suez canal cruises 2024

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Suez Canal Cruises

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Award-Winning Suez Canal Cruises

Built in 1869, the Suez Canal was an engineering feat that shaved 4,300 miles off the route for sailors traveling between Asia and Europe. Before the canal was built, they had to sail around the entire continent of Africa. On a Suez Canal cruise, you’ll see firsthand the incredible waterway that connects the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea via Egypt.

You don’t have to fly into Egypt in order to witness this man-made marvel. Instead, sail through the Suez Canal on a cruise that visits Greece and the Middle East. As you cruise, you’ll enjoy views of the Sinai Peninsula and the Nile Delta from a unique vantage point.

Please Note: While we don't currently sail to Suez Canal, you can still discover the beauty of the region on one of our cruises to Asia . Browse our cruises to Asia below.

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Experience a victorian-era engineering marvel on a suez canal cruise.

Here are some of the things to most look forward to during your cruise to the Suez Canal.

Suez Canal Scenery

One of the best parts of a Suez Canal cruise is the scenery you can see while sailing along the sea-level waterway. To the west of the Suez Canal is the Nile Delta, awash in foliage, while to the east you’ll see the arid landscape of the Sinai Peninsula.

Three Continents in One Cruise

On one of our cruises that sails from Greece to Dubai through the Suez Canal, you’ll cruise through three continents: Dubai in Asia; the Suez Canal in Africa; and Greece in Europe.

Featured Suez Canal Cruise Ports

On our cruise through the Suez Canal, you’ll cruise through three continents: Dubai in Asia; the Suez Canal in Africa; and Greece in Europe.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Aqaba, Jordan

Athens, Greece

Katakalon, Greece

Muscat, Oman

Rome, Italy

Catania, Sicily

Popular Shore Excursions in the Suez Canal

On a Suez Canal cruise, your day sailing through the canal is the adventure. Step out onto the cruise ship deck or your own private veranda to watch the scenery of Egypt pass you by. The ship doesn’t stop during your time in the Suez Canal, but you can opt for shore excursions at the ports before or after your journey.

Our Award-Winning Cruise Ships in the Suez Canal

Celebrity Constellation®

Helpful Tips Before You Go

You’ll cruise to the Suez Canal on an itinerary that includes Dubai, Greece, and the Suez Canal, or the Arabian Sea and the Suez Canal, in either April or November. Choose a cruise that departs from Dubai and sails to Rome (via the port of Civitavecchia) or Athens (via the port of Piraeus), or an itinerary that travels the reverse route.

When deciding what to pack for a cruise to the Suez Canal, keep in mind you’ll be visiting both desert and Mediterranean climate zones during your trip. Pack clothing in fabrics that will breathe easily in both humid and dry heat. You’ll also want to bring light and airy layers that keep your arms and legs covered, since you’ll be traveling through countries where modesty is expected when it comes to clothing. Still, don’t forget your bathing suit, since your time in Greece and Italy may include some blissful beaches.

When deciding on cruise ship accommodations, consider upgrading to a sunset veranda stateroom on the aft of the ship. This will give you the opportunity to look at the scenery on both sides of the ship from the comfort of your own private balcony as you sail through the Suez Canal. Plus, you’ll enjoy some excellent sunset views when leaving other ports of call.

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Repositioning Cruises

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Suez Canal Cruises

See here the list of all of Suez Canal transit cruises 2024-2025-2026 ships schedule, lines, and transition itineraries (ports of call). Most Suez cruises offer cheap deals on one-way transit itineraries between Europe (Mediterranean) and Asia (Dubai, India, Singapore, or even China). Some transits are part of World Cruises, transiting Suez Canal.

Repositioning cruise ships through Suez Canal provides a range from “affordable luxury” to really cheap big-sized ship travel deals. Not to forget this is a unique opportunity to enjoy cruising to exotic destinations at some of the market’s best rates.

Suez Canal transition cruises

Passing through the Suez Canal is a unique experience related not only to cruising but also to the Africa-Asia region itself. The Egypt Nile cruise deals may be booked separately (they are optional) offering the not necessarily cheap, but always so much exotic Alexandria and Cairo tours and excursions.

The Egyptian resorts on the Red Sea offer a unique chance to sample so many things in this ancient region. You can perfectly combine visiting the Pharaoh’s mysterious kingdom, enjoying the beautiful shores, the amazing coral reef and marine life with luxury ship amenities and stylish experiences on board.

The diving holidays in the Red Sea are also very popular though optional Red Sea vacation deals. Know that snorkeling, scuba diving, windsurfing, sailing, glass-bottom boats, and even submarine trips are at their very best in the Suez Canal region. And, of course, the numerous archaeological sites, museums, the desert safaris. Not to forget the great night-life in major coastal towns.

The “Egyptian Riviera” – Red Sea resorts and diving tours

This information could be of some help to you only if you consider the option of staying in some of the great resorts in the Red Sea region. These are the main destination points for touring the Egypt Coast at the Red Sea:

• from Cairo (Ain EL- Soukhna)
• from Safaga (Hurghada, El Gouna, Sahl Hashish, Giftun Island), Marsa Alam (has an airport).

Best Red Sea diving tours are operated in the following areas:

• the Northeastern Coast (El Gouna, Hurghada, Safaga)
• the Sinai Peninsular (Sharm el Sheik, Dahab, Nuweiba)
• the Southeastern Coast (El Quseir, Marsa Alam, Hamata).

Best for Red Sea diving trips is the coastal area between  El Gouna and Safaga. The reason is this area perfectly combines the region’s amazing reefs and wrecks with the convenient proximity to Egypt’s most famous historical sites for touring – Luxor and Cairo.

Suez Canal facts

Suez Canal is an artificial waterway in Egypt, which is sea-level and connects the Mediterranean and Red Seas. In November 1869 Suez Canal was available for sailing after ten-year construction works. The Canal allows vessel transport between Asia and Europe without around Africa navigation.

