seal island boat tours

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Seal Island Boat Trip

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Seal Island in Hout Bay, South Africa, is an iconic destination renowned for its abundant wildlife, dramatic scenery, and thrilling boat tours. Located just off the coast of Cape Town, this rocky outcrop is home to thousands of Cape fur seals, making it a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Stretching approximately 800 meters in length, Seal Island rises sharply from the icy waters of the Atlantic Ocean, forming a stark contrast against the surrounding azure sea. Its rugged terrain and towering cliffs provide a sanctuary for the resident seals, who bask in the sun, playfully frolic in the waves, and occasionally venture into the water in search of food.

The island’s main attraction is undoubtedly its thriving seal colony, which numbers in the tens of thousands during peak breeding season. Visitors can witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, observing their behavior from the comfort of specially designed tour boats. From playful pups to massive bull seals, the island is teeming with life, offering a unique opportunity to observe these marine mammals up close.

One of the most popular activities at Seal Island is the guided boat tours that depart from Hout Bay Harbor. These excursions typically last around 45 minutes to an hour and provide an unforgettable experience as visitors cruise alongside the island, marveling at the sheer abundance of seals and the breathtaking coastal scenery. Knowledgeable guides offer insights into the island’s ecology, wildlife, and conservation efforts, enriching the experience with fascinating facts and anecdotes.

In addition to seals, Seal Island is also a haven for birdlife, with numerous species of seabirds nesting on its cliffs and swooping overhead. From graceful gannets to majestic cormorants, the island offers ample opportunities for birdwatching enthusiasts to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Beyond its wildlife, Seal Island is steeped in history and folklore. Legend has it that the island was once inhabited by a colony of Cape fur seals that were cursed by a local witch, transforming them into the creatures we see today. While the truth behind these tales remains shrouded in mystery, they add an air of mystique to the island’s allure. 

In conclusion, Seal Island in Hout Bay is a captivating destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and adventure. Whether you’re seeking an exhilarating boat tour, a chance to observe seals in their natural habitat, or simply wish to immerse yourself in the stunning coastal scenery, Seal Island promises an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

FACTS ABOUT SEAL ISLAND HOUT BAY

• Seal Population: Seal Island is home to one of the largest colonies of Cape fur seals in the world. During peak breeding season, which typically occurs from September to November, the island’s population can swell to tens of thousands. These seals gather on the rocky outcrop to mate, give birth, and rear their young, creating a bustling hub of activity that is a sight to behold.
• Predator-Prey Dynamics: One of the most remarkable aspects of Seal Island is its role in the predator-prey dynamics of the marine ecosystem. The island serves as a vital hunting ground for great white sharks, who prey on the seals as they enter and exit the water. The seals’ frenetic movements and acrobatic escapes make for thrilling spectacles as they attempt to evade the sharks’ stealthy attacks.
• Breeding Behavior: Seal Island provides a fascinating glimpse into the breeding behavior of Cape fur seals. Female seals typically give birth to a single pup each year, usually on the rocky shores of the island. After a gestation period of around nine months, the pups are born with a thick black coat, which gradually molts to reveal the characteristic light brown fur of adult seals.
• Birdlife Sanctuary: In addition to its resident seal population, Seal Island is also a haven for a variety of bird species. The towering cliffs and rocky crevices provide nesting sites for seabirds such as gannets, cormorants, and terns. These birds can be seen soaring overhead or perched on the cliffs, adding to the island’s rich biodiversity and offering ample opportunities for birdwatching enthusiasts.
• Historical Significance: Seal Island holds historical significance dating back centuries. The indigenous Khoikhoi people were among the first to inhabit the area, relying on its abundant marine resources for sustenance. Later, European explorers and settlers also recognized the island’s strategic importance, with early navigators often using it as a landmark. Today, Seal Island continues to capture the imagination of visitors, drawing them with its natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and rich maritime history.

