seafair holiday cruise

Events  - Event View

76 seafair holiday cruise (formerly special people's cruise).

Special Event & Holiday Cruises

Bingo lunch cruise.

Select Tuesdays (April-Nov) | 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. | All Ages

Seattle Sights Lunch Cruise

Select Thursdays (March-Sept) | 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. | All Ages

Unwind Cruise Series

Select Wed, Thurs, Fri, & Sun (May-Sept) | Cruise 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. | Ages 21+

Island Party Cruise

Aug 10 | 8:30 – 11:00PM | Ages 21+

Fourth of July Fireworks Party Cruise

July 4 | 8:45 p.m. to 11:15 p.m. | Ages 21+

Fourth of July Fireworks Dinner Cruise

July 4 | 8:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. | All Ages!

Seafair Blue Angels BBQ Lunch Cruise

August 3 & 4 | 2:00 to 5:30 p.m. | All Ages!

Seafair Blue Angels Party Cruise w/ MOViN 92.5!

August 3 & 4 | 2:00 pm to 5:30 p.m. | Ages 21+| Seafair Blue Angels Party Cruise w/ MOViN 92.5 !

Fall Foliage Lunch Cruise

Select Wednesdays (Sept-Nov) | 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 pm. | All Ages

All aboard: 2,000 enjoy the Seafair Holiday Cruise

When you think of Seafair, thoughts of summer come to mind. But the festival is getting in the spirit of Christmas and the season of giving. Seafair and ‘76’ Gasoline Stations organized free cruises for about 2,000 developmentally disabled adults. Yesterday passengers set sail on Lake Washington and Lake Union to see decorated boats on the water, while listening to the Issaquah High school choir singing carols.  While everyone seemed to love their time on the boats, the real surprise was waiting for them back at the dock. "It's just an exciting opportunity for them to experience the holidays and then they come back to their dock and that's where they get to see Santa and get a gift from Santa, Seafair president Beth Knox said. Nearly 400 boaters donated their time and services to make the event possible. This is the 40th year Seafair has organized the cruises.

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Bremerton Yacht Club

Santa Cruise

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Seafair's Holiday Cruise

Meydenbauer Yach Club, 9927 Meydenbauer Way SE , WA

This annual event serves individuals over 16 years old living with intellectual disabilities.  Meydenbauer Yacht Club provides the ships and volunteers to join the parade along the Lake Washington shoreline.  Individuals interested in attending must pre-register.  Those using a wheelchair or walker need to register directly through Seafair.  Space is limited.  Interested volunteers should contact Mary Boyle at 425-452-4118. 

• Ages:   16 years and older, individuals living with intellectual disabilities. 
• Cost:   Free. 
• Pre-registration:   Required. 
• To register:   Contact Mary Boyle at [email protected] or 425-452-4118. 
• Info:   425-452-7686.

• Seafair Families

Welcome to the Seafair Boat Club

The Seafair Boat Club was formed in 1975 to support the water oriented activities of Seafair.  These activities include the Milk Carton Derby at Greenlake, the Unlimited Hydroplane Races and Airshow on Lake Washington, and the Seafair Holiday Cruise.

The SBC is a Seafair member family. Other member families include the Seafair Clowns, Seafair Pirates, Seafair Parade Marshals, and Seafair Commodores. For information regarding these families, click on "Seafair Families"

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• The Ultimate Guide to Watching the Blue Angels at Seafair

June 21, 2024 By Georgia Golla

• Special Events

Seafair Weekend annually transforms Seattle's Genesee Park and Lake Washington into a spectacular stage for the exhilarating Boeing Seafair Airshow featuring the Blue Angels. This event, deeply entrenched in the heart of the Puget Sound community, draws spectators from across the region, who gather to witness the precision and skill of the famed naval aviators. The Blue Angels, known for their tight formations and daring aerobatics, perform over the waters of Lake Washington, offering a breathtaking display of aerial prowess.

Attending this event provides a unique opportunity to see the Blue Angels execute maneuvers such as the Vertical Break, the Diamond Dirty Loop, and the Sneak Pass, against the backdrop of Seattle's picturesque landscape. The full schedule of the airshow is meticulously planned, with visibility and execution heavily dependent on weather conditions. This adds an element of suspense and excitement, as attendees eagerly anticipate clear skies for the best possible viewing experience.

Preparation for spectators includes checking the latest schedule updates and ensuring tickets and viewing spots are secured well in advance. The event is not just an airshow but a celebration of community, aviation excellence, and national pride, encapsulated in the roar of jet engines and the gasps of amazed crowds.

Purchase Tickets

Historical Background

The Blue Angels, officially formed in 1946, have become a celebrated fixture at Seattle's Seafair since their first performance at the festival in 1972. Originating as the U.S. Navy's flight demonstration squadron, their mission was to boost Navy morale, demonstrate naval air power, and maintain public interest in naval aviation. Their precision flying and awe-inspiring aerobatics quickly captivated the public, enhancing their reputation nationally.

Seafair, which began in 1950, was conceived as a festival to celebrate Seattle's marine and boating heritage. By integrating the Blue Angels into their program, Seafair bridged Seattle's rich naval history with spectacular contemporary entertainment. This partnership magnified the event's draw, transforming it into a pivotal summer attraction for both locals and tourists. The annual performances of the Blue Angels became a symbol of precision and discipline, reflecting the spirit and expertise of the U.S. Navy.

