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Connecticut River Cruise & Charter Connecticut River Cruise & Charter Connecticut River Cruise & Charter Connecticut River Cruise & Charter
Cruise the Connecticut River and Long Island Sound in style. The 33-foot vessel Blantyre offers rides to many popular and enjoyable destinations along the river and on Long Island Sound. Enjoy a one-hour harbor cruise.
Private charters available to popular islands for picnicking, swimming and the Connecticut River's islands' sandy beaches. River cruises available for small company outings, client entertainment, social outings, and private meetings. Extended private cruises are available to Old Saybrook, Essex, Hamburg Cove, Gildersleeve Island and Dart Island. Overnight cruises available to popular Long Island Sound destinations.
In the fall, enjoy the foliage tours along the river.
Enjoy the serenity, beauty and excitement that the Connecticut River offers. The river is one of the country's National Heritage Rivers and the first nationally designated Blueway River.
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- Pet friendly
Departs from Saint Clements Castle & Marina 1931 Portland-Cobalt Road Portland , CT 06480 United States
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450 Columbus Blvd., Suite 5 Hartford, CT 06103
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Swallow Cruises
Come along with Essex Steam Train & Riverboat aboard Adventure for an exciting 2 - 2.5 hour bird-watching cruise on the Connecticut River. This September, we'll take you on a spectacular viewing of the tree and barn swallows converging on the valley. This amazing sight of the birds in a beautifully choreographed "dance" only happens once a year for a limited time! You won't want to miss out. Tickets include a complimentary picnic style sandwich buffet and soft drinks. Alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase. Be sure to reserve your spot online today before we sell out!
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Date and Time
Saturday Sep 7, 2024 5:15 PM - 8:00 PM EDT
Cruises also available on: Sunday, September 8 at 5:15 pm Saturday, September 14 at 5:15 pm
Deep River Station 152 River Street Essex, CT 06426
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https://essexsteamtrain.com/experiences-2/swallow-cruises/
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Lady Katharine Cruises
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26 Channelside Dr
Old Saybrook, CT 06475
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About the business.
Public cruises and private charters aboard the beautiful Mystique. With four departure points along the Connecticut River, enjoy a relaxing scheduled lunch or dinner cruise (Live Entertainment!) or call us to discuss a private charter; a truly unique experience for weddings, proms, corporate events or simply a day on the water with family and friends. …
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Much more than brunch! I wanted to treat my parents to brunch and I found this truly unique venue where you can dine on a yacht on the CT River and dance/listen to music! It is the 2-hour fall foliage brunch cruise on the Lady Katharine yacht called the Mystique. You arrive by 10:30am at Eagle Landing State Park in Haddam, and everyone (I'd estimate about 150 people, tops) begins the boarding process. You have pre-assigned tables and can request to sit together with family/friends ahead of time. The buffet brunch is hot and ready as soon as you board which is great because there are literally no lines - it's a gradual process. Also, the food is out and replenished for a long time, so you don't have to worry about not getting any, e.g. if you decide to partake in the music and view on the top deck first, you can eat when you are ready. The buffet consisted of salad, rolls, salmon, stuffed chicken with a delicious cranberry stuffing, tortellini, tender beef tips with gravy, carved ham with a delicious sauce, Belgian waffles with fruit and cream toppings, eggs, bacon, sausage, potatoes, raw salmon w/capers and several desserts... I'm probably forgetting something. There is a cash bar but coffee, juice and tea are free ($3 for a fountain beverage which I thought was strange). The staff members were all incredibly friendly and attentive. There was a 3-piece band playing a variety of music on the top deck and people were having fun dancing. The views were amazing, especially seeing Gillette's Castle from the water. For only $50-ish dollars per person, this was an awesome alternative to your usual brunch buffet!
First I would like to say Donna the promoter for the ALL WHITE Cruise intentions were good!!!! Who goes on a $5k+ boat ride and the boat cannot sail. Absolutely, unacceptable LK. You charge a lot of money for?? Boat didn't move IJS... The Lady Katherine staff were so nice and pleasant to the guests EXCEPT the contact, She was unapologetic & awful. So back to the boat the venue. I was so disappointed there was no silverware just paper plates, plastic forks and rolls of paper towels on the tables. The bar was limited not sure if the promoter had an opinion. Anyone who rents from them please read the fine print and have insurance... their boats needs repair... this was not a cruise more like a tugboat PARTY
Flyer for Boat Ride aboard the Lady Katherine
Recently did a Murder Mystery cruise and left at the end of the night extremely frustrated. The boat itself has three decks, and guests were split between the first and second deck. The actors proceeded to carry out their murder mystery scenes, alternating between each deck. The end result was that 100% of the people only knew what happened in 50% of the show. Even though the actors were mic'd up and speakers are throughout the ship, there were some scenes where there was no speaking; only actions. The plot of the show was also nonsensical, but that is the Murder Mystery company's fault; not the venue. On our deck there was also only one bartender and a whole lot of guests, resulting in very, very long lines. I ordered a draft beer and it was completely flat when poured. I need suds in my beer. The food was buffet-style and was good. The servers kept the tables clean. Overall, poor venue for a Murder Mystery dinner or any other kind of show that involves acting or audience engagement. The best part of the night was when I got back on dry land.
We recently went on a murder mystery cruise and were disappointed with the experience, and it wasn't worth the money. The concept of the cruise was that there were a number of actors, that set up a scenario, and they tried to involve some of the guests in the solving of a mystery. The idea was OK, but it was poorly executed; and the explanation of how the play would be played out, was quickly and poorly described . Also, between the boat noise, the loud conversation of the guests (who were also moving around the boat), the bustling of the wait staff, boat crew, and the narrative of the actors via speaker, it was very difficult to follow the plot, or what was going on. It felt like a three ring circus with all the commotion. The only reason I didn't give 1 star is that the food was good, as was some of the off-color comedy. There were other forms of entertainment besides the mystery. There was dancing, a DJ, cruise giveaways for wacky competitions, and a scavenger hunt. But again, the chaos of the mystery, and the atmosphere in general, really degraded from the experience. One final thing I do want to mention is that the boat crew itself was very good. Very professional.
My review is much different I had purchased a radio deal for four people I started to call and try to make reservations since the spring and they never answered there phone so I left numerous messages they never had the courtesy to call back! And wasn't able to book online because it being a radio deal, so I had to lie and left a massage saying I wanted to book for an event, they called me back within 3 hours. Side bar she also said she tried to leave massages but my mailbox was full(it has never been full in my whole life) She left me a massage TODAY stating my deal has expired "great costumer service"
My husband and I received a gift card for the cruise. The experience was kind and quick. The brunch was delicious. They had plenty of food so you definitely didn't need to worry about that. The view was beautiful. It was a pleasant ride. The only downside was that it was supposed to be jazz themed and there was no jazz music. They had someone singing to a piano, but it's not at all what I expected for music. Apart from that, it was a great experience. Meet some nice people at our table.
I took my wife on a Sunday morning brunch cruise, departing from Middletown. The ship's staff are very friendly and make you feel so welcome. Everything was explained regarding where to sit, food, and when the cruise would be leaving and returning. The staff was A+. The brunch was excellent. There were traditional breakfast foods, a waffle bar, a carving station, and pastries. There were also lunch foods available. Both breakfast and lunch choices were delicious, and the dessert bar was amazing. The view of the river was awesome. There was plenty of seating at the top of the ship and there wasn't a bad view on the boat. It is a cash/credit bar, but the prices are very fair and they don't overprice their drinks. I highly recommend Lady Kate cruises and I will for sure be back.
Had a great time ,food was good , drinks great and the staff pleasant the foliage cruise was nice.
Fun and beutiful time. Great experince.kind staff.