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Seal Island Tour (Victor Harbor)

• Duration: 45 Minutes (approx.)
• Location : Victor Harbor, SA

SEAL ISLAND TOUR – Victor Harbor

The perfect introduction to the weathered natural granite sculptures of the south coast. Our 45-minute Seal Island cruise departs from the Granite Island Causeway, adjacent the iconic, historic horse-drawn tramway. Board our ‘Big Duck’ Rigid-Hulled Inflatable Boat (RHIB) – ‘Kondoli’ and cruise out alongside Granite Island, around the sheltered protection of the breakwater and out to the open Southern Ocean.

Feel the exhilarating power of 3x 250hp outboards as they surge us across the sea heading towards Seal Rock/Island, where Long Nosed Fur Seals and Australian Sea Lions can be seen basking in the sun and often swim to the stationary boat to have a good look at the passengers! Seabirds including petrels, shearwaters and cormorants can also be seen on or around Seal Island. Common and bottlenose dolphins often in the vicinity come to say hello and sometimes race the boat, swimming around the stern offering great photo opportunities for guests.

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Seal Island

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SEAL ISLAND: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

• Schedule & Rates
• Lighthouses
• Puffin Tour
• Isle au Haut
• Acadia National Park

Our fully licensed and inspected Downeast built boat will carry you from Stonington to the Seal Island shores where the puffins nest. On board our crew will provide descriptions of the avian and ocean wildlife along the way. The trips last between four and five hours, depending on weather and viewing. (Note that nobody is permitted to land on Seal Island.) Combo Cruises , stopping at three lighthouses along the way. You'll see remote Saddleback Ledge , Mark Island , and the Isle au Haut Light , along with the Seal Island birds. Bring water, sunscreen, cameras or binoculars and lunch if you wish.

Check out the May 18 WWW Seal Island Birding Cruise

60 Minute Shipwreck Cruise

R130 per adult r70 per child under 14yrs free 2 years or younger, r110 per adult r60 per child under 14yrs free 2 years or younger, daily: 12h15 | 14h00 | subject to change.

*Minimum 15 Pax

60 Minute Chapmans Peak Cruise

Private Charter

Please contact us for more info.

40 Minute Seal Colony Cruise

60 minute special cruise.

After a visit to the Cape Fur Seals at Duiker Island, you then either visit the shipwreck in Moari Bay, or cross the bay to view the splendorous Chapman’s Peak cliffs.

30 Minute High Speed Eco Tours

Whale watching, about drumbeat charters.

Drumbeat Charters has been operating since 1989 and is based in the famous fishing village of Hout Bay offering daily scenic cruises to one of Cape Town’s main attractions.

While aboard you are surrounded with breath-taking scenery of the famous Chapmans Peak Drive and the Sentinel Mountain.

Drumbeat caters for local and international clients and has information leaflets about the seals available in 26 different languages.

We have a 100% safety record.

In addition to this we:, comply with all samsa (south african maritime safety authority) regulations and our vessel is surveyed annually by samsa to ensure that it is seaworthy, employ competent, qualified skippers, ensure that all our crew are fully trained and competent, carry r20mil public liability and passenger liability cover.

The vessel, Drumbeat II has been purposefully designed and built in Cape Town for the sea and weather conditions off the Cape coast.

The entire vessel is constructed out of marine grade aluminium. She is twenty one meters in length and has two inboard 400 Cummins diesel engines.

Licensed to carry 118 passengers she has 2 toilets on board, a licensed bar and inside and outside seating.

Please note that Drumbeat II is also wheelchair friendly.

Tickets can be purchased on line or at our kiosk when you come to do the cruise.

We accept credit cards, cash and snapscan.

This is an exciting, child friendly 40 minute cruise from Hout Bay harbour to Duiker Island the Seal Colony where you can view thousands of wild Cape Fur Seals, close up in their beautiful natural habitat.