Their appearance every summer highlights the peak of the Seafair festival, bringing together communities with displays of aerial mastery that echo the dynamism and innovation of Seattle itself. Each show not only reinforces the historical ties between the naval forces and the local community but also underscores the enduring allure and excitement of naval aviation in modern times.

Seafair Weekend Event Details

Building on their historical significance, Seafair Weekend event has numerous viewing opportunities and activities planned for attendees. The main event, set to dazzle spectators, will take place near Genesee Park and over Lake Washington.

This year, the Seafair Weekend, often hailed as an unofficial holiday in the Puget Sound region, promises an array of thrilling aerial displays and precision flying that showcase the skills of the U.S. Navy pilots.

Best Viewing Spots

For the best viewing of the Blue Angels at Seafair, a viewing cruise is definitely your best option! F or those interested in a unique viewing experience, Blue Angels Viewing Cruises are available. These cruises depart from AGC Marina on South Lake Union and Carillon Point in Kirkland. Guests should be sure to make reservations in advance as these cruises tend to sell out quickly. 

Before departing for the cruise, attendees are advised to book their reservations early, and have their boarding passes ready, either through an e-pass or printed at home. This preparation will help guarantee a smooth and enjoyable Seafair experience.

F or those looking to stay on land, you’ll want to consider securing a spot near Genesee Park or along the shores of Lake Washington, where the aerial maneuvers are most visible. These locations offer essential views that are important for appreciating the precision and skill of the pilots.

Genesee Park, in particular, is a popular choice because it provides a wide expanse of open sky above Lake Washington, allowing for panoramic views of the high-speed jets as they perform their intricate formations and stunts.

Another excellent spot is the waterfront areas along Lake Washington Boulevard. Here, spectators can enjoy a slightly elevated vantage point, which can offer a different perspective on the aerial performance. The boulevard stretches along the eastern shore of the lake, giving visitors numerous options for setting up their viewing area.

For those looking for a more unique experience, the docks and public piers around the lake also provide a frontline view of the action. These spots are especially good for photography enthusiasts aiming to capture the Blue Angels in their dramatic flybys and complex choreography against the backdrop of the Seattle skyline.

Viewing Experience

Experiencing the Blue Angels at Seafair transcends typical spectatorship, transforming into a visceral celebration of aerial precision and speed. The sensation of watching these high-performance jets execute breathtaking maneuvers above Lake Washington is electrifying. The roar of the engines reverberates through the body, creating a palpable excitement among the crowd. Each loop, roll, and dive demonstrates not just the skill of the pilots but also the cutting-edge capabilities of aviation technology.

Seafair Weekend presents a unique opportunity to witness these thrilling performances. Crowds gather around Genesee Park and along the shores of Lake Washington, their anticipation building until the sky above bursts into motion with the jets' synchronized choreography. The experience is not merely about watching; it's about feeling part of something larger—a shared moment of awe and national pride.

The Blue Angels' performance schedule is contingent on weather, which adds an element of unpredictability to the event. Spectators are advised to check the full Boeing Seafair Airshow schedule to enhance their viewing experience, ensuring they don't miss any part of this spectacular aerial display.

Accessibility and Amenities

While the Blue Angels' shows are a visual spectacle, guaranteeing easy access and available amenities also greatly enhances the spectator experience at Seafair. For those planning to attend, Seafair organizers have made significant efforts to cater to a variety of needs, ensuring that all attendees, including those with disabilities, have a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Accessible viewing areas are available, offering unobstructed views of the thrilling aerial maneuvers. These areas are situated strategically around Genesee Park and along the shores of Lake Washington, providing excellent vantage points for all.

Additionally, Seafair Weekend event at Genesee Park has a plethora of amenities to improve visitor comfort. Numerous food vendors offer a wide range of culinary choices, from local delights to international cuisines, catering to diverse palates and dietary needs. Ample restroom facilities are strategically placed throughout the venue, and there are several first aid stations, ensuring quick medical attention if needed.

For families, designated quiet zones and diaper-changing facilities are accessible, making the event welcoming for attendees with young children.

Transportation to and from the event is streamlined through increased public transit services and designated parking areas close to the main attractions. This thoughtful organization ensures that your focus remains on the skies, enjoying the spectacular show hassle-free.

Seafair Traditions and Culture

Seafair, a cornerstone of Seattle's cultural fabric, blends a rich tapestry of traditions ranging from boat races to parades that encapsulate the city's maritime and aviation heritage. Each summer, this festival transforms the city into a vibrant tableau of community spirit and celebration. Central to its festivities is the hydroplane races on Lake Washington, a nod to Seattle's deep connections with water-based activities. The thunderous roars of the engines and the splash of speeding boats provide a pulse-pounding spectacle that attracts thousands of spectators.

Moreover, the event is synonymous with the Blue Angels' awe-inspiring air shows. The precision flight demonstrations by the U.S. Navy pilots are not just displays of aerial acrobatics but also a tribute to the advancements in aviation technology and military excellence. This high-flying act is eagerly anticipated, with people flocking to secure the best viewing spots around the lake.

 Health and Safety

Prioritizing the safety and well-being of all attendees is paramount during the exhilarating Seafair festivities. As thousands gather to witness the stunning aerial maneuvers of the Blue Angels, it's essential to prioritize health and safety measures.

First, spectators should come prepared with proper sun protection, including sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses, as the event involves prolonged exposure to the sun. Additionally, staying hydrated is crucial, and visitors are encouraged to bring sufficient water supplies to combat the heat.