I booked two tickets for the fall foliage cruise out of Middletown, as a surprise for my husband to celebrate our anniversary. I planned over a month ahead, so as the day came and the weather was perfect for a day on the water I was very excited. The problem started as we got to the exit (25 minutes before departure) and the directions were incomplete, as to how to get to the designated parking lot. Using my GPS I was able to reroute and figure it out. Unfortunately, as we arrived in the parking lot, there were no further instructions where to go and there were 5 lanes of traffic separating us from the water. Were we supposed to catch a shuttle bus to get us over to the water? Being a weekend, the parking lot was quiet and there was no one to ask. I called the 800 number on the website, but only got an answering machine. We only had 8 minutes at this point until the boat was to pull away from the dock... We drove around the parking lot looking feverishly for signs on all the businesses as well as parking markers; but nothing. With tears, my husband took me for lunch in the area instead to celebrate our anniversary. The next morning, Dawn called, leaving me a message that there were no refunds for missed cruises. I called back and left a message that I'd like to speak with her further. 3 hours later when she called back, she was cordial and listened to what happened. I explained that the first problem was the lack of directions to just get to the parking lot, then to make it worse no signs directing passengers how to get to the boat from the parking lot. She said the town of Middletown dictates what signs are allowed and that they are not allowed to posts signs. I stated the obvious, that it is even more imperative in that case to instruct passengers via the website that they need to go to the pavilion at the front of the parking lot and walk through the under pass tunnel that travels under the 5 major lanes of traffic and comes out by the harbor, in order to board the boat. She repeatedly stated that she was sorry, but there was no way she could refund or rebook us for another cruise. Clearly unhappy with the incomplete directions and instruction within the website, and even more with the poor customer service provided. Very unfortunate. I will never consider this company again, nor would I recommend anyone I know.
Went to a "murder mystery" cruise, supposedly a Halloween special. I expected exactly that. A murder mystery. Instead it was like a bad wedding with bad music, horrible costumes and bad acting. It was a joke. Literally, a play on a mafia high school reunion which stole lines from Grease and Blues Brothers. The costumes must have been whatever was on clearance at Walmart. CHEESY. The DJ was wearing a Mr Incredible costume. How does that even fit in? The food was tasty, but apps were literally just some cheese cubes and crackers. Cash bar, but couldn't the cost of the tickets include soda at least? Nope. Had to pay. So, good food, excellent ship's crew and catering staff, but TERRIBLE entertainment. Seriously, it was uncomfortable to watch. And the worst part was, you can't leave!! You're on the river! Save your money.
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POPULAR CRUISES AND FARES
Fares are for the cruise described. These cruises may be tailored to your request.
The listed fares may change based on your customization, itinerary, anchor time, dockage fees, etc. You are welcome to tour Blantyre before selecting a cruise. The fares are PER PASSENGER.
Questions are always welcome!
Captain Wheeler, 860.559.6745 CTRiverCruise.com
Cruise schedules may change or cancel due to inclement weather, flooding, charters, and maintenance. Also, rates may change depending on fuel cost.
R/V RiverQuest
RiverQuest is an extremely safe, quiet, intimate 64′ vessel, certified to carry up to 65 passengers. She has been inspected, approved, stability tested and certified by The United States Coast Guard.
RiverQuest cruises on the lower Connecticut River.
Her one level floorplan makes RiverQuest perfect for Private Charters, Intimate Group Cruises, full Coach/Bus Trip Cruises, Public Cruises and Special Events.
She is handicap accessible and can accommodate small, non electric wheelchairs and walkers.
She has a large covered cabin area and a “moveable” canopy that can cover the stern on a rainy or hot sunny day, allowing passengers to be out of the elements. There is a heater in the covered cabin area for use during our late fall, winter and early spring cruises.
Her twin hulled, catamaran style makes for a particularly stable ride, adding to passenger comfort. The cabin area is outfitted with large windows and there is a large open bow and stern deck, so regardless of where you are on RiverQuest, one can fully enjoy the scenery along the river.
There are chairs and tables that can be arranged for any event or gathering.
RiverQuest also has a restroom (head) on board. We also have restrooms available in the museum for use when it is open.
RiverQuest is an environmentally friendly “green” vessel powered by two four stroke outboard engines. These engines are extremely quiet, have no fumes and have been designed to have minimal impact on the environment.
So, please come aboard with us for a great experience on the Connecticut River, any time of year!
Are you looking for a friendly, courteous, knowledgeable travel planning expert? Fed up with trying to navigate your way around the so-called “deals” on the internet? What if we could save you both time and money when booking your next vacation - and we didn’t charge you any fees? THAT is what Middletown Cruise and Travel can offer you when planning your next vacation!
With almost 30 years of personal travel planning experience, owner and travel advisor Angela Grandchamp ( pictured below ) has traveled the world, utilizing her expertise to help find you the perfect vacation experience! Angela is EXCEPTIONALLY skilled at advising on the ins and outs of the Sandals & Beaches Resorts - she has stayed a total over 365+ nights at Sandals & Beaches properties - and is currently a Platinum Certified Sandals Specialist ! She also loves European River Cruises , with three sailed in the last five years!
Whether you're searching for the perfect honeymoon, family vacation, solo journey, golf or spa vacation, girl's weekend, destination wedding or just about any other type of travel experience - we are ready to help! So, START PLANNING NOW - and let us help you experience the world!
Cruise Routes (Interactive Map)
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Russian River Cruises
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- Moscow — St. Petersburg
- Moscow — Astrakhan
- Astrakhan — St. Petersburg
- St. Petersburg
- Cruise Highlights
- News & Travel Tips
Russia is again welcoming travelers!
- A negative PCR test is all that's needed to enter Russia
- Regular flights are now operating to / from Russia
- Visas can be issues quickly (Volga Dream provides your invitation)
- All Volga Dream personnel and guides are fully vacinated
- Bookings are transferable without penalty for 12 months
- Volga Dream arranges PCR-tests if needed for your outbound flight
Check our COVID-19 Policy page to learn more.
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Luxurious river cruises in russia.
Explore authentic Russian cities. Enjoy premium service and engaging activities as you sail the Volga River.
2022 Cruise Season
Join our signature small group journeys and cruise in luxury along the Russian Volga river!
The Russian Odyssey
An extended 'South to North' view of Russia from Astrakhan to St. Petersburg through Moscow.
Explore Moscow, St. Petersburg and Russia’s Golden Ring in greater depth. Stay at gorgeous Four Seasons hotels. Enjoy special access to iconic cultural sites.
Lower Volga
Treat yourself to an unforgettable experience cruising the Volga river from Moscow to Astrakhan. The tour includes 2 nights in Moscow.
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Select destination Moscow — St. Petersburg Moscow — Astrakhan Astrakhan — St. Petersburg
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A Volga river cruise is more than a geographical voyage; it’s also a journey through Russia’s rich and captivating history. No other experience takes you so completely to another place and time. The Volga is Europe’s longest and largest river; it meanders through the stories of Ivan the Terrible and his rise to power, the two historic ‘Greats’ Peter and Catherine, and then on into today. It’s a unique opportunity to see modern Russia in the context of its intriguing history, ably assisted by friendly and professional academics and tour guides. A Volga Dream Russian river tour promises to leave you with an unforgettable afterglow of fond memories.
Moscow to St. Petersburg River Cruise
Moscow and St. Petersburg are Russia’s best-known cities, but the towns of Russia’s historic Golden Ring are delightful too. The luxurious Volga Dream offers a unique opportunity to visit these Russian gems by sailing gently along the Volga River on an unforgettable cruising experience. In small, exclusive groups you’ll enjoy preferential access to some of Russia’s most significant cultural sites.
