St. Petersburg, Russia - Saturday, July 3, 2010:
Glorious history and art, fanciful palaces, a rich imperial past – all here in the city founded by Peter the Great.
Ballet at the Musical Comedy Theatre
Departs: 7:15 pm - Saturday, July 3rd
Approximately 3½ Hours
Adult $99; Child $79
St. Petersburg is arguably the Ballet Capital of Russia. Ballet came here from Europe at the beginning of the 18th century quite unexpectedly, and coincided with a period of cultural adaptation, which made it easy for Russians to accept this strange manner of dancing. A Russian ballet school and theatre were created with the help of Italian and French choreographers and coaches, artists and composers, dancers and dancers. The triumph of Russian ballet at the beginning of the 20th century was noted in Paris, where the art of ballet was almost lost at that time. The Palace Theatre mansion on Italyanskaya Street (one of the oldest streets in St. Petersburg) was built between 1799 and 1801. The rustic-style walls on the first floor, the horizontally centered compositions on the façade of the building and the windows of the second floor are all typical of prosperous Classicism. In the 1830s, the façade's construction was adapted to the general appearance of Michaylovskaya Square, designed by Carl Rossi. In 1910, the building was “modernized”—a cabaret was added to the first floor and above, on the second floor, a theatre. It was then that the mansion became known as The Palace Theatre. The interior is comfortable but at the same time luxurious, and features numerous different styles. It is in this grand setting that you will enjoy one of the best of classical ballets—Giselle, Swan Lake or the Nutcracker (or similar) with a Gala Performance of the Mariinsky (Kirov) Ballet Soloists. After the show, your coach will be waiting right in front of the theatre to return you to your ship. Please note: The theatre is not wheelchair accessible; there are stairs but no elevator. Photo and video recording is not allowed during the performance.
Catherine's Palace & Pavlovsk (Paul's Palace)
Departs: 8:30 am - Saturday, July 3rd
Approximately 7 - 7½ Hours
Adult $149; Child $69
It is about a 50-minute drive from St. Petersburg to reach Catherine's Palace—truly an architectural masterpiece and a magnificent museum. Its 978-foot façade is an ornate masterpiece in white, gold and blue. Within the palace is a series of magnificent rooms, including the famous Picture Gallery and the Great Hall. You will also see the amazing Amber Room, stolen by the Nazis during the war, smuggled to Paraguay (legend holds) and lost forever. Now, Russian craftsmen have piece-by-piece reconstructed the dazzling panels of semiprecious stone, amassing a stunning, multihued collection designed to leave the observer breathless. Splendid gardens and “small” pavilions enhance the richly ornamented exterior of the palace. After lunch, you will enjoy a tour of Paul's Palace—a gift from Catherine the Great to her son Paul on the occasion of the birth of his son, Alexander. The palace's Grecian hall is adorned with green fluted Corinthian columns, making the ballroom the most elegant room of the Palace. Maria's rooms gave Pavlovsk a distinct charm rather than grandeur. Paul's rooms are richly adorned with mahogany and heavy gilding. Pavlovsk Park is one of the largest in Europe with ponds, valleys, waterfalls and statues. Please note: The Russian government charges a nominal fee to use your camera and video inside various palaces and museums of St. Petersburg. Fees are payable in US dollars to your guide and correct change is required. Current information will be provided on board as prices are subject to change.
Church on the Spilled Blood & the Russian Museum
Departs: 1:15 pm - Saturday, July 3rd
-or-Approximately 4 Hours
Departs: 8:45 am - Sunday, July 4th
Adult $99; Child $59
Discover places connected with Russian history and art, beginning with a visit to the Church on the Spilled Blood, built in memory of Alexander II. Combining the artistic styles of the 15th, 16th, and 17th centuries, the church is a kaleidoscope of decorative elements. The interior collection of mosaics covers over 8,400 square yards with jeweler's enamel. The cupolas were modeled after Moscow's famous St. Basil's Cathedral. Next, walk towards the entrance of the Russian Museum, opened in 1898 in the former Mikhailovsky Palace built by Carlo Rossi in 1825. The Russian Museum is a veritable treasure house of Russian art—more than 130 rooms contain more than 300,000 works dating from the 11th century to the present. You can trace the development of Russian art from the first icons of Andrei Rublev to the works of such outstanding Russian masters as Shishkin, Repin, Borovitski and others. Please note: The Russian government charges a nominal fee to use your camera and video inside various palaces and museums of St. Petersburg. Fees are payable in US dollars to your guide and correct change is required. Current information will be provided on board as prices are subject to change. Tour does not operate on Wednesdays.