Noise protection is another significant consideration. The Blue Angels' performances involve high decibel levels, which can pose a risk to hearing. Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones are recommended, especially for children and those with sensitive hearing.

Given the large crowds, it is also important for attendees to be aware of their surroundings and keep an eye on their personal belongings to prevent theft or loss.

Furthermore, event organizers provide clearly marked medical stations throughout the venue for any health-related emergencies. These stations are staffed with professional medical personnel ready to assist with any issues that may arise. Attendees should familiarize themselves with the locations of these stations upon arrival to ensure they can access help quickly if needed.

Get Your Blue Angels Viewing Cruise Tickets Today!

As the Seafair weekend approaches, attendees can look forward to a spectacular display of aerial expertise with Argosy Cruises. Book your Seafair Blue Angels Viewing Cruise to get the best seat in the city to enjoy the airshow; and take part in this celebration of community and aeronautical prowess.

Don’t miss out on the best way to experience this incredible event and get your tickets today !

 Frequently Asked Questions

 can i bring my pet on the argosy cruises seafair blue angels viewing cruise.

Due to our various food preparation permits, we are unable to invite pets onboard with the exception of service animals. If you bring a service animal you may be asked:

• Is the animal required because of a disability? This is a yes or no question. You are not required to, nor can you be asked to, disclose the nature or details of the disability. If the animal is not required because of a disability, then it will not be permitted.
• What is the nature of the work or task(s) that the animal is trained to perform? This question will not be asked if the nature of the work or task is readily apparent, such as a Seeing Eye dog. If the animal is not trained to perform specific work or tasks to assist the individual because of a disability, then it will not be permitted.

You cannot and will not be required to provide any sort of certification or documentation proving that the animal is a service or assistance animal. Nor will you be required to pay a fee to bring the animal onto an Argosy Cruises vessel.

The service or assistance animal must be housetrained, and must be kept under control at all times while on board an Argosy Cruises Vessel. Argosy may ask that a service or assistance animal be removed from the property if it is not housetrained, if it is acting out of control and no effective action is being taken to control it, or if it poses a direct threat to the health or safety of others. The threat of an allergic reaction is not a direct threat to the health or safety of others.

Is Wi-Fi Available During the Cruise?

No, wi-fi is not available onboard our boats. 

Can I Cancel My Cruise Ticket Last Minute Due to Weather?

Our ships are fully enclosed and climate-controlled for your comfort. We sail rain or shine all year long. Captains may adjust routes to best manage conditions during sailing and cruise will be canceled if it’s not safe to be on the water.

Guests who cancel 10 days or more in advance of their departure date and time will be offered a 50% refund on the total amount paid for their booking (excluding our non-refundable Ticketing Fee). Cancellations less than 10 days in advance will not be refunded. Future open credits will not be offered for any cancellations.

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Submitted by Olympia Yacht Club

W hen the word Seafair is mentioned, what comes to mind are parades held on warm August evenings with lots of Seafair Pirates running about entertaining (or in the case of the author aged seven, scaring) children watching the parade from Seattle’s sidewalks.  But many people don’t know that Seafair is more than just the Blue Angels, hydroplanes, and pirates enlivening late summer Seattle. One of their events extends into Olympia during the shortest days of winter.

The 76 Seafair Holiday Cruise is an annual Christmas-timed event that takes adults with developmental disabilities out on privately owned pleasure boats for a 90 minute cruise on their local waters.  Formerly known as Special People’s Cruises, the 76 Seafair Holiday Cruises are held annually in early December in Seattle, Tacoma, Bremerton and Olympia.  In total the event involves about 400 boats and reaches roughly 2000 guests who join them on Puget Sound’s waters.

Olympia’s participation in the Holiday Cruise started 33 years ago in 1985 when visitors from Bremerton to the Olympia Yacht Club (OYC) suggested OYC join the annual event. OYC joined that very December and have hosted a Holiday Cruise every December since.   For many years now, Thurston County Recreation Services has been a very active Holiday Cruise co-sponsor by helping arrange for the event, providing registration and staff.  Without the dedicated support of Thurston County Recreation Services it wouldn’t be possible for the OYC to reach the nearly 130 guests who join the cruise each year.

Olympia Yacht Club boat skippers volunteer their boat and their time, as well as their crew’s time, on a Sunday afternoon to help the guests board the boat and then take them out on Budd Inlet.  Once underway, the Holiday Cruise fleet of approximately 25 boats sails north from Percival Landing and by the Port of Olympia to a point slightly beyond Anthony’s Hearthfire restaurant.  There, Santa & Mrs. Claus, coincidentally also cruising that afternoon, are standing on the deck of an anchored boat waving to the guests as they sail by.   As the boats move towards Santa’s Boat, guests are able to speak with Santa by radiotelephone.   When guests return to the OYC clubhouse for the holiday party held immediately after the cruise, OYC members serve them homemade cookies and beverages.  Later, when Santa & Mrs. Claus join the festivities upon their return from Budd Inlet each guest can get their picture taken with them.

While the 25 boats and their Skipper’s are key elements in a Holiday Cruise event there are a lot more Olympia Yacht Club volunteers who pitch in by baking cookies and treats, purchasing and assembling small gift bags to be given to the guests as they depart and decorating the OYC Clubhouse.   Also helping out the OYC with the Holiday Cruise is a large contingent of Olympia area middle and high school students who comprise the very competitive OYC Junior Sailing Team.

