VOLGA RIVER CRUISING 2021
St. Petersburg to Moscow
Welcome We invite you to join Emerald Waterways as we uncover the remarkable charms of Russia on a truly insightful itinerary, which follows a captivating route between St. Petersburg and Moscow.
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This journey of discovery not only reveals a wealth of hidden wonders, but also allows you to enjoy authentic local experiences, as history and folklore play out beautifully as you sail Russia’s proud waterways. Intertwining your time spent on the water with our included excursions and activities ensures your senses are taken on a vibrant adventure. This is your opportunity to explore the inimitable landscapes, stunning architectural highlights and rich history of this enigmatic nation. We look forward to discovering the magnificent charms of Russia with you.
Contents
Page
Welcome
4
Introducing Volga River Cruising
6
The MS Nizhny Novgorod
8
Exceptional EmeraldVALUE
10
EmeraldDISCOVERY
12
The Imperial Charms of Russia
14
MS Nizhny Novgorod cabin plans
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Travel. It leaves you speechless and then turns you into a storyteller. Ibn Battuta
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Welcome Vast and proud, Russia is a land of rich tradition and contrast, a place where imperial cities intermingle with time-forgotten villages, and unique customs provide a fascinating glimpse into the past. Uncover a land suspended in time, with a cultural heritage that is unrivaled and a rich history that can be traced back over the centuries.
FINLAND
Svir
Kizhi
This enigmatic nation is truly a secret gem, where ancient cities SWEDEN harbor architectural wonders, just waiting to be discovered.
Lake Onega
Lake Ladoga Neva
Mandrogi Goritsy
St. Petersburg ESTONIA
Yaroslavl
RUSSIA
Volga
Uglich
LATVIA North Sea
LITHUANIA
POLAND
Moscow BELARUS
UKRAINE
Discover architectural wonders
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Moscow Eight centuries of thought-provoking history are yours to discover in Russia’s capital, Moscow, as we take you right to the heart of the city. Gaze upon the intricate beauty of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed St. Basil’s Cathedral and explore monuments dedicated to Russia’s communist past. Home to the Kremlin and Red Square, every turn unveils another architectural marvel, as spectacular onion-shaped domes decorate the truly remarkable skyline. Few cities thrill like Moscow, with both history and majesty found here in abundance. St. Basil’s Cathedral, Moscow
St. Petersburg Once the imperial capital of the Russian Empire, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city of St. Petersburg is certainly Russia’s cultural center, with the awe-inspiring architecture of The Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, and so much to see - Smolny Convent, Tavrichesky Palace, Summer Garden and Palace Embankment to name a few.
St. Petersburg
Pay a visit to the Hermitage Museum, once the official residence of the Romanovs during your included tour. Wander alongside historic canals, passing opulent palaces and lavish cathedrals as you explore a land frozen in time.
Kizhi In contrast to the vibrant cities of Moscow and St. Petersburg, the small island of Kizhi within Lake Onega promises a truly authentic Russian experience. Offering outstanding historic landmarks such as the UNESCO Heritage-Listed site, The Church of the Transfiguration, which was built without using a single nail, as were many of the remarkable buildings which create a fairy-tale-like scene with their magnificent domes and belltowers. Church of the Transfiguration, Kizhi
To book call 844.339.7294, visit emeraldwaterways.com or contact your professional travel advisor
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Introducing Russian waterways At over 2,000 miles long, the Volga River is the longest in Europe, flowing from the rural Valdai Hills of central Russia all the way to the Caspian Sea. This symbolic waterway has been an inspiration for writers and artists from around the world for generations, leading to it being affectionately referred to as “Mother Volga� in literature and folklore.
The mighty Volga remains an important source of water, transport and power as it flows slowly south, fed by lakes and smaller rivers on its journey to the Caspian Sea. Supporting both industry and agriculture as it carves its way through the vast landscape, the Volga River has certainly played a role in shaping the culture and lifestyle of those who reside alongside its banks. As you journey along the mighty waterways on board our specially chartered river ship, MS Nizhny Novgorod, take the opportunity to admire the picturesque stretches from the Sun Deck. This superb itinerary also allows you to discover both traditional villages and vibrant cities as you sail from St. Petersburg to Moscow, enjoying an array of insightful included excursions and experiences along the way.
