St Petersburg and Baltic Discovery - 13 nights, June 2013

Discover the charms, and possibly some secrets about the Russian capital on a full day tour in Moscow.

Moscow can be considered the very heart and soul of Russia. Despite its old age the city is continuously growing and changing rapidly, whilst at the same time retaining its iron curtain mystery and fascination.

Your journey to Moscow begins with a transfer to St Petersburg’s domestic airport, Pulkovo I. After a short flight you’ll arrive in Moscow where you’ll be met by a local tour guide. After a short ride on the ‘Aeroexpress' electric train, you’ll be in the heart of Moscow. At Belorussky Railway Station you’ll hop on to your coach for a panoramic tour, passing architectural gems dating from the 15th century through to the 18th century. Moscow’s history stretches back almost a thousand years and is reflected in its rich architecture, crowned by the Kremlin.

Admire the masterpiece that is the Kremlin, created by Italian architects and the devoted labour of unknown Russian craftsmen. With your guide, enjoy a one hour visit around the grounds and inside one of the Cathedrals (time permitting possibly two cathedrals), before visiting the legendary Red Square, the main square of Russia. Afterwards, enjoy a traditional Russian luncheon at ‘Godunov' Restaurant near Red Square.

Following luncheon, you’ll continue your walking tour of Red Square, visiting the outside of Lenin's Mausoleum. Stroll through the famous department store, GUM, which is an ornate arcade set on several floors. Enjoy a photography stop near St Basil's Cathedral, this magnificent church-museum was commissioned by Ivan the Terrible and completed in 1561. Rumour has it that Ivan had the architect blinded so he would never be able to design anything as exquisite again! The cathedral is at its most awesome when viewed from the outside.

Hop onboard the world famous Moscow metro, the second busiest in the world and famous for its fabulous architecture and artwork, for a short transfer to Leningradsky Railway Station to pick up the modern high speed ‘SAPSAN’ train back to St Petersburg.

Note: There is approximately six hours of walking, including cobbled pavements and some steps. Guests are advised to wear comfortable walking shoes. Guests are advised to have a hearty breakfast before leaving the ship, luncheon will be served in the Godunov Restaurant and a snack box will be provided on the evening return journey. Guests will spend approximately 6½ hours in Moscow and the rest of the time will be spent travelling to and from the capital. Availability is limited on this tour so early booking is recommended. Bookings close for this tour, as follows: Queen Victoria (V212) on the 31st March, Queen Elizabeth on the 27th April, Queen Victoria (V216) on the 23rd May and Queen Elizabeth (Q212) on the 6th June.

Combine a visit to Europe’s most intriguing prehistoric monument, with the enchanting medieval city of Salisbury.

Stonehenge is Britain’s most remarkable and intriguing prehistoric monument. It is as old as the great temples and pyramids of Egypt and remains as compelling today as it was to the people who built the first phase over 5,000 years ago. This mighty symbol is a wonder of the world drawing thousands of visitors each year to witness its awesome majesty and mystery.

The stone circle of shaped stones, lintels, unique jointing and absolutely perfect geometry make it the most sophisticated stone circle in the world. The stones are fenced off for their preservation and protection, however your guide will accompany you along the encircling pathway for close up views and will describe what has been concluded from observations and archaeological evidence.

After a short drive from Stonehenge, you’ll arrive at the magnificent medieval city of Salisbury, with its historic streets and alleyways, charming half-timbered buildings, traditional eating houses and medieval Cathedral. Salisbury Cathedral is a beautiful masterpiece of early English Gothic architecture which also boasts the tallest spire in Britain, Europe’s oldest working clock and the world's best-preserved original copy of the Magna Carta. Enjoy free time to explore this lovely city at your leisure.

Note: The transfer time to Stonehenge is approximately one hour. There will be approximately 2½ hours of free time in Salisbury. Luncheon and the Cathedral entrance fee are not included to allow maximum flexibility. Please remember to carry local currency (pounds sterling).

Enjoy an orientation of Stockholm by coach, and then appreciate it from ‘above’ during a stop at the highest building in the city.

During a panoramic tour, view many of the main sights including the medieval old town, Gamla Stan and the Royal Palace overlooking Stockholm’s inner harbour. From the small island of Riddarholmen, there is a great view over to the City Hall and Lake Mälaren. Other highlights include the Parliament building and the Opera House.