Guests remember the excitement of their boat ride, and the joy they experienced long after they leave OYC.  That joy rubs off on many OYC members, Junior Sailors and staff of the Thurston County Recreation Services person—all of whom contribute to making this Holiday Cruise the popular community tradition that it is.

So, if on a Sunday afternoon in early December you see a collection of pleasure boats in rough formation, headed north from Percival Landing and the Olympia Yacht Club, you can figure that the Holiday Cruise is getting underway.  And know that this event, which began 33 years ago as the result of an offhand comment that could have as easily been forgotten, instead has become a an Olympia tradition that’s touched and informed many in the greater community over the last three decades.

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• Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Best of Moscow by high speed train

By shuguley , February 15, 2014 in Regent Seven Seas Cruises

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Sure would appreciate someone who has taken "Best of Moscow by high speed train" from St. Petersburg could please share their impressions of this shore excursion. From the description this sounds like a very long day.

Wondering how the 4 hour train trip was in terms of accommodations, etc. Also what time did you leave the ship and what time at night did you return? Were both legs of the trip on the high speed rail (I read that slower trains also travel the same tracks)?

My wife and I are considering this excursion. We thought that if we are making all the effort to go to Russia then how could we pass up going to Moscow, walking in Red Square, seeing St. Basil, etc.

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If you are considering this on the 2015 June Baltic cruise on Voyager; my suggestion is don't. There is so much to do in St. Petersburg and although a train is one of my favorite ways to travel the time would be far better spent in St. P.

Thanks for the advice. Yes, this would be on the Voyager during the 2015 season but not yet sure exactly which cruise.

We did the Moscow excursion "on a different luxury line", but from your brief description it sounds very much like the same trip, so I will operate on that assumption. It is a VERY long day! We left the ship at 5:30 AM and returned at 12:30 AM. The highspeed train trip is comfortable, and while they call it "Business Class" it does not compare well to the equivalent class on say Rail Europe. When we did it in 2011, we did have highspeed both ways, and the trip back seemed much longer as the adrenaline and excitement had worn off!:D

Moscow itself is not that terribly different from any other big city in the world, but this Cold War kid never thought he would ever stand in Red Square, never mind walk the grounds of The Kremlin, or tour The Kremlin Palace, or see (but not visit) Lenin's Tomb, or visit The Armoury. But he did, and he loved every minute of it! Yes, it is a long day, and you barely scratch a scratch on the surface, but it is worth it. There is a tremendous amount to see in St. Petersburg, but every Baltic cruise goes to St. Petersburg, so you can go back if you choose to. Not every cruiseline offers you the chance to see Moscow.

I have not personally done this tour, but our last time in St Petersburg, the private guide that we hired for a day was leading the regent tour to Moscow on the high speed train the next day. He said it was way better than the previous alternative, which was flying to Moscow and back. He said that you actually got to Moscow faster because you didn't have to deal with airline checkin etc. it did seem like a very long day to me, and there is so much to see and do in st. Petersburg that I didn't consider doing it.

countflorida

We toured to Moscow from St. Petersburg via the hi-speed SAPSAN train last September, from a Baltic cruise on the Oceania Marina. You need to have a two-night, three day port call in St. Petersburg to take this tour because the tour typically leaves the ship around 5:00 - 5:30 AM and doesn't return until after midnight the next day. We didn't take the ship's tour; we made private arrangements with TravelAllRussia for three days of touring, the first and third days in St. Petersburg and the second day the tour to Moscow by train. Our cost for the private tour for three days was about the same as what the ship charged for the excursion to Moscow alone. There are a number of private tour agencies that operate in St. Petersburg and offer the Moscow train tours; we would strongly recommend them over the ship's tours.

All three days had private guides with car and driver. The second day, the driver picked us up at the ship and took us to the train, but we were alone on the train, and met in Moscow by the guide on the station platform. After our tour and dinner, we were brought back to the train and after the return train trip met by the driver and taken back to the ship. Because you are alone on the train you must have your own Russian visas.

If this is your first visit to St. Petersburg, I would agree there is much more to see there. We found Moscow somewhat a disappointment, particularly Red Square. The Kremlin and the cathedral in Red Square were also worth seeing. But the best thing we saw was the Moscow subway! I worked for the Washington Metro system back in the 1980s as it grew from 40 to 80 miles and although I was in the computer area, I learned a lot about the challenges of running a subway system. We used the Moscow system to get across the city from where we had dinner to the train station, and I was amazed at the cleanliness', speed of operation, the short headways maintained, and the courtesy of everyone involved. A very impressive experience!

We had been to St. Petersburg before, and so had the time to take a day and go to Moscow. Also, I really like trains, and the SAPSAN is a German train set running on Russian rails. Seats are like first class domestic air, spacious but not too plush or comfortable, but with enough room. Not too much recline, and almost 8 hours on the train in two shots is a lot for an old man. They come through and sell drinks, candy, etc. but the sellers don't speak English and no one around us helped, so we had just poor coffee once coming, and brought stuff with us for the trip back. Not too much to see from the train either, particularly on the return when it is night the whole way.

If you decide to go, take a private tour and avoid the overly expensive ship's tour. I'm glad we did it, but wouldn't bother to repeat the tour; we've seen Moscow.

Thanks so much to all of you for the thorough and thought insight. Yhe information you have provided is most helpful.

countflorida: Your detailed post is very helpful. We are not quite ready for a Baltic cruise but should do so within a year. Time enough to do our pre travel research, bookings and visa gathering.:) Thank you!

