A Russian Odyssey
A cultural journey through the heartland of Russia from Moscow to St Petersburg with Guest Speaker Professor Ludmilla Selezneva aboard the MS Volga Dream
- 18 May 2020
Join us aboard the MS Volga Dream as we travel in comfort and style from the imposing city of Moscow to magnificent St Petersburg. Russia’s two most famous cities are also the greatest repositories of Russian art and architecture, Moscow, the Medieval and 20th century capital, has a wonderful heritage of early buildings while St Petersburg, the creation of Peter the Great, benefited from the inspiration of Europe’s greatest 18th century architects and craftsmen. We have allowed ample time in both cities to explore their riches and have arranged special early entrances to the Hermitage in St Petersburg and the Armoury in Moscow.
Our cruise in between the great cities of the Tsars includes rural interludes through the delightful Russian countryside to the magical Golden Ring cities of Holy Russia which still preserve their Medieval Kremlins, fortified monasteries and beautiful cathedrals and churches. In between the towns and villages we will sail past a rolling landscape of farms and silver birch woods dotted with villages and hamlets. The combination of history and art, together with the insight into modern Russia of today, makes for an in-depth and all-encompassing trip.
Useful links & Travel Advice
Please find a selection of useful websites to refer to for information from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, on visa requirements, NHS travel health advice and other useful travel tips.
Volga Dream
The vast network of Russian waterways is served by numerous standard class vessels, however for our journeys along the Volga we are fortunate to be using the deluxe MS Volga Dream for our journeys along the mighty river. The elegant MS Volga Dream entered service during the spring of 2007 and was rebuilt from a 200 passenger vessel to accommodate just 100 passengers in an intimate setting. The result is a splendid and spacious vessel which offers the most superior accommodation and services on the route.
Itinerary
Day 1 London Heathrow to Moscow, Russia.
Fly by scheduled flight to Moscow. On arrival, transfer to the MS Volga Dream and embark.
Day 2 Moscow.
Begin your day with a tour of the Old Tretyakov gallery to view its extraordinary collection of Russian art, ranging from 12th century icons to 20th century paintings. Lunch will be in a local restaurant followed by an afternoon at leisure. Alternatively you may wish to join the optional tour to visit the fascinating Tolstoy House Museum, an authentic and atmospheric recreation, laden with original belongings and details that bring to life the long winters Tolstoy and his family spent here from 1881 to 1901. Return to the ship and enjoy the Captain’s welcome cocktail and dinner on board this evening.
Day 3 Moscow.
This morning we plan an early visit to the Kremlin to see the Armoury Museum with its collection of Tsarist thrones, ceremonial crowns, coaches and gifts of state. Also visit the Square of Three Cathedrals (including entrance to one cathedral). After lunch in a local restaurant we continue our tour to see Red Square, St Basil’s Cathedral (outside view) and the GUM department store. Return to the ship. This evening, for those who have pre-booked, there will be an optional evening of music ashore at Bolshoi Theatre or similar (subject to schedules and ticket availability).
Day 4 Moscow.
Today we take a trip see the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour and the beautiful Novodevichiy Cemetery. The cemetery holds the tombs of notable Russian authors, musicians, playwrights, and poets, as well as political leaders and scientists. After lunch in a local restaurant either enjoy an afternoon at leisure or join our optional guided tour of the Moscow Metro, where you can experience some of the most beautiful metro stations in the world.
Day 5 Uglich.
We arrive this afternoon in Uglich, dating back to the 10th century. A walking tour of this Golden Ring city includes the Chapel of Dimitry, a 17th century treasure built on the site where Ivan the Terrible’s 10 year old son met his death. Visit the Church of the Transfiguration, noted for its beautiful iconostasis, and attend a concert of choral music.
Day 6 Yaroslavl.
This morning we visit the oldest city on the Volga River, Yaroslavl, a World Heritage Site. Visit the Church of St. Elijah the Prophet, featuring detailed frescoes and icons. Continue on to the Governor’s Palace, a living museum of Russian art, history and culture where we will be treated to a stirring a capella choir performance. Afterwards there will be time to experience the lively farm market before returning to the MS Volga Dream.
Day 7 Goritsy.
Early this morning we cross Lake Beloye, or the White Lake, formerly known as the “Tsar’s fishing grounds”. Arrive in the peaceful village of Goritsy to tour the fortress-like Kirillov-Belozersky Monastery with magnificent frescoes by one of Russia’s most renowned icon painters. Return to the ship for a late lunch and sail.
Day 8 Kizhi.
