9 minute read
Ports of call: Moscow
PORTS OF CALL
Moscow
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Sam Ballard fi nds 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 di erent – St Petersburg’s palaces and waterways have the grandeur of Vienna, while Moscow is far more identifi able 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 fi nd 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 fi nd 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 o cial 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 fi nd 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 o er excursions to a special performance. However, if your guests are afi cionados 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 o er
is a trip around the Metro. This may sound unusual – or even hellish, depending on how you normally travel to work – but believe me, it’s a marvel to behold. Stations are decorated with beautiful frescoes and statues depicting the glorious struggle of the Russian Revolution, and even chandeliers. Some stations look more like the interior of a grand palace than a capital city’s underground network. It sure beats the Victoria Line, anyway.
If your client wants something a little more unusual then point them towards the utterly ridiculous Kuklachyov’s Cats Theatre. Sounds bizarre and, to be honest, it is (who knew you could train cats?). The felines walk along tightropes, balance on balls and leap between performers. Perfect if you’re looking to be beguiled, for better or worse. However your client chooses to spend their time in Moscow – whether it’s immersing themselves in the history or heading to a local tavern for a vodka with the locals – the city will leave them enthralled. Russia is a vast country that o ers multiple, fascinating layers to those willing to dive a little deeper and discover more. So, grab your copy of one of Tolstoy’s classics and sit down to a bowl of delicious, vibrant borscht (wonderfully bright beetroot soup) – enjoy!
THREE MOSCOW CRUISES
14 days to the Caspian Sea 13 days to St Petersburg 11 days to Volgograd
Vodohod – MS Konstantin Korotkov Moscow-Astrakhan September 24, 2020 From €2,730pp
This itinerarary – named The Real Russia – begins with three days in Moscow, before heading down the Volga to the merchant city of Astrakhan, via Volgograd. Viking River Cruises – Viking Ingvar Moscow-St Petersburg May 17, 2021 From £3,395pp
The Waterways of the Tsars itinerary includes three days in Moscow and St Petersburg at each end and includes 10 guided excursions in fascinating destinations such as Kizhi. Volga Dream – MS Volga Dream Place (round-trip) October 6, 2020 From £2,845pp
This journey on a family owned and operated vessel heads to the city famous for the Battle of Stalingrad in World War Two, via stops at Samara (for the Space Museum) and Kazan.
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ESPAÑA TO THE COTE D'AZUR BARCELONA TO MONTE CARLO | CRYSTAL SERENITY 9 AUGUST 2020 | 7 NIGHTS | VOYAGE OCY200809-07
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