Emperor Norton

Sure would appreciate someone who has taken "Best of Moscow by high speed train" from St. Petersburg could please share their impressions of this shore excursion. From the description this sounds like a very long day.   Wondering how the 4 hour train trip was in terms of accommodations, etc. Also what time did you leave the ship and what time at night did you return? Were both legs of the trip on the high speed rail (I read that slower trains also travel the same tracks)?   My wife and I are considering this excursion. We thought that if we are making all the effort to go to Russia then how could we pass up going to Moscow, walking in Red Square, seeing St. Basil, etc.

I did this on Seabourn. IMO DONT. Take Aeroflop (er Aeroflot). The train has non folding seats where you are literally knee to knee with your fellow passenger (facing each other). Further they don't believe in air conditioning. It's also the worlds slowed bullet train. I think I would have found more enjoyment wandering around the St. Petersburg and Moscow airports.

Countflorida,

This is a little off topic,, however we had planned a river cruise in Russia but decided we would rather stay on land and have booked about two weeks with Travel-All-Russia using the private guide and driver. I'm curious as to how you found them as a tour company.

The guides they provided were fine. We had a different guide each of the days in St. Petersburg, but both were flexible, pleasant, knowledgeable and spoke English very well, as did the guide in Moscow, incidentally. She was a bit aloof, distant, not too friendly, but otherwise fine. In fact, she was the one who suggested taking the Metro, which unexpectedly became one of the highlights of the Moscow excursion. If I have a complaint with AllTravelRussia, it is with their plan and its execution (more later).

I had requested emphasis on World War II (in Russia, the Great Patriotic War) sites and info. In scheduling us, they weren't careful about dates and a couple of the sites we wanted to see were scheduled on the third day, after we'd been to Moscow. But both sites were closed that day of the week, and that info was readily available, right on web sites describing them. Also, the included meals (lunches in St. Pete, dinner in Moscow) were not what we asked for: light meals with some choices, so we could avoid things we didn't like and choose things we did like. My request was ignored; we were given full Russian meals with a fixed menu, no choice. On the first day, a fish dish was the entre, but I am allergic to fish. Fortunately, I had the e-mail I'd sent with me and showed it to the guide, and she was able to change my entre to chicken, which was very good actually. But we didn't want a 3-4 course lunches or dinner (in Moscow). We had the guide drop the lunch the third day, although we never got any credit or refund. But, particularly in contrast to the ship's tours, the prices were so reasonable we didn't worry too much about it.

The people who were on the ship's tour to Moscow saw us boarding the same train for which they were forced to queue up and wait on the way back, and asked us what we had done. I was candid and open so they were not happy when I explained what we had arranged and particularly what it had cost. Also, when we returned to the ship, we found they had laid on a late supper for those who had gone to Moscow, so up we went and had something. Well, it turns out the late supper was supposed to be just for those on the ship's tour, but we and others on 'independent' tours, there were a dozen or more of us, crashed the party, actually got there first, and they didn't realize it until the larger group arrived and there weren't enough tables/places set. By that time, the 'independents' had all gotten served and were eating; what could they do?

A couple from the larger group sat down with us and asked us about our tour, and they were the ones I told about our arrangement and its cost. They turned to others who’d been with them and announced the details, loudly enough so the whole room heard, which started a lot of bitching and complaining. I gathered they weren't very happy with the ship's tour to begin with, and this was the straw that broke the camel's back. We finished up and beat it out of there, but overheard later that one of the excursion staff came to check on something and ran into a real mess. I caught a cold on the trip, which forced me to bed the second day following in Tallinn, so by the time we reappeared we heard about the contretemps' but apparently no one recalled who started it, thankfully.

Because of what happened to us, I would probably not use AllTravelRussia if I were to go again, or if I did, I would be sure to get confirmation of every detail of the tour. They do have good reviews generally, and we were certainly helped by their visa department and liked the guides and drivers. Their weakness, I say now with full 20:20 hindsight, is that once the sales person who plans the tour, sells it to you and collects your money, he (or she) transfers the plan to their Russia office for implementation; there is no follow-up to make sure it gets done right. And that is where our problems arose; we paid for a custom tour but got a standard package with a few destinations switched, and no one checked them out, even to see when they were open the day we were scheduled to go. If you check every detail that’s important to you, it should be OK, but that’s a hell of a way to have to do business, in my opinion.

Thank you for the 20/20 hindsight observation on your Russian tour operator, and better priced than the ship's excursion cost.

Thanks very much for the feedback.

We had the same experience as you so far as price. We originally booked a Viking Cruise but, hearing some things about the river cruises that made us unhappy, looked into other options. T-A-R cost the same or less than a cruise and had us in hotels for 11 days. We opted for the private tour. They have three tour levels, based on hotels. We originally opted for the four star as it did not cost much more than the three star hotels. Finally we decided to throw it all in and upgraded to five star. In Moscow we will be at the newly opened Kempinsky which is two blocks from Red Square. In St. Petersburg it is the Grand Hotel Europe, one of the most vaunted luxury hotels in Russia. Location is important for us as the tours use up only part of the day so being in the center of everything for our independent touring is important. As with many other cities, the less you pay, the farther out of the center of town you are.

We have been working with our salesman in D.C. and he seems to get back to us with the changes we want. He recently returned from Russia so is up on everything. When I asked they said they paid the full TA commission if I wanted so I got my usual TA on board so he is watching our back and giving us that extra level of comfort. He also set up our air, which I know pays him little or nothing, and got us business class for much less than T-A-R wanted for economy, though it took working for a while with a consolidator. He's happy to get his 10 percent on this trip without having booked it. He also took care of the trip insurance. We've been doing a lot of research on the CC sister site Trip Advisor and will write a report there. We will, I guess, become a source of info for CC members after having spent 5 days in Moscow and 6 in SP.