• Port Said is northern terminus; Port Tawfiq is the southern terminus at the Suez city; Ismailia lies on the west bank of Suez Canal, 3 km from the half-way point.
• After first built, the canal was long 164 km, 8 m deep. After plenty of enlargements, as of 2010, it is long 193.30 km, 24 m deep, 205 m wide.
• Suez Canal consists of a northern access channel (22 km), the canal itself (162.25 km), and a southern access channel (9 km).
• The Canal acts for a single lane that has passing places in Great Bitter Lake and “Ballah By-Pass”. There are no locks and seawater freely flows through the canal. Generally, north of Bitter Lakes the canal flows south in summer and north in winter. South of lakes the current changes with the tide at Suez.

The canal is maintained and owned by SCA  (Suez Canal Authority of Egypt) and is under international treaty. It may be used in peace and war times, by every vessel of war or of commercial ships without flag distinction. Learn more at Wikipedia .

Suez Canal cargo ship transits

On February 24, 2016, a new Suez Canal shipping lane was inaugurated by the canal’s authority. The new line is parallel to Port Said and effectively lowers canal transition times. It allows vessels to sail in both directions and increases the containership traffic.

In 2015, the canal was expanded at the cost of USD 8,5 billion. However, the low crude oil price now allows cargo ships to avoid paying the costly Suez Canal transition prices (USD 465,000 on average) by taking the long way around South Africa instead.

Between October 2015 and February 2016, a total of 115 westbound cargo vessels loaded with goods from Asia to Northern Europe or the USA took the around Africa route instead of transiting the canal. Statistics show that the South African route saves USD 235,000 on average per voyage. The Suez Canal Authority reported for 2015 an increased number of passing ships (17483 vessels, or 2% increase). The report also revealed decreased bulk cargoes (5,7%) and container cargo ships (3,1%). To compete with the falling oil prices, the Suez Canal needed to cut transition prices by roughly 50%.

The South African shipping route has a big environmental impact. It was calculated that the route’s increased fuel consumption results in additional 6800 tons of CO2 on average per voyage.

Cargo ship cruises through Suez Canal, transit routes

• 1. cargo cruise from Singapore to Barcelona – visits Piraeus (for Athens), Naples and Genoa.
• 2. cruise from Malaysia (Tanjung Pelepas port departure) to Trieste, Italy – visits Port Said, Piraeus, and Rijeka (Croatia)
• 3. cruise from China (Shanghai port departure) to Hamburg, Germany – visits China (Ning-bo, and Yantian) and Felixstowe (UK)
• 4. cruise from India (Mundra port departure) to Southampton UK – visits Salalah, Djibouti, Jeddah, Malta, and Tangier.

Suez Canal cruises from Asia to Europe

Choose a Freighter Cruise from AU$4600 for 23 days through the Suez Canal. This option includes a voyage by freighter from Asian port to Europe. You can return back to Asia on the same vessels. Note that cabins continuing to Sydney or Melbourne from Europe are booked usually six months in advance.

Felixstowe Freighter Voyage via the Suez from Asia to Europe offers all year-round weekly departures via Suez Canal in either direction. The tariff from AU$4600 pp includes meals and port fees. For booking or inquiries call: 02 8270 4899.

Onboard facilities include open deck area, passenger lift, TV/VCR room, passenger lounge, self-service laundry, indoor pool and sauna, fitness room (with table tennis, exercise bicycle, rowing machine).

Special requirements imposed for yellow fever injection and travel insurance which are compulsory. Passengers have to possess a valid passport (at least six months of validation).

Suez Canal cruises from Australia to Europe

Choose a Freighter Cruise from AU$5730 pp for 48 days through the Suez Canal. This option includes a voyage by freighter from the Australian port to Europe. The Round-trip duration is 91 days for AU$10,180 pp. For each voyage, four cabins are available (one single, two double bed, one twin bed) but there are only four cruises per year, so book early. Visit Genoa, Italy, and Chennai, India with Freighter Expeditions. For booking or inquiries call: 02 8270 4899.

All cabins are carpeted, with air conditioning, small refrigerator, wardrobe, desk, and chair. Facilities include an elevator, small fitness room plus sauna, outside pool, and onboard steward.

Special requirements imposed for yellow fever injection and travel insurance which are compulsory. Passengers have to possess a valid passport (at least six months of validation). A visa required for Sri Lanka, India, and Egypt. The ship only takes up to 79 years of age. On container ships accepted for carriage are only travelers of good physical and mental health. Container ships don’t provide a medical officer or doctor onboard, only basic first aid treatment is available.

Suez Canal cruises 2024-2025 transition schedule

IMPORTANT : Due to instability in the Red Sea region (Houthi rebels attacks from Yemen), all major cruise companies canceled their scheduled transition itineraries through the Canal.

In January 2024, Egypt’s revenues from the waterway decreased by ~40% (over Jan 2023) due to ship diversions (mainly cargo/container ships).

You can share/like/rate our Suez Canal cruises review via the social buttons. Follow us on the main social networks for the latest updates (more transition dates to be announced soon). Happy vacations, and best luck with the ship relocation deals – to enjoy the magical combination of Egypt, Red Sea, and the Mediterranean at more reasonable prices!

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Transit the Suez Canal

A canal linking the Red Sea and Mediterranean is an old dream. Evidence of attempts to construct such a seaway across the desert isthmus have been detected dating from Egypt’s pharaonic era and Persia under the rule of Darius. Venetian doges plotted, and Napoleon fervently wished for one, to save ships the 4,300-nautical mile diversion around Africa. When the 120-mile canal between Suez and Port Said was opened in 1869, the seafaring map underwent its most impactful change in history. The canal is at sea level, so no locks are required. Your ship will meet other ships of every sort and size from every corner of the globe around the entry at Suez, to join a convoy. It starts early in the morning, proceeding in single file at a sedate 8 knots (to reduce erosion of the banks) and passing other convoys either in the Great Bitter Lake or at the Bailah Bypass. On average, about 97 ships transit the canal each day. Sights during the transit tend toward the monotonous: the ship ahead and the one behind, and an endless bank of sand on either side, ceaselessly refreshed by dredges stationed along the shore and pumping wet sand over the berm. The town of Ismailia with its tall, minareted mosque is a welcome diversion, as are the two bridges and one massive powerline crossing the canal. The transit takes between 11 and 16 hours.