This 1 hour cruise is one of our special signature trips to see the Cape Fur Seals at Duiker Island and then continues below the Kabonkelberg mountain range to Moari Bay notoriously known for its Shipwrecks.

This is a 1 hour cruise which leaves from Hout Bay harbour to Duiker Island to view the Cape Fur Seals. From there the boat will cross the bay and travel back to the harbour along the cliffs and caves of Chapmans Peak.

This cruise is for the adventurous. Our boat is safe, but built for speed and will ride the waves as fast as you can handle it. The route is determined on the day but is sure to include a visit to Duiker Island, and include some breath taking scenery in the surrounding area. this trip s fun and spends time in the beautiful bay of Hout Bay. An abundance of sea life is often seen on the tour including Seals, Dolphins, Sunfish and various sea birds.

Come cruise with us on a wondrous  ocean safari.

Cell: 082 658 7055  Email: [email protected]

Hout Bay Harbour GPS Co -Ordinates: Latitude: -34.049041 Longitude: 18.3463098

Monomoy Island Excursion

Seal Cruise

The seals of Monomoy are a rare treat seen close up from the shallow drafting seal watch vessel Perseverance. You will glide through narrow channels and into isolated lagoons where Gray Seals gather together to swim and lay out along the shore. And you will spy seabirds and once in a while, the shadow of a great white shark passes by. Some of the best ocean fun adventures for your family.

• Please arrive 30 minutes prior to departure time.
• We suggest you bring a jacket or sweatshirt, camera, binoculars, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
• Please no smoking on board.
• Adult – $47 per adult
• Child (4-12 Years Old) – $40 per child
• Infant (3 years and under) – $20 per Infant

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Monomoy Island Excursions

   Prime Time

ST IVES BOAT TOURS ABOARD THE                                 PRIMETIME!

 godrevy lighthouse - seal island - mackerel fishing - private charters.

When you climb aboard, the safety and enjoyment of our customers is of our upmost importance. Rest assured that you’ll receive exactly what you hoped for and more!

We have a great selection of tours to match every person and every budget. We invite you to come visit us for a one of a kind boat trip.

What We Off er

Browse our boa t to ur opt ions b elow  .

Our goal is to offer the very best boat trips in St Ives!  We strive to provide our customers with the most e njoyable and leisurely trip around one of the UKs most breathtaking coastlin es.  We are here to help with your every need.

Check out our selection of trips below. Chat to us about Private Charters, Ash Scatterings, Proposals and more so we can create a bespoke package tailored to your individual requirements. 

Seal Island Tours

1 hour and 15 minutes

Sit back and enjoy the views as our talented and highly qualified skipper takes you on an adventure out of the bay towards the famous Seal Island. This area is often inhabited by seals, dolphins, sunfish and a large variety of sea birds. Life jackets and children's buoyancy aids are available on board and can be provided at your request. Suitable for all ages. Perfect Family Fun. Babies Under 12 months do not require a ticket.

Godrevy Lighthouse Tours

Please enquire if you wish to take a trip to the Lighthouse. Hop aboard The Prime Time! Sit back and enjoy the views as our talented and highly qualified skipper takes you on an adventure around the bay and beaches towards Godrevy Lighthouse. This area is usually inhabited by seals, dolphins, sunfish and a large variety of sea birds. Life jackets and children's buoyancy Aids are available on board and can be provided at your request. Suitable for all ages. Perfect Family Fun. Babies under 12 months do not require a ticket.

Mackerel Fishing

1 hour and 30 minutes

Come aboard The Prime Time! Take a trip around the coast and try your hand at a spot of mackerel fishing. Our skipper is a very experienced local fisherman who can teach you the ropes; this is perfect for beginners! You can keep what you catch so take it home and give the famous Cornish mackerel dish a try - as fresh as it gets! All tackle provided and included in the price. We are the only traditional hand line mackerel fishing operators in St Ives.