Sunset on the Volga River
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“What a brilliant holiday! Well-organized excursions ensured we got the most out of each day. Great value and one of the best trips we’ve experienced.” William Page
Mandrogi
Kirillov
Gracing the banks of the Svir River and home to the Museum of Russian Vodka (with a collection approaching 3,000 various types at the last count), Mandrogi is home to many local artisans offering craft workshops including painting, wood carving and pottery, and even those who create the famous matryoshka dolls, surely a must have souvenir.
Home to one of the country’s oldest and most famous monasteries, the impressive Kirillo-Belozersk Monastery was founded by St. Cyril of Belozersk at the end of the 15th century, and is one of several monasteries that can be found in the town of Kirillov, a short drive from Goritsy.
The traditional houses of Mandrogi line cobbled streets, and are adorned with colorful facades and intricate woodwork.
The peaceful atmosphere is sure to have a powerful effect on the senses as you learn of the incredible history of one of the largest monasteries in Russia.
Yaroslavl With its UNESCO World Heritage-listed historic center, Yaroslavl is a delight to explore. One of the oldest cities of Russia, surrounded by stunning countryside and residing at the confluence of the Volga and Kotorosi rivers. The center is dotted with onion-shaped domes, remarkable architecture and historic monuments to be discovered. The historical center of Yaroslavl is an outstanding example of the town-planning reform, which was ordered by Catherine The Great.
To book call 844.339.7294, visit emeraldwaterways.com or contact your professional travel advisor
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MS Nizhny Novgorod Your specially chartered river ship for this incredible journey, MS Nizhny Novgorod, perfectly encapsulates the country’s traditions and hospitality.
Specifically built to sail the Volga, Svir and Neva rivers, MS Nizhny Novgorod is a comfortable and traditional river ship, and the perfect base from which to explore the remarkable charms of Russia. Refurbished during 2019, MS Nizhny Novgorod offers a friendly on board atmosphere, along with a superb selection of on board amenities, including two restaurants, two relaxed bar areas and a solarium and sauna – the ideal spot to relax after a busy day exploring. You will also find an ironing room and a small souvenir store on board. Enjoy your favorite tipple on board
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Volga Restaurant The main restaurant area on board is the Volga Restaurant, serving delicious locally-influenced dining along with a selection of European favorites. This bright and comfortable space is the perfect spot to enjoy a delicious meal following your days of exploration. Lunch includes a delightful buffet, while your evening meal is a more formal affair, offering table service. You will also enjoy two complimentary drinks served with lunch and dinner on board. Savor delicious on board dining
Panorama Bar With two bar areas to choose from, you won’t be short of space to relax and enjoy your favorite cocktail while catching up on the day’s events with new-found friends. Located on both the Middle Deck and the Boat Deck, the bar areas are bright and spacious, with the Panorama Bar being the larger of the two, and offering views of the passing scenery.
Panorama Bar
Cabins Offering three cabin styles - a Suite, a Double Deluxe Cabin and a Twin Cabin - whichever you choose you will enjoy comfortable surroundings, and each is equipped with large windows, air conditioning, a refrigerator, TV and a safe. For further details and detailed cabin plans, see pages 18 & 19.
Deluxe Double Cabin
To book call 844.339.7294, visit emeraldwaterways.com or contact your professional travel advisor
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Exceptional EmeraldVALUE Our promise of Exceptional EmeraldVALUE ensures complete peace of mind. All transfers and gratuities are included in the price you pay, as well as delicious and diverse dining with two complimentary drinks to accompany lunch and dinner, and insightful excursions.
Emerald Waterways has become synonymous with exceptional quality and superb value, and our expert Journey Planners have carefully designed every aspect of our Imperial Charms of Russia itinerary to ensure you have the best experience possible. We pride ourselves on including all the essentials for a seamless river cruising adventure. You can relax knowing our generous inclusions ensure all you have to think about is enjoying your vacation.