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Suez Canal, Egypt Cruises

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Cruises from/to Suez Canal, Egypt

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• The Suez Canal House was built in the period of the canal’s inauguration. It is currently fenced off and members of the public are not allowed to access it. However, travelers can get a good glimpse at the famous façade of the building on a ferry to Port Fuad.  
• The Simon Arzt Department Store Building is an ideal place in the region to visit for architecture enthusiasts. The building was built in the 1920s. The finesse of the art deco is still evident even though minimal attention has been given to the building for many years.  
• People who want to learn more about the history of the Canal and observe some fascinating exhibits should make their way to the Military Museum. The exhibits document the wars with Israel, and the Suez Crisis. The gardens of the museum also display other interesting exhibits.  
• For people that love beaches, Lake Timsah is a worthy destination. There are multiple beaches that surround it. Some of the beaches are public beaches, while others are owned by clubs. However, individuals have to pay a fee to use the beaches.

Top 10 Cruises to Suez Canal, Egypt

• Azamara Journey 15 NIGHT Canada CRUISE Departing From Montreal, Quebec (Oct 2024)
• MSC Magnifica 116 NIGHT Mediterranean - Western CRUISE Departing From Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy (Jan 2025)
• MSC Magnifica 116 NIGHT World CRUISE Departing From Genoa, Italy (Jan 2025)
• MSC Magnifica 116 NIGHT World CRUISE Departing From Marseille, France (Jan 2025)
• MSC Magnifica 116 NIGHT World CRUISE Departing From Barcelona, Spain (Jan 2025)
• MSC Magnifica 46 NIGHT World CRUISE Departing From Sydney, Australia (Mar 2025)
• MSC Magnifica 47 NIGHT World CRUISE Departing From Sydney, Australia (Mar 2025)
• MSC Musica 22 NIGHT Mediterranean CRUISE Departing From Durban, South Africa (Apr 2025)
• MSC Musica 23 NIGHT Mediterranean CRUISE Departing From Durban, South Africa (Apr 2025)
• MSC Musica 24 NIGHT Mediterranean CRUISE Departing From Durban, South Africa (Apr 2025)

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Russian River Cruises

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Ms pyotr velikiy, ms mustai karim, scenic tsar, viking akun, viking ingvar, ms general lavrinenkov, ms lunnaya sonata, viking truvor, ms yuri andropov, ms zosima shashkov, ms crucelake-lebedinoe ozero, ms leonid sobolev, ms mikhail sholokhov, review of russian river cruises.

CruiseMapper's "Russian River Cruises" hub provides detailed information on ships, itineraries, tours and prices on cruises along rivers and lakes in Russia. Here you'll also find concise info on the largest Russian cruise companies, including Vodohod , Mosturflot , Infoflot , Doninturflot-Orthodox , Imperial River Cruises Russia .

In the "Fleet" section you will find an extensive list or Russian cruise ships. By following each ship link you will find the ship's review, deck plans, scheduled itineraries and cruise pricing information. Live ship tracking is also provided on a digital map. It shows the vessel's current location, cruising speed and course.

In the "Itinerary" section you will find maps and day-by-day scheduled activities planned by Europe's largest cruise companies, also operating in Russia via chartered riverboats.

Volga River Cruises in Russia

Volga river cruising in Russia places you in another time. The longest and largest river in Europe stretches from Ivan the Terrible to Catherine the Great. Today, live along the central artery of Russia looks like it always has - the villages, the churches, the people, just like an old painting you have seen in a gallery.

The Volga flows through central Russia into the Caspian Sea and is often called the national river of Russia. 11 of the 20 largest cities of the country, including the capital Moscow, are in Volga's watershed. Some of the world's largest reservoirs can be found along the river, which has a symbolic meaning in Russian culture, referred to as Mother Volga (Volga Matushka) in Russian folklore and literature.

Explore the land of the Tsars while sailing down the historic Volga river, typically between Moscow and St Petersburg , the traditional homeports (of embarkation and debarkation). Tour landmarks are the Red Square and Kremlin in Moscow, the Hermitage and Catherine Palace in St Petersburg.

Once unthinkable as a cruise vacation destination, Russia is today more accessible than ever, with stops along its largest European lakes and rivers. For river travel lovers accustomed to European itineraries, the Russian experience will be quite different. Russia has a special feel of uniquely designed riverboats. Built to handle larger lakes (Lake Ladoga for example, is the largest European freshwater body of water), these vessels usually feature larger size and capacity (up to six decks), deeper draft, and most of them are refurbished instead of being newbuild.

The itineraries offered are activity-intensive in Moscow and St Petersburg, with long periods of cruising and less ashore time in the middle. Smaller "Golden Ring" cities (so named due to their historic significance) are full of icon-riddled monasteries and Orthodox churches. Most cruise lines hire local experts and fill the days of sailing along the river with lectures on country's history, cooking demonstrations and language lessons.

Most of the tours offered by the companies sailing along Volga River are identical, so customers choosing between the different itineraries should look at how the river ships spend the time within Moscow and St. Petersburg. Some lines have their guests stay onboard, which can be as far as 1 hour out of both cities. Others put their clients up at hotels near the center of the city, with several meals at customer's expense.

Compared with other river routes, Russia features a short season, between early May and late October, with high season in June (known as White Nights because of the endless daylight), July and August. Even if the weather is chilly, there are some advantages to sailing early or late: you'll beat the crowds which can make a visit to the Hermitage a bear. Most Russian museums lack air-conditioning, and while the climate is generally temperate, in the summer Moscow often experiences high humidity heat waves.

Remember to think about your Russian visa at least 2 months before your voyage, to have enough time to fill out the paperwork, including a lengthy online application. And don't forget that the Russian language uses the Cyrillic alphabet. Even in the cities, you'll rarely find signs in English, so learning some letters and a few phrases will help you get around.