Private Charter

The Prime Time is available for private charter with our highly qualified skipper Jago Lethbridge . Private charter of the boat can be used for special occasions such as small wedding parties, intimate private ash scatterings, engagement proposals and much more. Up to 12 people can attend private charters. Please chat to us for more information and we would be more than happy to help.

Why Choose Us?

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St Ives, Cornwall UK

[email protected]

07869793453

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Seal Island (Kids go free, T&Cs apply)

• Sea Safari (1.5hrs) Kids go Free off peak (T&Cs apply)
• Sea Safari (2hrs) Kids go free off peak (T&Cs apply)
• Captain’s Blog

CALL | 07582 033757

• ``We went on the Isla Bea ..boat trip on Thursday 28th July 2016. The skipper said the weather was a bit rough for going to Seal Island so took us round the lighthouse and we saw some seals. He got the boat really close to the rocks and told us lots of information about the seals and sea birds. Although the weather wasn't great we had an excellent trip and would certainly recommend..`` Trip Advisor Review...
• ``We had a lovely trip to ``Seal Island`` which indeed delivered with a group of about 15 seals enjoying the sun and a pleasant trip along the coast. Very friendly and knowledgeable skipper. A real highlight of our visit to Cornwall...`` Trip AdvisorReview...
• ``Excellent value for money (for the three of us - 2 x adults and 1 x 7 year old and we paid £32.00) and really enjoyable. We loved it. A great trip and highly recommended if you've not done it before. Thanks to all involved....`` Trip Advisor Review....
• ``A fabulous session out in the boat to see the seals with Isla Bea. David the skipper was fantastic - well informed, polite and knowledgeable....`` Trip Advisor Review....
• ``We had a superb trip aboard the Isla Bea, saw seals a plenty and even dolphins. Kids were ecstatic. The perfect way to spend an hour, I would whole heartedly reccommend this trip. The skipper was super friendly and really knew his stuff....`` Trip Advisor Review....

Seal Island | 1.5 Hrs | Adult £25 Child (2-16yrs) £15

This narrated cruise lasts 1.5 hrs and leaves St Ives Harbour passing the New Pier, Porthgwidden and around the Island to Porthmeor.  The site of the wreck of The Alba (1938) will be pointed out. Then past Clodgy, The Hor & Penninnis, all stunning granite headlands jutting north into the Atlantic.

You will be shown the site of the wreck of The Bessemer City (1936) at Brea Cove,  and finally around Penzoarzen to the Western Carracks reef to view Grey Atlantic Seals. From here we can see the western approaches as far as Pendeen Light, with a superb view of Gurnards Head and Zennor Point.

Tour Highlights..

• Kids go FREE (off-peak times only)
• Watch seals in their natural habitat
• Vastly experienced & knowledgable local skippers
• A fantastic family experience
• Stunning rugged coastal scenery
• Narrated tour

Pricing 2023

Adult £25 Child (1-16yrs) £15

Infants (infants under 12 months) Free

Book online now!

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Book your seafaring adventure now,  or email us for general enquiries.

Call 07582 033757.

Things to watch out for

One of the most stunning coastal boat trips in Cornwall

Smeatons Pier:

If the tide is high, your trip may depart from the steps on the end of this impressive granite pier. The original pier was designed by John Smeaton and constructed by Thomas Richardson between 1767-1770.  Thomas Richardson had been Smeaton’s foreman mason on the construction of the Edddystone Lighthouse. In constructing the pier, Smeaton’s 1766 design also provided sluicing arches at its root. This allowed tidal action to scour the harbour clear of sand. Originally 360ft long, comprising some 35,000 tons of stone and costing £9,480 to construct, the pier was extended by a further 300ft in the late 1890s.

The New Pier:

In 1864-5 an additional pier was built to provide protection for Smeaton’s Pier. Constructed primarily of timber, it was known as Wood Pier, but it barely survived 20 years before the heavy seas reduced it to its oak piled foundations, which can still be seen at low tide.