This afternoon we explore the tiny, picturesque island of Kizhi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site on the Lake Onega. The open-air Museum of Architecture includes the Church of the Transfiguration, a unique onion-domed masterpiece built without a single metal nail and resembling something out of a Russian fairy tale.
Day 9 Svir River & Island of Svirstroy.
Be on the deck as we navigate the Svir River toward Lake Ladoga, Europe’s largest freshwater lake, past a shoreline dotted with graceful willows, alder trees and stately pines. Step ashore for a visit to the village of Svirstroy to experience daily life in this peaceful rural hamlet.
Day 10 St Petersburg.
We will begin today at the meticulously restored Peterhof, St Petersburg’s most famous and spectacular Imperial estate, often cited as the “Versailles of Russia”. Visit one of the small cottages and stroll in the vast Lower Park with its 176 fountains of various forms and styles, four cascades, and numerous gilded statues of ancient gods and heroes. We will take a hydrofoil to a local restaurant for lunch before either enjoying an afternoon at leisure or a wonderful optional visit to both the Peter and Paul Fortress and St Isaac’s Cathedral. Return to the vessel for a leisurely evening and dinner on board.
Day 11 St Petersburg.
This morning we visit the famed Hermitage Museum where an early entrance has been arranged to avoid the crowds. This former residence of the Russian Tsars has 400 rooms and contains spectacular examples of nearly all schools of Western art. Proceed to the Gold Room of the Hermitage (subject to permission) to see the amazing collection of Scythian gold. We will have lunch in a local restaurant and then in the afternoon we will visit the fascinating Fabergé Museum at Shuvalov Palace. Afterwards, for those who have pre-booked, there will be an optional music evening ashore at the Mariinsky Theatre or similar (subject to schedules and availability).
Day 12 St Petersburg.
This morning drive to Tsar’s Village for a specially arranged visit to Catherine Palace. See the exquisitely restored Amber Room and stroll in the formal gardens. Lunch will be in a local restaurant followed by an afternoon at leisure. Alternatively, you may like to join the optional tour to see the magnificent Yusupov Palace, once the residence of the wealthiest and most respected family in Imperial Russia, which saw one of the most dramatic episodes in Russia’s history – the murder of Grigory Rasputin. This evening enjoy the farewell dinner on board.
Day 13 St Petersburg to London Gatwick.
Disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport for your return scheduled flight to London.
NB: The order of included activities in St Petersburg and Moscow may vary to the itinerary shown and all excursions, music events and performance days are subject to change depending on availability, schedules and entrance times to venues. Details of music programmes and prices will be available approximately two months prior to departure, full information will be sent as soon as received by our Russian agents. Ports and itinerary are subject to change.
Dates and Prices
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE UP TO £400 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY
Prices per person based on double occupancy
| 18 to 30 May 2020 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| Standard twin - Cabin Deck | £4695 | £4495 |
| Superior twin - Main Deck | £5195 | £4995 |
| Deluxe double - Promenade Deck | £5495 | £5195 |
| Junior Suite double - Promenade/Sun Deck | £5795 | £5495 |
| Superior stateroom twin - Sun Deck | £6295 | £5895 |
| Deluxe Junior Suite Double | £6595 | £6195 |
| Owner's Stateroom double - Promenade Deck | £7395 | £6995 |
| Standard Single - Promenade Deck | £4895 | £4695 |
| Deluxe single - Sun Deck | £5195 | £4995 |
| Standard twin for sole occupancy - Cabin Deck | £8295 | £8095 |
| Deluxe double for sole occupancy - Promenade Deck | £9495 | £9295 |
Tour Reference Code: RCVD180520
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • 12 nights aboard the MS Volga Dream on full board basis • House wine & soft drinks with lunch and dinner • Shore excursions • Gratuities • Tour Manager • Guest Speaker • Transfers • Welcome bottle of champagne (deluxe cabins and suites only) • Port taxes • UK airport taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance, Russian visa, optional tours and musical evenings ashore as described.
Important Visa Information: A visa is required for Russia and Noble Caledonia will provide all supporting documentation needed although the process to apply for the visa cannot be started until three months before departure and in some instances can take up to six weeks. To obtain a Russian visa it will be necessary for passengers to attend application centres in London, Manchester or Edinburgh. This information is correct at the time of printing and should the information change, we will be in touch with booked passengers with updated guidelines.
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All Decks
Volga Dream
The vast network of Russian waterways is served by numerous standard class vessels, however for our journeys along the Volga we are fortunate to be using the deluxe MS Volga Dream for our journeys along the mighty river. The elegant MS Volga Dream entered service during the spring of 2007 and was rebuilt from a 200 passenger vessel to accommodate just 100 passengers in an intimate setting. The result is a splendid and spacious vessel which offers the most superior accommodation and services on the route.