Doninturflot-Orthodox Cruise Company

Orthodox Cruise Company operates a fleet of USSR-design large river ships and serves mainly foreign tourists. The parent company Doninturflot (established in 1992) is the shipowner and manages the fleet.

• Doninturflot started operations with the ships MS Maxim Litvinov, MS Mikhail Sholokhov and MS Sergei Dyagilev.
• Since 2002, Docturflot charters Akademik Glushkov (currently MS Igor Stravinsky) owned by OOO Rosflotinvest.
• In 2004 was acquired MS Anton Chekhov from Yenisei River Shipping Company (Russia).
• In 2006 were acquired MS Peter Tchaikovsky and MS Ivan Bunin from the Moscow-based cruise shipping company "Passenger Port".
• In 2008 was bought MS General Lavrinenkov from "Ukrrechflot" (Ukraine).
• In 2011 was bought MS Marshal Koshevoy (from Ukrrichflot, Ukraine) but in April 2013 the ship was sold to Viking Cruises (now operates as Viking Akun ).
• In 2016, was purchased MS Tikhi Don from the UK-based Grand Circle Travel company. In 2017, the ship started operations for Orthodox Cruise Company serving international tourists.

Imperial River Cruises Russia

"Imperial River Cruises Russia" was founded in 1992 and operates on inland waterways in both Russia and Ukraine. Company's chartered ships navigate on the rivers Volga, Don, Neva, Svir, Dnieper (also on the Danube) and the Russian lakes Onega and Ladoga.

The most operated itineraries are between Moscow and St Petersburg (visiting Uglich, Kostrom, Yaroslavl, Goritzy). Specially designed itineraries visit Vladimir, Suzdal, Zagorsk, Solovki Island. Also offered are itineraries Moscow-Volgograd and Moscow-Rostov, roundtrips from Kiev, and even grand voyages connecting two seas - Baltic and Black. Also offered are themed cruises - especially on food and music, with live performances by grand orchestras and choirs.

Imperial River Cruises Russia has an exclusive partnership with "Orthodox Cruise Company" - one of Russia's largest tour operators. As their names suggest, both companies target mainly foreign tourists - booking in the USA, Canada, UK, Australia. Ships' capacity varies between 180-250 passengers. English (or German) speaking licensed tour guides are provided on all excursions. The daily onboard entertainment program offers live musical performances, folk shows, enrichment lectures.

Russian river cruise deals

• Departure port (dock/berth), check-in, boarding and landing times are indicated on the company's website and on passenger boarding passes. Ship's exact departure time is clarified on the website the day prior departure.
• Kids discount ticket prices are offered for children up to 14 years of age (14-yo including), the age being fixed on departure day.
• Kids from 2 to 5 years of age (5-yo including) travel free of charge, but without providing an additional bed (if there are no free beds in the cabin). Shore excursions are also free of charge.
• Toddlers (kids under 2) travel free of charge, but the bed, food, and tour services are not provided. Extra beds in staterooms (baby cribs, cots) are not available on the ship.
• TWIN (double cabin) single supplement rate is 75%.
• Ticket prices are inclusive of 3 meals a day. Onboard dining includes Breakfast (buffet style, drinks - cocoa, milk, juices, hot-cold dishes), Lunch (buffet style) and Dinner (waiter-served, 1 Starter, 1 Main course (choice of 3 / meat-fish-vegetarian), 1 Dessert (choice of 2 or fruits). Water in pitchers is always provided. Tea/coffee is served.
• On embarkation day and disembarkation day (at the end of the voyage) meal times depend on landing times. If a land tour coincides with a meal time (lunch), passengers are provided with complimentary food at a local restaurant (cafe) or given "dry rations".
• Ticket price inclusive onboard events are Welcome Aboard ("bread and salt" ceremony), Welcome Cocktail (complimentary 1 glass of champagne or juice per person), "Tea Ceremony" (with traditional pies), "Vodka Show" (blini and vodka tasting), Cocktail Party (once per cruise, complimentary 1 cocktail per person), Captain's Dinner (gourmet menu, once per cruise), mulled wine or ice tea (weather-depending / upon returning from excursions), complimentary Coffee Station (coffee, hot water, packed tea, milk, cocoa, cookies), 1 bottled water (0.33l pp per day in cabins). Tickets are also inclusive of foreign language speaking guide services, onboard entertainment (language class, singing lessons, live music, nightly dancing music, Wheelhouse tour).
• Complimentary excursions are detailed in the ship's cruise itinerary program. Optional tours are available for onboard booking. For excursion services, foreigner passengers may be charged with additional fee pp per day (varies by cruise tour length).
• Cruise tickets don't include land transfers (excepting foreign travel agency bookings), beverages and snacks (in onboard bars-lounges), phone calls, sauna visits, optional excursions, travel insurance, gratuities, personal spendings. Ticket prices include 18% VAT.
• Smoking on the ship is allowed only in designated areas (marked with "Place for smoking" signs). Smoking is prohibited in all interior spaces and on open decks (except at designated areas).
• On most ships are available health gymnastics and morning exercises (led by a certified physician/ship's doctor), oxygen cocktail, dietary food.
• On most ships are provided (free of charge) the following medical services - emergency medical care (assistance required for sudden acute illnesses, conditions, exacerbation of chronic diseases), measurement of blood pressure and body temperature, primary treatment of wounds.
• Boarding starts 2 hours prior to departure. All passengers must be boarded at least an hour prior to departure. Late passengers missing their cruise tour are not refunded.
• Russia's main river cruise departure ports are Moscow , St Petersburg , Astrakhan , Nizhny Novgorod , Perm , Samara , Kazan , Volgograd , Rostov-on-Don , Saratov .

Russian cruise ships

Currently, in Russia is operated a huge fleet of over 200 river cruise ships. All these vessels were built during the USSR (Soviet Union) times, roughly in the period between 1950-1990. Depending on class and series, these boats differ in terms of size, equipment (different engine designs), passenger capacity, onboard facilities and venues, cabins (types and number). Amenities additionally differ by shipowner (cruise company).