Carrack Leggo:

Where the sewerage pumping station and car-park are now sited was once a huge rocky outcrop known as Carrack Leggo.  Much of the granite for Smeatons Pier was cut from here.

Porthgwidden:

This east-facing beach is where the first fishing community of St Ives developed.  Here the first fishing boats were built and launched long before there was any development around the existing harbour.

The Island:

Not a true island, but St Ives northwards reaching headland has always been called so.  Here on lamp rock sits the old coastguard station, now occupied by the National Coastwatch Institute.  St Nicholas chapel was believed to have been built in the 15th Century, and as the patron saint of sailors, one can see the significance of this dedication.  The island also has the remains of a Napoleonic gun battery, and a barracks for the soldiers stationed there.

This beautiful beach faces north-west and as such is open to the Atlantic Swell.  The eastern end of the beach was the site of the wreck of the Alba.  Porthmeor is home to the Tate Gallery, built on the site of the town’s former gas works, and its architects incorporated the bow frontage as a reminder of the shape of the gas tanks.

This headland is scarred with burrow and excavation works from mining activity.  During WWII there was a Chain Home Low radar station M115, and a pill box to protect it.  The radar station was blown up by the RAF in 1945 when no longer required.

The location of the wreck of The Bessemer City.  This fine vessel was wrecked in thick fog in November 1936.  There was no loss of life, and the some of the vessels cargo was salvaged by Roland Morris and his team working from the shore. She broke up within days. Morris was primarily instructed by the ship owners to recover the Sperry Master Gyro, in those days a delicate and rare piece of navigational equipment.  She had been loaded with motor cycles, timber, zinc ingots, fur coats and over 2000 tons of tinned fruit and other foods.  Morris paid his salvage team at the rate of 48 tins of Sockeye salmon a day! Tins of food were washed up along the north coast after the vessel broke up.

Penzoarsen:

This name means ‘turning place’ in Cornish.  Once around this spectacular headland, you can see as far as Pendeen, and also the famous Zennor and Gurnards Head.  The north facing slopes of this headland have stone wall field enclosures thought to be over 2000 yrs old.

Western Carracks: Carrack means rock in the Cornish language.  This reef extends seawards for 400 yards, and the northern most rock is known as Seal Island.  This rock is a location used constantly by Grey Seals to haul out, feed and gain shelter from the Atlantic swell.  With deep water around, and a rocky, kelpy bottom, there are shellfish and demersal fish for the seals to feed on. Sometimes 80-100 seals can be seen basking in the sunshine.  When the Atlantic swell prevents the seals from hauling out, their heads can be seen bobbing in the white water around the rocks.

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• St. Petersburg - Moscow Cruise

This 8-day Russian river cruise by luxury ship will take you to the jewels of Russia - St. Petersburg and Moscow as well as the most significant towns between these 2 magnificent cities: Mandrogui village, Kizhi island with its amazing wooden architecture and Uglich and Goritsy with their tranquil, country atmosphere.

• Route St. Petersburg - Mandrogui - Kizhi - Goritsy - Uglich - Moscow
• Languages English-speaking guide is guaranteed. Other languages are on request.
• Cruise Ship 5-star cruise ship MS Rostropovich
• Group Tour This is a group tour. There will be other people in your group.

This is a great Russian river cruise on a comfortable 4-star ship that will take you to St. Petersburg and Moscow and the most significant places between these 2 cities: Mandrogui village, Kizhi island with its amazing wooden architecture and Uglich and Goritsy with their tranquil atmosphere.

• Route St. Petersburg - Mandrogui- Kizhi - Goritsy - Uglich - Moscow
• Cruise Ship 4-star cruise ship: MS Crucelake

This is our shortest St. Petersburg to Moscow cruise and it is a perfect choice for those who have already been to Moscow and St. Petersburg and would like to explore the small, charming towns lying between the Two Capitals.