Moscow to Astrakhan River Cruise
Your River Cruise on the luxurious MS Volga Dream takes you from Moscow along Russia’s grand Volga River to the legend that is Volgograd (formerly Stalingrad) and Astrakhan on the Caspian Sea. Along the way, you’ll discover the treasures of Yaroslavl, the oldest city on the Volga, medieval Nizhniy Novgorod and beautiful Kazan, the ancient Tatar capital. We plan our tour carefully to combine the very best of Moscow with a world-class Volga River cruise.
Discover Russia with MS Volga Dream - Click-through map
We love hearing from guests about their time in Russia and one comment often hear is how surprised people are by the Russian capital. We can’t say for certain what people expected but we do know that it’s always far removed from what they imagined! It’s been called a modern metropolis, a cosmopolitan city, an historic gem, an architectural treasure and a cultural powerhouse, among other descriptions. Majestic Moscow has always surprised our guests and left them with lasting and fond memories.
Russia’s famous Golden Ring is an archipelago of historic towns surrounding Moscow. Uglich is one of the oldest and was founded under Igor, the last Varangian prince. It once resisted the Mongol invasion and its ancient walls saw the grisly murder of young Dmitri, son of Ivan the Terrible. The impressive Church of St. Dmitri on the Blood, with its classic onion domes and blood red walls, is a fine example of classic Russian architecture. The tour ends with an enchanting choral concert.
This, the oldest city on the Volga River, and now a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts a wealth of ancient orthodox treasures. The impressive Transfiguration of the Savior, adorned with murals depicting St. John’s apocalyptic visions can be seen in the Spassky Monastery. The Church of St. Elijah the Prophet is decorated with an awe-inspiring selection of rich frescoes. For a real taste of pre-revolutionary Russia, visitors are entertained by a costumed reception at the Governor’s House.
Close to the shores of White Lake once were the ‘tsar’s fishing grounds’. It lies in a place so serene that ancient monks chose to build no fewer than three holy sites here, including the Ferapontov Monastery. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, its chapels boast magnificent frescoes by Dionysius, one of Russia’s most renowned icon painters. The Kirillo-Belozersky Monastery was a refuge for many nobles during tumultuous times and later a fortress that successfully repelled invading armies.
The Karelia region is a vast and naturally beautiful wilderness that spreads all the way from St. Petersburg to the Arctic Circle. The glorious island village of Kizhi consists almost entirely of the traditionally styled wooden buildings of ‘Old Russia’. Among them is the famous Transfiguration Church built in 1714. Remarkably, and in testament to the craftsmen of the time, not a single nail was used in its construction! Kizhi is one of the favorite stops on the river cruise to St. Petersburg.
A typical rural hamlet brought to life by warm and welcoming villagers. Volga Dream guests are invited into local homes to enjoy classic Russian fare, tea with jam and ‘pirozhki’ (pies). Enthusiastic hosts share Russian traditions and the appeal of village life while proudly showing off their scrupulously kept homes and kitchen gardens. The tour continues with a brief bus ride to see a unique World War II memorial and then, for a real glimpse of Russian life, a visit to a local primary school.
Nizhny Novgorod
This was once a wealthy city thanks to its proximity to rich eastern trading routes. During the Soviet era, the city was closed to outsiders because of its military importance. It’s also where many political prisoners were sent to live out their days in exile. The 16th-century Kremlin ramparts offer spectacular views and the city is known for its elaborately decorated churches. For Volga Dream cruise guests, the highlight of the day is an evening folk concert performed by local children.
Sailing along the Volga river, the riverbank gradually ceases to be dominated by Orthodox churches. Instead, beautiful mosques appear as the river crosses into Tatarstan where the first stop is scenic Kazan, the region’s capital. Inside the white walls of the citadel, the famous Kul Sharif mosque and the old Cathedral of Peter and Paul stand side-by-side symbolizing the two faiths’ long and peaceful coexistence in the region. A concert of traditional Tatar music ends the Volga Dream tour in Kazan.
Passing the Zhigulevskie Mountains offers wonderful views from the sundeck before touring the city. One of the key attractions is the fascinating Space Museum, which offers a revealing glimpse of how the Soviet Union pursued its ambitious journey to the cosmos. The town is also noted for its beautiful esplanade, perfect for a relaxed stroll beside the Volga river. This in turn leads to the Samara State Art Museum. Founded in 1897, it is home to a collection of more than 16,000 works of art.
This city is best known for its close associations with cosmonaut, Yuri Gagarin. The Russian hero who achieved worldwide fame as the first man in space lived and studied here. Saratov used to be home to a large German community, a heritage that can still be seen in the local architecture. The Volga Dream tour visits the Radishchev State Art Museum, the first picture gallery in Russia outside Moscow and St. Petersburg.
Originally called Tsaritsyn, the city was renamed Stalingrad from 1925 to 1961 in honor of the USSR’s leader. During World War II, the city’s residents put up a heroic defense, repelling an advancing Nazi invasion. The battle for Stalingrad has gone down in history as a pivotal moment in the bloody conflict on the eastern front. The most ferocious and deadly fighting took place on Mamayev Hill, where an imposing memorial now stands close to the excellent Battle of Stalingrad Panorama Museum.
Saint Petersburg
If Moscow surprises, then St Petersburg delights. Peter the Great founded the city to showcase Russia’s newfound enlightenment. He wanted to show the modern world a cultured and advanced society. In short, he built the city to impress and in that he succeeded splendidly! The striking buildings were designed by some of the finest architects Europe had to offer and even now, the ‘Venice of the North’ never fails to enchant with its spectacular buildings and impressive canal network. It is a city of true grandeur.
Cocktails with the Captain
Commanding any ship is a complex role that calls for a long list of skills. Captains know their vessels inside out as well as well as the routes they sail and when things don’t go to plan, they have to make instant decisions. Above all though, the most important part of the job, underpinning everything they do, is to keep the ship and everyone aboard safe. The Captain’s cocktail party is a great and a wonderful opportunity for passengers and crew to get acquainted as the gets underway.
Matryoshka doll painting
There is nothing more typically Russian than a Matryoshka. It embodies the fact that there’s always something deeper to be found in every aspect of Russian life. Learning the traditional designs and techniques used to decorate these iconic dolls offers a pleasant diversion and some cathartic creativity!
Superb Service & Dining
Our restaurant serves the highest standard of international cuisine, freshly made by our Cordon Bleu Chef. Choose either a sumptuous buffet or set menu for lunch while dinner is always four or five courses with full service. High praise for the exquisite quality of meals is yet another constantly recurring feature in feedback from our guests.
Meet the Professor
From the Mongol hordes to Soviet times, Russia’s history is, like all of Europe’s, a complex web of political intrigue, war and peace, trade and treaties, as well as heroes and villains. Academics devote whole lifetimes to studying Russia’s long past and one of them presents a series of lectures shedding light on everything from Gorbachev to Chekhov, Khrushchev to Ivan the Terrible and of course, contemporary Russia. Our Professor is on board throughout the river cruise for informal conversation.
Beginner’s Russian
The Russian language can be rather beautiful and poetic and we know that many seasoned travelers enjoy trying their hand at different languages. Our onboard teachers provide an introduction to the riches of Russian, so guests can try out a few useful words and phrases on real Russians during the exciting river tours from Moscow to St. Petersburg or from Moscow to Volgograd!
Russian tea tasting
The drink we tend to associate with Russia is vodka, but tea, in fact, is the much more universal beverage of choice throughout the country. Guests will get acquainted with the Russian tea etiquette, a fundamental component of the country's social culture, and enjoy the traditional tea ceremony while cruising from St. Petersburg to Moscow or taking a Grand Volga river tour.
Russian Dinner & Vodka Tasting
All our dining is international but for Russian Dining night, the Chef includes a selection of traditional Russian dishes: Chicken Kiev, Kulebyaka and no Russian table is complete without Borsch. To add to the ‘Taste of Russia’ optional Russian dress, or at least a touch of Russian style, is provided along with enthusiastic help from our staff!