Evening Folkloric Spectacular
Departs: 7:00 pm - Saturday, July 3rd
Approximately 3 Hours
Adult $49; Child $39
This is an evening of spectacular cultural value featuring the St. Petersburg Highlights folklore group. Embark on a fascinating, 90- minute musical journey through different regions of Russia, with acrobatic Siberian Cossack dances, Russian and Ukrainian choral singing, and a special Gypsy ensemble which includes the famous Russian folksong, The Dark Eyes, accompanied by live Balalaika music. Champagne and bottled water will be served during intermission. Please note: Dress code is casual. The theater is not wheelchair accessible; there are stairs and no elevator, but it can be arranged to bring wheelchair guests through the lobby of the adjacent hotel, which connects to the theater. Please advise the Shore Excursion Desk on board ahead of time in order to arrange this.
Gala Evening at Yusupov Palace
Departs: 7:30 pm - Saturday, July 3rd
Approximately 3½ Hours
Adult $169; Child $149
Visit a beautiful Russian palace full of history and culture. It is a short motor coach transfer to Yusupov Palace, home of the rich and powerful Yusupov family. You are greeted by costumed Hussars at the entrance to the palace, and ladies-in-waiting line the staircase, at the top of which is a classical quartet. A tour of the palace is just the beginning of the marvelous evening ahead, including a viewing of the rooms where an attempt at murdering the infamous Rasputin took place in 1916 (although he did not actually die until later in the evening). Enjoy a cocktail and canapis with live balalaika music before you enter the Yusupov Theater for a 50-minute gala performance by the St. Petersburg Opera Company. Highlights of some of the most famous operas are included, such as The Marriage of Figaro, The Magic Flute and Don Juan. The performers are professional Russian opera singers and will be dressed in classical costumes. Please note: There are approximately 70 steps to climb to reach the auditorium. Dress code is formal. The Russian government charges a nominal fee to use your camera and video inside various palaces and museums of St. Petersburg. Fees are payable in US dollars to your guide and correct change is required. Current information will be provided on board as prices are subject to change.
Glories of St. Petersburg
Departs: 8:00 am - Saturday, July 3rd
-or-
Departs: 8:15 am - Sunday, July 4th
Approximately 9 Hours
Adult $199; Child $129
It is a 50-minute drive to the town of Pushkin and Catherine's Palace, whose grandiose white, blue and gold façade stretches 978 feet. During World War II, the Palace sustained severe damage but has been restored to its original glory. The Palace's magnificent rooms include the famous Picture Gallery and the Great Hall, as well as the unforgettable Amber Room, which sparkles in unparalleled, breathtaking splendor. The park-like grounds are embellished with a number of charming pavilions—among them the Grotto Pavilion, the Hermitage and the Chinese Pagoda. Proceed to lunch in the center of Pushkin, then you'll head back to St. Petersburg and the Hermitage Museum—the largest art museum in Russia and one of the most prestigious and fabulous museums in the world. Its collection of Western European art is second to none, and the nearly three million objects contained in the Hermitage are, like the building itself, beautiful and seemingly endless. Enjoy the highlights before your tour ends up at Palace Square and the Arch of the General Headquarters (this building has the longest façade in Europe—over 3,300 feet). Please note: The Russian government charges a nominal fee to use your camera and video inside various palaces and museums of St. Petersburg. Fees are payable in US dollars to your guide and correct change is required. Current information will be provided on board as prices are subject to change.