• Route St. Petersburg - Shlisselburg - Valaam - Svirstroy/Lodeynoe Pole - Mandrogui - Kizhi - Kuzino - Myshkin - Uglich - Moscow
• Cruise Ship 3-star cruise ships: MS Swan Lake, MS Moonlight Sonata

This is our most popular St. Petersburg to Moscow cruise. Besides in depth visits to St. Petersburg and Moscow, the cruise covers all the most important areas between the two capitals: Mandrogui - a colorful village famous for local handicrafts, amazing Kizhi Island with its beautiful nature and wooden architecture, as well as the ancient towns of Goritsy, Yaroslavl, and Uglich.

• Route St. Petersburg - Mandrogui - Kizhi - Goritsy - Yaroslavl - Uglich - Moscow
• Cruise Ship 3-star cruise ships: MS Zosima Shashkov

This is a classic St. Petersburg - Moscow cruises that takes you to the Two Capitals as well a number of charming ancient towns on the way: Mandrogui village, Kizhi island, Goritsy, Yaroslavl, and Uglich.

• Cruise Ship 4-star cruise ships:, MS Nikolay Chernyshevsky, MS Nizhny Novgorod, MS Konstantin Fedin, MS Sankt-Peterburg, MS Kronshtadt

This St. Petersburg to Moscow cruise is a great way to discover Russia. The cruise includes in-depth visits to Russia’s two capitals and also makes stops at all of the important sites along the route including Mandrogui - a colorful village famous for local handicrafts, amazing Kizhi Island with its beautiful nature and wooden architecture, as well as the ancient towns of Goritsy, Yaroslavl, and Uglich.

This 11-day St. Petersburg to Moscow cruise covers all the important places: Mandrogui - a colorful village famous for local handicrafts, amazing Kizhi Island, as well as the ancient towns of Goritsy, Yaroslavl, and Uglich.

• Cruise Ship 3-star cruise ship: MS Moonlight Sonata

This 8-day Russian river cruise on a luxury ship takes you to Russia’s two capitals – Moscow and St. Petersburg, as well as to the ancient towns of Uglich and Goritsy, Kizhi island with its outstanding wooden architecture, and Mandrogui village, famous for traditional handicrafts, and Valaam archipielago with its amazing monastary.

• Route St. Petersburg - Valaam - Mandrogui - Kizhi - Goritsy - Uglich - Moscow
• Cruise Ship 5-star cruise ship MS Mustai Karim

We would like to thank you very much for making the arrangements for our river cruise from St. Petersburg to Moscow in Sept-Oct. We were very pleased with every aspect of the cruise. The accommodation and the meals were excellent, the staff very knowledgeable & courteous, the quality of the tours was excellent. We found the lectures on the boat very interesting & everything possible was done to make sure the tourists had a wonderful experience. Thank you, too, for arranging the hotel for us the night before the cruise. It was in a great location & very comfortable. All aspects of the trip were wonderful & it was great value for money spent. Our sincere thanks.

We just wanted to thank you again for your help in setting up our Russian cruise. We've appreciated your support all the way through - from taking us through the complex paperwork of the visa application to talking to our taxi driver in St Petersburg to make sure that we were in the right place. Great service! We absolutely loved the cruise! We learned a lot, relaxed a lot and were dazzled by beautiful cities and landscapes. We couldn't have asked for a better introduction to Russia. Thanks again!

St. Petersburg Cruise

This St. Petersburg cruise to Moscow Cruise is a great combination of ancient Russian cities, famous for their history, architecture and art. Travel along the magnificent Volga River that links these 2 beautiful and historic cities. Port calls include the Russian capital Moscow , Saint Petersburg , Kizhi , Goritsy and Uglich . The river cruise ship will take you along the Neva River , Lake Ladoga ,the Svir River , Lake Onega , the Baltic canal , White Lake and the Volga River . The beauty of the countryside will make your trip unforgettable. Come to Russia in the summer of 2021 with Express to Russia.