Your tour passes the Royal Dramatic Theatre along Strandvägen before taking you onto the island of Djurgården where the Vasa Museum is located along with wonderful parklands, gardens and recreational attractions.

Travel to the northern area of Djurgården and stop at the Kaknäs Tower, the highest building in Stockholm at 508 feet. The Tower is located in a large field surrounded by an Eco Park, the first national city park in the world.

Take the elevator up to the bar and restaurant and as you enjoy some light refreshments, you can admire the magnificent view of Stockholm from above.

Note: There is very little walking on this tour. There is a tourist office on the ground floor of the Tower where you may wish to purchase souvenirs. Local currency is required (Swedish Kroner).

Ride one of the most remarkable attractions in Sweden, the SkyView and experience spectacular views of Stockholm.

The Ericsson Globe Arena, resembling a giant golf ball, is the largest spherical building in the world. An exhilarating two minute glass gondola ride will take you to the top of the Globe. Make sure you remember your camera as when you reach 426 feet above sea level, the ‘bubble’ will make a brief stop for you to admire the magnificent views over the city and take some panoramic photographs.

Once back on firm ground enjoy a panoramic tour of the City’s main sights. Admire the enchanting medieval Old Town, Gamla Stan and the Royal Palace overlooking Stockholm’s inner harbour. You’ll also pass by the island of Djurgården, regarded as Stockholm’s amusement and recreation centre with great parklands, beautiful gardens and numerous museums including the world famous Vasa Museum. On the island of Kungsholmen, enjoy impressive views of City Hall, renowned for its architecture, mosaics and for being the site of the annual Nobel Prize Banquet.

Note: This tour has very little walking included however guests must be able to negotiate the steps of the coach and 30 steps at the entrance to the SkyView.

This tour offers a romantic overview of the city, as seen from a canal boat and also includes a visit to the Peter and Paul Fortress and Cathedral.

From 1721 the Peter and Paul Fortress housed part of the city's garrison and served as a high security political jail. Among the inmates was Peter's own rebellious son, Alexei, plus Gorky, Trotsky and Lenin's older brother, Alexander.
Visit the impressive Peter and Paul Cathedral, the burial place of all the Russian Emperors and Empresses from Peter the Great to Alexander III. On top of the Cathedral’s gilded spire stands a magnificent golden angel holding a cross. This weathervane is one of the most prominent symbols of St Petersburg.

From the pier, not far from the Peter and Paul Fortress, embark your canal boat for an hour-long leisurely cruise. Cruising along the Neva River you will pass the Cruiser Aurora, before entering the Fontanka River and travelling as far as Michael's Castle, residence of the most mysterious Russian Czar – Paul I. On the Moyka River you will pass by the Church of the Saviour on the Spilled Blood, pass under the Police Bridge at Nevsky Prospect arriving at the pier near St. Isaac’s Cathedral, where you disembark. Russian ‘champagne’ will be served in the salon of the lower deck of the boat.

Note: The boat route is subject to change depending on the water level and weather conditions. There are 14 steps at the embarkation/disembarkation of the canal boat. It may also be necessary to cross other boats to reach your specific vessel. There are cobblestones and steps at the Fortress. There are 31 steep steps to access the fortress jail. The order of this itinerary may vary.

The perfect tour for guests who prefer to see all the highlights from the comfort of a coach.

Helsinki is known as ‘Daughter of the Baltic’ or the ‘White City of the North’. Start your city panorama by passing the shipyard along the coastal road, Embassy Park and the colourful open-air market. Stop for a photo at Senate Square to capture the elegant Lutheran Cathedral, then pass Uspenski Cathedral and see the Icebreakers, docked for the summer season.

Traverse the main street of the city, Mannerheim, and pass by the Parliament House, National Museum, Finlandia Hall, the new Helsinki Music Centre and the Contemporary Art Museum. Take a look at the new Opera House and the Olympic Stadium, venue for the Games in 1952.

At Sibelius Park, stop for a short while to see the Sibelius Monument, before heading back.

Note: No entrances are included in this tour. Short photographic stops of approximately five minutes, as indicated, are included. The order of sites may vary.