All these old-design Russian ships were completely refurbished and rebuilt for their new shipowners, Some of these ships are operated (via partnerships or under charter) also by foreign companies (like Viking, CroisiEurope, Uniworld, AMAwaterways, Grand Circle, Nicko). During their multi-million-dollar drydock refits, vessels passenger capacities were considerably reduced to improve travel comfort and safety.

Most boats are of the following classes:

• "Rossiya" (Project 785, 36 vessels built 1952-1958)
• "Baykal" (Project 646, 15 units built 1953-1956)
• "Rodina" (Project 588, 49 vessels built 1954-1961)
• "Oktyabrskaya Revolyutsiya" (Project 26-37, 14 units built 1957-1962)
• "Dunay" (Project 305, 47 vessels built between 1959-1964)
• "Kuybyshev" (Project OL400, 9 units built 1975-1983)
• "Vladimir Ilyich" (Project 301, 22 vessels built between 1975-1983)
• "Dmitri Furmanov" (Project 302, 27 vessels built between 1983-1991)

Regardless of their age, all these motor ships undergo regular drydock refurbishments , machinery and safety checks, scheduled repairs (including annual surveys). Drydocks are every 5 years and include repairs, hull inspection, propulsion-steering inspection, general maintenance works.

Each ship is equipped with life-saving appliances (lifeboats and rafts) in amounts exceeding the boat's max passenger and crew capacity. Each cabin is equipped with lifejackets with illustrated instructions in several languages. All ships are equipped with modern fire-fighting systems. Crew and staff are experienced and highly professional certified employees.

Itinerary of Russian River Cruises

CruiseMapper's "Russian River Cruises" itinerary section provides information on itineraries and ports of call offered by the largest Russian and European river cruise companies - Vodohod, Viking, Uniworld, Scenic, CroisiEurope. Each foreign company has a partnership with a local company and operates as a joint venture one or more Russian ships.

For detailed itinerary information (routes) visit our pages of the following departure ports - Saratov , Volgograd , Samara , Perm , Nizhny Novgorod , Cheboksary , Rostov-on-Don ,  Kazan , Astrakhan , Moscow , St Petersburg .