• 4 months later...

scubacruiserx2

Anybody considering a day trip to Moscow from St. Petersburg on the Sapsan may want to look at our travelogue filled with pictures.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1927687

Very informative. Thanks dor sharing. Jeff

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The 8 best Hawaii cruises in 2024 and 2025

C ruising the Hawaiian Islands offers U.S. travelers an immersive South Pacific escape with all the comforts of home. In fact, the Aloha State is in many ways an ideal cruise destination. It has year-round sunny weather, four main islands featuring varied topographies — including sandy beaches, cascading waterfalls, volcanic mountains and vibrant green valleys — and a wide array of land- and water-based activities.

The main caveat? Hawaii cruise options are somewhat limited — just a fraction of what's available in the Caribbean — and many itineraries involve multiday crossings from the West Coast. Only one cruise line offers Hawaii itineraries throughout the year; most others visit during specific months or when repositioning ships in spring and fall.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Looking for the Hawaiian Islands sailing that's right for you? Here's a look at the eight best Hawaii cruises for every type of traveler.

Norwegian Cruise Line's 7-night Inter-island Hawaii

For travelers who want more aloha time than the typical eight-hour port call allows, Norwegian Cruise Line has a solution. Its 2,186-passenger Pride of America lets vacationers sample four Hawaiian islands over seven days, with overnights in Maui and Kauai, plus port calls on both Hilo and Kona on the island of Hawaii. In total, this itinerary offers nearly 100 hours of shore time.

Pride of America sails round-trip from Honolulu every Saturday year-round. As a U.S.-flagged ship, it's the only large vessel permitted to sail this way. Not only do you skip the long Pacific crossing that most cruise ships do to reach Hawaii, but passports are not required for U.S. citizens, and you can tack on pre- or post-cruise stays on Oahu.

The overnights on Maui and Kauai also mean it's possible to try several of Hawaii's signature experiences that most port calls don't allow. Passengers can catch dusk or dawn from atop Maui's massive 10,023-foot dormant volcano with sunrise and sunset excursions to the Haleakala Crater. And with the ship in port all night on Kauai, guests who want to enjoy traditional Hawaiian cuisine, music and hula performances can book the Luau Kalamaku for a fun evening out.

Pride of America, which has been cruising Hawaii since 2005, doesn't have the onboard thrills (race track, virtual-reality gaming, waterslides) of Norwegian's newer ships , but that's okay because the islands, not the ship, are your main destination. Its American-themed decor celebrates U.S. cities in a vibrant, and at times, kitschy way, but a 2021 refurbishment left its cabins and public spaces feeling refreshed.

Many of Norwegian's specialty dining venues (which incur a surcharge) are on board, including Cagney's Steakhouse, Le Bistro (here, it's Jefferson's Bistro), Moderno Churrascaria and Teppanyaki.

Who should go: Anyone seeking a convenient way to island-hop — and see a lot of Hawaii — by making the most of the generous shore time with a combination of independent exploration and shore excursions. Most sailings attract couples ages 50 and older, although summer and holiday sailings have plenty of families on board.

Related: Best time to cruise Hawaii

UnCruise Adventures' 7-night Hawaiian Seascapes

Cruisers seeking a less traditional, more carefree Hawaii experience can have it from November to April aboard UnCruise Adventures ' 36-passenger Safari Explorer. The seven-night Hawaiian Seascapes itinerary, which begins either on Molokai or the island of Hawaii, is an unconventional one designed for those who enjoy going off the beaten path in an intimate and more authentic setting. U.S. passports aren't required to sail.

UnCruise visits four islands — Maui and Lanai plus Molokai and Hawaii — and focuses on not only their striking landscapes and underwater beauty but also the cultural traditions, cuisine and music of the Hawaiian people. On Molokai, where there's not a single traffic light and the lifestyle is slow-paced, passengers get a chance to "talk story" with locals and enjoy a pa'ina (feast) and evening jam session. Lanai activities range from snorkel, paddleboard and kayak excursions to off-road adventures exploring the privately owned island's dramatic sea cliffs, red rock formations and vast fields once filled with Dole pineapples.

Most UnCruise sailings are during Maui's humpback whale season, so sightings while cruising off the coast of Maui are possible. You might also catch glimpses of dolphins and sea turtles. A "Captain's Choice" day is a wild card determined by the weather, marine life in the area and other factors, while the final two days are spent exploring the Big Island of Hawaii — including a hike up Hualalai volcano and a skiff ride along the rugged coast.

Constructed in 1998, Safari Explorer was designed with adventure itineraries in mind (in summer the U.S.-flagged ship repositions to Alaska). Its size allows it to navigate areas larger ships can't reach, which in Hawaii means bays and coves ideal for snorkeling or watersports.

With such a small number of passengers aboard, guests get to know each other — and Safari Explorer's friendly and knowledgeable crew — quite well. Passengers come together over meals featuring locally sourced ingredients, and as all UnCruise fares include unlimited wines, spirits and microbrews, shipmates can raise a glass without worrying who's buying a round. It all lends itself to an exclusive yet utterly relaxed week of cruising.

Who should go: The ship's laid-back onboard vibe paired with its land- and water-based activities make the Hawaiian Seascapes itinerary ideal for active travelers seeking a nature-focused itinerary — although cruise fares (which start around $5,900 per person) are among the priciest for a Hawaii cruise.