Russian Cooking Class
A plate of pelmeni might not look like much to the untrained eye, but it forms the heart of Russian cuisine and culture. Basically, it's a type of dumpling: small portions of meat and onion wrapped in a thin sheet of unleavened dough and boiled, a little like ravioli. Guests can join a Russian cooking class onboard the MS Volga Dream to learn how to cook this delicious Russian dish.
Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninov Piano Recital
Some of the greatest classical music ever written comes from Russia. It’s hard to imagine a more fitting stage for a virtuoso solo recital by our resident concert pianist than the mighty Volga or a better backdrop than the heart of Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninov’s own serene homeland.
Russian River Cruise Aboard Volga Dream
Moscow to St. Petersburg
Why Volga Dream
Family Owned & Operated
MS Volga Dream is Russia’s only family-owned river cruise ship. She can accommodate up to 100 guests, far fewer than most other cruise ships on the river making for a uniquely friendly and intimate atmosphere aboard.
Five-Star Central Hotels
We at Volga Dream are completely convinced that, our guests should stay in great 5-star hotels in Moscow and St. Petersburg within comfortable walking distance of all the major attractions, theaters and restaurants, rather than having to waste time in traffic.
Luxurious Accommodation
The MS Volga Dream is the most intimate and elegant 5-star cruise vessel in Russia. She boasts 56 cabins, all river facing, ranging from comfortable Standard Cabins to spacious Junior Suites and the luxurious forward facing Owner's Suite.
Russian Cultural Experience
Explore Russia's past with the help of professional tour guides. Our on-board program includes fascinating talks on Russian history and politics, Russian language lessons, a festival of Russian cuisine (including vodka tasting!), and much more.
Gourmet Dining
Our on board restaurant serves international cuisine to the highest standard, all freshly made by our Cordon Bleu Chef. For Russian Dining night, he prepares a selection of traditional Russian dishes: Chicken Kiev, Kulebyaka and Borsch.
Tailored Service
All our service crew members are native Russians who are fluent in English and handpicked by the Owner. Proudly, the Volga Dream is famous for her hard working and very hospitable personnel who take care of every aspect of your life aboard.
Download Our Brochure
It's never been easier to plan your next holiday in Russia. Download our free brochure to learn more about authentic Russian river cruises.
Escape the hassle and bustle and add a satisfyingly informative element to your trip and bring together a colorful mosaic of people, history, traditions, religion, music and art. These are the many strands that time has woven into what is known today as Russia.
What people are saying
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Ukrainian president says the push into Russia’s Kursk region is to create a buffer zone there
In this photo provided by the Ukrainian Defence Ministry Press Office, a strategically important bridge over the river Seym is destroyed by Ukrainian troops as they continue their incursion into the Kursk region, Russia, Friday, Aug. 16, 2024. The bridge was used by the Kremlin to supply its troops and its destruction could hamper their efforts. (Ukrainian Defence Ministry Press Office via AP)[ASSOCIATED PRESS]
KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Sunday the daring military incursion into Russia’s Kursk region aims to create a buffer zone to prevent further attacks by Moscow across the border.
It was the first time Zelenskyy clearly stated the aim of the operation that began Aug. 6. Previously, he had said the operation aimed to protect communities in the bordering Sumy region from constant shelling.
Zelenskyy said “it is now our primary task in defensive operations overall: to destroy as much Russian war potential as possible and conduct maximum counteroffensive actions. This includes creating a buffer zone on the aggressor’s territory -– our operation in the Kursk region,” he said in his nightly address.
This weekend, Ukraine destroyed a key bridge in the region and struck a second one nearby, disrupting supply lines as it pressed the incursion, officials said.
Pro-Kremlin military bloggers acknowledged the destruction of the first bridge on the Seim River near the town of Glushkovo will impede deliveries of supplies to Russian forces repelling Ukraine’s incursion, although Moscow could still use pontoons and smaller bridges. Ukraine’s air force chief, Lt. Gen. Mykola Oleshchuk, on Friday released a video of an airstrike that cut the bridge in two.
In this photo taken from video released by the Russian Defense Ministry on Sunday, Aug. 18, 2024, Russian soldiers fire Giatsint-S self-propelled gun towards Ukrainian positions at an undisclosed location in the Russian - Ukrainian border area in the Kursk region, Russia. (Russian Defense Ministry Press Service photo via AP)
Photo: ASSOCIATED PRESS
Less than two days later, Ukrainian troops hit a second bridge in Russia, according to Oleshchuk and Russian regional Gov. Alexei Smirnov.
As of Sunday morning, there were no officials giving the exact location of the second bridge attack. But Russian Telegram channels claimed that a second bridge over the Seim, in the village of Zvannoe, had been struck.
According to Russia’s Mash news site, the attacks left only one intact bridge in the area. The Associated Press could not immediately verify these claims. If confirmed, the Ukrainian strikes would further complicate Moscow’s attempts to replenish its forces and evacuate civilians.
Glushkovo is about 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) north of the Ukrainian border, and approximately 16 kilometers (10 miles) northwest of the main battle zone in Kursk. Zvannoe is located another 8 kilometers (5 miles) to the northwest.
Kyiv previously has said little about the goals of its push into Russia with tanks and other armored vehicles, the largest attack on the country since World War II, which took the Kremlin by surprise and saw scores of villages and hundreds of prisoners fall into Ukrainian hands.
The Ukrainians drove deep into the region in several directions, facing little resistance and sowing chaos and panic as tens of thousands of civilians fled. Ukraine’s Commander in Chief, Gen. Oleksandr Syrskyi, claimed last week that his forces had advanced across 1,000 square kilometers (390 square miles) of the region, although it was not possible to independently verify what Ukrainian forces effectively control.
Buffer zones sought by both sides
In his remarks on creating a buffer zone, Zelenskyy said Ukrainian forces “achieved good and much-needed results.”
Analysts say that although Ukraine could try to consolidate its gains inside Russia, it would be risky, given Kyiv’s limited resources, because its own supply lines extending deep into Kursk would be vulnerable.
The incursion has proven Ukraine’s ability to seize the initiative and has boosted its morale, which was sapped by a failed counteroffensive last summer and months of grinding Russian gains in the eastern Donbas region.
For his part, Russian President Vladimir Putin said while visiting China in May that Moscow’s offensive that month in Ukraine’s northeastern Kharkiv region was aimed at creating a buffer zone there.
That offensive opened a new front and displaced thousands of Ukrainians. The attacks were a response to Ukrainian shelling of Russia’s Belgorod region , Putin said.
“I have said publicly that if it continues, we will be forced to create a security zone, a sanitary zone,” he said. “That’s what we are doing.”
Ukraine’s move into Kursk resembled its lightning operation from September 2022, led by Syrskyi, in which its forces reclaimed control of the northeastern Kharkiv region after taking advantage of Russian manpower shortages and a lack of field fortifications.
Zelenskyy seeks permission to strike deeper into Russia
On Saturday, Zelenskyy urged Kyiv’s allies to lift remaining restrictions on using Western weapons to attack targets deeper in Russia, including in Kursk, saying his troops could deprive Moscow “of any ability to advance and cause destruction” if granted sufficient long-range capabilities.
“It is crucial that our partners remove barriers that hinder us from weakening Russian positions in the way this war demands. … The bravery of our soldiers and the resilience of our combat brigades compensate for the lack of essential decisions from our partners,” Zelenskyy said on the social platform X.
Russia’s Foreign Ministry and pro-Kremlin bloggers alleged U.S.-made HIMARS launchers have been used to destroy bridges on the Seim. These claims could not be independently verified.
Ukraine’s leaders have repeatedly sought authorization for long-range strikes on Russian air bases and other infrastructure used to pummel Ukraine’s energy facilities and other civilian targets, including with retrofitted Soviet-era “glide bombs” attacking Ukraine’s industrial east in recent months.
