St Petersburg, Russia - Norway, Fjords & Baltic Cruises

A dazzling experience awaits during this fabulous evening of Russian folkloric dance and music, staged at the Carnival Concert Hall.

Be captivated by the flamboyant dance of the St Petersburg Cossacks of Don River. ‘Kalinka’, ‘Katyusha’ and many others are popular songs which will also delight you during your evening.

Russia is well known for its achievements in the performing arts and is justifiably proud of its dance companies with their tradition of folkloric dance and music.

Traditional costumes add to the magic of this special evening and refreshments of Russian ‘champagne’ will be served during the intermission.

Note: Casual dress is acceptable. You are advised that there are 21 steps to access the facilities and there is no lift. The venue is non-exclusive to Cunard and the content of the performance is subject to change. It is possible that the repertoire may differ from that described above.

A unique chance to admire the splendid palaces and parks of the former summer residences of the Russian Czars.

Catherine Palace was named in honour of Peter the Great’s wife, Catherine 1. The Baroque façade is nearly 1,000 feet-long with decorative white and gold ornaments, and the grounds comprise of acres of manicured gardens. Visit the Palace’s interior and glimpse part of the vast gardens. One of the highlights is the Amber Room, decorated with amber of different hues. See the gallery of heroic Roman and Greek busts designed as a covered walkway for Catherine the Great.

Peterhof Palace attests to the pomp, pageantry and extravagance of Russia’s ruling class. The Palace is a truly splendid building with a yellow and white exterior embellished with gold. Peter the Great built the Palace to rival Versailles, personally drafting the layout of the 300-acre park and spectacular system of fountains. Most famous is the Grand Cascade, with its gold statue of Samson. In addition to exploring the Palace grounds, you will visit the Throne Room, Portrait Room and the White Dining Room.

Luncheon will be served in a leading restaurant.

Note. There is up to six hours’ walking. Time allocated inside the Palaces is up to one hour, plus time in the gardens. Crowds are likely and you may be expected to queue outside in all weathers. Protective overshoes are provided, which can make the floor slippery. Camera and video fees are included. Flash photography is not permitted inside Catherine Palace and photography is prohibited in the Amber Room. Photography is prohibited in the Grand Palace of Peterhof. Long overcoats, large bags, umbrellas or bottles are not permitted inside the Palaces. Peterhof fountains are subject to maintenance work.

A great opportunity to discover St Petersburg, up close.

You will be transferred by coach to Palace Square, the site of many historic events and from here your walking tour begins.

With your guide you will stroll through Alexandrovsky Garden which runs parallel to the Neva River and lies along the south and west façades of the Russian Admiralty. The English park was named after Alexander II of Russia who ordered some 52 species of trees to be planted there. At its architectural centre sits the monument of Peter the Great, the Bronze Horseman.

Continuing through the park, to the west enjoy stunning sights of the Senate and Synod Building, which is now the headquarters of the Constitutional Court of Russia. Upon reaching Senate Sqaure you will admire St Isaac’s Cathedral, well known for its magnificent central golden dome. The design of the Cathedral in general and the dome in particular later influenced the design of the United States Capitol in Washington DC.

Then it’s back onboard your coach for a short transfer to Nevsky Prospect and the Kazan Cathedral, the principal Russian Orthodox Church. From here you’ll follow Catherine’s Canal to the famous Church of the Saviour on the Spilled Blood built on the site of Alexander II’s assassination. Whilst here enjoy some free time to shop at the open air market for souvenirs, before moving on to the famous battle ship cruiser Aurora. On the way back to the ship you’ll pass by the Peter and Paul Fortress and the Artillery Museum.

Note: There is approximately 2½ hours of walking included over mainly paved, flat surfaces. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. The tour will operate in all weather conditions. It is recommended to use either US dollars or Euros at the open air market.

Explore Catherine Palace and be part of the privileged few who witness the continuous restoration of amber in its workshop.

Sit back, relax and watch the hustle and bustle of busy St Petersburg pass you by, as you head out of the city to the town of Tsarskoye Selo.

