departure and get seriously injured a week before you leave, you can file a trip cancellation claim.

Buying cruise insurance within the first two weeks or so of making your first trip deposit also qualifies you for additional coverage. This can include a pre-existing medical condition exclusion waiver or a “cancel for any reason” travel insurance (CFAR) upgrade, depending on the policy.

CFAR allows you to recoup 50% or 75% of your forfeited, nonrefundable trip costs, depending on your policy. You must cancel at least 48 hours prior to your departure. CFAR increases your travel insurance cost by about 50%.

If the dates of your trip change, your travel insurance company should allow you to change the dates of your policy to match the new travel dates. You can also add items to your itinerary later—such as shore excursions—and then add them to your travel insurance coverage.

Whether it’s your first voyage or you’re a cruise veteran, having the right travel insurance is important. This is especially true if you’re a senior traveler who wants a high level of medical coverage while traveling.

Here are good starting points for coverage you’ll likely want in a cruise insurance plan:

Trip Cancellation Insurance

Trip cancellation insurance reimburses you 100% for the pre-paid and non-refundable deposits you lose if you have to cancel for a reason covered by the policy .

Trip Interruption Coverage

This will reimburse you for unused trip costs if your trip is cut short because of illness, injury, death, a family emergency back home or other reasons. Trip interruption insurance can also pay for the extra expenses of a trip interruption, such as a one-way plane ticket home on short notice. The reason for the interruption has to be listed in the policy.

Travel Medical Insurance

This pays for medical expenses associated with injuries and illness you get while on the trip. The top travel insurance plans have $500,000 in travel medical insurance , but you might find $150,000 to be sufficient for a cruise. If you’re a senior, good travel medical coverage is crucial.

U.S. health plans may have very limited or no coverage when you’re outside the U.S. And Medicare doesn’t cover medical care outside the U.S., with only very narrow exceptions .

Emergency Medical Evacuation Coverage

Medical evacuation travel insurance covers the costs to get you to the nearest adequate medical facility or even back home if it’s medically required. Your travel insurer’s emergency assistance team can also help arrange for the medevac.

Coverage for Pre-existing Medical Conditions

Many travel insurance plans give you a pre-existing medical condition exclusion waiver if you buy the plan within two to three weeks after your first trip deposit. This is one of the advantages to buying travel insurance shortly after you book your trip. Without the waiver, medical expenses related to pre-existing conditions that flare up during your trip won’t be covered.

“Cancel for Any Reason” (CFAR) Travel Insurance

Canceling for reasons that aren’t listed in the policy isn’t covered, unless you have already purchased a CFAR upgrade. This typically reimburses you 75% of trip costs, as long as you cancel at least 48 hours before your departure. Adding it increases a policy cost by an average of 50%.

For example, you could make a “cancel for any reason” claim if you’re worried about being seasick—a reason not covered by standard trip cancellation insurance. Buy this coverage shortly after you make your first trip deposit or the purchase window for it will close.

“Interruption for Any Reason” Travel Insurance

Cutting a trip short for reasons that aren’t listed in the policy aren’t covered, unless you have already purchased “interruption for any reason” travel insurance. This coverage typically reimburses you 75% of trip costs. It usually adds 3% to 10% to your travel insurance cost. You generally must buy it within 15 to 20 days of making your first trip deposit. Benefits don’t kick in until you are a specified amount of time into your trip, for example 48 or 72 hours.

Only a few travel insurance companies currently offer “interruption for any reason” coverage, such as Nationwide, Seven Corners, Travel Insured International and WorldTrips.

Additional Types of Travel Insurance for Cruises

A comprehensive travel insurance plan will package additional benefits such as travel delay insurance , baggage insurance and missed connection travel insurance .

The best travel insurance plans offer high levels of reimbursement and short waiting periods for benefits to go into effect when things go wrong. A travel insurance agent can help you match your concerns to the right travel insurance package.

Case Study: Cruise Insurance Saves the Day, Again

I’ve unfortunately filed several cruise insurance claims in recent years, but I’m so grateful I had coverage. When my father passed away on the day we were set to depart, insurance reimbursed us over $3,000 for the trip cancellation. Later, my wife and I tested positive for Covid-19 in Paris right before our river cruise. We had to cancel and pay for a week’s stay in a pricey hotel, but insurance covered the entire $12,000 claim. Most recently, I was diagnosed with cancer before a cruise and had to cancel for surgery. The documentation was complex, but our policy paid the remaining $2,000 to $3,000 after refunds without hesitation. Travel insurance gave us peace of mind through it all.

