The premium brand Emerald Waterways opened bookings for its 2021 Russian river cruise season. Voyages will feature a newly chartered riverboat - the recently refurbished MS Nizhny Novgorod, constructed specifically to sail Russia's inland waterways including Europe’s longest river - Volga.
Featuring two itineraries, the program based on MS Nizhny Novgorod starts in May 2021.
The 11-day Imperial Charms of Russia cruise allows passengers to discover both vibrant cities and traditional villages as they sail from Saint Petersburg to Moscow. Highlights feature a guided tour of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city of Saint Petersburg, a Shashlik lunch in Mandrogi, a visit to the Monastery of Saint Cyril on the White Lake, as well as a guided tour of Moscow exploring Kremlin Grounds.
New for next year, guests can choose the reverse 12-day sailing for an extra day in Saint Petersburg at the end of the trip, which allows for a visit to the Peterhof Palace to take in its collection of picturesque canals and gilded fountains.
MS Nizhny Novgorod (last refurbished in 2019) offers a selection of onboard amenities including Volga Restaurant serving Russian-influenced dishes and Panorama Bar offering views of the passing scenery.
Passengers have the choice of 3 cabin styles - Twin Cabin, Double Deluxe Cabin, and Suite - all equipped with large windows.
Customers booking any 2021 departure of either Volga sailing receive free, round-trip flights to Russia. Guests can opt to receive a discount of US$1,100 USD on the cost of the trip. Additionally, those paying in full within 14 days of booking receive an early payment savings of US$250 per person.