Upon arrival, admire the elaborately decorated Baroque façade of Catherine Palace, which stretches out for nearly 1000 feet, and is flanked by ornate white and gold ornaments. Your guide will host you on a walking tour through the various rooms of the Palace’s sumptuous interior. One of the many highlights will be a visit to the Amber Room with its walls decorated with real amber of different hues.

Next, you’ll visit the Amber Workshop, which is housed in one of the outbuildings of the Palace. The workshop was created especially for the reconstruction of the Amber Room. Watch the skilled craftsmen at work as they create pieces of fine jewellery using the same traditional techniques that were used when resurrecting the Amber Room to its former glory. As a reminder of your unique visit you’ll be given a piece of natural amber, which was meant to be part of the Amber Room decoration, but did not fit in.

This small group tour is a truly unique experience and needs to be booked early to avoid disappointment.

Note: The Palace can become crowded and you may be expected to queue outside in all weather. There is up to 2½ hours’ total walking on this tour including stairs and gravel pathways. Protective overshoes are provided inside Catherine Palace, which can make the floor slippery and care should be taken. Camera and video fees are included in the tour cost. Flash photos 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.

Tour one of the world’s greatest repositories of art, then visit the Hermitage’s Gold Room, home to extraordinary jewellery.

The Czar’s former Winter Palace and four adjacent buildings house one of the world’s best collections of art. Your visit will include various rooms which contain part of the two million works, including paintings by Da Vinci, Monet, Rembrandt and Renoir to name a few. Routes around the Hermitage are determined by museum curators therefore we cannot guarantee which works of art will be seen on the day.

The Hermitage’s Gold Room is home to an array of remarkable jewellery and artefacts, including Greek and Scythian antiquities created for the imperial court, and a stunning collection of 18th and 19th century snuff boxes.

Your drive to the Hermitage will take you through a portion of the city of St Petersburg, past Palace Square, in front of the Hermitage with the Alexander Column, and the Headquarters of the General Staff Building.

Note. The tour involves approximately three hours’ walking at a fast pace, including many steps. You are advised that during peak season, the Hermitage can be very crowded and you may be expected to queue outside in all weathers. Camera and video fees are included in the tour cost. Flash photography is not permitted. Photography and videography inside the Gold Room is prohibited. There is limited opportunity for shopping at the gift shop within the Museum. Credit cards are accepted, and US Dollars and Euros may be accepted, unofficially. It is forbidden to take long overcoats, large bags, umbrellas or bottles inside the Museum.

Explore Catherine Palace and be part of the privileged few who witness the continuous restoration of amber in its workshop.

Sit back, relax and watch the hustle and bustle of busy St Petersburg pass you by, as you head out of the city to the town of Tsarskoye Selo.

Upon arrival, admire the elaborately decorated Baroque façade of Catherine Palace, which stretches out for nearly 1000 feet, and is flanked by ornate white and gold ornaments. Your guide will host you on a walking tour through the various rooms of the Palace’s sumptuous interior. One of the many highlights will be a visit to the Amber Room with its walls decorated with real amber of different hues.

Next, you’ll visit the Amber Workshop, which is housed in one of the outbuildings of the Palace. The workshop was created especially for the reconstruction of the Amber Room. Watch the skilled craftsmen at work as they create pieces of fine jewellery using the same traditional techniques that were used when resurrecting the Amber Room to its former glory. As a reminder of your unique visit you’ll be given a piece of natural amber, which was meant to be part of the Amber Room decoration, but did not fit in.

This small group tour is a truly unique experience and needs to be booked early to avoid disappointment.

Note: The Palace can become crowded and you may be expected to queue outside in all weather. There is up to 2½ hours’ total walking on this tour including stairs and gravel pathways. Protective overshoes are provided inside Catherine Palace, which can make the floor slippery and care should be taken. Camera and video fees are included in the tour cost. Flash photos 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.

Visit the Hermitage Museum and then enjoy a unique experience exploring the first open museum depositary in the world.

