Enjoy a spectacular voyage through the heart of Russia along its colorful and historic waterways. Explore bustling and excitement-packed Moscow, then cruise north and visit the enchanting Golden Ring cities of Uglich and Yaroslavl. Continue along the Volga-Baltic Waterways and through Europe’s two largest lakes, Onega and Ladoga, to St. Petersburg, one of the world’s most beautiful cities, spread over 101 islands and 66 canals. Explore Moscow and St. Petersburg, the most important cities in Russia.
Available Cruise Departure Dates:

Moscow to St. Petersburg (2012 & 2013): May 10, Jun 1,23, Jul 15, Aug 6,28, Sep 19
St. Petersburg to Moscow (2012 & 2013): May 21, Jun 12, Jul 4,26, Aug 17, Sep 8,30

Cruise the waters of the Volga, the largest river in Europe in terms of length, discharge, and watershed. It flows through central Russia, and is widely viewed as the national river of Russia. Out of the twenty largest cities of Russia, eleven, including its capital Moscow, are situated in the Volga's drainage basin. Aboard your luxurious cruise ship, you'll be able to relax in comfort as you traverse the river between interesting ports-of-call.

Enjoy a private airport transfer in Moscow with a private vehicle, Driver and an Assistant.

We will provide you with a letter of Invitation for your Russian Visa. Once payment has been received, the letter along with other important documents will be sent to you.

After embarking the ship, relax in your stateroom and settle into your new surroundings.

Meet your crew and fellow travelers at the welcome cocktail reception onboard this evening.

All port charges are included in your trip price.

Cruise between Moscow and St. Petersburg on the 212-passenger MS AmaKatarina (aka MS Mstislav Rostropovich), the most spacious vessel on Russia’s famed Volga-Baltic Waterway. Built in 1981 and completely redesigned and rebuilt by AmaWaterways in 2010-2011, the MS AmaKatarina features outside balconies in more than 70 percent of her staterooms; two dining venues, and ten stateroom and suite categories offering accommodations up to 432 square feet in size. Enticing public areas include a panorama lounge; conference hall for onboard lectures; and gift shop. The ship also features a fitness room on the sun deck; a hair dresser and masseuse; infirmary staffed by an onboard physician plus an elevator.

Overnight at AMA Waterways AmaKatarina.

This morning, tour within the walls of the Kremlin introduces you to the former royal residence of the Czars and main center of the Russian Orthodox faith. Then enjoy lunch on a day boat as you cruise the Moscow River past the Kremlin. Late this afternoon, your city tour includes the Red Square where you will see the Kremlin and Lenin’s Tomb. During free time, visit the iconic St. Basil’s Cathedral or perhaps the GUM, the vast Soviet-Era main department store.

Overnight at AMA Waterways AmaKatarina.

You will tour the Moscow Metro system, easily the most architecturally extravagant subway system in the world. Many of the stations are adorned with chandeliers, sculptures and frescoes more reminiscent of a palace than a metro station. You will also visit Poklonnaya (Bow) Hill, where you will see the WWII monument.

Tonight, you can enjoy an optional visit to the Moscow Circus.

If you wish to participate in an option activity, please contact your travel consultant.

Overnight at AMA Waterways AmaKatarina.

Located on the banks of the Volga, Uglich was founded by merchants in 1148. Rich in history, it is home to some of Russia’s most beautiful churches and cathedrals, which you’ll see a sampling of during your city tour. The most noteworthy include the Chambers of Prince Dimitry and the magnificent Church of Dimitry on the Blood, dedicated to the tragic story of Ivan the Terrible's son.

You’ll visit the home of a local Russian family, learning about everyday life in Uglich, as you enjoy a home-cooked meal and sample Russian hospitality first-hand.

Overnight at AMA Waterways AmaKatarina.

Explore Yaroslavl's rich history through its architecture, including the fortified 12th-century Transfiguration Monastery and the Yaroslavl Museum of Russian Art, the former residence of the Governor of Yaroslavl on this shared shore excursion.

Overnight at AMA Waterways AmaKatarina.

Goritsy is a peaceful farming town and a typical Russian village. The shared shore excursion today includes a visit to the Monastery of St. Cyril on the White Lake and the Museum of Icons. Upon your return to the ship, you'll continue downstream towards Kizhi.

Overnight at AMA Waterways AmaKatarina.

Home to some of the most amazing wooden architecture in Russia, Kizhi is forever linked to Novgorod the Great, and the style of architecture reflects its early introduction to Christianity. In 1764 locals built the Church of Intercession, its towering walls and 22 domes, without the use of a single nail. Your shared walking tour includes the Museum of Wooden Architecture.

Overnight at AMA Waterways AmaKatarina.

Enjoy some free time to stroll through the unspoiled Russian village of Svirstroy and browse for irresistible handmade trinkets. This is the best place to do souvenir shopping before reaching St. Petersburg.

Overnight at AMA Waterways AmaKatarina.

One of Russia’s former capitals, this city rivals Paris or Venice for its romantic image. Dating from the beginning of the 18th-century it was built to the exact specifications ordered by Peter the Great. After breakfast, enjoy a hydrofoil journey to The State Hermitage, one of the oldest and largest Museums in the world. Founded by Catherine the Great, the museum is a complex of six buildings, including the former Winter Palace, and houses nearly 3 million works of art including the largest collection of paintings in the world.

This afternoon, a sightseeing tour of this beautiful city shows you Nevsky Prospect, Palace Square and St. Isaacs Cathedral. You will also see the Peter & Paul Fortress.

Overnight at AMA Waterways AmaKatarina.

This morning, depart by hydrofoil for Peterhof, St. Petersburg’s most spectacular Imperial Estate. Also known as the “Russian Versailles,” the palace was built on the shore of the Gulf of Finland by Peter the Great, initially as a resting place en route to the Imperial Naval base. Your tour includes the Lower Gardens, the Grand Cascade and Samson Fountain, commemorating Russia’s victory over Sweden during the Great Northern War.

Tonight, consider joining your fellow passengers for an optional folkloric show.

To participate in an optional activity, please contact your travel consultant.

Overnight at AMA Waterways AmaKatarina.

Today visit the nearby town of Pushkin, where Catherine’s Palace was the summer residence of the Russian Czars. 

An optional excursion includes a tour of the interior of the Cameron Gallery which features state rooms and dining rooms in baroque and neoclassical style. You will also visit the reconstructed Amber Room, considered to be the Eighth Wonder of the World, and features and room covered with panels of amber. The remainder of the day is at your leisure.

To participate in an optional activity, please contact your travel consultant.

Overnight at AMA Waterways AmaKatarina.

After bidding the crew and your fellow passengers farewell, disembark your river cruise for your onward journey.

Enjoy a private airport transfer with vehicle, driver and assistance.

 End of itinerary.

Overnight at Depart .