Visit Queen Victoria’s much loved home on the Isle of Wight, for an insight into the life she shared with Prince Albert.

Osborne House was the treasured summer home of Queen Victoria and her family; a secluded seaside retreat away from public life and the formalities of London.

Take the ferry to the Isle of Wight for the short drive to the impressive estate of Osborne House. Enjoy a tour of the main house and admire the beauty of the opulent interior with its architectural design and decoration. You will gain an insight into the private life of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert as you wander around the Royal bedrooms and see the many family photographs which adorn the desks and walls.

One of the most impressive rooms in the house is the richly decorated Durbar Room, with its intricate ceiling inspired by medieval temple structures, which celebrates Queen Victoria's role as Empress of India. The room itself contains art, furniture and many trinkets sent as gifts to Queen Victoria from India.

To the rear of the house are the beautiful Italian-style terraces and at the bottom of the estate stands the wooden chalet style, Swiss Cottage, which belonged to the children. The children each had a vegetable garden where they planted and grew produce which they sold to the main house, providing them with a valuable lesson in gardening and commerce.

Note: The main house and gardens are wheelchair accessible, however the nursery and Swiss Cottage are not. Photography is not permitted inside Osborne House. To derive full enjoyment of the estate will involve two hours of walking. Luncheon is not included to allow for maximum flexibility. Please remember to carry local currency (pounds sterling).

Enjoy a relaxing boat trip passing many of St Petersburg’s landmarks, before visiting the delightful Yusupov Palace.

A boat trip on St Petersburg’s canals and waterways is one of the highlights of any visit to the city. Join a river boat for an hour-long trip along the Neva, Fontaka and Moyka rivers, taking in the impressive landmarks. Refreshments of Russian ‘champagne’ will be provided during the boat trip.

Yusupov Palace belonged to the wealthy Yusupov family and is the historic site of the gruesome murder of the peasant and mystic Rasputin. The mysterious circumstances of his death are legendary. The yellow, colonnaded building was acquired by the aristocratic Yusupov’s in 1830 to house their collection of paintings. The unique collections of art assembled by the Yusupovs and their reputation as well-educated hosts attracted the most outstanding representatives of Russian cultural life to the Palace. Tour the cellar, which houses an exhibition on the infamous mystic.

Note: The boat route is subject to change depending on the water level and weather conditions. There are steps at the embarkation/disembarkation of the canal boat. It may also be necessary to cross other boats to reach your specific vessel. There are many steps in the Palace and narrow steep steps into the cellar. Comfortable, non-slip shoes are recommended. Special felt overshoes have to be worn in Yusupov Palace during wet weather conditions to protect the floors. These will be available on entering the Palace. Crowds are to be expected and you may have to queue outside in all weathers.

A private vehicle is the perfect solution for guests who wish to tour together around this wonderful city.

Vehicles with an English-speaking guide, local driver and selected itineraries are offered on a four hour basis. No deviations to duration, venues included, departure or return time can be made. Please select the tour itinerary of your choice from the list on your record of shore excursions.

This is a private vehicle; those accompanying you are family or friends with whom you agree to share costs. We do not match groups of guests to form a private group for the vehicle. Vehicles and guides are extremely limited and so early reservation is recommended to avoid disappointment.

The tour fare is per vehicle and only one person in the party should book a ticket. The entire cost of the vehicle and tour will be charged to that guest’s on board account and cannot be divided between the party. Once on board, you will receive a request for the names of each individual in your party. This information is required to allow your party to disembark the ship for the tour.

Entrances, toilet facilities, photography and video fees are included for the venues incorporated in your chosen tour itinerary. Meals, refreshments and gratuities are not included.

Cars will take up to three guests

Note: Private tours are non-refundable once confirmed. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability and number of guests in your party. Request only one ticket per group and not the number in your party. Vehicles are air-conditioned and come with an English-speaking guide and local driver. No deviations to tour content, duration, departure or return time can be made. You may be expected to queue to gain entrance to palaces in all weathers.

Peterhof Palace - Due to its popularity, the Palace is expected to be crowded. Peterhof fountains are subject to maintenance work without advance notification. Photography and videography are prohibited in the Palace. Protective overshoes are provided, which can make the floor slippery in the Palace. It is forbidden to take long overcoats, large bags, umbrellas or bottles inside.