For the returning visitor or a serious art lover, the Hermitage Depositary is a must. St Petersburg State Hermitage presents a unique project and a world first, by opening the Restoration and Storage Centre to visitors. This tour unveils the treasures of the Hermitage Museum….and more.

In the company of a knowledgeable guide, you’ll enjoy a special early opening at the Hermitage Museum, to get ahead of the crowds. One of the largest and oldest museums in the world, the Hermitage was founded in 1764 by Catherine the Great. Its collections, of which only a small portion are permanently on display, comprise of nearly three million items, including the largest collection of paintings in the world. Perhaps only the British Museum and the Louvre can rival the Hermitage in scale and importance. (Routes around the Hermitage are determined on the day by museum curators therefore we cannot guarantee which works of art will be seen during your tour.)

Next, you’ll embark on a journey north to Staraya Derevnya, the ‘Old Village’ district, where a traditional Russian luncheon will be served at the Hermitage Depositary Café. A highlight of your tour is a visit to the modern Restoration and Storage Centre of the Hermitage. Housed in a closed, high-security storage facility, these chambers hold a wealth of priceless treasures ranging from world-class works of art, to royal carriages, original palace furniture and other fascinating items.

Don’t miss this opportunity to join a small group of fellow guests to visit the Hermitage and view some of its collections that have long been hidden from the eyes of the general public.

Note: There is approximately 4½ hours of walking, including numerous steps. Palace Square is cobbled and uneven in places. Guests are advised to wear comfortable walking shoes.

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.

See the best of St Petersburg over two days and encounter the many highlights of this historic city.

Peterhof Palace was built to rival Versailles and is situated on a hill overlooking the Gulf of Finland. Peter the Great personally drafted the layout of the 300-acre park, giving detailed instructions on the design of its spectacular system of fountains. Most famous is the Grand Cascade, with its gold statue of Samson prying open the jaws of a lion. The Cascade is aptly named; water flows down terraced steps leading from the Palace down to the Lower Gardens. Spouting fountains spray streams of water over marble statues, culminating in a man-made canal leading out to the Gulf of Finland. In addition to exploring the Palace grounds, you will have the opportunity to tour the sumptuous interior and marvel at the opulence of the Throne Room, Portrait Room and the White Dining Room.

What the Louvre is to Paris, The Hermitage is to St Petersburg. Here, in what was once the splendid home of the Czars and Czarinas, you will find one of the world’s greatest art collections. The Hermitage is so vast it would take a lifetime to experience all of its treasures. Built during the reigns of Elizabeth and Catherine the Great, the grandiose Baroque ‘Winter Palace’ and its four adjacent buildings house works of Da Vinci, Raphael, Titian and Rembrandt, among others. Just as dazzling are the patterned parquet floors, ornate staircases, moulded and painting ceilings, gilded furniture, decorative malachite, lapis lazuli and jasper appointments of the Palace itself. Walk through a selection of display rooms with your guide who will relate fascinating facts about the Museum’s history, art and architecture. (Routes around the Hermitage are determined on the day by museum curators therefore we cannot guarantee which works of art will be seen during your tour.)

Visit the home of one of Russia's most wealthy families -Yusupov Palace. Built in 1760, the Yusupovs acquired the Palace 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. The Palace was also the site of the infamous murder of Rasputin, whom Prince Felix Yusupov feared was a bad influence on Czar Nicholas II.

Originally built to protect the city from Swedish attack, the Peter and Paul Fortress and Cathedral became Russia’s ‘Tower of London’, a place for imprisoning political prisoners, including Peter the Great’s own son. Visit the Cathedral, one of the tallest structures in the city.

Join a cruise boat and pass the Cruiser Aurora before entering the Fontanka River. Continue as far as Michael's Castle, residence of the most mysterious Russian Czar – Paul I. Enter the Moyka River and pass by the Church of the Saviour on the Spilled Blood and the Winter Canal as you sip Russian ‘champagne’.

Luncheon is included on each day at a leading city restaurant.