Enjoy local cuisine
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Included insightful excursions
So much is included... ■
Airport transfers to and from MS Nizhny Novgorod.
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Accommodation on board MS Nizhny Novgorod.
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29 meals: 10 breakfasts, 9 lunches and 10 dinners*.
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2 drinks per guest with lunch and dinner on board.
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On board coffee station.
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1 bottle of complimentary bottled water in your cabin restocked daily.
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Complimentary Wi-Fi on board.
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Insightful included excursions.
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Knowledgeable local guides.
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Visits to UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites.
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First-class service from English-speaking crew.
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Earn EmeraldEXPLORER loyalty points.
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All port charges and airport transfers.
PLUS all gratuities are included
*Meals based on 11-day cruise.
To book call 844.339.7294, visit emeraldwaterways.com or contact your professional travel advisor
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EmeraldDISCOVERY Russia is a land unlike any other, with a rich history spanning more than a millennia. We’ve hand-crafted a range of included excursions, enabling you to immerse yourself in the lifestyle of vibrant cities and rural villages. Join our expert guides for inspirational tours of UNESCO World Heritage-listed historic sites, many of which have overlooked some of the most important events in history.
Church within the Kremlin Grounds, Moscow
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Tsar Cannon at the Kremlin, Mosow
Hermitage Museum, St. Petersburg
EmeraldEXCURSIONS Every day in Russia will be one of enlightenment as you enjoy our collection of included excursions, handpicked by our journey planners to showcase the best of this illustrious nation. Uncover local villages and significant landmarks, including several UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites.
With our insightful included excursions, you’ll have every opportunity to experience local culture first hand.
Look out for our EmeraldEXCURSION icons in your itinerary.
From a visit to the Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg to a visit to Mandrogi village, a place famous for its traditional houses and handicrafts, while a guided tour of Moscow ensures you uncover the rich history of this fascinating city.
To book call 844.339.7294, visit emeraldwaterways.com or contact your professional travel advisor
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11-Day Imperial Charms of Russia This nation is a mystifying riddle that this insightful itinerary will enable you to solve. Start your journey in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city of St. Petersburg and venture to idyllic rural villages showcasing the traditions of ancient folk communities.
The Kremlin and St.Basil’s Cathedral
St. Petersburg to Moscow Departing: May - September 2021 Day 1
St. Petersburg
Day 2
St. Petersburg
Day 3
St. Petersburg
Day 4
Mandrogi
Day 5
Kizhi
Day North Sea6 Day 7
Mandrogi
Goritsy St. Petersburg Yaroslavl
RUSSIA Uglich
Goritsy Yaroslavl
Day 8
Uglich
Day 9
Moscow
10 Number of nights
River cruise Map is a guide only
Day 10 Moscow Day 11 Depart Moscow
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10
Kizhi
Moscow
EmeraldDISCOVERY Highlights unique to your itinerary Included Excursions
And of course, our exceptional EmeraldVALUE inclusions come as standard ■ Airport transfers to and from your Ship.
coach tour of St. Petersburg and a Guided visit to the Hermitage Museum.
■ 10 nights in a suite on board MS Nizhny Novgorod
lunch in Mandrogi. Shashlik of Kizhi. Tour
■ 29 meals: 10 breakfasts, 9 lunches and 10 dinners including a farewell dinner.