Related: Why it's easier to meet new people on a smaller cruise ship

Holland America's 17-night Circle Hawaii

Travelers who have more than two weeks to spare and who prefer to arrive in Hawaii via ship rather than an airplane can do so on Holland America 's 17-night Circle Hawaii itinerary. They'd better also love sea days because crossing the Pacific from San Diego or Vancouver to Honolulu and back requires 10 days.

That means passengers enjoy five or six days in Hawaii on Kauai, Oahu, Maui and the island of Hawaii. Some itineraries stay in select ports overnight. Cruises departing from San Diego also call on Ensenada, Mexico. With either departure port, passports will be required.

The itinerary is offered in 2024 and 2025 on the 2,650-passenger Koningsdam and 1,432-passenger Zaandam.

Travelers with more time on their hands can also visit Hawaii as part of longer Pacific island cruises with Holland America. Koningsdam will sail a 35-night Hawaii, Tahiti & Marquesas itinerary in 2025 that combines visits to four Hawaiian islands with calls on five islands in French Polynesia and Fanning Island, Kiribati (and 20 sea days).

Related: Holland America unveils epic cruise to Hawaii and Alaska for 2025

Zaandam will also sail 51- to 56-night Tales of the South Pacific itineraries that visit multiple islands in Hawaii and French Polynesia along with ports in the Cook Islands, American Samoa and Fiji.

Holland America is popular with cruisers ages 60 and older, many of them retired, who have time to enjoy longer itineraries on ships that offer good value with a focus on culinary and musical enjoyment. Two of Koningsdam's most popular venues are its live entertainment area with three venues — B.B. King's Blues Club (for Memphis-style rhythm and blues), Billboard Onboard (for chart-topping hits played by a live pianist) and Rolling Stone Rock Room (for a live band playing classic rock), and World Stage, a theater with a 270-degree screen used for both special BBC Earth in Concert and theatrical productions.

Onboard specialty dining options (at an added cost) include Pinnacle Grill for steaks and seafood, Tamarind for Pan-Asian cuisine and Rudi's Sel de Mer for French Brasserie specialties and seafood.

Who should go: Mature travelers who prefer not to fly and who enjoy a more traditional cruise experience. They should also love sea days as much (or even more so) than port exploration.

Related: 16 mistakes cruisers make on cruise ship sea days

Princess Cruises' 15- or 16-night Hawaiian Islands

Princess Cruises is also a good option for longer sailings. The cruise line offers numerous round-trip itineraries to Hawaii from Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Diego in the fall and winter.

The majority of sailings are aboard the 3,080-passenger Crown Princess and Ruby Princess from San Francisco, and the 2,600-passenger Grand Princess and 3,080-passenger Emerald Princess from Los Angeles.

Ships are in port for nine to 11 hours in Hawaii (Hilo), Kauai and Maui and for 16 hours in Oahu. Itineraries include a stop in Ensenada, Mexico (so passports are required), plus nine or 10 sea days.

The ships feature many of Princess' popular dining venues, including Alfredo's Pizzeria (a sit-down venue serving personal-size pizzas), Crown Grill for steaks and Sabatini's Italian Trattoria. There's plenty of outdoor space for soaking up the sun — including an adults-only sun deck — and a dazzling Piazza for enjoying cocktails, gelato and pop-up street performers.

Fans of Princess' Movies Under the Stars poolside screenings (with free popcorn) and Discovery at SEA enrichment programming will have ample time to enjoy these perks on a Hawaii sailing.

Who should go: These sailings will appeal to couples or groups of friends who prefer to have a wide choice of sailing dates, can take the time to enjoy a leisurely Pacific crossing and appreciate Princess' focus on quality cuisine and a sun deck designed for relaxation rather than thrills.

Related: Best Hawaii cruise shore excursions

Celebrity's 9- to 12-night Hawaii Cruise

Travelers seeking modern interior decor on a ship designed with couples in mind can visit Hawaii aboard Celebrity Cruises ' 2,852-passenger Celebrity Solstice or 2,918-passenger Celebrity Edge on itineraries ranging from nine to 13 nights — but only if the timing is right. That's because the line offers only two sailings per ship each year (in spring and fall) as the ships reposition between Alaska and destinations in the Pacific. The itineraries are one-way (Vancouver to Honolulu or vice versa) with passports required.

These cruises call on three ports on two islands: Honolulu (Oahu) and Hilo and Kona (Hawaii), with one or two overnights in port and 10 hours ashore on one-day visits. All include five days in a row at sea. Since the itineraries either begin or end in Honolulu, there's also a chance for some pre- or post-cruise exploration.

Sea days offer opportunities to enjoy the chic, grown-up ambience and amenities aboard these ships. Each vessel offers multiple complimentary and extra-fee specialty restaurants. Celebrity Solstice features Tuscan Grille for Italian specialties and steak and Murano for modern French cuisine, while Celebrity Edge offers the whimsical Le Petit Chef and the international Eden Restaurant.

Celebrity's signature Martini Bar and many other onboard watering holes keep the grown-up vibe going day and night. Choose cruise fares that include alcohol and Wi-Fi, or pay a lower rate and pay for your drinks as you go.

Who should go: The slightly shorter one-way sailings and the ships' contemporary ambience make these itineraries ideal for couples and groups of friends seeking a relaxing escape — especially Gen Xers in their 40s and 50s, who are Celebrity's target market.