– David R., Texas

Cruise insurance is worth it if you don’t want to risk losing the non-refundable money you invested in your trip if the unexpected happens. For example, let’s say you missed the boat. Cruise insurance can pay for you to rejoin the cruise if you can’t board on time because of an issue covered by the policy, such as severe weather.

The average cost of travel insurance is 5% to 6% of your trip cost, according to our analysis of travel insurance rates. That means cruise insurance might be worth it if:

• Your non-refundable trip costs are much more than you can afford to lose.
• You are traveling internationally and your U.S. health plan has limited coverage abroad.
• You are traveling to a remote area with limited health care facilities and want insurance that will pay for medical transportation to an adequate medical facility.
• You are traveling to a hurricane-prone area where your trip could be scuttled due to weather.
• Your trip involves connecting flights or multiple destinations, which increase the chances of travel delays and lost baggage.
• You want to be partially reimbursed if you decide to cancel your trip or return home early for any reason.

What Are the Travel Insurance Requirements of Different Cruise Lines?

Cruise lines departing the U.S. generally do not require travel insurance. But it’s a good idea to buy a policy that includes travel medical insurance and emergency evacuation insurance. That’s because U.S. health insurance is unlikely to cover you if you travel outside of the United States.

To find the best cruise insurance, Forbes Advisor analyzed travel insurance data to score travel insurance policies based on the following factors. We include only travel insurance policies that include missed connection coverage.

Missed connection coverage (up to 30% of score) : Plans with higher reimbursement levels for missed connections scored more points.

Average price (up to 25% of score) : We analyzed travel insurance quotes for a variety of traveler ages and trip costs to develop an average price for each plan. We scored the average cost for each travel insurance policy for trips to the popular destinations of Italy, Mexico, France and the U.K. for common traveler profiles:

• Couple, age 30 for Mexico trip costing $3,000
• Couple, age 40, for Italy trip costing $6,000
• Family of four for Italy trip costing $15,000
• Family of four for France trip costing $15,000
• Family of four for U.K. trip costing $15,000
• Couple, age 65, for Italy trip costing $6,000
• Couple, age 70, for Mexico trip costing $3,000

Medical expenses (up to 10% of score): Travel medical insurance was evaluated by coverage amount. Travel insurance policies with travel medical expense benefits of $250,000 and up per person were given the highest points.

Medical evacuation (up to 10% of score): Emergency medical evacuation/transportation coverage was evaluated by coverage amount. Travel insurance policies with medical evacuation expense benefits of $500,000 and up per person were given the highest points.

“Cancel for any reason” travel insurance (up to 10% of score): Policies offering a “cancel for any reason” upgrade earned points. Policies with 75% reimbursement for canceled trips were awarded the most points.

Trip interruption travel insurance (5% of score): Points were given if trip interruption reimbursement was 150% or higher.

“Interruption for any reason” travel insurance: (5% of score): Policies earned points if an “interruption for any reason” upgrade was available.

Pre-existing medical condition exclusion waiver (5% of score): Points were given to policies that cover pre-existing medical conditions (if purchased within a required time frame).

Read more: How Forbes Advisor rates travel insurance

How do I buy cruise insurance for a long-duration cruise?

The coverage in many travel insurance policies will max out at 90 days, so you’ll need to look for a travel insurance plan that can provide coverage for a long trip length.

For example, Allianz Global Assistance ’s OneTrip Premier Plan can cover a trip up to 366 days and includes $200,000 in trip cancellation coverage and $1 million in emergency medical evacuation benefits. It also provides trip cancellation coverage in the event that there is an NOAA hurricane warning at your destination.

How do I buy insurance for cruise shore excursions?

If your shore excursions are pricey, insure the nonrefundable deposits for the excursions and the cruise. If your excursions are included in the cruise cost, you would simply insure the cruise trip cost.

Travel medical insurance can cover medical expenses you incur while on and off the ship. But if your excursions involve adventure activities or extreme sports, be aware that many travel policies exclude these from coverage. Still, there are adventure travel policies and optional upgrades that will cover injuries due to activities such as mountain climbing, parasailing, skydiving and hot air ballooning.

Review your policy to be sure the plan you’re buying will cover your adventurous fun. If it doesn’t, ask about an adventure sports add-on, or consider a company such as World Nomads that caters to the adventurous traveler.

Do I need a special cruise insurance plan?