Visit to the Monastery of St. Cyril on the White Lake. of Yaroslavl. Tour of Uglich. Tour coach tour of Moscow. Guided to the Kremlin Grounds. Visit
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CRUISE FROM ST. PETERSBURG TO MOSCOW
■ 2 drinks per guest with lunch and dinner on board. ■ On board coffee station ■ 1 bottle of Complimentary bottled water in your cabin restocked daily. ■ Complimentary Wi-Fi on board. ■ First-class service from English-speaking crew and knowledgeable local guides. ■ Earn EmeraldEXPLORER loyalty points. ■ All port charges and airport taxes. Plus we include all gratuities
Peter and Paul Fortress, St. Petersburg
To book call 844.339.7294, visit emeraldwaterways.com or contact your professional travel advisor
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Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, St. Petersburg
11-Day St. Petersburg to Moscow Departing: May - September 2021 Day 1 Arrive St. Petersburg You will be met at the airport and transferred to MS Nizhny Novgorod, where a warm welcome awaits from your captain and crew. This evening enjoy dinner on board with your fellow travelers. Founded by Peter the Great, St. Petersburg was the capital of the Russian Empire for more than 200 years. Nicknamed ‘Venice of the North’, the historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, threaded with canals and dotted with baroque bridges. Meals: Dinner
Day 2 St. Petersburg Today you will visit the Hermitage Museum, one of the largest and oldest museums in the world. Formerly the Winter Palace and home of the Tsars, the museum’s collection includes almost three million exhibits, including the largest collection of paintings in the world and early collections dating back to Catherine II. Following lunch in the city, your guided coach tour will take you along the Spire of the Basil Island. Pass by the Senate and St. Isaac’s cathedral, and drive along Nevsky prospect, the main boulevard of St. Petersburg. You will also see the church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, a unique example of Russian Revival architecture.
A guided tour of St. Petersburg and a tour of the Hermitage Museum
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Matryoshka dolls
Day 3 St. Petersburg
Day 6 Goritsy
Today is yours to continue exploring the history of this illustrious city at your own pace. Uncover the main sights and attractions of St. Petersburg, or simply relax on board MS Nizhny Novgorod.
A tranquil atmosphere awaits as you arrive in Goritsy, a quiet Russian village set within scenic countryside. Discover the KirilloBelozersky Monastery, legend has it that Cyril of Beloozero, one of the most honored saints in the Russian Orthodox Church, founded the monastery in 1397 in his search for a remote place to be closer to God. The monastery houses the Assumption Cathedral and many ancient icons.
Tonight your captain will be delighted to host a welcome reception. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 4 Mandrogi Today you visit the picturesque village of Mandrogi, located on the River Svir. The charming landscape is dotted with colorful izbas - beautiful wooden houses with finely carved roofs. The town also offers opportunities for you to admire the traditional Russian handicrafts of local artisans, such as pottery and the famous matryoshka dolls. Your time in Mandrogi is at your leisure, offering chance to enjoy Mandrogi’s many attractions, such as the Vodka Museum. Shashlik lunch in Mandrogi Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
visit to the Monastery of St. Cyril A on the White Lake Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 7 Yaroslavl Located at the confluence of the mighty Volga and Kotorosl rivers and founded during the 11th century by Yaroslav the Wise, the ancient city of Yaroslavl retains many monuments of its noteworthy and colorful past. Your tour includes a stop at the 17th century Church of St. Elijah the Prophet, a visit to the Church of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker, and an interactive tour of the former Governor’s House. A guided tour of Yaroslavl
Day 5 Kizhi Today you will cruise Lake Onega before arriving at the small island of Kizhi. Enjoy an insightful walking tour through the Open Air Museum of Architecture, housing a collection of restored 18th century Russian wooden buildings, including the breathtaking Church of the Transfiguration. Built in 1714, the structure of the Church was built without using a single nail and is a fine example of expert carpenters pushing their craft to the limit. A guided tour of Kizhi Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 8 Uglich Your day will start with a visit to Uglich, one of the most beloved towns in Old Russia. Throughout its 1000-year history, the town was used by various Monarchs, including Ivan the Terrible as a base for attacks on the Tatars and Poles. During your walking tour you will visit the renowned green-domed Cathedral of Transfiguration, and see the Church of St. Dmitry on the Blood. A guided tour of Uglich Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
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Key:
Included Excursion
Day 10 Moscow
Welcome to Moscow, Russia’s capital city on the banks of the Moskva River. The city’s architecture is a reflection of its 860-year history, with recognizable reminders of both its imperial and Soviet past. A sprawling metropolis, Moscow is the financial and political center of Russia with a population of around 13 million inhabitants.