Frequently Asked Questions From Our Travelers

A russian land tour or a river cruise - which is better.

This decision completely depends on your preferred way of travelling. During the Russian river cruise you will not only visit the two largest cities of Russia, but also small towns and villages along the route and you will have a chance to participate in master classes, learn a little Russian language and dive into local Russian culture and hospitality. For those who prefer custom-made programs and more free time in the cities of their choice we recommend a land tour, both are excellent options. To find out more about the differences click here .

Do I need a visa for a Russian River Cruise?

If your citizenship is not on the list of countries with visa-free access to Russia, you will need a valid Russian visa. Please make sure to start the process in a timely manner, so as to avoid any last-minute pressure. More details on Russian Visas can be found here .

What is the best Russian river cruise line?

There are several Russian river cruise lines. Each cruise line offers a number of ships and programs at different price ranges. You call feel confident in choosing any of them. All of these cruise lines are well trusted and have been in business for a long time. We also recommend checking guests' reviews and asking our reservation specialist for more details regarding any concerns.

How far in advance should I book a Russian river cruise?

Usually the cruise operating companies set their schedules and prices well in advance - at least one year before the actual cruise starts. So, we may recommend that you book your cruise and place a deposit as early as possible so that you have enough time to arrange all other components of your journey. Please also note that cruise cabins sell out quickly, so it is always a good idea to book your cabin of choice in advance.

What should I pack for a Russian River Cruise?

The weather here can be unpredictable. So first of all it is important to have comfortable clothes and some wind/waterproof items. We highly recommend that you check our new article that contains full information on packing for a Russian river cruise .

What is the voltage in Russia?

Russia uses 220V voltage as does most of Europe. So before packing your devices, do not forget to take a proper adapter, so you may recharge all of your devices with no stress. For more information please see our useful tips .

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• Guided tour

River Cruise on Luxurious Radisson Boat

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Equipped with ice-breaking technology, these huge fancy yachts are the only river cruisers running all year around. The round trip journey takes two and a half hours and floats past all the big sights like the White House, Novodevichy monastery and the Kremlin. There’s a large open air observation deck up top, while the main body of the ship houses a restaurant with a dance floor for a romantic post dinner dance. For a particularly romantic experience take one of the evening boats and admire the bright lights of the city skyline at night.

The most relaxing and picturesque tour that Moscow can offer: a great way to see the city center and its main attractions. This is a perfect alternative to exploring the city by car, if you only have time to do sightseeing during weekday rush hours.

Your English-speaking guide is eager to share every bit of their knowledge about the surrounding landscape, the architecture and historical details.

We conduct Moscow river tour on Radisson Flotilla boats all year around!  It’s warm inside during winter months, while there’s air conditioning during hot summer days. You may also treat yourself to drinks, lunch or dinner on board (drinks and food are not included in tour price).

The cost of an excursion with a personal guide for 1 person

Quay at Radisson Collection Hotel

Government Headquarters ("the White House")

Kievsky Railway Central

Novodevichy Convent

Luzhniki Stadium

Academy of Sciences

Monument to Peter I

Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

Moscow Kremlin

St.Basil's Cathedral

Novospassky Monastery

U-turn and back to Quay at Radisson Royal Hotel

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Who's going.

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See photo of the meeting point

Explore Vancouver Island's wild side

From ancient forests to secluded beaches, the remote sanctuary off Canada's Pacific Coast has it all

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The only way to reach Vancouver Island is by boat or plane. Either way, arriving at this remote sanctuary off Canada's Pacific Coast is a memorable experience: cedar trees carpet the rocky shores, hazy mountains stretch as far as the eye can see. 

If you're lucky, you might be greeted with the bark of a seal or the whistle of a bald eagle returning to its nest. The island is teeming with wildlife; this is a place where black bears roam the forests and humpback whales can be spotted along the coast. Here are a few ways to experience the untamed beauty of Vancouver Island. 