You don’t need a travel insurance plan that’s specifically for cruises. Any good travel insurance plan with generous medical benefits and the other benefits you want can work well for a cruise.

Can you buy cruise insurance after booking?

You can buy cruise insurance after booking your trip, right up until just before departure. The downside to waiting is that you likely won’t be able to cover pre-existing medical conditions, and you’ll lose the option to add cancel for any reason coverage.

Buying right after you book also lets you lock in trip cancellation coverage right away.

Can I cancel a cruise without insurance?

You can cancel a cruise, but may have to pay a cancellation penalty for the cruise and/or flights. You could also lose the cost of pre-paid shore excursions. If you don’t have travel insurance for these losses, check the credit card you used for booking. Some credit cards include trip cancellation coverage.

Next Up In Travel Insurance

• Best “Cancel For Any Reason” Travel Insurance Of June 2024
• Best Covid-19 Travel Insurance Plans Of 2024
• Best Senior Travel Insurance Of June 2024
• Best Travel Insurance Companies Of June 2024
• The 5 Cheapest Travel Insurance Companies Of June 2024

Get Forbes Advisor’s ratings of the best insurance companies and helpful information on how to find the best travel, auto, home, health, life, pet, and small business coverage for your needs.

Michelle is a lead editor at Forbes Advisor. She has been a journalist for over 35 years, writing about insurance for consumers for the last decade. Prior to covering insurance, Michelle was a lifestyle reporter at the New York Daily News, a magazine editor covering consumer technology, a foreign correspondent for Time and various newswires and local newspaper reporter.

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Tomsk – the view from above

No comments · Posted by Sergei Rzhevsky in Cities , Photos , Travel

Tomsk is a city with a population of about 575 thousand people located in the east of Western Siberia on the banks of the Tom River, the capital of Tomsk Oblast .

This city is the oldest educational and scientific center in Siberia . There are a lot of preserved monuments of wooden and stone architecture of the 18th-20th centuries here. Photos by: Slava Stepanov .

The House of Merchant Kukhterin (1900). Lenin Avenue, 73.

The House of Architect Khomich (1904) also known as the Emerald Castle. Belinsky Street, 19.

The Apartment Building of Golovanov (1899). Lenin Avenue, 105.

The central part of Tomsk.

The Passage of Merchant Vtorov (1905). Lenin Avenue, 111.

The Administration of Tomsk Oblast. Lenin Square.

The light and music fountain built to mark the 400th anniversary of Tomsk on the embankment of the Ushayka River.

The Epiphany Cathedral (1784) – one of the oldest churches in Tomsk. Lenin Square.

The embankment of the Ushayka River.

Tomsk State University of Control Systems and Radioelectronics. Lenin Avenue, 40.

Park “Camp Garden” located on the high right bank of the Tom River.

Tomsk State University (1878) – the first university in Russia located east of the Volga River. Lenin Avenue, 36. Tomsk is the only city in Russia for which the scientific and educational complex is a city-forming industry.

The House of Merchant Golovanov (1904). Krasnoarmeyskaya Street, 71.

Tomsk Railway Station.

Beloye (White) Lake located in the city center.

The tram ring on Batenkov Square.

The water sports center “Zvezdniy” – one of the largest in Western Siberia. Entuziastov Street, 31.

The scientific library of Tomsk State University – one of the largest university libraries in Russia. Lenin Avenue, 34A.

Night lights of Tomsk.

Welcome to Tomsk !

Tags:  Siberia district · Tomsk city

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Preserved Old Buildings of the Town-Museum of Galich

Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk – the view from above >>

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Tomsk: Cultural treasure of central Siberia

Tomsk. Church of the Resurrection on Resurrection Hill. East view. September 24, 1999

At the beginning of the 20th century the Russian chemist and photographer Sergey Prokudin-Gorsky developed a complex process for vivid color photography. His vision of photography as a form of education and enlightenment was demonstrated with special clarity through his images of architectural monuments in the historic sites throughout the Russian heartland.

In June 1912, Prokudin-Gorsky ventured into Western Siberia as part of a commission to document the Kama-Tobolsk Waterway, a link between the European and Asian sides of the Ural Mountains. The town of  Tyumen  served as his starting point for productive journeys that included Shadrinsk (current population 68,000), established in 1662 on the Iset River. By the time of Prokudin-Gorsky’s visit, the town already had several enterprises, including a ceramics factory, and a population of some 15,000. 