This excursion does not operate on Mondays.
Grand St. Petersburg
Departs: 9:00 am - Saturday, July 3rd
Approximately 8½ Hours
Adult $199; Child $99
Take in the highlights of St. Petersburg beginning at the Spit of Vasilievsky Island with a magnificent view of the Neva River and the Rostral Columns, which served as signal towers. Take pictures of the Winter Palace and other buildings of the Hermitage Museum, as well as the St. Peter and Paul Fortress situated right across the river. Continue along the Neva embankment, past Peter the Great's log cabin built in 1703, and approach the battleship Aurora for a brief photo stop. Your tour continues past Smolny Convent, the first ladies' school in Russia, founded by Catherine the Great. Drive along the main thoroughfare of the city, Nevsky Prospect, to the Church on the Spilled Blood, built on the site where the Czar Alexander II was assassinated. Photograph the magnificent façades covered with elaborate mosaics and crowned with imposing domes before continuing to a local restaurant for lunch to sample popular local dishes. After lunch, you will visit the Hermitage Museum--the largest art museum in Russia and among the most prestigious and fabulous museums in the world. Walk through the State Rooms of the Winter Palace, the collection of Western European art featuring Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Titian and others, Dutch and Flemish Art collections, including masterpieces by Rembrandt, Rubens and Van Dyck. See a collection of Spanish art (second only to Madrid's Prado), and the collection of French art that is the largest outside France, displaying works by Dégas, Renoir, Monet, Cézanne, Van Gogh, Gauguin, and Matisse. The tour ends in Palace Square, near the 155- foot-tall Alexander Column, and the Arch of the General Headquarters with the longest facade in Europe--over 3,300 feet. Please note: The Russian government charges a nominal fee to use your camera and video inside various palaces and museums in St. Petersburg. Fees are payable in US Dollars to your guide and correct change is required. Current information will be provided onboard as prices are subject to change.
Imperial St. Petersburg
Departs: 8:45 am - Saturday, July 3rd
-or-
Departs: 8:30 am - Sunday, July 4th
Approximately 8½ Hours
Adult $199; Child $129
View some of St. Petersburg's most beautiful highlights and visit some of the previously "off-limits" wonders of this historical city. You'll begin with a visit to Peter the Great's fabulous Summer Palace at Peterhof. Walk through the sumptuous interior of this great palace and out into the gardens to view the breathtaking fountains designed in the 18th century by Peter the Great. You will enjoy lunch in a local restaurant. Travel by hydrofoil to St. Petersburg for your tour of the city will include a stop at the battleship Aurora, a drive by Decembrists' Square, where you will see the famous Bronze Horseman statue of Peter the Great, and St. Isaac's Cathedral. Finally, you will visit one of St. Petersburg's most noted landmarks, the Church of the Resurrection (Church on the Spilled Blood). This jewel-like structure is one of the most precious gems in the crown of this Imperial capital. You will also be given some free time to shop for traditional Russian souvenirs at the "Black Market" across the street. Please note: Operation of the hydrofoil is dependent upon the weather conditions of the day. The Russian government charges a nominal fee to use your camera and video inside various palaces and museums of St. Petersburg. Fees are payable in US dollars to your guide and correct change is required. Current information will be provided on board as prices are subject to change. This tour is not recommended for persons with walking or climbing difficulties. There are long walking distances and the Grand Palace is not wheelchair accessible due to narrow staircases and no elevators.
This excursion does not operate on Wednesdays.