Immerse yourself in Moscow’s rich history with a visit to the Kremlin Grounds, which is for many the symbol of Moscow. The Kremlin is the former seat of the Government and a unique historical, architectural and artistic reserve. During a stroll around the grounds, you’ll see the majestic Cathedral Square, the Palace of Congresses, Senate square with the Arsenal and Senate buildings and the residence of the President of the Russian Federation.
During today’s guided city tour, you will drive along Leningradskaya Street, Tverskaya Street, Novodevichy convent, and have the chance to see Moscow’s highlights, including the Cathedral of Christ the Savior. You will also have the opportunity to enjoy free time at the Red Square. A guided tour of Moscow
The afternoon is yours to continue exploring Moscow’s history at your own pace. A visit to the Kremlin Grounds Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
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Day 9 Moscow
Red Square
Day 11 Moscow Disembarkation Following breakfast, it’s time to say farewell to your fellow passengers and disembark the ship for your transfer to the airport. Meals: Breakfast
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Fly FREE or Save $2,000 per couple - book by October 31, 2020 EARLY PAYMENT BONUS: Save an extra $500 per couple when you book and pay in full within 14 days.* 11-Day Imperial Charms of Russia - St. Petersburg to Moscow Main Deck 2021 Departure Date Tour Code: ERRC May 29 Jun 19 Aug 21 Sep 11
Middle Deck
Boat Deck
D Twin (L-shaped) Deluxe Cabins
A Suite Cabins
C Double Deluxe Cabins
B Double Deluxe Cabins
$4,695 $4,695 $4,695 $4,695
$5,145 $5,145 $5,145 $5,145
$4,880 $4,880 $4,880 $4,880
$4,880 $4,880 $4,880 $4,880
12-Day Imperial Charms of Russia - Moscow to St. Petersburg
Enjoy an additional day exploring the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city of St. Petersburg when you choose our 12-day option, sailing from Moscow to St. Petersburg. Explore the ornate beauty of this remarkable city while wandering alongside the historic canals, and uncover the opulent palaces and historic beauty at your leisure. Moscow Main Deck 2021 Departure Date Tour Code: ERRC Jun 8, 29 Jul 20 Aug 10, 31 Sep 21
Middle Deck
Boat Deck
D Twin (L-shaped) Deluxe Cabins
A Suite Cabins
C Double Deluxe Cabins
B Double Deluxe Cabins
$4,995 $4,995 $4,995 $4,995
$5,495 $5,495 $5,495 $5,495
$5,205 $5,205 $5,205 $5,205
$5,205 $5,205 $5,205 $5,205
Please note: All prices are per person, based on double occupancy.. Additional savings for new bookings only applies to 2021 Emerald Waterways bookings when paid in full within 14 days of booking or by September 16, 2020 only. Full payment must be made by the specified dates to obtain the corresponding savings. This offer may be combined with other offers and is available to residents of the 50 United States and Washington DC only. Offers and fares are capacity controlled and may be extended, cancelled or withdrawn at any time without notice.