During your two days of touring St Petersburg your coach will pass through the city’s residential suburbs en route to Peterhof.

Note: Each of the sites included in the tour description will be visited at some point during the two days. The tour order may vary to avoid crowding at venues and traffic. The touring on the first day will return to the ship at approximately 5.30pm, which allows you to choose from any of the evening tours available on your voyage. Camera and video fees are included in the cost of the tour. Flash photography restrictions may apply in certain rooms at the venues. At the Grand Palace of Peterhof, photography and videography are prohibited in the Palace. The Palaces and Hermitage can be crowded Crowds and you may be expected to queue outside in all weathers. There is extensive walking on this tour including many steps and gravel pathways. Comfortable, non-slip shoes are recommended. Peterhof fountains are subject to maintenance work without notification. Protective overshoes are provided, which can make the floor slippery in the Palaces. Special overshoes have to be worn in Yusupov Palace during wet weather conditions to protect the floors. These will be available on entering the Palace. It is forbidden to take long overcoats, large bags, umbrellas or bottles inside. There is limited opportunity for shopping. Credit cards are accepted, and US Dollars and Euros may be accepted, unofficially. The boat route is subject to change depending on the water level and weather conditions. It may also be necessary to cross other boats to reach your specific vessel.

The Csars often retreated to the cool countryside to escape the summer, building palaces that could compete with Europe’s best.

Peterhof Palace is a study in regal splendour. Peter the Great personally drafted the layout of the 300-acre park and prepared instructions on the design of its spectacular system of fountains. Most famous is the Grand Cascade, with its gold statue of Samson prying open the jaws of a lion. Water flows down terraced steps leading from the Palace to the Lower Gardens and spouting fountains spray streams of water over marble statues, culminating in a man-made canal leading out to the Gulf of Finland.

You will have the opportunity to tour the interior and marvel at the opulence of the Throne Room, the Portrait Room, White Dining Room and Chinese Rooms. The most convenient way to return to the city centre is by hydrofoil directly from Peterhof. The 30-minute journey will cross the Gulf of Finland and pass the shipyards and Petrovsky Stadium.

Note: In the event the hydrofoil is cancelled, the tour will operate by coach both ways. Total time inside the Palace is up to one hour, plus some time in the gardens. The Palace is expected to be crowded and you may be expected to queue outside in all weathers. There is approximately 2½ hours’ walking involved including steps. Peterhof fountains are subject to maintenance work without 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 or bottles inside.

A private vehicle is the perfect solution for guests who wish to tour together around this wonderful city. Here, in what was once the splendid home of the Czars and Czarinas, view one of the world’s greatest art collections.

An air-conditioned car with an English-speaking guide and local driver is offered on this tour. 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. No deviations to duration, venues if included or departure and return times can be made.

Cars will take up to three guests.

Your drive to the Hermitage will take you through a section of the city of St Petersburg and past the impressive buildings of a bygone imperialist era. You will see Palace Square in front of the Hermitage, the Alexander Column and the Headquarters of the Central Staff Building.

The Hermitage Museum was built during the reigns of Elizabeth and Catherine the Great, the grandiose Baroque ‘Winter Palace’ and its four adjacent buildings house works such as those of Da Vinci, Raphael, Titian and Rembrandt, among others. (Routes around the Hermitage are determined on the day by museum curators therefore we cannot guarantee which works of art will be during your tour.) As you walk across patterned parquet floors and up ornate staircases you can admire moulded and painting ceilings, gilded furniture, decorative malachite, lapis lazuli and jasper appointments of the Palace itself. Your guide will lead you through the many display rooms relaying fascinating facts about the Museum’s history, art and architecture.

Note: Private tours are non-refundable once confirmed. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability and the number of guests in your party. Only ticket per party should be booked and the full cost will be charged to that person’s credit card. Once on board, you’ll 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. You may be expected to queue to gain entrance to Palaces in all weather.

The Hermitage - Flash photos are not permitted. You are advised that during peak season, the Hermitage can be very crowded. It is forbidden to take long overcoats, large bags, umbrellas or bottles inside the Museum.

