March 2020 | Forward
PORTS OF CALL
Moscow Sam Ballard finds plenty to enjoy in the Russian capital, from captivating buildings to bizarre theatre Russia is a land of mystery. Those who have never been know little about it beyond political stories that talk of its bare-chested leader and geopolitical shadow play. Those who have been, however, know the truth behind the headlines. Russia is a country of beautiful landscapes, fascinating history and some of the friendliest people in the world. As a cruise destination, Moscow can be found at either the beginning or end of a Russian waterways sailing, bookended with St Petersburg. These itineraries give passengers an incredible insight into Russian life – with some of the most stunning churches you will ever see (just Google Kizhi to see what I mean) as well as world famous cultural institutions (St Petersburg’s Hermitage, the second-largest art musuem in the world, which houses more than three million items in its collection, is hard to beat). A number of river cruise lines have Russian waterways itineraries, including the likes of Viking, Vodohod, Uniworld, Scenic, Riviera and CroisiEurope operating between Russia’s two biggest cities. Vodohod, the Russian line, runs cruises beyond the Volga, where most Western companies operate, including a Siberian Wilderness itinerary. Naturally, St Petersburg and Moscow are the two standout ports of call on the most known Russian river cruises. The two cities are incredibly different – St Petersburg’s palaces and waterways have the grandeur of Vienna, while Moscow is far more identifiable as Russian. Whether that’s because of Red Square, which contains Lenin’s Mausoleum, Saint Basil’s Cathedral and the Kremlin, or because of the
ever-present military you will find there. There is a changing of the guard every hour by the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The Kremlin itself is actually a fortress that contains an entire complex of buildings – you’ll find a number of palaces, an armoury and cathedrals inside. The Assumption Cathedral, the most famous, is where tsars of old were crowned since the 15th century. The Grand Kremlin Palace is the official residence of Vladimir Putin, and is often referred to as Putin’s Palace, although he actually lives elsewhere within the fortress’s walls. Away from the famous sights, there is plenty else to get your teeth into. Unsurprisingly, shopping is big business in Russia’s capital. If you like retail therapy then a pilgrimage to the GUM department store is a must. The ornate mall looks more like a boulevard in Paris than a shopping centre, with its Gothic lamp posts, stone facades and glass domed roof. Russia’s most iconic department store opened in the heart of the Red Square in 1893, and today shoppers can find luxury stores alongside shops selling gourmet food items and classic Soviet products. If your guests have an evening free then a visit to the Russian ballet is a must. Many ships offer excursions to a special performance. However, if your guests are aficionados then it’s worth reminding them that the Bolshoi, one of the most spectacular theatres in the world and home to the Bolshoi Ballet, among the world’s oldest ballet companies, is right on their doorstep. A visit is one that won’t be forgotten. One of the more unusual excursions that Moscow has to offer
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