Journey Through St. Petersburg
Departs: 8:15 am - Saturday, July 3rd
-or-
Departs: 8:30 am - Sunday, July 4th
pproximately 6 Hours
Adult $69; Child $49
This tour offers you a chance to explore the most remarkable sites of St. Petersburg. With a brief introduction to the history of St. Petersburg, your coach brings you to the city center, to the St. Isaac's Square where you will have a chance to take pictures of one of the largest cathedrals in Europe—the St. Isaac’s Cathedral. This modern double-decker bus is equipped with a high-quality eight-language sound system, which will allow you to learn a lot about the places of interest of St. Petersburg. You will drive along the Admiralty and Nevsky Prospect. You’ll see the Vosstaniya Square (Uprising Square), fantastic Palace Bridge, the Spit of Vasilievsy Island, St. Peter & Paul Fortress, the Russian Cruiser Aurora and Trinity Bridge. The final stop will give you a perfect chance to take pictures of one of the main landmarks of St. Petersburg—the Church on Spilled Blood, which was built in 1907 on the spot where the Russian Tsar Alexander II was assassinated. After this fascinating tour you’ll have three hours to spend as you wish. This free time is your exclusive chance to be deep in the atmosphere of Russian city. Walk along one of the main streets of St. Petersburg—Nevsky Prospect, shop in the best shops of the city or at the flea market by the Church on the Spilled Blood, buy lovely souvenirs for your relatives and friends, have a lunch in a cozy café or restaurant in the very center of this unforgettable city! Then, re-join your guide for the return to the ship.
Murder on the Moika RiverPanoramic St. Petersburg
Departs: 1:30 pm - Saturday, July 3rd
-or - Sunday, July 4th
Approximately 3 Hours
Adult $59; Child $39
Enjoy a drive to the city center with an introduction to the history of St. Petersburg. At the Spit of Vasilievsky Island you will find a view of the Neva River, the Rostral Columns, and the Winter Palace and Hermitage Museum. Continue past the 18thcentury buildings of the University and across the bridge over the Neva River to the mainland. The next photo stop is at Decembrists' Square with the Bronze Horseman monument to Peter the Great. Stop at St. Isaac's Square in front of St. Isaac's Cathedral to view and photograph the exterior of Maryinsly Palace at the far end of the square, as well as the monument to Czar Nicholas I. Leaving St. Isaac's, drive past the Admiralty Building, the imposing façade of the Winter Palace, the Field of Mars and the Trinity Bridge en route back to the ship. Please note:
This tour has been designed for scenic viewing from the motor coach only.
Panoramic St. Petersburg with Peter & Paul Fortress
Departs: 12:45 pm - Saturday, July 3rd
-or-
Departs: 8:15 am - Sunday, July 4th
Approximately 4 Hours
Adult $89; Child $49
Drive to the city center with an introduction to the history of St. Petersburg. At the Spit of Vasilievsly Island, you will take in the view of the Neva River, the Rostral Columns, and the Winter Palace and Hermitage Museum. The Peter & Paul Fortress was founded in 1703 to defend the city, and is considered to be the birthplace of St. Petersburg. The Cathedral, designed by Trezini, features a gilded spire stretching more than 380 feet into the sky—a distinctive, majestic landmark. This is the burial ground for many members of the Romanov royal family. Continue past the 18th-century buildings of the University and across the bridge over the Neva River to the mainland. The next photo stop is at Decembrists' Square with the Bronze Horseman monument to Peter the Great. Stop at St. Isaac's Square in front of St. Isaac's Cathedral to view and photograph the exterior of Marinsky Palace at the far end of the square, as well as the monument to Czar Nicholas I. Leaving St. Isaac's, drive past the Admiralty Building, the imposing façade of the Winter Palace, the Field of Mars and the Trinity Bridge.