Combine a short walking tour of the highlights of Tallinn with a splendid panoramic tour of the city's major attractions and surrounding area.

Enjoy a sightseeing drive through Tallinn's historic centre with photographic stops en route. Drive past Kadriorg Park, founded by Peter the Great in honour of his wife Catherine I. Then continue to the Song Festival ground where Estonian song festvals are held here every five years with up to 30,000 performers singing to a capacity of 300,000 spectators.

Pass by the well-preserved 15th century ruins of St Bridget's Convent and the Forest Cemetery where many prominent Estonians are buried in a natural pinewood setting.

In the district of Pirita you will see the Olympic Yachting Complex located outside of the city before arriving at Tallinn's Old Town. Disembark your coach at Tall Hermann Tower for a short walk up to Toompea Hill to Palace Square. View the baroque Toompea Castle, home to the Estonian Parliament, and visit the Russian Orthodox Church of St. Alexander Nevsky and the 13th century Dome Church.

After walking through the Upper Old Town to a wonderful viewpoint overlooking the Lower Town, you can appreciate a wonderful panorama of towers and steeples rising above the cluster of red-tiled roofs. There will be a short time for shopping here.

Note: The interior visit to the Dome Church is not possible on Sundays. Flash photography or video cameras are not permitted in the Dome Church or Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. You are advised that there is approximately two hours’ total walking, which includes cobbled paths and stairs at the various attractions. Comfortable, non-slip shoes are recommended.

Kristiansand, with its colourful houses and interesting history, is a perfect place to take a walking tour.

Embark on a walking tour along a series of boardwalks to the pretty marina with its little boats and peaceful atmosphere. The marina is surrounded by small bridges, restaurants, shops and wooden maritime inspired buildings painted in red and yellow.

You’ll stop at the popular Fish Market, where traders are selling samples of their local specialities, before strolling along the beautiful seafront to Otterdalsparken, a unique recreational area with fountains created by the artist and sculptor, Kjell Nupen.

You’ll continue to the northeast part of town where the unique historical area of Posebyen is situated. The only remaining part after the town fire in 1892, this area is listed due to its historical and architectural value. Posebyen is dominated by its large collection of original, white, wooden houses which give the area its character.

Finally, you’ll visit the town centre with its colourful square surrounded by green lawns and flower beds, which is dominated by the charming Kristiansand Cathedral, the third largest in Norway, before returning to the pier.

Note: There is two hours of leisurely walking over cobbled streets, with some inclines. Comfortable, flat, walking shoes are recommended.

Discover the history and natural beauty of the New Forest with its famous ponies, quaint villages and picturesque landscapes.

A short drive out of Southampton will bring you to the New Forest. The New Forest, originally created by William the Conqueror for deer hunting, is a mixture of open grazing, woodland and heath. The Forest has remained almost untouched for 1,000 years and is famous for its tiny villages with traditional thatched cottages and wild ponies which roam free on the land. Today it is managed by the Forestry Commission and in 2004 was designated a National Park.

Your scenic drive will take you through the heart of the New Forest, with its famous New Forest ponies, past a variety of beautiful landscapes to three of its prettiest villages; Hythe, Beaulieu and Lyndhurst.

The historic marina village of Hythe is located alongside Southampton Water and on a clear day you can see across to where your cruise ship is berthed. The village also boasts the world’s oldest operating pier train.

The picturesque village of Beaulieu dates back to the 13th century and is renowned for its Abbey, Motor Museum and Palace Manor House. Admire the lovely views across Beaulieu River as you pass through this quaint village.

The New Forest capital, Lyndhurst is a bustling village containing tea rooms, pubs, souvenir shops, local stores and ice cream vendors. You will have the chance to visit the New Forest Visitor Centre to view its exhibits, browse the local shops or relax in one of the tea rooms.

Note: The sightseeing is conducted from the comfort of your coach with a photograph stop at Hythe. There will be approximately 45 minutes free time in Lyndhurst. There is a small charge to visit the exhibits in the New Forest Visitor Centre.

Experience the delights of Helsinki archipelago that surrounds Helsinki on an exhilarating rib boat ride.

