Tsar, Tsar Aweigh
VIKING INGVAR TRAVERSES RUSSIA’S WATERWAYS.
VIKING RIVER CRUISES IS BLAZING A path toward an impelling Russia cruise experience, with bright spotlights targeted on iconic Moscow and fascinating St. Petersburg, coupled with a weeklong main event cruise on the Volga River. This is Viking’s signature Waterways of the Tsars cruise.
Considering that hotel costs in Moscow rank as some of the most expensive in the world, three days of pampered life aboard
Viking Ingvar prior to (or post) sailing underscores an exceptional value.
My mission was to challenge some perceptions of Russia. Would we witness people downing vodka for breakfast, beets and borscht as fast food, and foggy views of life through grey tinted lenses? Nyet, nyet! Nothing could be further from those stereotypes, although admittedly there was no shortage of Russian dolls and fur-lined hats for sale each step of the way. Despite inherited barriers, Moscow has become a world-class city energized by a new generation.
Before setting sail three days later, Viking serves up a robust itinerary of complimentary excursions showcasing the premier attractions of kinetic Moscow. Russia is home to 25 Unesco World Heritage Sites and possibly none more famous than Red Square. The imposing buildings of the Kremlin command one entire side of the square, recalling images of those chilling May Day military parades of the ’60s.
In stark contrast, the opposite side is dominated by the epitome of consumerism, the shopping complex of the GUM department store, housed in a massive building highlighted by an elaborate facade. Anchoring the far end boundary is the city’s most recognized symbol, the epic and resplendent onion- domed St. Basil’s Cathedral, commissioned by Ivan the Terrible. Three comprehensive days of sightseeing sets the stage for an eye- opening view of modern- day culture as well as Russian history. And this is only the beginning!
The focus then turns toward six days of sailing through the heartland on a 1,000mile medley of waterways made up of lakes, canals, and the Volga River with daily port calls at remote villages.
The popularity of this itinerary has empowered Viking to deploy four essentially identical ships to ply this port-intensive itinerary and, in our case, we were welcomed aboard Viking Ingvar and immersed into the inclusive experience of river cruising. The appeal of this niche holiday option is rapidly expanding and Viking is aptly adept at providing all of the bells and whistles expected.
The ship indulges its 210 guests in stylishly decorated staterooms, the majority
Unique cultural experiences are offered such as vodka tasting, Russian doll painting, and culinary demonstrations.
of which are balconied. Tasteful décor, ample space, and classic cruise furnishings complement the accommodations. Dining on board reflects regional and westernized favorites served by responsive and genuine well-trained staff. The warm and welcoming Neva Restaurant offers a variety of seating arrangements from tables for two to larger tables encouraging the meeting of new friends. Large windows surround the room allowing panoramic views of the Volga River and various lakes and canals as you dine. Wine, soft drinks, and beer are served complimentary with all meals, and a self-service coffee and tea station is available 24 hours a day. Any absence of over-the-top glitz and glamor on the vessel is compensated by professional hotel operations, classic design, and impeccable cleanliness.
Onboard lectures throughout the cruise provide engaging topics and a piano duo performs evening entertainment. Unique cultural experiences are offered such as vodka tasting, Russian doll painting, and culinary demonstrations.
In diverse contrast to urbanized Moscow, the ports of call conjure up images of a less westernized, more traditional way of life reminiscent of Soviet times. Quaint Golden Ring towns such as Uglich, Yaroslavl, and Kuzino play host to inquisitive guests, while the ports of Mandrogy and Kizhi are considered openair museums.
Back on board, the anticipation of a grand finale is building. For the final three days, the cathedrals, museums, and opulent palaces of St. Petersburg hold court and once again Viking’s floating palace serves as home base for revealing explorations.
Envisioned and built from the virtual ground up by Peter the Great, this former capital holds a treasure trove of Russian history and culture. A myriad of perfectly executed excursions capture a glimpse into the timeless beauty of attractions, the likes of the Catherine Palace in Pushkin, the fountains of Peterhof, and, of course, a comprehensive foray into The State Hermitage Museum.
The Hermitage is to Russia what the Louvre is to Paris or the Vatican to Rome. Collections of more than 3 million art pieces, including the largest collection of paintings in the world, are housed in six gold-adorned buildings, one of which was formerly the lavish winter palace of the Tsars.
No visit to St. Petersburg would be complete without attending a ballet and the curtain call to the cruise is answered with a complimentary performance at the Alexandrinsky Theater for a ritzy performance of Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake.
Colorful and copious rhetoric of the St. Petersburg experience can fill pages, but suffice it to say that the cruise line knows how to capture it and translate it into a lasting impression as you venture into a cultural escapade, warmly hosted by Viking River Cruises.