Moscow also appears to have increased attacks on Kyiv, targeting it Sunday with ballistic missiles for a third time this month, according to the head of the municipal military administration. Serhii Popko said in a Telegram post the “almost identical” August strikes on the capital “most likely used” North Korean-supplied KN-23 missiles.
Another attempt to target Kyiv followed at about 7 a.m. Popko said, this time with Iskander cruise missiles. Ukrainian air defenses struck down all the missiles fired in both attacks on the city, he said.
Fears mount for Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant
Elsewhere, the head of the U.N. nuclear watchdog agency said Saturday the safety situation at the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant is deteriorating.
International Atomic Energy Agency head Rafael Grossi urged “maximum restraint from all sides” after an IAEA team at the plant reported an explosive carried by a drone detonated just outside its protected area.
According to Grossi, the impact was “close to the essential water sprinkle ponds” and about 100 meters (100 yards) from the only power line supplying the plant. The IAEA team at the plant has reported intense military activity in the surrounding area in the past week, it said.
Kyiv and Moscow have traded blame for attacks near the power plant since it was captured by Russian forces early in the 2022 invasion, including a fire at the facility last weekend. Grossi said the blaze had caused “considerable damage,” but posed no immediate danger to nuclear safety.
Belarus says it’s deploying more troops on Ukraine border
Russian ally Belarus has massed “nearly a third” of its army along its border with Ukraine, according to authoritarian President Alexander Lukashenko.
Lukashenko told Russian state TV that Minsk was responding to the deployment of more than 120,000 Ukrainian troops to the 1,084-kilometer (674 mile) frontier. Belarus’ professional army numbers upward of 60,000.
Ukrainian border force spokesman Andrii Demchenko said Sunday it had not observed any sign of a Belarusian buildup.
Lukashenko, in power for three decades, has relied on Russian support to suppress the biggest protests in Belarus’ post-Soviet history after his 2020 reelection, widely seen as a sham both at home and abroad. He allowed Russian troops to use Belarus’ territory to invade Ukraine and let Moscow deploy some tactical nuclear weapons on its soil.
Follow developments in the war at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine
Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Russian River Cruise – Waterways of the Tsars
Updated December 14, 2017
// By Margherita
Back to Russia! Did you follow our Russian river cruise in August and September? We travelled between Moscow and St Petersburg on the Waterways of the Tsars Viking River Cruise – here’s what we got up to!
We both share a deep connection with Russia. I was named after the heroine of Master and Margarita , one of the best Russian books of the 20th century. Nick is actually of Russian ancestry – his maternal great-grandparents were from St Petersburg, and spent the best part of 50 years wandering around Europe escaping wars and revolutions, before settling in Australia .
Russia has been at the top of our travel dreams for several years , but somehow something always came up whenever we made plans to visit. Once we couldn’t get a visa on time. Another time we couldn’t get time off. Winter is too cold, summer is too hot.
This year, Russia was one of our travel resolutions . Our desire was for the trip to be special – something different from what we’d done so far. We wanted a higher level of comfort, help with visa arrangements, and a trip that would help us understand the country we longed to visit for so many years . The Waterways of the Tsars river cruise with Viking ticked all boxes, so we made arrangements for a departure from Moscow in late August.
Things to Know Before a Russian River Cruise with Viking
When we announced our friends we would be travelling on a Russian river cruise , some of them were really surprised. A CRUISE? You guys are such hardcore independent travellers! What are you doing ON A CRUISE with all those OLD PEOPLE? True, the average age on a Viking river cruise might be a fair bit higher than 35 – but really, who is to say we wouldn’t enjoy the experience?
This awesome post by One Modern Couple really nails the point – a Viking river cruise is an experience that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. In their words ‘River cruises are cultural, experiential, educational and scenic. Enjoy the ride, take in the surroundings, learn about the countries you are visiting – from history to local life, food to language – and experience the destinations in a thoughtful way.’
Whether you’re 30, 60 or 90, it doesn’t really matter.
Secondly, who’s to say that travelling in a group is not ‘real’ travel? We have always been (and continue to be) lovers of independent travel, but sometimes you just can’t beat the insights given to you by a local guide . Viking River Cruises offer plenty of guided tours included in the cruise price, all led by experienced local guides.
Meals were always excellent – breakfast and lunch included a combination of buffet and à la carte specialties, while dinner was always à la carte. Every day we were given the choice to sample some Russian specialties, like beef stroganoff, borsch, pelmeni, solyanka and lots of delicious desserts.
Another great plus of a Russian river cruise with Viking is that during sailing time lots of cultural activities are on offer – things like cooking demonstrations, Russian language lessons and lectures about Russian history and culture, led by the local tour escorts who were with us for the whole duration of the trip. On top of that, every day we received a briefing detailing the following day’s activities, optional excursions and that night’s menu.
Whenever we passed points of interest on the boat, such as Mother Volga statue or the sunken Kalyazin Cathedral, we were always called out on the loudspeaker to make sure we wouldn’t miss them. There was no pressure to join in any of the activities – we could spend the whole day chilling on the deck or on our veranda, looking at the beautiful colourful churches built on the riverbank, surrounded by nothing but nature.
Waterways of the Tsars – the Itinerary
The Waterways of the Tsars cruise is 13 days long, starting either in Moscow or in St. Petersburg . Most Russian river cruises had always been described to me as ‘Volga Cruises’ – in fact, our boat cruised along a variety of waterways, including the Moscow Canal, the Volga-Baltic Waterway, the Rybinsk Reservoir, Lake Onega and Ladoga (the two largest lakes in Europe) and the Neva River (the shortest in Europe!)
Here’s a map to give you an idea of the route.
Days 1-4 Moscow
Three days were barely enough to get an idea of how amazing Moscow is. Our days were packed from morning to night with tours and activities – from visiting Moscow must visits like Red Square, the Kremlin, the Moscow Metro and the Arbat, to quirky locations like the Museum of Cosmonautics , located in one of Moscow’s best districts for Communist architecture (one of our passions!)
Even though our itinerary was packed full, we managed to spend half a day touring Moscow independently , visiting some of the sights mentioned in The Master and Margarita – Patriarch’s Ponds, both Bulgakov Museums and Sparrow Hill. Let’s just say that we need to get back to Moscow soon to explore more! Meanwhile, here’s our things to do in Moscow for first timers article, detailing our Moscow visit with Viking.
Day 5 Uglich
After setting sail from Moscow, our first stop was Uglich , a cute town on the Volga River, famous for its pretty churches and for being the location of one of the darkest chapters in Russian history .
After the death of Ivan the Terrible, his youngest son and heir to the throne Dmitry was exiled to Uglich, where he was murdered at the age of 10. Suspicion fell on the tsar’s chief advisor, but Dmitry’s cause of death (i.e. throat slitting) was ruled to be an accident. This episode started a period of political unsettlement, that ended with the start of the Romanov dynasty.
We spent an afternoon around Uglich , starting with a home visit of a local family where we had the chance to try homemade grain vodka (the best we’ve had in Russia) and a variety of pickled vegetables, tea and cakes. Then, we toured the Kremlin – the word ‘kremlin’ actually means fortified city, and several Russian cities have one. Moscow’s Kremlin just happens to be the best known!
Day 6 Yaroslavl
The following morning we reached Yaroslavl , a much larger city compared to Uglich. It looked like the perfect Russian city – large enough not to get bored (there was even a cat cafe!) but small enough not to get frustrated with the traffic and crowds found in Moscow or St. Petersburg.