Volga River cruise ports highlights

• St Petersburg (Russia's second-largest city - after Moscow) was built by Tzar Peter the Great in 1703. It is located in the Neva River delta (Gulf of Finland's east coast). Saint Petersburg includes the territories of more than 130 islands interconnected by over 300 bridges. The city has a huge number of cultural and historical sights, architectural landmarks, museums, magnificent palaces (Russian Tsars' former residences), grand parks, wide avenues, bridges, numerous monuments. Among its most famous tourist attractions are the Hermitage museum (housing over 2 million pieces of art). Two days is never enough to see everything in this remarkable city. However, passengers will usually visit the Hermitage, admire the city's 19th-century architecture during a canal cruise tour, take in a cultural performance, visit one of the Versailles-style palaces in St. Petersburg's countryside (Pushkin or Peterhof).
• Moscow (Russian Federation's capital and largest city) was founded in 1147 by Prince Yuri Dolgoruky. The city was destroyed several times - by the Mongolians, Napoleon, the Nazis. The heart of the city lies in the Red Square, which contains Lenin's Tomb, St Basil's Cathedral, and GUM Department Store. Kremlin's red walls also border the square. Inside the fort are the Armoury (containing the Faberge eggs) and 9 onion-domed churches. Art-fans can seek out Pushkin Gallery or see a show at Bolshoi Theatre.
• Yaroslavl is one of the Golden Ring cities of Russia, and the largest city to visit during the middle of your Volga cruise. The town is famous for its gorgeous churches. It also offers several pedestrian-only streets full of shops and cafes, as well as a lovely embankment used as a park.
• Uglich has a provincial setting. It was found in the 10th century and was a scene of some of medieval Russian history's most remarkable events. Here were exiled the Ivan Terrible’s 7th wife and her son Tsarevich Dmitry. Soon after, Tsarevich was mysteriously murdered here. Soon after, a dedicated to this event church ("Church of St. Demetrius on the Blood") was erected. Within the Uglich Kremlin walls is the town's oldest building - "Prince’s Palace". Other attractions are St. John’s Church and the Transfiguration Cathedral.
• Astrakhan was founded at the end of the 13th century and is located on the Volga's left bank. Port’s activities extend 100 km downstream and over 300 km upstream along the river. The city is a major trading center and its main business is freight shipping (coal, timber, salt, food, industrial products). Astrakhan is not linked to the railroad network. Cargoes are transferred by floating cranes from river ships to seagoing vessels.
• Goritsy is a small village on River Sheksna, famous for its Resurrection Convent, At approx 4 ml (7 km) from Goritsy is Kirillov - a pilgrimage site with many historical and architectural monuments. Among those are the Kirillo-Belozerski monastery, Ferapont monastery (UNESCO site), 12 churches, 25 civil monuments.
• Kizhi Island (Lake Onega) is located approx 70 km (40 ml) to the northeast of Petrozavodsk. The island has two onion-domed churches. Also here is the 17th-century-built 22-domed church - constructed without using a single nail. Its "Church of the Transfiguration of our Savior" and "Church of the Intercession" were rebuilt several times and are preserved in their original 17th-century design.
• Mandrogi (Mandroga) is a small village on the Svir river recently created as a tourist attraction. It features small wooden log cabin houses. Its “town of masters” is a market for hand-made Russian art craft, including paintings, painted wooden dolls, embroidery, pottery. Other attractions are the elk nursery and the quail farm, horse-riding tours, food tasting (pastry), vodka tasting (museum of Russian vodka).
• Kostroma is also one of the Golden Ring cities, and once was one of Russia's 3 largest cities - after Moscow and Yaroslavl, It is located at the confluence of the rivers Volga and Kostroma. Among the attractions are the St Ipathy monastery, an open-air museum (traditional wooden architecture- izbas, mills, churches are gathered in one place).
• Kizhi is famous the whole world over. It has become the symbol of the grandeur of unique Russian culture. Visiting the Kizhi Islands gives a great chance to appreciate the enchanting medieval atmosphere and get acquainted with the customs and free spirit of men living in a spacious area with a rigorous climate
• Kazan. The largest port in the Volga basin, it transships cargoes transported by water alone or by water and rail. The port receives coal from Kuznetsk Basin for Kazan's heat and electric power plant, food and industrial products, and ships out products of city's enterprises and Siberian timber. The port includes Tsentral’nyi, Kama, and Volga cargo areas, as well as a number of landings, the biggest of which is Naberezhnye Chelny and Chistopol’. The basin of the Tsentral’nyi Cargo Area and passenger area are protected by a breakwater.
• Novgorod (Nizhniy Novgorod) is an ancient stronghold founded by Gran Prince Yuri as a frontier post, is now the 5th largest city of Russia as well as one of the main centers of river tourism in the country. In the 19th century, Nizhniy became the trade center of the whole state as it was the place of the biggest fair in the Russian Empire. A proverb of that time says: "Moscow is the heart of Russia, St. Petersburg is its head, and Nizhniy Novgorod - its pocketbook". The city was renamed "Gorky" in Soviet times, in honor of the writer Maxim Gorky, born there. Until 1990, Nizhniy Novgorod was “closed” to foreigners as USSR protected its military secrets. Nizhniy Novgorod is included in the UNESCO list of 100 cities constituting world cultural and historical value.
• Samara - during the Soviet period the city was named Kuybyshev, in honor of the Soviet party figure Valerian Kuybyshev. The shortest ways from Central and Western Europe to Kazakhstan, Siberia, and Central Asia run through Samara. The city has a rich cultural heritage: Alexey Tolstoy spent his childhood and youth there. Maxim Gorky started his literary career in the city - he worked in "Samara Newspaper". The Czech writer Yaroslav Gashek also worked in Samara, during the Civil war. Famous artists like Ilya Repin, Ivan Ayvazovsky, Vasily Surikov, lived in the city. During the Great Patriotic War, the Seventh Symphony of Dmitry Shostakovich was performed in Samara for the first time.
• Tver - the White Trinity Church (1564) is the sole ancient monument of Tver as in 1763, there was a great fire after which the city was rebuilt in Neoclassical style. There are also a lot of buildings of Catherine the Great. Tver State University is highly rated in the region. In 1931, Tver received the name Kalinin, in honor of the Soviet leader Mikhail Kalinin. The city was occupied by the German army in 1941. Only 2 months later it became the first big city in Europe liberated from the occupation.
• Ulyanovsk is located on the right bank of the Kuibyshev Reservoir. Port's activities extend 90 km downstream and 100 km upstream along the Volga. The port unloads mineral construction materials, food, and industrial products for the cities of Saransk and Uljanovsk, and ships out coal from Kuznetsk Basin, automobiles, foodstuffs. Its passenger area was rebuilt in 1969 and includes a large number of landings, the biggest being Melekess and Sengilei. The basin of the port of Ulyanovsk is protected by a breakwater.
• Saratov (founded in 1590) is the capital city of a huge province that as size equals the territories of Albania, Belgium and Switzerland combined. In the late 19th century, Saratov became a center for industry and trade, Among the city's attractions, are Moskovskaya street (Europe's longest straight street), one of Europe's longest bridges (2,8 km long), children’s theater, puppet theater, Russia’s oldest circus, musical conservatory, beaches, Art Galleries, Lipki Park, two large casinos.
• Volgograd (currently Stalingrad) was founded in 1589. This is a major port and shipping hub linking Donets Basin with the Urals and Upper Volga Region. It ships grain, coal, food, and industrial products upstream and receives mineral construction materials and timber. The port’s districts are situated within the cities of Volzhsk and Volgograd (Tsentral’nyi). Kamyshin is the biggest landing belonging to the port. Among Volgograd's attractions is the Mamayev Hill with numerous sculptures devoted to the WW2 victims and topped with the world’s largest freestanding statue “Mother Russia” (height 52 m / 171 ft). Adjacent is the "Museum of the Defense" (war artifacts, weapons, uniforms).

All ships listed here operate on Russian waterways. To this long list should be additionally added the following boats, which are currently listed in the fleets of their own companies:

• Scenic Tsar (company Scenic Cruises )
• River Victoria (company Uniworld )
• Viking Rurik , Viking Akun , Viking Helgi , Viking Ingvar , Viking Truvor (company Viking Cruises )

Viking River Cruises in Russia - Itinerary "Waterways of the Tsars"

Viking's itinerary is named "Waterways of the Tsars" (13-day cruise) inclusive of:

• all transfers and port charges
• Riverview stateroom
• 10 guided tours (audio headsets provided)
• all onboard meals (including 12 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 12 dinners, Welcome Cocktail Reception, Gala Dinner)
• complimentary beverages (wine, beer, and soft drinks with all dinners and lunches)
• complimentary Wi-Fi
• visiting four UNESCO World Heritage Sites
• enrichment events (onshore live music and dance performances), onboard Russian language lessons, history-themed lectures, Russian cooking workshop, Russian tea time).
• Viking's Russian cruise fares are between USD 5,100 - 5,600 PP. Prices are inclusive of international airfare from 30 USA airports.
• Airport transfers (meet & greet) are included only when flights are purchased through Viking Cruises.

Optional (additionally priced) extensions are:

• (pre-cruise) 2-night Moscow hotel package (Radisson Royal Hotel or similar), with included 2 breakfasts, Moscow Subway guided tour, Viking host services.
• (post-cruise) 3-night Helsinki hotel package (Radisson Blu Plaza or similar), with included 3 breakfasts, guided walking tour, Viking host services, train travel (St Petersburg to Helsinki), all hotel and ship transfers.

Itineraries are two: northbound (Moscow to St Petersburg) or the reverse southbound (St Petersburg to Moscow).