Peterhof
Departs: 1:15 pm - Saturday, July 3rd
-or-
Departs: 8:00 am- Sunday, July 4th
Approximately 4 Hours
Adult $119; Child $59
Petrodvorets (or Peterhof), the town of palaces, is located on the south shore of the Gulf of Finland, about 25 miles from the pier of St. Petersburg. Built in 1710 as the summer residence of Peter the Great, this lovely complex of gilded fountains and sprawling parks rivals even Versailles. After a motor coach ride from the ship, you'll see Peterhof's picturesque French gardens, fountains, waterfalls, staircases and stunning marble statues. The 64 fountains, built in 1721, use almost 8,000 gallons of water per minute, without the use of pumping stations. In the middle of the grounds lies the spectacular Grand Palace, built in Baroque and Russian styles. It features hundreds of rooms comprising the Palace's state apartments. Just some of the amazing rooms you will see include the large throne room used for ceremonies and receptions, the Partridge Dining Room, the White Dining Room, in early Classical style, and Peter the Great's private study. Please note: This tour requires moderate walking and stair climbing. Some of the fountains and/or rooms may be closed periodically for repairs. The Russian government charges a nominal fee to use your camera and video inside various palaces and museums of St. Petersburg. Fees are payable in US dollars to your guide and correct change is required. Current information will be provided on board as prices are subject to change.
Pushkin: Catherine's Palace
Departs: 1:00 pm - Saturday, July 3rd
-or-
Departs: 8:00 am - Sunday, July 4th
Approximately 4 Hours
dult $99; Child $59
After a brief drive through St. Petersburg, you will leave the city and head for the countryside to the town of Pushkin. Here, you will visit the magnificent palace of Catherine the Great, restored over the past 40 years to its original splendor. See the main staircase and look up at the palace ceilings decorated with paintings by Italian artists of the 17th and 18th centuries. You'll also see decorative plates and vases of Japanese and Chinese porcelain throughout. Marvel at the magnificent Grand Hall (or "Throne Room")—a gilded wonder with a spectacular painted ceiling and mirrored walls that are breathtakingly beautiful. Bartolomeo Tastrelli designed the Cavalier’s Dining Room, and you'll also see Alexander I's State Study with its splendid marble fireplace. The Picture Gallery contains more than 130 paintings by Dutch, Flemish, French and Italian masters of the 17th and 18th centuries. Above all, don't miss the outrageously beautiful Amber Room—a brilliant and painstaking recreation built in semi-precious stone by Russian craftsmen after the original panels were stolen by the Nazis during World War II. Please note: This tour involves considerable walking. The Russian government charges a nominal fee to use your camera and video inside various palaces and museums of St. Petersburg. Fees are payable in US dollars to your guide and correct change is required. Current information will be provided on board as prices are subject to change.
St. Petersburg Private Touring - Full Day (Car)
Departs: 9:00 am - Saturday, July 3rd
-or- Sunday, July 4th
Approximately 8 hours - Price is per vehicle, not per person.
See additional NOTES below. Price $1299
Explore at your own pace with a private vehicle, driver and English-speaking guide at your service. This exclusive tour is designed to allow you the chance to customize your time ashore and discover the most interesting sights in the comfort and privacy of your own vehicle. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore according to your own interests, and take in the sights at your own pace. See the famous sights, or go beyond to create your own intimate connections and unique cultural encounters. The Signature Collection is recommended for the single/solo traveler, couples, family, friends, and special interest groups traveling together. It can also be an excellent choice for physically challenged guests. Please note: Private cars are ordered per vehicle (not per person), so only one person in the party need to order the vehicle. The price shown is the total cost for the vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. Entrance fees for attractions are not included. In many destinations, the number of vehicles available is extremely limited, so guests are encouraged to secure their private vehicle reservation as early as possible. Capacity: 2 guests Your private party may be of any size up to the maximum capacity.
St. Petersburg Private Touring - Full Day (Large Van)
Departs: 9:00 am - Saturday, July 3rd
-or- Sunday, July 4th
Approximately 8 hours - Price is per vehicle, not per person.
See additional NOTES below. Price $2999
Explore at your own pace with a private vehicle, driver and English-speaking guide at your service. This exclusive tour is designed to allow you the chance to customize your time ashore and discover the most interesting sights in the comfort and privacy of your own vehicle. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore according to your own interests, and take in the sights at your own pace. See the famous sights, or go beyond to create your own intimate connections and unique cultural encounters. The Signature Collection is recommended for the single/solo traveler, couples, family, friends, and special interest groups traveling together. It can also be an excellent choice for physically challenged guests. Please note: Private vans are ordered per vehicle (not per person), so only one person in the party need to order the vehicle. The price shown is the total cost for the vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. Entrance fees for attractions are not included. In many destinations, the number of vehicles available is extremely limited, so guests are encouraged to secure their private vehicle reservation as early as possible.