Our Yaroslavl visit was centred around four points of interest . The centre of Yaroslavl is located on the Strelka, a promontory formed at the confluence of the Volga and Kotorosl rivers. Our first stop was the covered market , where we tasted some local products, and then we headed to the Church of Elijah the Prophet , where we had a guided tour (and played with some cute cats). Afterwards, we visited the Governor’s Mansion , now an art gallery. We were welcomed by some beautiful ladies in period costumes, and treated to a music concert. Our final stop was the Yaroslavl Kremlin , where we admired the façade of the Dormition Cathedral, destroyed by the Bolsheviks and rebuilt and reopened in 2010 in time for Yaroslavl’s millennium celebrations.
Before heading back to the ship, we stopped at the lookout over the Millennium of Yaroslavl Park at the end of the Strelka – the flowerbed right in the centre displays a bear (Yaroslavl’s coat of arms) and the city’s age – 1006 at the time of our visit. Looking good!
Day 7 Kuzino
Kuzino is a small village in in the middle of nowhere – we visited on a chilly and rainy morning, to visit the stunning Kirillo-Belozersky Monastery , the largest in Europe. The Monastery is surrounded by walls and located on the shores of Severskoye Lake, with waters so pure that boat traffic is prohibited.
Kirillo-Belozersky was founded at the end of the 14th century, and had its heyday between the 15th and 17th century, when Russia’s tsars and noblemen (including Ivan the Terrible!) paid frequent visits and showered the monks with icons and precious gifts. Luckily the Bolsheviks spared the monastery from destruction, turning it into a museum instead. The day we visited was the feast of the Assumption and the churches were crowded with locals, but we had a lovely guided tour of the museum and time to appreciate its beautiful icons.
Day 8 Kizhi (Sailing)
Whenever travelling, you always need a plan B. Autumn was well on its way by the time we reached the northernmost section of our cruise, and we were held at a lock for the best part of one night due to thick fog . This meant we had to sail the whole day and miss out on Kizhi , a tiny island on the northern side of Onega Lake, famous for its spectacular wooden churches.
We were all disappointed when boat staff made the announcement – personally, Kizhi was one of the stops I was looking forward to the most, after reading about it on the Guardian and knowing that the site is very difficult to visit without a river cruise. However, we didn’t mind too much because we were both suffering the consequences of the previous night’s vodka tasting , organised by Frank, the hotel manager who also happened to be a real vodka connoisseur!
Viking staff were really amazing at keeping us busy during the sailing day with activities like guided tours to the wheelhouse, the room where the captain and sailors pilot the ship.
Day 9 Mandrogy
The last stop before reaching St. Petersburg was Mandrogy , a village on the banks of the Svir River, built in 1996 as a replica of a village destroyed during WW2. A Russian businessman had the idea of ‘rebuilding’ Mandrogy to provide a stop to river cruise passengers before reaching St. Petersburg. So, the village is not actually ‘real’ – it’s more of an open air museum. Cute little painted houses were built around a little forest, with people in traditional dress showcasing traditional crafts and selling souvenirs.
Those in search of souvenirs loved Mandrogy – the quality of matrioshka dolls, icons and other handicrafts was far higher than anywhere else we had been. We are not into souvenirs, but if there was a place to get something, Mandrogy would be it. The village was pretty, but it felt a bit fake for us – kind of like a tourist amusement park. Which in a way, it is.
However, we did enjoy Mandrogy for two reasons – the first was the chance to attend matrioshka painting workshop where we decorated our own matrioshka dolls. That’s the best kind of souvenir in my opinion! The second was the delicious piroshki place where we had some delicious buttery pastries filled with green onion and egg. Just ask Viking staff and they’ll point you the way to the piroshki place!
Days 10-13 St. Petersburg
After 6 days spent cruising, covering a distance of 1800 kilometers, we made it to Saint Petersburg . We had three gorgeous sunny days, and the city dazzled us with its beauty and artistic wealth – after all, it’s UNESCO-listed ! There’s no way I can convey everything we saw and did in three days in just a couple of paragraphs, so watch this space – a St. Petersburg article is coming soon!
There are several St. Petersburg experiences already included by Viking in the tour price – a visit to the Hermitage Museum, a ballet performance, a visit to Catherine Palace in the village of Pushkin and a St. Petersburg city tour, either on foot or by bus. On top of that, we also joined some optional tours – a river cruise, a morning tour to amazing Peterhof Palace and my very own favourite, a Cossack performance!
Things to Know Before Travelling to Russia
- Make sure you sort out your Russian Visa on time . Viking Cruises helps with an invitation letter that you can use to apply for your own Russian visa at your closest consulate – the process is pretty straightforward, provided you are applying in your own country, and takes approximately 2-3 weeks.
- You can also ask Viking to sort out your Russian visa for an additional charge . This is especially convenient if you live in the US or if your hometown doesn’t have a Russian consulate.
- River cruises of Russia only run between April and October, when the waterways are not frozen. The weather can be change dramatically between Moscow and Saint Petersburg , the latter usually being much colder than the former. Make sure you check the weather reports before packing!
- English isn’t widely spoken around Russia , not even in the main cities. If you’re planning to spend some time travelling independently, learning a bit of Russian is a VERY good idea. The Russian language classes we had on board came in very handy!
- Russia’s currency is the rouble , which fluctuates quite a bit. Larger cities are full of moneychangers, and some souvenir shops (like those in Mandrogy) also accept euro and USD.
We would like to thank Viking Cruises for having welcomed us aboard the Waterways of the Tsars cruise.
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2 thoughts on “Russian River Cruise – Waterways of the Tsars”
Truly amazing place & photography! I loved the view of church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, looks awesome. I enjoyed reading. Thanks for sharing your experience.
Thank you for reading! It was a fab trip!
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Ukraine war latest: Vladimir Putin 'has made decision' on responding to Kursk invasion
Vladimir Putin has "made a decision" and there will be "severe punishment" following Ukraine's incursion into Russia, according to the Russian ambassador to the US. Elsewhere, Russia has been forced to suspend a ferry service to Crimea following a Ukrainian attack.
Friday 23 August 2024 11:01, UK
- Putin has 'made decision' on responding to Kursk invasion
- Russia suspends ferry service to Crimea after Ukrainian attack
- Analysis: Putin has 'two choices' in how to respond to Kursk incursion
- Some new Ukrainian troops 'refuse to fire at the enemy'
- Kursk authorities installing concrete shelters amid fears of sustained fighting
- Your questions answered : Will Kursk incursion affect Russia's ability to resupply in Ukraine?
Vladimir Putin has a plan of action to respond to Ukraine's incursion into Russia, the country's ambassador to the US has said.
"I tell you sincerely that the president has made a decision," Anatoly Antonov was quoted as saying by Russia's state news agency TASS.
"I am firmly convinced that everyone will be severely punished for what has happened in Kursk region."
The Russian ambassador did not provide any further details on Mr Putin's plans.
The Kremlin held a meeting yesterday with senior officials, including Mr Putin and governors of border regions, likely to discuss Ukraine's surprise attack on Russia's Kursk region.
The fighting represents the biggest incursion into Russia by a foreign power since World War Two.
Mr Antonov also warned in comments published by the RIA state news agency that the US will remove all restrictions on the use of weapons supplied to Ukraine.
"The current administration behaves like a person who extends one hand and holds a dagger behind their back with another one," Mr Antonov said.
"They are, essentially, laying ground [for a decision] to simply remove all the existing restrictions at a certain point, without much thought."
The US has provided Ukraine with more than $55bn worth of military aid since 2022 but has not allowed Kyiv to fire any of its weapons into Russian territory unless used for defensive cross-border operations or counterfire.
A ferry service operating between southern Russia and Crimea has been suspended following a Ukrainian attack, Russia's Transport Ministry has said.
The Ukrainian navy yesterday said it had destroyed a ferry at Port Kavkaz in Russia's Krasnodar region.