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Ship Directory
Ship Directory
Please find below further details pertaining to the vessel or click on the booklet to download.
We are delighted you have chosen the MS Volga Dream for your voyage along the Russian Waterways.
The MS Volga Dream entered service during the spring of 2007. This elegant vessel has been totally rebuilt from a ship that originally accommodated over 200 passengers and now accommodates just 100. The result is a splendid and spacious vessel which offers the most superior accommodation and is considered to be the best on the Volga, with elegant lines, comfortable decor and fine dining. The cabins and suites are located over four decks and the onboard facilities include a delightful restaurant, offering the best of Russian cuisine and international choices, a pleasant lounge with large panoramic windows and bar area, an outside Sun Deck, library and fitness centre.
The atmosphere on board is friendly and informal and, although your daily programme will be busy ashore, the cruise is also planned with time to relax on board. The Russian crew who all speak English will do much to add to your enjoyment whilst on board.
AIR CONDITIONING
All cabins have individually controlled heating and air conditioning.
ALARM
An alarm will be sounded in the event of emergency. Please follow the instructions provided on board for what to do in the event of emergency. ALL ABOARD
Your times for embarkation and disembarkation will be provided by your Cruise Director/ Tour Manager.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
During your time on board, various announcements will be made by the ship’s crew and the Cruise Director/ Tour Manager. Please listen out for these announcements as they will be of importance or interest.
CABIN INFORMATION
All cabins feature a picture window apart from the Standard Cabins on the Cabin Deck and Standard Singles on the Promenade Deck which have a porthole. All cabins feature a twin bed configuration with the exception of those named as double or single cabins. The facilities include a private bathroom with shower, spacious closet, air conditioning, direct dial telephone, wide-screen satellite television, electronic safe, minibar, radio, hairdryer, bathrobes, slippers and a welcome fruit basket on arrival.
CRUISE DIRECTOR
A local Cruise Director will accompany you on your voyage together with a Noble Caledonia Tour Manager.
CURRENCY
The currency on board is the Russian Rouble. The ship accepts Visa, MasterCard and American Express cards.
DAILY PROGRAMME
Each evening the next day’s programme will be delivered to your cabin.
DRESS CODE
While there is no formal dress code on board, comfortable and practical attire is recommended during the day for excursions and something dressier for the evening. More formal dress is required only for the Welcome and Captain’s dinner (black tie is not necessary).
ELECTRICITY
Electricity onboard is 220v, with 2-pin power outlets. We recommend you take an adaptor with you.
ELEVATOR
There is no elevator on board.
EMBARKATION/DISEMBARKATION
Embarkation and disembarkation times will be provided by your Cruise Director.
EMERGENCY & SAFETY PROCEDURES
Full details of the ship’s emergency and safety procedures will be provided following your embarkation. Please note there is a Doctor on board the vessel.
FIRE SAFETY
On your cabin door is a deck plan displaying your closest (and all other) emergency exits. Emergency exits are marked in green and fire extinguishers fitted in all corridors.
FIRST AID & MEDICAL MATTERS
A Doctor is available on board the ship (charges apply). Further medical assistance can be sought from one of the hospitals along the river in the event of emergency. Should you require emergency assistance, please call the ship’s reception.
FITNESS ROOM
A fitness room is available on board the vessel.
GRATUITIES
Gratuities have been included in your holiday price for both shore excursion and ship staff.
GIFT SHOP
A small gift shop selling practical and souvenir items is available on board the vessel.
HAIRDRESSER
There is no hairdresser aboard the vessel.
HOUSEKEEPING
Your cabin will be cleaned once a day and you will be provided with a ‘turn down’ service at night.
KEYS TO CABIN
Each cabin will receive their own cabin key. Before leaving the ship we kindly ask all passengers to swap the cabin key with a shore pass which will be provided to you by the ship’s reception desk. After your return to the ship please return your shore pass back to reception in exchange for your cabin key.
LAUNDRY
A laundry service is provided on board. A price list can be found in your cabin. There is no dry cleaning facility available.
LIBRARY AND GAMES
A small library can be found on board and various board games are available for your enjoyment.
LOST PROPERTY
Lost property can be handed in to the ship’s reception. Please ensure you have all of your belongings with you before you return home. Should you leave items on board the ship we are only able to return them to you at your own cost.