Capacity: 16 guests Your private party may be of any size up to the maximum capacity.
Touring - Full Day (Minivan)
Departs: 9:00 am - Saturday, July 3rd
-or- Sunday, July 4th
Approximately 8 hours - Price is per vehicle, not per person.
See additional NOTES below. Price $1999
Explore at your own pace with a private vehicle, driver and English-speaking guide at your service. This exclusive tour is designed to allow you the chance to customize your time ashore and discover the most interesting sights in the comfort and privacy of your own vehicle. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore according to your own interests, and take in the sights at your own pace. See the famous sights, or go beyond to create your own intimate connections and unique cultural encounters. The Signature Collection is recommended for the single/solo traveler, couples, family, friends, and special interest groups traveling together. It can also be an excellent choice for physically challenged guests. Please note: Private minivans are ordered per vehicle (not per person), so only one person in the party need to order the vehicle. The price shown is the total cost for the vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. Entrance fees for attractions are not included. In many destinations, the number of vehicles available is extremely limited, so guests are encouraged to secure their private vehicle reservation as early as possible. Capacity: 8 guests Your private party may be of any size up to the maximum capacity.
St. Petersburg Private Touring - Full Day (Van) with Multi- Lingual Guide
Departs: 9:00 am - Saturday, July 3rd
- or- Sunday, July 4th
Approximately 8 Hours
Explore at your own pace with a private vehicle, driver and English-speaking guide at your service. This exclusive tour is designed to allow you the chance to customize your time ashore and discover the most interesting sights in the comfort and privacy of your own vehicle. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore according to your own interests, and take in the sights at your own pace. See the famous sights, or go beyond to create your own intimate connections and unique cultural encounters. The Signature Collection is recommended for the single/solo traveler, couples, family, friends, and special interest groups traveling together. It can also be an excellent choice for physically challenged guests. Please note: Private vans are ordered per vehicle (not per person), so only one person in the party need to order the vehicle. The price shown is the total cost for the vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. Entrance fees for attractions are not included. In many destinations, the number of vehicles available is extremely limited, so guests are encouraged to secure their private vehicle reservation as early as possible. Capacity: 17 guests Your private party may be of any size up to the maximum capacity.
St. Petersburg Private Touring - Half Day (Car)
Departs: 9:00 am, 1:30 pm
Saturday, July 3rd
Approximately 4 hours - Price is per vehicle, not per person.
or- Sunday, July 4th
See additional NOTES below. Price $699
Explore at your own pace with a private vehicle, driver and English-speaking guide at your service. This exclusive tour is designed to allow you the chance to customize your time ashore and discover the most interesting sights in the comfort and privacy of your own vehicle. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore according to your own interests, and take in the sights at your own pace. See the famous sights, or go beyond to create your own intimate connections and unique cultural encounters. The Signature Collection is recommended for the single/solo traveler, couples, family, friends, and special interest groups traveling together. It can also be an excellent choice for physically challenged guests. Please note: Private cars are ordered per vehicle (not per person), so only one person in the party need to order the vehicle. The price shown is the total cost for the vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. Entrance fees for attractions are not included. In many destinations, the number of vehicles available is extremely limited, so guests are encouraged to secure their private vehicle reservation as early as possible. Capacity: 2 guests Your private party may be of any size up to the maximum capacity.
St. Petersburg Private Touring - Half Day (Large Van)
Departs: 9:00 am, 1:30 pm - Saturday, July 3rd
Approximately 4 hours - Price is per vehicle, not per person.