Glimpse everyday life in the city of St Petersburg. Visit an ornate Russian Orthodox Church, take a ride on the Metro system and visit a local market.

Enjoy a short panoramic drive of St Petersburg before stopping at St Vladimir Cathedral. Completed in 1789, the Cathedral is a fine example of transitional style from Baroque to Classicism. Whilst the façade decoration is classically discreet, some Baroque features have been retained, among them semi-circular pediments and cornice oval windows.

The construction of St Petersburg’s Metro was started in 1940, interrupted by World War II, and completed in 1955. It features elegant stations and the subways lie deep underground due to the soft upper strata. Take the escalator down to the platform for a 20-minute ride, travelling between Sportivnaya and Dostoyevskaya.

The vibrant fresh food market of Kuznechniy provides the perfect opportunity to experience everyday life of the local people selling a variety of goods. Afterwards, enjoy refreshments at a local café with some pastries.

Note: This tour involves up to 90 minutes walking and comfortable, non-slip shoes are recommended. Modest dress should be worn when entering St Vladimir Cathedral, covering knees, shoulders and head. Smoking is strictly forbidden in the Cathedral premises. If the Kuznechniy Food Market is closed, the visit will be replaced by an alternative fresh food market, Russia roubles are the only accepted currency at the markets. Please keep with your guide at all times. There are 97 steps and steep escalators to access the metro.

A special opportunity to enjoy the Museum’s collections - without the crowds - further enhanced by an exclusive classical concert.

Your unique evening visit will start after the Hermitage Museum has been closed to the general public. Explore the Winter Palace, wander through its hallways, stairways and rooms, view a selection of art and treasures, and learn about its history and residents; the Romanovs, rulers of Russia for over 300 years. (Routes around the Hermitage are determined by museum curators therefore we cannot guarantee which works of art will be seen on the day.) Today the Hermitage is considered to be one of the three leading museums in the entire world and a highlight of anyone’s visit to St Petersburg.

After the Hermitage tour, in one of the Ceremonial Halls, the full symphonic orchestra of the Hermitage Academy of Music will perform for your pleasure. Enjoy a short concert of classical music by world famous composers and refreshments of Russian ‘champagne’ on the upper landing of the Gala staircase.

Note: The tour involves approximately two hours’ walking, including many steps. Camera and video fees for the Museum are included in the tour cost. Flash photography is not permitted. It is forbidden to take long overcoats, large bags, umbrellas or bottles inside the Museum. The concert and ‘champagne’ reception are exclusive to Cunard, however the Hermitage reserves the right to allow other small groups into the Museum.

The magnificence of Imperial Russian life in the 18th century awaits you in the setting of one of Russia’s most famous palaces.

Situated in the town of Tsarskoye Selo, the grand, blue Catherine Palace was named in honour of Peter the Great’s wife, Catherine I. Built in the mid 18th century during the reigns of Elizabeth and Catherine II, the baroque façade is nearly 1,000 feet long with decorative white and gold ornaments and the grounds comprise of some 1,482 acres of manicured gardens and parklands.

You will visit various rooms of the Palace’s sumptuous interior and glimpse part of the vast gardens. One of the many highlights will be the Amber Room with its walls decorated with real amber of different hues. The long, classical gallery of heroic Roman and Greek busts that runs alongside the exterior of the Palace was designed as a covered walkway for Catherine the Great by the Scottish architect, Charles Cameron.

Note: Total time allocated inside the Palace is up to 50 minutes, plus 30 minutes in the gardens. Although an early opening has been arranged for cruise ships, the Palace can become crowded and you may be expected to queue outside in all weathers. There is up to 2½ hours’ total walking on this tour including stairs and gravel pathways. Protective overshoes are provided inside Catherine Palace, which can make the floor slippery and care should be taken. Camera and video fees are included in the tour cost. Flash photography is not permitted inside and photography is prohibited in the Amber Room. It is forbidden to take long overcoats, large bags, umbrellas or bottles inside.