Prokudin-Gorsky’s photographs of Shadrinsk include the rapid construction of pine log buildings for a railroad station complex – part of a secondary rail line built in 1911-1913. The partially completed buildings show an efficient use of standardized design, with measured log stacks in the foreground. Tall, spindly pine trees complete the picture.

Shadrinsk. Construction of standardized log buildings for a railroad station complex. Summer 1912

In a broader context, these photographs reflect the expansion of Russia’s rail system from Yekaterinburg to the Far East. Although Prokudin-Gorsky did not reach Tomsk (in central Siberia), I visited there in the late Summer of 1999 and saw the extensive use of log structures in an urban environment.

Tomsk beginnings

Tomsk. Church of Kazan Icon of the Virgin at Virgin-St. Aleksy Monastery, south view. Built in 1776-89; bell tower added in 1806. September 26, 1999

Archeological evidence suggests that Tomsk Region, part of the vast Ob River basin in central Siberia, has been settled for at least four millennia.

Epiphany Cathedral, southeast view. Built in 1777-84; expanded in 19th century; severely deformed in Soviet period for use as factory. This historic photograph shows the process of restoration, completed in 2002. September 25, 1999

By the time detachments of Russian Cossacks arrived in 1598, the native inhabitants included the Khants and Siberian Tatars, who, in 1603, accepted the authority of Tsar Boris Godunov.

In 1604, a fort was founded on the banks of the River Tom (a tributary of the Ob) and, throughout the 17th century, the Tomsk settlement served as a bulwark against the Kalmyk and Kirghiz steppe tribes.  

Church of the Resurrection on Resurrection Hill, north view. Built in 1789-1807; excellent example of "Siberian Baroque" architecture. September 26, 1999

With the expansion of Russian control to the south during the 18th century, the military significance of Tomsk was replaced by trade and transportation, centered on caravans of tea from China.

Former Stock Exchange Building, begun in 1825. September 25, 1999

The expansion of the Moscow Road through Siberia in the middle of the 18th century provided further stimulus for growth that was reflected in the construction of large brick churches, such as the Epiphany Cathedral (first completed in 1784) and the Church of the Resurrection (1789), a masterpiece of Siberian baroque architecture.             

Alexander Vtorov & Sons Building, Lenin Prospect 111. Built in 1903-05 as a department store & hotel; a major example of Art Nouveau architecture in Siberia. September 24, 1999

During the 1830s, the development of gold mines in the territory greatly increased the town's significance as a center of mining operations and administration. Tomsk Region also continued to serve as a place of political exile, as it had in the 17th and 18th centuries.             

‘Diverted’ opportunities

N. S. Zaslavsky "Fashionable Store," Lenin Prospect 105. Built in 1898-99; example of "Brick Style" commercial architecture. September 24, 1999

During the construction of the Trans-Siberian Railway at the end of the 19th century, Tomsk missed a second golden opportunity when the Ministry of Transportation decided to place the railroad crossing over the Ob’ River to the south. There are conflicting explanations for this decision, which slighted Tomsk, but created the town of Novonikolaevsk, subsequently to become the major Siberian metropolis of Novosibirsk.

Former building of the Flour Exchange, Lenin Square 14. Built in 1906-08; an example of Art Nouveau architecture. September 25, 1999

Tomsk settled for a branch line constructed in 1896 through the small junction of Taiga (80 kilometers south of the city) and that spur enabled Tomsk to remain a center of trade and agricultural development in central Siberia.             

Commercial building of A. V. Shvetsov, steamboat magnate. Built in 1882 in the "Pseudo-Russian" style (based on late medieval Russian architecture). September 25, 1999

The impressive scale of its commercial and residential architecture illustrates the diversity of Siberian culture at the turn of the 20th century. The Vtorov firm built one of Siberia’s largest department stores, which still graces Tomsk’s central district. Tomsk also became one of Siberia's preeminent educational centers, the location of Siberia's first university, founded in 1878. Among Russian institutions of higher learning, Tomsk State University is distinguished not only by its academic luster but also by its attractive, spacious campus.             

Main Building of Tomsk University. Built in 1885 in a late Neoclassical style. September 27, 1999

It should be emphasized that Tomsk accepted religious faiths in addition to Russian Orthodoxy. By 1910, the city had a Catholic Church of the Holy Rosary (now restored for use), two mosques (both of which have been restored), a Lutheran church (rebuilt), an Old Believer Orthodox church and a large synagogue that is among the most beautiful in Russia. The dome over its entrance has now been reconstructed.