• (Day 1) Moscow arrival, airport to ship transfer, onboard dinner
• (Day 2) half-day Moscow tour (Bolshoi Theater, Red Square, St Basil’s Cathedral, GUM Department Store, Moscow Metro)
• (Day 3) free time full-day Moscow touring, or an optional morning tour to Tretyakov Gallery Russian fine art museum). Other optional tours are in the afternoon (Cosmonaut Museum, Jewish Moscow) and in the evening (Moscow by Night).
• (Day 4) Moscow tour to Kremlin (Tsar’s Canon, Tsar’s Bell, 2 cathedrals), scenic Moscow Canal cruise (after lunch) as the ships departs the city.
• (Day 5) Uglich arrival (after lunch), disembarkation for a guided walking tour (Kremlin of Uglich, Church of St Dmitry on the Blood, tea at a local family home), before dinner departure
• (Day 6) Yaroslavl arrival in the morning, guided tour (covered food market, handcrafted souvenirs shopping), free time, ship lunch, departure.
• (Day 7) Kuzino morning arrival, tour to Kirillo-Belozersky Monastery (guided walk- wooden chapels, Assumption Cathedral, museum), children’s school, ship lunch, afternoon departure.
• (Day 8) Kizhi Island (Lake Onega cruising) afternoon arrival, walking tour (Open Air Museum of Architecture- wooden houses, windmills, churches, Preobranzhenskaya Church), evening departure.
• (Day 9) Mandrogy (Svir River cruising) afternoon arrival (Vodka Museum, handmade Russian craft shopping, optional banya / Russian bathhouse visit, optional tour (matryoshka doll making workshop), Lake Ladoga cruising to Neva River.
• (Day 10) — St Petersburg (Neva River cruising), early morning arrival, onboard breakfast, guided tour (Winter Palace, Hermitage Museum), onboard dinner and evening live Russian ballet performance.
• (Day 11) St Petersburg tour to Pushkin district (Catherine Palace), ship lunch, city tour (St Isaac’s Cathedral, Peter and Paul Fortress, Nevsky Prospekt), optional evening folklore performance.
• (Day 12) free time St Petersburg touring (optional morning tour to Peterhof Palace, optional afternoon kommunalka tour, optional St Petersburg canal cruise from), onboard lunch and dinner.
• (Day 13) St Petersburg - onboard breakfast, ship disembarkation, ship to airport transfer for the return flight.

Uniworld Cruises in Russia - itinerary "Imperial Waterways of Russia"

The 13-day long itinerary is named "Imperial Waterways of Russia" and operated by the ship River Victoria. Uniworld's Russian cruise fares range between USD 5,200 and 9,900 PP (depending on cabin category.

• Day 1 – Moscow (Sheremetyevo Airport arrival, ship transfer, embarkation)
• Day 2 – Moscow (city tour, metro tour, Arbat Street) - Bolshoi Theatre, Red Square, St Basil’s Cathedral, Russian lunch included, onboard Captain’s Welcome Reception, Gala Dinner
• Day 3 – Moscow (Kremlin, Armory Museum)
• Day 4 – Moscow (leisure day)
• Day 5 – Moscow Canal and Volga River cruising to Uglich (walking tour)
• Day 6 – Yaroslavl (Lake Rybinsk cruising) - city tour
• Day 7 – Goritsy (Lake Onega cruising) - monasteries, St Cyril of the White Lake Monastery, Children’s Arts and Crafts,
• Day 8 – Kizhi Island (Lake Onega cruising) - Open-air Museum of Wooden Architecture
• Day 9 – Svir River cruising to Mandrogi, Lake Ladoga cruising - Mandrogi walk tour (picnic lunch)
• Day 10 – St Petersburg (city tour, canal cruise, Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, ballet performance at Alexandrinsky Theatre)
• Day 11 – St Petersburg (Catherine Palace, Pushkin Park)
• Day 12 – St Petersburg (Winter Palace - Hermitage Museum, Captain’s Farewell Reception, Gala Dinner)
• Day 13 – St Petersburg (disembarkation, transfer and return flight).

Scenic River Cruises in Russia - itinerary "The Imperial Wonders Of Russia"

The itinerary is operated by Scenic Tzar and named "Imperial Jewels of Russia". Its duration is 15-day, along Volga and Svir rivers. Scenic Cruises deals are inclusive of:

• Scenic Enrich - handcrafted, Scenic passengers exclusive tour experiences (private shows, family meals prepared by local hosts)
• Scenic Sundowners - exclusive cocktail events
• all onboard meals (including complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks with lunches and dinners)
• onboard doctor
• onboard entertainment
• in-cabin room service
• Wi-Fi internet (Mac mini infotainment system via the cabin's TV)
• all gratuities
• Scenic's Russian cruise fares are USD 11,500 PP.

Day-by-day itinerary info: Day 1 (Moscow), Day 2 (Moscow, Sundowners canal cruise), Day 3 (Moscow - Kremlin), Day 4 (Moscow - Cosmonaut meeting), Day 5 (Moscow - Tretyakov Gallery), Day 6 (Uglich), Day 7 (Yaroslavl - city tour), Day 8 (Goritsy - Kirillo-Belozersky Monastery), Day 9 (Kizhi Island - Church of Transfiguration), Day 10 (Mandrogi - Museum village), Day 11 (St Petersburg - Hermitage), Day 12 (St Petersburg - Peterhof Palace), Day 13 (St Petersburg - Private Ballet performance), Day 14 (St Petersburg - canal cruise), Day 15 (return flight).