Your captain will be waiting at the end of the pier to welcome you on this exciting tour. Don a special all-in-one warm waterproof outfit and flotation device and get ready to board your RIB to begin the fast ride through the Finnish archipelago.

Experience the scenic archipelago at speeds of up to 40 knots, travelling over the waves and past islands, both large and small, with their typical Finnish summer homes. You can almost smell the delicious aroma of Finnish-style sausages as you land on one of the rocky islands. Your snack will be washed down with a cool, Finnish beer (soft drinks are also available). All too soon, it is time to speed back to the city, passing the new High-Tech Centre, before arriving next to your ship.

Note: Guests with back or neck injuries or who are pregnant should not book this tour. Children under the age of 8 are not permitted to participate. Please be advised that there is no shelter on board the boat. Some of the boat ride will be fast and bumpy. Before you book this excursion, you must refer to the ‘Activity Excursion’ paragraph under the Guide to Symbols in this brochure. The route taken is subject to change and the boat captain reserves the right to cancel, change or abort the tour depending on safe weather conditions. Please take waterproof footwear and warm clothing.

A private vehicle is the perfect solution for guests who wish to tour together around this wonderful city.

Vehicles with an English-speaking guide, local driver and selected itineraries are offered on a four hour basis. No deviations to duration, venues included, departure or return time can be made. Please select the tour itinerary of your choice from the list on your record of shore excursions.

This is a private vehicle; those accompanying you are family or friends with whom you agree to share costs. We do not match groups of guests to form a private group for the vehicle. Vehicles and guides are extremely limited and so early reservation is recommended to avoid disappointment.

The tour fare is per vehicle and only one person in the party should book a ticket. The entire cost of the vehicle and tour will be charged to that guest’s on board account and cannot be divided between the party. Once on board, you will receive a request for the names of each individual in your party. This information is required to allow your party to disembark the ship for the tour.

Entrances, toilet facilities, photography and video fees are included for the venues incorporated in your chosen tour itinerary. Meals, refreshments and gratuities are not included.

Cars will take up to three guests

Note: Private tours are non-refundable once confirmed. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability and number of guests in your party. Request only one ticket per group and not the number in your party. Vehicles are air-conditioned and come with an English-speaking guide and local driver. No deviations to tour content, duration, departure or return time can be made. You may be expected to queue to gain entrance to palaces in all weathers.

Catherine Palace - The Palace is expected to be crowded. Protective overshoes are provided inside Catherine Palace, which can make the floor slippery and care should be taken. Flash photographs are not permitted inside and photography is prohibited in the Amber Room. It is forbidden to take long overcoats, large bags, umbrellas or bottles inside.

A private vehicle is the perfect solution for guests who wish to tour together around this wonderful city.

Vehicles with an English-speaking guide, local driver and selected itineraries are offered on a four hour basis. No deviations to duration, venues included, departure or return time can be made. Please select the tour itinerary of your choice from the list on your record of shore excursions.

This is a private vehicle; those accompanying you are family or friends with whom you agree to share costs. We do not match groups of guests to form a private group for the vehicle. Vehicles and guides are extremely limited and so early reservation is recommended to avoid disappointment.

The tour fare is per vehicle and only one person in the party should book a ticket. The entire cost of the vehicle and tour will be charged to that guest’s on board account and cannot be divided between the party. Once on board, you will receive a request for the names of each individual in your party. This information is required to allow your party to disembark the ship for the tour.

Entrances, toilet facilities, photography and video fees are included for the venues incorporated in your chosen tour itinerary. Meals, refreshments and gratuities are not included.

Cars will take up to three guests

Note: Private tours are non-refundable once confirmed. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability and number of guests in your party. Request only one ticket per group and not the number in your party. Vehicles are air-conditioned and come with an English-speaking guide and local driver. No deviations to tour content, duration, departure or return time can be made. You may be expected to queue to gain entrance to palaces in all weathers.

Peter & Paul Fortress – Flash photography restrictions apply in the Cathedral. Modest dress should be worn.

St Isaacs Cathedral – Flash photography restrictions apply. It is forbidden to take long overcoats, umbrellas, large bags or bottles inside. Modest dress should be worn.