It added the ferry had been used to deliver fuel and weapons to Crimea, which Russia seized and annexed from Ukraine in 2014.
The district head of the local town Fyodor Babenkov said the ferry was carrying 30 rail cars loaded with fuel.
Seventeen people were rescued following the attack and one person is unaccounted for, Russian authorities said.
Earlier this morning, the TASS news agency reported the fire was still raging.
The RIA state news agency, citing emergency cervices, said a fire sparked by the Ukrainian attack had "practically" not affected the port's infrastructure, but that the ferry struck by Ukraine was half submerged.
The ferry service has been temporarily suspended while clear-up work takes place.
The port of Kavkaz is one of Russia's largest outlets on the Black Sea.
Welcome back to our live coverage of the war in Ukraine.
We'll be bringing you all the latest updates as Ukrainian forces continue to cause problems for Russia in its Kursk region.
The Kremlin is also reeling from a Ukrainian attack on a ferry in Russia's Krasnodar region yesterday.
Elsewhere, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is in Kyiv for talks with Volodymyr Zelenskyy today.
Before we bring you more of today's news, here's a reminder of what's happened in the last 24 hours:
- Russia claimed it had started pushing back Ukrainian troops in Kursk but said it appeared they were regrouping for another attack
- Meanwhile Ukraine has said it is inflicting "tangible losses"
- Russian authorities have started installing concrete shelters for civilians in the Kursk region
- A Russian bomb attack killed two people in Ukraine's Sumy region.
We're closing our live coverage on the war in Ukraine for now.
We'll return with any major developments this evening. If not, we'll be back tomorrow with all the latest updates.
Here is a reminder of today's key events:
- Russia claims to have begun pushing back Ukrainian troops in Kursk, but a senior official admitted Kyiv's forces were regrouping for another attack.
- Some new Ukrainian soldiers have refused to fire at the enemy and are struggling with basic combat movements, according to the Associated Press. Citing commanders and fellow fighters, it was said that a few new recruits had even walked away from their posts, abandoning the battlefield altogether.
- Russian authorities in Kursk have begun installing concrete shelters for civilians amid the ongoing Ukrainian incursion into the region - suggesting local authorities are bedding down for a sustained battle.
- Ukraine says it is inflicting "tangible losses" on Russia with its Kursk incursion.
- New satellite images show thick plumes of black smoke rising from a burning oil depot in Rostov, Russia.
We reported earlier today (see our 12.20 post) of a volunteer group helping those in need evacuate from settlements around Pokrovsk.
But the Russian advance has seemingly continued throughout today, and further evacuations in Pokrovsk itself is going ahead at pace.
At the train station, loved ones could be seen embracing before they parted ways, before packed carriages left the platform.
A Russian bomb attack has killed two people in Ukraine's northeastern Sumy region.
Moscow dropped two guided bombs on civilian infrastructure, regional proescutors said in a statement.
Russia has relentlessly pummelled such border regions with strikes and bomb attacks since the invasion began.
Kyiv said its shock incursion into the Kursk region was partly aimed at cutting off Russia's ability to carry out such attacks.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy recently visited the region and said there had been a decrease in shelling and civilian casualities since the Kursk incursion.
Earlier this week, on 17 August, there was another missile strike in Sumy, which left burnt out husks of cars behind as firefighters had to put out the blaze.
Russia's air superiority has also proven a problem for Ukraine in the east, where Moscow makes continued creeping progress towards a number of key settlements.
Earlier today (see our 9.26 post), we reported on a Ukrainian drone attack on a Russian military facility.
The airfield was said to be, in part, used as storage for glide bombs, a cheaply produced weapon that has been particularly damaging for Ukraine.
It further shows Ukraine's desire to hit and cripple Russia's air superiority to gain an upperhand in the ongoing war.
Readers have been sending in their questions to our senior correspondents and military experts for their take on the changing battlefield environment.
Today, A Douglas asks:
Will the Kursk incursion affect Russia's ability to resupply its troops in Ukraine?
Military analyst Sean Bell answers:
Although Ukraine has not declared the military objectives of its incursion into Russia, it has stated that it has no intention of holding Russian territory currently occupied.
As part of its offensive in the Kursk region, Ukraine has destroyed three Russian bridges over the Seym river which would have been vital resupply routes for Russian forces in occupied territories.
However, the motive for destroying these arterial routes is probably more focused on protecting the Ukrainian forces involved in the operation, rather than disrupting Russian supply lines.
The Ukrainian attack certainly caught the Russians by surprise when it launched its audacious assault over two weeks ago.
The incursion marks the first loss of Russian territory since Operation BARBAROSSA in 1941.
However, although the Ukrainian operation appears designed to have strategic effect, it involves a relatively small area of Russian territory.
Thus Russia will have a significant number of alternative logistic supply options to maintain the huge logistical support required to sustain its forces in occupied Ukraine.
In sum, it appears unlikely that the Kursk incursion will impact adversely on Russia's ability to support its forward-deployed forces.
Ukraine has taken another step toward joining the International Criminal Court today.
Kyiv ratified the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, opening up the future possibility of more prosecutions of Russian officials for war crimes.
Ukraine's parliament voted on Wednesday to ratify the ICC statute.
Membership of the ICC is a requirement to joining the EU, which Ukraine hopes to do.
It was formally accepted as a candidate in June 2022.
The document was initially signed over two decades ago by the Ukrainian government, in 2000, but the Constitutional Court blocked ratification, saying it was unconstitutional to allow the ICC to rule on Ukraine's actions.
Many Ukrainians feared that ratifying it could allow the ICC to prosecute Ukrainian citizens who had particpated in conflict on their own territory.
To manage such concerns, the legislation contains a clause saying that Ukraine will not recognise the ICC's jurisdiction in cases where crimes may have been committed by Ukrainian nationals.
In 2023, the ICC issued arrest warrants for Vladimir Putin and Russia's presidential commissioner for children's rights Maria Lvova-Belova, over allegations of war crimes.
A Ukrainian teenager who escaped the war in his home country is celebrating "excellent" GCSE results today.
Oles Kuzomko fled Kyiv with his mother Mila and came to the UK in May 2022 while his father, Roman, remained behind to fight - but later died from sepsis.
The 16-year-old relocated to Silsden, near Bradford, and attended Bradford Grammar School (BGS).
Now, he's celebrating acheiving 10 GCSEs, including three 8s, five 7s and two 6s.
Oles also took online courses for the Ukrainian equivalent to GCSEs - all while studying in the UK.
The teen said: "I'm really proud of my physics and biology grades and I'm so grateful to BGS, especially the teachers who have helped me on an individual basis."
Simon Hinchliffe, headmaster at BGS, said: "Oles' extraordinary accomplishments are a testament to his dedication and determination to succeed against all odds.
"His journey from a war-torn country to achieving excellent results at BGS is nothing short of inspiring."
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River Cruise on Luxurious Radisson Boat
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Equipped with ice-breaking technology, these huge fancy yachts are the only river cruisers running all year around. The round trip journey takes two and a half hours and floats past all the big sights like the White House, Novodevichy monastery and the Kremlin. There’s a large open air observation deck up top, while the main body of the ship houses a restaurant with a dance floor for a romantic post dinner dance. For a particularly romantic experience take one of the evening boats and admire the bright lights of the city skyline at night.
The most relaxing and picturesque tour that Moscow can offer: a great way to see the city center and its main attractions. This is a perfect alternative to exploring the city by car, if you only have time to do sightseeing during weekday rush hours.
Your English-speaking guide is eager to share every bit of their knowledge about the surrounding landscape, the architecture and historical details.
We conduct Moscow river tour on Radisson Flotilla boats all year around! It’s warm inside during winter months, while there’s air conditioning during hot summer days. You may also treat yourself to drinks, lunch or dinner on board (drinks and food are not included in tour price).