MEALS
Breakfast, lunch and dinner are provided on board. Breakfast is buffet-style, lunches are a mixture of both buffet and served courses and dinners are a served-affair. Dietary requests can be catered for on request. Please provide any such requests in writing to Noble Caledonia at the time of your reservation and please reiterate these requests to the ship’s Hotel Manager upon your embarkation.
MOORING
Docking space is allocated by the local river authorities. On occasion other river cruise vessels may be required to dock alongside our ship. This may result in restricted cabin views and may also entail us being required to embark and disembark the ship through another vessel’s public areas and/or for the other ship’s passengers to do the same.
MOSQUITOES
Please ensure you take the appropriate precautions to guard against mosquito bites.
OPERATIONS AND CHANGES
Despite our meticulous planning efforts, there may be times when changes must be made to the daily programme due to circumstances beyond our control such as heavy river traffic or fluctuating water levels. The ship’s Captain and crew will do their utmost to find the best and safest solution. Any changes to the day’s schedule will be communicated as soon as possible.
PAYMENT
The currency on board is the Russian Rouble and Visa, MasterCard and American Express cards are accepted on board the ship. An itemised bill will be presented to each passenger prior to their disembarkation for any items purchased during the cruise.
POST
The vessel’s gift shop has postcards and stamps for you to purchase (subject to availability), and items can be posted on your behalf by the ship’s crew (although as they are unable to do so at every port of call, this could take longer than if you were to post yourself). Please note that neither the ship nor Noble Caledonia can be held responsible for items of post that are not successfully delivered on your behalf.
QUESTIONNAIRES
A questionnaire will be provided to all passengers towards the end of their sailing. We would be grateful for you to complete and return this.
RECEPTION
Reception is manned between the hours of 07:00 and 23:00 daily. A member of the crew can be contacted at all times by telephone.
ROOM SERVICE
Room service is available.
SAFE
All cabins are fitted with a safe and we recommend you place your valuables inside the safe whenever you are away from your room. Please remember to remove all items from your safe prior to you departing the vessel at the end of the cruise.
SAFETY
Please take careful note of all safety instructions provided to you by the Master and crew of the vessel. Full safety instructions are available to you in your cabin.
SAUNA
A sauna is available for use on board the vessel. Please contact the ship’s reception to make an appointment.
SMOKING
Smoking within your cabin or any of the vessel’s public areas is strictly prohibited. Designated smoking areas are provided and can be advised by the ship’s reception upon embarkation.
SUN DECK
The ship has a Sun Deck which is available for guests to enjoy. There may be times, for example at periods of inclement weather or low bridges, whereby it is necessary to close the Sun Deck. Please listen carefully to the Captain and crew for instruction. Please also note that the Sun Deck and its steps may become slippery if the weather is cool or dew forms.
TELEPHONE
Should you wish to make an internal call please dial the corresponding cabin number. If you are wishing to make an external call, please contact the reception desk.
VISITORS
Visitors are not permitted aboard the vessel, however with the prior consent of the ship’s reception, this can sometimes be possible. Please provide as much notice as possible to the senior staff so that the necessary arrangements can be made. The ship’s operators reserve the right to deny boarding to any visitors.
WATER
Complimentary water is available during breakfast, lunch and dinner. Bottled water is replenished daily in your cabin.
WI-FI
Wi-Fi is included in the holiday price, but please note that services can be erratic and cannot be guaranteed, especially outside of the main city areas.
PLEASE NOTE
The above information is accurate and correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of publishing. Noble Caledonia accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions and none of the facilities or features of the vessel described herein which are not specifically described in our advertisements and on your holiday invoice as being included in your holiday price will be deemed to be included in your holiday package. If you would like further information about the vessel or about any of your holiday arrangements, please do not hesitate to contact us.
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Deck plans
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All Decks
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All Decks
Travelling with You
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Ludmilla Selezneva
Professor Ludmilla is a graduate with honours from Rostov State University and received her first doctorate there, in history, in 1982. She attained her second doctorate in 1996 from the Russian State University of Humanities in Moscow. Since 2001, Ludmilla Selezneva has worked as a professor of history and politics at the University of the Humanitarian Education in Moscow.
Professor Selezneva has published more than 50 articles and authored or co-authored 10 books. She is a well-recognised authority on 20th century Russia, the Russian political movements and parties, and the modern political history. Speaking tours have taken her universities, schools, and business conferences, local communities in UK (London, Oxford, Cambridge, and Edinburgh.), USA, Canada, Netherlands, France, and Austria.
Ludmilla Selezneva will be on the following tour dates: 18 to 30 May 2020
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Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000