To book call 844.339.7294, visit emeraldwaterways.com or contact your professional travel advisor
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MS Nizhny Novgorod cabin plans Suite CAT A Your Suite includes
Suite
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Size up to 298ft2 (27.7m2)
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Large window
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King-size bed
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Bathroom with shower
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Separate bedroom and lounge area
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TV and radio
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Refrigerator
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Air conditioning
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Safe for your valuables
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220-volt electrical outlets
Double Deluxe Cabin CAT B/C Your Double Deluxe Cabin includes ■
Size up to 167ft2 (15.5m2)
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Large window
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Queen-sized bed
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Bathroom with shower
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TV and radio
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Refrigerator
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Air conditioning
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Safe for your valuables
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220-volt electrical outlets
Double Deluxe Cabin
Twin (L-shaped) Cabin CAT D Your Twin Cabin includes
Twin (L-shaped) Cabin
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Size up to 142ft2 (13.2m2)
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Large window
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Twin single beds
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Bathroom with shower
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TV and radio
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Refrigerator
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Air conditioning
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Safe for your valuables
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220-volt electrical outlets
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MS Nizhny Novgorod Length: 410ft (125m)
215 215 215215
217 217 217217
219 219 219219
221 221 221221
223 223 223 223
216 216 216216
218 218 218218
220 220 220 220
222 222 222 222
224 224 224 224
370 370 370 370 369 369 369 369
344 344 344 344 343 343 343 343
213 213 213213 214 214 214214
342 342 342 342 341 341 341341
211 211 211211 212 212 212212
360 360 360 360
209 209 209 209
332 332 332 332 331 331 331331
359 359 359 359
368 368 368 368 367 367 367 367
4
210 210 210210
207 207 207 207
330 330 330 330 329 329 329 329
414 414414 414
420 420 419 419419 420 420 419
409 409 409 409
407 407 407 407
208 208 208 208
328 328 328 328 327 327 327 327
412 412412 412 326 326 326 326 325 325 325 325
405 405 405 405
205 205 205 205
Main Deck
206 206 206 206
304 304 304 304
324 324 324 324 323 323 323 323
302 302 302 302
203 203 203 203
303 303 303 303
204 204 204 204
3
301 301 301 301
201 201 201201
Middle Deck
406 406 406 406
3
202 202 202 202
Boat Deck
2
408 408 408 408
403 403 403 403
1
Cabins: 106
422 422 421 421421 422 422 421
Sun Deck
Guests: 204
334 334 334 334 333 333 333 333
Built: 1977, Refurbished 2019 Crew Members: 100
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Lower Deck
Cabin Categories Boat Deck CAT B
Size ft2 (m2)
Double Deluxe Cabin
167ft2 (15.5m2)
Middle Deck
Size ft2 (m2)
CAT A
Suite
298ft2 (27.7m2)
CAT C
Double Deluxe Cabin
167ft (15.5m ) 2
Main Deck CAT D
2
Solarium Conference Hall
3
Restaurant
4
Bar Ironing Room
Size ft (m )
Souvenir Store
142ft2 (13.2m2)
Medical Room
2
Twin (L-shaped) Deluxe Cabin
1 2
2
Reception
Suite 298ft2 (27.7m2)
Double Deluxe Cabin 167ft2 (15.5m2)
Twin (L-shaped) Cabin 142ft2 (13.2m2)
CAT A
CAT B/C
CAT D
Important Information: The cabin plans, deck plans, sizes and images are an indication only and are subject to variation. Due to safety, the Sun Deck will be closed when traveling under low bridges. MS Nizhny Novgorod is not an Emerald Waterways Star-Ship and facilities and inclusions differ from our Star-Ship fleet.
To book call 844.339.7294, visit emeraldwaterways.com or contact your professional travel advisor
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For more information or to book contact your professional travel advisor or call:
844.339.7294 emeraldwaterways.com
One Financial Center, 4th Floor, Boston, MA 02111
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For new bookings on 2021 Imperial Charms of Russia river cruise. Air offers are only applicable to bookings made 61 or more days before departure, otherwise an air credit will apply. A non-refundable initial deposit of $750 per person is required at the time of booking, with full payment required 120 days prior to departure.A secondary non-refundable deposit of $500 per person is due 6 months prior to departure for economy flights; $800 for premium economy. Maximum value of air ticket is $1200 per person inclusive of all taxes & fees. Economy Air only on Emerald Waterways’ choice of airlines and routes. Maximum value of air ticket is $1200 per person inclusive of all taxes & fees. Economy Air only on Emerald Waterways’ choice of airlines and routes. Travelers who purchase their own air receive $1000 per person savings. These offers are not combinable with any other offer except for Travel Show vouchers, agent training vouchers, EmeraldEXPLORER and referral vouchers. Not combinable with group discounts. Taxes and port charges are included in the price. Offer available to residents of the 50 United States and Washington DC only. Offers and fares are capacity controlled and may be extended, cancelled or withdrawn at any time without notice. Visit emeraldwaterways.com for complete terms and conditions. 20_EW1305