-or- Sunday, July 4th
ee additional NOTES below. Price $2199
Explore at your own pace with a private vehicle, driver and English-speaking guide at your service. This exclusive tour is designed to allow you the chance to customize your time ashore and discover the most interesting sights in the comfort and privacy of your own vehicle. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore according to your own interests, and take in the sights at your own pace. See the famous sights, or go beyond to create your own intimate connections and unique cultural encounters. The Signature Collection is recommended for the single/solo traveler, couples, family, friends, and special interest groups traveling together. It can also be an excellent choice for physically challenged guests. Please note: Private vans are ordered per vehicle (not per person), so only one person in the party need to order the vehicle. The price shown is the total cost for the vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. Entrance fees for attractions are not included. In many destinations, the number of vehicles available is extremely limited, so guests are encouraged to secure their private vehicle reservation as early as possible. Capacity: 16 guests Your private party may be of any size up to the maximum capacity.
St. Petersburg Private Touring - Half Day (Minivan)
Departs: 9:00 am, 1:30 pm -
Saturday, July 3rd
Approximately 4 hours - Price is per vehicle, not per person.
- or- Sunday, July 4th
See additional NOTES below. Price $1499
Explore at your own pace with a private vehicle, driver and English-speaking guide at your service. This exclusive tour is designed to allow you the chance to customize your time ashore and discover the most interesting sights in the comfort and privacy of your own vehicle. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore according to your own interests, and take in the sights at your own pace. See the famous sights, or go beyond to create your own intimate connections and unique cultural encounters. The Signature Collection is recommended for the single/solo traveler, couples, family, friends, and special interest groups traveling together. It can also be an excellent choice for physically challenged guests. Please note: Private minivans are ordered per vehicle (not per person), so only one person in the party need to order the vehicle. The price shown is the total cost for the vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. Entrance fees for attractions are not included. In many destinations, the number of vehicles available is extremely limited, so guests are encouraged to secure their private vehicle reservation as early as possible. Capacity: 8 guests Your private party may be of any size up to the maximum capacity.
St. Petersburg Waterways & Church on the Spilled Blood
Departs: 12:45 pm
Saturday, July 3rd
Approximately 4 Hours
-or- Sunday, July 4th
Adult $119; Child $59
View St. Petersburg from the waterways surrounding its numerous squares, monuments and palaces. Your coach will bring you to the pier in the city center, where you will start your fascinating journey through the rivers and canals of the Venice of the North. The exact route of your trip will depend on the boat size and traffic conditions of the waterways. You will disembark near the Cathedral on Spilled Blood, where your tour will continue inside this remarkable building. The Cathedral was built in 1907 on the spot where the Russian Czar Alexander II was assassinated in 1881. In a strikingly original way, the architect Parland incorporated all the features of old Russian churches, embellishing it in exuberant style with ornate decorations loosely modeled on St. Basil's Cathedral in Moscow. The result was startling and beautiful. The area covered by mosaics is about 23,000 square feet, believed to be the largest indoor mosaic in the world. The best painters, masters of mosaic stone carving, ceramic and enamel of the 19th and 20th centuries took part in the decoration of the Church. An outstanding feature of the interior décor is a variety of Italian colored marbles and Russian semiprecious stones. When built, the temple belonged to the Ministry of the Court and was open only a few times a year to a narrow circle of high society. Even so, the mosaic floor was covered with thick carpets. After the revolution of 1917, the church was granted to believers and a parish church opened there. Then the parish was closed and this magnificent house of worship served as storage for theatrical sets and scenery props. Restoration of the church began in earnest in 1974. It was a painstaking job—some windows were missing, the floor was covered with water, a shell damaged the roof of the cathedral during the war, and six square meters of mosaic decoration were destroyed. The restorers employed only the same type of materials and technology used when the cathedral was built, including 30 kinds of rare marble and about 100 types of precious stones. In 1997, the Cathedral of the Savior on Spilled Blood was opened to the public in all its original extraordinary glory. Please note: Boats are not wheelchair accessible.