Catch waves at Tofino

Chesterman Beach is an excellent spot for storm-watching 

In the manicured streets of Victoria on the southern tip of the island "you could be forgiven for thinking you were in Cheltenham", said Stanley Stewart in Conde Nast Traveler . "But things get rugged remarkably quickly." Around a three hour drive up the coast lies Tofino - a little beach town known as the surfing capital of Canada. Cox Bay Beach hosts most of the surf competitions, while Mackenzie Beach is ideal for families thanks to its sheltered location and calm waters. The winter months can be spent storm-watching: expect dramatic skies, gigantic waves and fearsome winds (take it all in from Pointe Restaurant overlooking Chesterman Beach).

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Hike the West Coast Trail 

Adventurous hikers will need five to seven days to complete the perilous trail

Built in 1907 to help rescuers reach shipwreck survivors along the treacherous 'Graveyard of the Pacific', the West Coast Trail is one of Canada's most popular hiking spots. The 47-mile stretch of "ladders, bridges, creek crossings, rock-hopping and beachcombing hugs the Pacific shoreline for most of its course", said Brendan Sainsbury in Lonely Planet . Adventurous hikers will need a permit, camping gear and between five and seven days to complete it, but despite volatile weather and slippery conditions "the rewards are immense". Be sure to plan your route carefully in advance - and bring a sturdy pair of hiking boots.

Take in the forest from the Malahat Skywalk

The spiral walkway curls above the forest canopy revealing sweeping views 

For panoramic views of the forest, fjords and mountains beyond, it's worth taking a scenic stroll along the Malahat Skywalk. Located a 35-minute drive from Victoria, the spiral tree-walk opened in 2021. The 32-metre glass and wooden structure looks like a "giant cane basket poking above the forest canopy" and is accessed by a "gently graded walkway that curls up through 10 storeys to a circular lookout", said Sainsbury in The Independent . There's also an 'adventure net' for daring guests to bounce across at the top, and a 20-metre spiral slide for kids.

Go wine tasting in Cowichan Valley 

The mild climate is ideal for grape growing 

Those looking for something a bit more relaxing could consider taking a scenic drive from Victoria around an hour north along the Trans-Canada highway to Cowichan Valley. Known for its warm, dry summers and mild winters, the region is home to a burgeoning collection of wineries and vineyards. In Cobble Hill, craft cider maker Merridale offers tours and tastings, and has plush yurts on site for overnight stays. "The best place to eat is hidden in the woods near Lake Cowichan, where passionate locavore and chef Brock Windsor runs the Stone Soup Inn," shared Carolyn B. Heller in Forbes . The menu is brimming with foraged ingredients and changes with the seasons.

Where to stay

The Wickaninnish Inn overlooks Chesterman Beach on the island's rugged west coast

Perched on the far edge of Vancouver Island in Tofino, the Wickaninnish Inn looks out over Chesterman Beach. The stunning landscape is "reflected indoors at every turn", said Nikki Bayley in The Telegraph , from the floor-to-ceiling windows to the custom furnishings crafted from driftwood. All of the rooms have balconies with ocean views, cosy fireplaces and bathrooms with deep soaking tubs. 

Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge comprises 25 luxurious tented accommodations on the banks of Clayoquot Sound. It might be hard to reach but the journey is "well worth the effort", said Sarah Marshall in The Times . Set in a former mining outpost, each of the lodge's eco-friendly tents feature spacious outdoor decks and ensuite bathrooms.

How to get there

BC Ferries operates vessels between the mainland and Vancouver Island. Leave Vancouver from Horseshoe Bay or Tsawwassen to arrive in Victoria or Nanaimo (you can also take a one-day scenic cruise through the Inside Passage between Prince Rupert and Port Hardy). The other option is to fly: daily flights from Calgary and Edmonton take visitors to Victoria, Comox and Nanaimo. 

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