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Cruises To Suez Canal

Suez Canal Visiting Cruises Calendar

• Bremerhaven
• Le Havre (Paris)
• London Greenwich
• London Portsmouth
• London Tilbury
• Southampton
• Warnemunde (Rostock)
• Zeebrugge (Bruges)
• Arctic Circle
• British Isles
• Midnight Sun
• Northern Europe
• Northern Lights
• Norwegian Fjords
• Scandinavia
• Transatlantic
• Western Europe
• AIDA Cruises
• Azamara Club Cruises
• Carnival Cruise Line
• Celebrity Cruises
• Costa Cruises
• Crystal Cruises
• Cunard Cruise Line
• Disney Cruise Line
• Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines
• Holland America Line
• MSC Cruises
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Oceania Cruises
• P&O Cruises
• Princess Cruises
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises
• Royal Caribbean
• Saga Cruises
• Silversea Cruises
• Viking Ocean Cruises
• Ports Of Call

Baltic Cruises

Embark on a voyage of discovery to the Baltic region, a destination that brings together awe-inspiring landscapes, deep cultural heritage, and diverse urban sophistication. On a Northern European cruise, immerse yourself in the distinctive charm of the Baltic Sea, known for its captivating coastal cities and untouched wilderness. Breathe in the fresh sea air, admire the stunning archipelagos, and let the region's unique beauty captivate your senses. Each port along the Baltic Sea unfolds like a new chapter in a storybook, offering scenic vistas and enriching experiences.

The Baltic Sea boasts a myriad of highlights, each more intriguing than the last. From the historic charm of Tallinn , Estonia , to the vibrant modernity of Stockholm , Sweden , the ports of call offer a compelling mix of past and present. St. Petersburg, Russia, often dubbed the 'Venice of the North', enchants with its opulent palaces and majestic cathedrals. As you sail along these waters, gaze upon the natural spectacle of sprawling archipelagos, dense forests meeting the sea, and the mesmerizing interplay of light that the Baltic region is famed for.

Baltic Cruise Lines

Each Baltic cruise features a one-of-a-kind combination of thrilling activities and luxurious amenities, all of which are designed to make the most of every moment. Learn more about the selection of Baltic cruises in 2024 from major cruise lines such as Holland America , Norwegian Cruises , Silversea Cruises , and Viking Cruises , as well as other ocean cruise lines.

Departure ports for Baltic cruises

Cruises to the Baltic typically depart from one of the cities in Northern Europe, such as Bergen , Le Havre (Paris) , Oslo , Rotterdam , Southampton , and Stockholm , which are among the most popular departure ports.

The best time to take Baltic cruises

The Baltic region is a year-round destination, with each season offering unique charms. Summer (June to August) provides long daylight hours and warm temperatures, perfect for exploring outdoor attractions and wildlife spotting. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) present milder weather and fewer crowds, ideal for city tours and nature walks. The winter months (December to February) add a magical touch to the region, with snow-covered landscapes and a chance to see the Northern Lights. Take a look for Baltic cruises during the months of September 2024 , April 2025 , May 2025 , June 2025 , August 2025 , and September 2025 .

Baltic Cruise Schedule 2024

A cruise to the Baltic region is more than just a journey — it's an invitation to experience a mosaic of cultures, explore stunning landscapes, and connect with a vibrant history. From charming coastal towns to mesmerizing natural spectacles, the Baltic Sea has a way of capturing the heart of every traveler. As you sail away from this enchanting region, you'll carry with you unforgettable memories and a longing to return. So set sail for the Baltic and let the adventure unfold.

12-day Baltic cruise from Le Havre

Norwegian dawn, norwegian cruise line.

Date: May 16, 2025

Ports of Call: Le Havre, Bruges, London Tilbury, Amsterdam, Copenhagen, Warnemunde, Gdansk, Klaipeda, Riga, Helsinki, Tallinn, Stockholm; View Itinerary

14-day Norwegian Fjords cruise from Bergen

Viking jupiter, viking ocean cruises.

Date: April 28, 2025

Ports of Call: Bergen, Bergen, Eidfjord, Stavanger, Oslo, Oslo, Aalborg, Copenhagen, Warnemunde, Bornholm, Gdansk, Mariehamn, Stockholm, Stockholm; View Itinerary

11-day Baltic cruise from Stockholm

Date: June 16, 2025

Ports of Call: Stockholm, Helsinki, Tallinn, Riga, Klaipeda, Gdansk, Warnemunde, Kiel, Aarhus, Oslo, Oslo, Copenhagen; View Itinerary

14-day Baltic cruise from Stockholm

Viking sky, viking ocean cruises.

Date: August 26, 2025

Ports of Call: Stockholm, Stockholm, Mariehamn, Gdansk, Bornholm, Warnemunde, Copenhagen, Aalborg, Oslo, Oslo, Stavanger, Eidfjord, Bergen, Bergen; View Itinerary

Date: August 12, 2025

18-day Northern Europe cruise from Southampton

Silver dawn, silversea cruises.

Date: April 12, 2025

Ports of Call: Southampton, Rouen, Rouen, Rouen, Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Hamburg, Hamburg, Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Helsinki, Tallinn, Tallinn, Stockholm, Stockholm; View Itinerary

13-day Iceland cruise from Stockholm

Date: April 30, 2025

Ports of Call: Stockholm, Oslo, Oslo, Bergen, Torshavn, Akureyri, Isafjordur, Reykjavik, Reykjavik; View Itinerary

9-day Baltic cruise from Stockholm

Date: May 28, 2025

Ports of Call: Stockholm, Helsinki, Tallinn, Riga, Klaipeda, Gdansk, Warnemunde, Kiel, Copenhagen, Oslo; View Itinerary

10-day Baltic cruise from Oslo

Date: June 6, 2025

Ports of Call: Oslo, Kristiansand, Aarhus, Copenhagen, Warnemunde, Gdansk, Visby, Riga, Helsinki, Tallinn, Stockholm; View Itinerary

14-day Baltic cruise from Rotterdam

Rotterdam, holland america line.

Date: September 28, 2024

Ports of Call: Rotterdam, Oslo, Aarhus, Warnemunde, Tallinn, Helsinki, Stockholm, Visby, Ronne, Kiel, Copenhagen, Rotterdam; View Itinerary

Date: May 12, 2025

11-day Baltic cruise from Oslo

Date: September 19, 2025

Ports of Call: Oslo, Kristiansand, Aarhus, Copenhagen, Kiel, Warnemunde, Gdansk, Klaipeda, Riga, Helsinki, Tallinn, Stockholm; View Itinerary

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