The Hermitage Museum
Departs: 1:00 pm
Saturday, July 3rd
Approximately 4 Hours
- or- Sunday, July 4th
Adult $114; Child $59
Your tour's main destination is the Hermitage Museum—a spectacular landmark, which ranks among the world's finest museums. Czarina Catherine the Great created the Hermitage in 1764. Her original purchase of 225 canvasses by Dutch and Flemish masters provided the nucleus of today's collection, which consists of almost three million exhibits and represents many cultures. The museum boasts 353 rooms, filled with masterpieces by Raphael, Titan, Giorgione, Michelangelo, Leonardo Da Vinci and others. Located within the Winter Palace on the banks of the Neva River, the Hermitage Museum is a work of art in itself. As you marvel at the wonderful paintings and tapestries that adorn the museum walls, pay special attention to the spectacular staircases, marble structures, malachite columns and highly decorated floors and ceilings, in this former residence of the mighty Russian Czars. Please note: The Hermitage requires considerable walking and stair climbing, and there may be lines and delays between galleries. The Russian government charges a nominal fee to use your camera and video inside various palaces and museums of St. Petersburg. Fees are payable in US dollars to your guide and correct change is required. Current information will be provided on board as prices are subject to change
The Hermitage Museum & Golden Room
Departs: 12:30 pm -
Saturday, July 3rd
Approximately 5 Hours
- or- Sunday, July 4th
Adult $149; Child $99
This is a unique tour for those who would like to visit the Golden Room and have an opportunity to visit the Hermitage Museum—the largest art museum in Russia, which ranks among the most prestigious and fabulous museums in the world. This tour covers the masterpieces of Western European art, featuring Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Titian and others. Also, there is a stunning collection of French art—the largest outside France—displaying works by Dégas, Renoir, Monet, Cézanne, Gauguin, and Matisse. In the Golden Room, you will see the Scythian exhibit, items collected from Nomadic Scythian tribes from Central Asia and a vast area of the Southern Ukrainian steppes and Crimea. At the end of the tour, you may have some time to explore the Hermitage on your own (not possible on Mondays). Please note: The Hermitage requires considerable walking; there may be lines and delays between galleries. The Russian government charges a nominal fee to use your camera and video inside various palaces and museums of St. Petersburg. Fees are payable in US dollars to your guide and correct change is required. Current information will be provided on board as prices are subject to change. Photography is not permitted inside the Golden Room. This excursion does not operate on Mondays.
Departs: 1:15 pm - Sunday, July 4th
Approximately 3 Hours
Adult $109; Child $69
Take a look at St. Petersburg's marvelously dramatic history from a completely different
angle—from the water surrounding its numerous squares, monuments and palaces. The exact route of your trip will depend on the boat size and traffic conditions of the waterways. After an hour spent on the water you will disembark your boat near Yusupov
Palace, where you will discover an intriguing story of the palace, its owners and the
dramatic events that ended the life of the infamous Grigori Rasputin. Yusupov Palace
is located on the banks of the Moika River—one of the 57 palaces that were owned by Felix Yusupov, who was almost as wealthy as the Czar himself. A beautiful white marble
staircase leads to the private theater of Zenaida Yusupov, which has been carefully
preserved in Rococo style. Among the palace's treasures are works of art by Rembrandt and Rubens, French tapestries and porcelain, and Venetian mirrors and woodcarvings. It was here in 1916 that the notorious Grigori Rasputin was assassinated.
He was lured to Yusupov's home, and fed poison-laced food, which failed to kill him.
He was then shot several times, which he also survived, and was thrown into the Moika
River, where he finally drowned. Your tour will take you through the rooms of the palace,
and after climbing down the narrow winding staircase you will see the very place where
Felix Yusupov, with his accomplices, tried to assassinate Rasputin.
Please note: Tour involves 70 steps at the Yusupov Palace and wheelchairs are not
permitted. The Russian government charges a nominal fee to use your camera and video
inside various palaces and museums of St.
Petersburg. Fees are payable in US dollars to your guide and correct change is required.
Current information will be provided on board as prices are subject to change.