Related: 6 national parks you can reach by cruise ship (and 2 are in Hawaii)

Carnival's 14- or 15-night Hawaii from Los Angeles

If fun is your cruise mantra, the "Fun Ship" brand Carnival Cruise Line offers a handful of round-trip sailings to Hawaii from Los Angeles (Long Beach) aboard the 2,984-passenger Carnival Radiance. Like other roundtrips from the West Coast, these itineraries spend just five days in Hawaii, offering eight to 14 hours of shore time in ports on four islands: Maui, Kauai, Oahu and Hawaii. Along with enjoying eight sea days, guests will also call on Ensenada, Mexico, so passports are required.

Carnival Radiance first sailed under that name in 2021, but it's not a new ship. Before an epic makeover, it sailed for the cruise line as Carnival Victory. Ship features include many of Carnival's signature complimentary and extra-fee dining venues, including Guy's Burger Joint and Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse, BlueIguana Cantina, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse and Bonsai Sushi Express.

Additional guest favorite destinations on board include the RedFrog Pub, Alchemy Bar and WaterWorks aquapark. Expect high-voltage theater shows from Playlist Productions at night and poolside interactive contests by day.

Who should go: Socially inclined cruisers who love Carnival's emphasis on onboard fun and can appreciate a colorful ship with a lively ambience and lots of day and evening activities.

Related: Best Hawaii cruise tips for getting the most from your island-hopping trip

Royal Caribbean's 9- to 13-night Hawaii Cruises

A megaship cruise experience to Hawaii is available, too — with pricing that's quite affordable. Royal Caribbean cruises there on two vessels in one of its newer classes of ships: the 4,180-passenger Quantum of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas.

All are one-way cruises just before or after the Alaska cruise season (so late April or early October) between Oahu and Vancouver (or vice versa). The ships call on two Hawaiian islands and spend four or five days in a row at sea. Passports are required since these itineraries begin or end in Vancouver.

Ovation of the Seas and Quantum of the Seas feature a mix of thrills for all ages. These include RipCord by iFly simulated sky diving, FlowRider simulated surfing, bumper car racing in the SeaPlex indoor activity complex and the North Star sightseeing capsule, which ascends 300 feet above the top deck for 360-degree views.

Both ships also offer 14 dining venues, including the innovative Wonderland, Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver and kid-favorite Dog House, as well as bar options that include Schooner Bar for by-request piano tunes, Boleros for mojitos and merengue and Bionic Bar for drinks poured by robotic bartenders. Entertainment includes live cover bands in the Music Hall and multimedia music and dance performances in Two70.

Who should go: Cruisers who love a big ship with a wide array of dining choices, all kinds of evening entertainment and plenty of exciting activities to pass the time on sea days. Quantum-class ships are great for families, but the sail dates might not work for those with school-age kids.

Related: Do you need a passport for a cruise?

Viking's 16-night Hawaiian Islands Sojourn

For a guaranteed adults-only sailing in a relaxed, boutique-style setting, upscale cruise line Viking also offers round-trip Hawaii cruises from Los Angeles in late 2024 and early 2025 on its 930-passenger Viking Neptune.

What sets Viking apart from most of the other lines offering Hawaii cruises is that it includes a free shore excursion in every port. These include a highlights tour of Honolulu and Pearl Harbor on Oahu and a visit to a scenic waterfall and the Kilohana sugar plantation on Kauai. Additional excursions can be booked at an extra charge.

The 16-night Hawaiian Islands Sojourn sailings visit four islands — Hawaii (Hilo), Oahu, Kauai and Maui — and like other round-trip sailings from the West Coast include 10 sea days and a call on Ensenada, Mexico, so passports are required.

Viking Neptune will also do 32-night Grand Hawaii and Polynesia sailings round-trip from Los Angeles in late 2024 and early 2025 that visit four islands in Hawaii and four in French Polynesia.

The ship, which debuted in 2022, features sleek Scandinavian-inspired decor, a soothing spa with a complimentary thermal area, an aft infinity pool and hot tub, a panoramic Explorer's Lounge and five onboard restaurants. Specialty restaurant Manfredi's serves an extensive menu of Italian specialties, while The Chef's Table offers rotating five-course themed menus, including Asian, French and California-inspired.

In addition to the free shore excursions, pricing includes complimentary wine or beer with lunch and dinner, specialty dining at no extra charge, crew gratuities and transfers.

Who should go: Couples who prefer the quieter ambience of a ship that doesn't allow anyone under 18 onboard, doesn't have a casino and offers presentations by regional experts that enhance immersion into local culture. Viking cruisers are generally over age 55.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

4-Star Russian River Cruise - Moscow - Golden Ring - St. Petersburg - 12 Days (CR-45)

• Accommodation
• Full board meals
• English – speaking guides
• Guided tours & entrance fees
• Evening entertainment
• Airport transfers
• Visas: checking service
• Personal travel insurance
• Optional excursions
• Theatre and circus tickets
• Sample daily programme
• River cruises: practicalities
• Download cruise schedule
• FAQ: travelling in Russia
• FAQ: river cruises
• Russian visa procedure
• Book with Confidence - Covid FAQs

Note on pricing:

• All prices are per person, in US dollars. All included services are listed in the tour dossier and the section "Included" in the tour description.
• Price "Excluding flight" does not cover airfare, you are free to book your own flights. Alternatively we can quote for flights from any international airport.
• Single supplement goes towards single room (cabin for cruises) accommodation.
• Discouns for children .