The cost of an excursion with a personal guide for 1 person
Quay at Radisson Collection Hotel
Government Headquarters ("the White House")
Kievsky Railway Central
Novodevichy Convent
Luzhniki Stadium
Academy of Sciences
Monument to Peter I
Cathedral of Christ the Saviour
Moscow Kremlin
St.Basil's Cathedral
Novospassky Monastery
U-turn and back to Quay at Radisson Royal Hotel
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- Excursion River Cruise on Luxurious Radisson Boat
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COMMENTS
Left from Middletown for a 4 hour dinner/dancing tour on the CT River. Exceeded my expectations. The ship is bigger than i thought, 4 decks, 2 bars. DJ was Mike from 101.5 and he was a lot of fun. Food was OK but im not into the Jamaican thing which was the theme for the night. People were nice and crew was helpful. Would definitely do again ...
CT RIVER MUSEUM; Daytime Cruises on RiverQuest ... Please, always confirm the cruise is going by checking the ctriverquest.com home page for any changes! or call 860-767-8269; There is seating for each individual aboard RiverQuest. Passengers can be out of the elements in our cozy cabin area or outside on our open stern or bow deck. Tables may ...
Connecticut River Cruise & Charter, LLC. Operating from: Saint Clement's Castle & Marina 1931 Portland Cobalt Road Portland, CT 06480 Captain Wheeler(860)559-6745
Cruise the Connecticut River and Long Island Sound in style. The 33-foot vessel Blantyre offers rides to many popular and enjoyable destinations along the river and on Long Island Sound. ... Wesley Inn & Suites - Middletown 6.22 miles. Saint Clements Castle 0.02 miles. Arrigoni Winery 1.55 miles. Connecticut Draft Horse Rescue 2.30 miles ...
On Sunset Cruises reservations are strongly suggested; it is best to book online to secure your spot. Please, always confirm the cruise is going by checking the ctriverquest.com home page for any changes! or call 860-767-8269 If you are coming with friends or family that booked this cruise on a separate reservation, please let us know via email the reserved names, so you can all sit together ...
Tree Swallow Sunset Cruises on RiverQuest and Onrust start on August 23 and continue through September 22. SOLD OUT Lectures Underway - 8/21/24 6:00pm - Patrick Lynch, Author and illustrator of the new book A Field Guide to the Connecticut River: From New Hampshire to Long Island Sound.
Enjoy dining on Blantyre's Deck while cruising up river passing 3 marinas, through Middletown Harbor, Under bridges and on to Gildersleeve Island. ... $125: $180: $370 ~1 hour scenic cruise up river, anchor 2-2.5 hours at the North end or the island's secluded East side. This anchorage is popular with many boaters who enjoy, a sandy beach ...
Slipaway River Tours offers boat tours on the Connecticut River, with different destinations and private charter options. Learn more and book your tour online.
Connecticut River Expeditions | ENTERTAINMENT | ATTRACTIONS | BOAT CRUISES. Driving Directions: Route 9 to Exit 7, end exit, take a left. Take a right at the first light,on Rt. 82 Go about 0.4 mile and take a right just after the railroad tracks, before the bridge, into Eagle Landing State Pk
Come along with Essex Steam Train & Riverboat aboard Adventure for an exciting 2 - 2.5 hour bird-watching cruise on the Connecticut River. This September, we'll take you on a spectacular viewing of the tree and barn swallows converging on the valley. ... 393 Main Street, Middletown, CT 06457. 860.347.6924. [email protected]. Photos ...
The Connecticut River is wide and deep enough to accommodate boats of. many types, styles, and speeds. Photos by Caryn B. Davis. BOATERS WHO CRUISE THE LOWER CONNECTICUT RIVER OFTEN FIND THEMSELVES IN A DIFFERENT STATE OF MIND—AND PLACE. IN THIS WORLD, FRIENDLY MARINA OWNERS OFFER TRANSIENTS A RIDE INTO TOWN; PRIMORDIAL FORESTS EMBRACE QUIET ...
Best Boat Tours in Middletown, CT - Slip Away River Tours, The Islander -Thimble Island Tours, Hartford River Cruises, Seaport Association, American Beauty Cruises & Charters, Long Island Whale & Seal Watching, Pedal Cruise Connecticut, East End Charters, Connecticut River Museum, Mystic Boat Adventures
Connecticut River Cruise & Charter, LLC located at 80 Harbor Dr, Middletown, CT 06457 - reviews, ratings, hours, phone number, directions, and more. Search . Find ... LLC is located at 80 Harbor Dr in Middletown, Connecticut 06457. Connecticut River Cruise & Charter, LLC can be contacted via phone at 860-559-6745 for pricing, hours and ...
Specialties: Public cruises and private charters aboard the beautiful Mystique. With four departure points along the Connecticut River, enjoy a relaxing scheduled lunch or dinner cruise (Live Entertainment!) or call us to discuss a private charter; a truly unique experience for weddings, proms, corporate events or simply a day on the water with family and friends. Established in 2004. Lady ...
DESCRIPTION CONNECTICUT RIVER NUMBER OF PASSENGERS: 6. 4. 2. Dinner Cruise to Dart or Gildersleeve Islands. Book: 2.0-2.5 hour cruise. ... 1 hour cruise to Haddam Island State Park, anchor 2-2.5 hours, picnic, swim and walk the shallows or sandy beach, sunbathe, and enjoy great friends. Return 5-6 pm. $78. $116.
The Boat. R/V RiverQuest. RiverQuest is an extremely safe, quiet, intimate 64′ vessel, certified to carry up to 65 passengers. She has been inspected, approved, stability tested and certified by The United States Coast Guard. RiverQuest cruises on the lower Connecticut River. Her one level floorplan makes RiverQuest perfect for Private ...
Looking for a first class brunch with a view? Try the foliage cruise on the Connecticut River. Leaves from Haddam, across from the Goodspeed Theater (also a great take!!) on the Lady Katharine, clean and comfortable, quiet live music, and a plethora of breakfast and luncheon entries, buffet style. Super crew and wait staff.
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She also loves European River Cruises, with three sailed in the last five years! Whether you're searching for the perfect honeymoon, family vacation, solo journey, golf or spa vacation, girl's weekend, destination wedding or just about any other type of travel experience - we are ready to help! ... Middletown Cruise & Travel (401) 293-5070 ...
This satellite photo from Planet Labs PBC shows a pontoon bridge across the Seim River east of the town of Glushkovo in Russia's Kursk region on Aug. 17, 2024. ... Middletown Press Logo.
Luxury Russian River Cruises - Moscow to St. Petersburg or Volgograd, St. Petersburg to Astrakhan. Family owned and operated. Cruise Routes (Interactive Map) Call Us: +1 (508) 257 18 06 (9am — 12pm, EST) , +7 (495) 120 10 06 (10am — 7pm, UTC+3 Moscow) Request a quote download brochure.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says the daring military incursion into Russia's Kursk region aims to create a buffer zone. Sunday was the first time the president had clearly stated the ...
The Waterways of the Tsars cruise is 13 days long, starting either in Moscow or in St. Petersburg. Most Russian river cruises had always been described to me as 'Volga Cruises' - in fact, our boat cruised along a variety of waterways, including the Moscow Canal, the Volga-Baltic Waterway, the Rybinsk Reservoir, Lake Onega and Ladoga (the ...
Moscow has come under one of the largest attacks by Ukrainian drones yet, with Russia saying it destroyed 45 Ukrainian drones overnight. It comes as Kyiv's forces continue to push into Russia's ...
Guided tour. 2,5 hours. Популярные , Речные прогулки. Code: 10147. Equipped with ice-breaking technology, these huge fancy yachts are the only river cruisers running all year around. The round trip journey takes two and a half hours and floats past all the big sights like the White House, Novodevichy monastery and the ...