Catholic Church of the Rosary of the Blessed Virgin. Consecrated in 1833 for the community of Polish exiles. Bell tower added in 1856. September 26, 1999

Architectural heritage

In 1911, the city’s northern area gained the neo-Byzantine Cathedral of Sts. Peter and Paul, the only church to remain open for most of the Soviet era. Some of the churches were built of wood, such as the Old Believer Church of the Dormition, completed in 1913 and lovingly maintained today by the parish. I was particularly honored to be asked to photograph Metropolitan Alimpy (Gusev; 1929-2003), who was visiting Tomsk at the same time.             

Choral Synagogue, Rosa Luxemburg Street 38. Built in 1902 to replace a wooden synagogue built in 1850. View before restoration of dome above main entrance. September 25, 1999

The most distinctive part of the city’s architectural heritage is displayed in its neighborhoods of elaborately decorated wooden houses, structures of solid logs often covered with plank siding.

Cathedral of Sts. Peter & Paul, southeast view. Built in 1909-11 in Neo-Byzantine style. September 24, 1999

It is no exaggeration to say that the "lacework" of Tomsk's wooden architectural ornament – particularly the window surrounds, or nalichniki – is unrivaled in Russia for its lavish detail and the extent of its preservation. Many of these extraordinary wooden houses were built for merchants who lived in the Tatar Quarter.  

Old Believer Church of the Dormition, southwest view. Wooden structure built in 1909-13 for the Old Believer Orthodox community in Tomsk region. September 27, 1999

The Tatar Quarter also contains the renovated White Mosque and a cultural center, located in a mansion built at the beginning of the 20th century for Karym Khamitov, a Tatar financial magnate.  Other ethnic groups include Russian  Germans, composed of settlers who moved to the area beginning in the 19th century. One of them was Viktor Kress, the governor of Tomsk Region in 1991-2012. 

Old Believer Church of the Dormition. Historic photograph of Metropolitan Alimpy (Gusev), spiritual leader of Russian Orthodox Old Believer Church. Photograph taken with the blessing of the prelate, who is standing in front of icon screen. September 27, 1999

Decline & rebirth

The many positive trends in the region’s development during the early 20th century were crushed by the savage fighting of the Civil War between 1918-1921. After that conflict, Tomsk entered a decline that was reversed by the evacuation to the city of industrial and research facilities during World War II.

Wooden house, Belinsky Street 19. Excellent example of "Carpenter Gothic" style. September 24, 1999

This momentum, reinforced by strong institutions of higher education in Tomsk, continued after the war with the development of nuclear research installations for both military and energy purposes.             

Wooden house built by architect Andrey Kryachkov. Fine example of Art Nouveau architecture in wood. September 26, 1999

With over a half a million inhabitants and a regional population of almost a million, Tomsk remains a leading Siberian center for administration, education, industry and energy resources.

Wooden house & courtyard gate, Tatar Street 46. One of many distinctive wooden houses built in the district of Tatar merchants. September 26, 1999

Protecting the environment has been a major concern, particularly in an area of stunning natural beauty. 

White Mosque, built in Tatar District in 1912-16. September 26, 1999

At the same time, dedication to the city’s historical environment – including its houses of worship – has succeeded in preserving an architectural legacy that represents a Russian national treasure.

House of merchant Karym Khamitov, built in Tatar District in 1894. Under conversion into cultural center for Tatar community of Tomsk region. September 25, 1999

Indeed, a walk through the historic neighborhoods of Tomsk reminds just how much Russian culture belongs to the forest.  

Ornamental wooden gate leading to courtyard of house on Solyanoi Lane 18. September 26, 1999

In the early 20th century, Russian photographer Sergey Prokudin-Gorsky developed a complex process for color photography. Between 1903 and 1916, he traveled through the Russian Empire and took over 2,000 photographs with the process, which involved three exposures on a glass plate. In August 1918, he left Russia and ultimately resettled in France, where he was reunited with a large part of his collection of glass negatives, as well as 13 albums of contact prints. After his death in Paris in 1944, his heirs sold the collection to the Library of Congress. In the early 21st century, the Library digitized the Prokudin-Gorsky Collection and made it freely available to the global public. A few Russian websites now have versions of the collection. In 1986, architectural historian and photographer William Brumfield organized the first exhibit of Prokudin-Gorsky photographs at the Library of Congress. Over a period of work in Russia beginning in 1970, Brumfield has photographed most of the sites visited by Prokudin-Gorsky. This series of articles juxtaposes Prokudin-Gorsky’s views of architectural monuments with photographs taken by Brumfield decades later.

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