p&o cruise ocean view room

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Cruise Accommodation

There’s room for everyone.

From spacious family suites to sweeping ocean views, we have accommodation for every occasion. With soft beds, fluffy white towels, and plenty of space for you to relax. Our rooms have been thoughtfully designed to give you that home away from home feeling. Plus, each room is serviced daily - so you can spend more time relaxing. No matter how you cruise, there’s a perfect place for you on P&O.

Accommodation Guides

Pacific Adventure ® and Pacific Encounter ®     Pacific Explorer ®  

Pacific Adventure ®     Pacific Encounter ®     Pacific Explorer ®

Byron Beach Club

The Byron Beach Club is offering a limited number of guests exclusive access to a private ‘beach club’ onboard Pacific Adventure® and Pacific Encounter®. The retreat will be available to guests booked in to suites and selected mini suites.

The exclusive-access retreat offers a private outdoor pool, whirlpool spas and comfy seating situated on the top deck of the ship. With expansive sea views, club-goers can enjoy pure relaxation and pampering in stylish surroundings.

Interconnecting Rooms

Available for Interior, Oceanview & Balcony rooms on all ships | Look for the symbol on deck plans

The perfect combination of proximity and privacy. Enjoy neighbouring rooms with internal doors, perfect for families, groups and friends. To check availability and book call 13 24 94 (AU) or 0800 780 716 (NZ) .

Wheelchair Accessible Rooms

P&O Cruises makes every effort to accommodate guests with disabilities and special requirements. We have a limited number of Wheelchair Accessible rooms available that cater for these guest needs.

Going the extra mile to make you smile

It’s the little things that make a good holiday great – so we’re always keen to go the extra mile to ensure your stay is smooth sailing.

Smooth sailing service

Relax with room service, stay fresh, look sharp, for extra room, consider a suite.

Travelling in a group? You’ll get more bang for your buck when you book a suite. From a spacious balcony and separate sitting area, to priority embarkation, complimentary laundry service, and an invitation to the Senior Officers Cocktail Party - you’ll love the extra room and extra special treatment!

Priority treatment

Bid for a Room Upgrade!

Introducing p&o's upgrade me.

You can upgrade your cruise experience with just ONE bid!

P&O's Upgrade Me is a room upgrade program that gives you the opportunity to bid for a room upgrade, prior to departure, at a price you choose.

• CruiseMapper

Pacific Encounter cabins and suites

Pacific encounter staterooms review, floor plans, photos.

Pacific Encounter cabins and suites review at CruiseMapper provides detailed information on cruise accommodations , including floor plans, photos, room types and categories, cabin sizes, furniture details and included by P&O Australia (P&O Cruises) en-suite amenities and services.

The Pacific Encounter cruise ship cabins page is conveniently interlinked with its deck plans showing deck layouts combined with a legend and review of all onboard venues.

Grand Suite

Layout (floor plan), 8-berth 2-bedroom family suite.

Two-Bedroom Family Suite's amenities include two bathrooms (now with shower, one with shower over bathtub), bathrobes and slippers, walk-in wardrobe, coffee machine.

8-BERTH Family Suite's bonus amenities/perks include:

• priority embarkation/disembarkation/tendering
• priority specialty dining and spa reservations/shore excursions and Future Cruise bookings
• pillow concierge (3 different types of pillows)
• Welcome Aboard letter (from the Hotel Director)
• Welcome Aboard beverages (a glass of sparkling wine on arrival)
• fresh fruits (bowl in the cabin)
• complimentary shoeshine service, laundry service, bottled water
• private cocktail invitation (with the senior officers)
• exclusive party (on longer than 5-night itineraries)
• premium brand bath products
• complimentary Afternoon Tea service (in-cabin) and Breakfast (in-cabin), daily snacks and canapes (in-cabin)

Balcony Suite

All Pacific Encounter ship's Suite categories enjoy free access to Bayron Beach Club (exclusive sundeck / relaxation complex located forward on Deck 16 ).

Balcony Suites are in 3 types - DOUBLE, TRIPLE and QUAD.

DOUBLE Suites are with 1x Queen bed (2x twin beds) plus double sofabed.

TRIPLE and QUAD Suites are with the following bed sleeping arrangements/bed configurations:

• Queen/single beds + single sofa + upper bunk
• Queen/single beds + double sofabed
• Queen/single beds + single sofabed
• Queen/single beds + single sofa + fold-out bed

The interior's size varies between 300- 645 ft2 / 28-60 m2.

Cabin's door width is 57 cm.

Balcony's size varies between 120-170 ft2 / 11-16 m2.

Balcony Suite's amenities include a larger bathroom (shower over bathtub, separate WC-toilet, bathrobes, slippers), 65-inch TV, walk-in wardrobe, coffee machine, iPod music player (provided upon request).

Balcony Suite's bonus amenities/perks include:

Star Princess ship's cabin grades were (S2) Owners Suite, (S3) Penthouse Suite, (S4) Premium Suite, (S5-S6) Vista Suite.

Mini-Suites are in 3 types - DOUBLE, TRIPLE and QUAD.

DOUBLE Mini-Suites are with 1x Queen bed (convertible to 2x twin beds).

TRIPLE Mini-Suites are 2x single beds (convertible to a Queen-size double bed) and a single sofabed.

QUAD Mini-Suites are 2x single beds (convertible to a Queen bed), a single sofabed and an upper bunk bed.

Category M1-Mini Suite passengers enjoy free access to Bayron Beach Club (exclusive sundeck / relaxation complex located forward on Deck 16 ).

Suite's door width is 57 cm.

Mini-Suite's amenities include a larger bathroom (shower over bathtub, separate WC-toilet, bathrobes, slippers), walk-in wardrobe, two TVs.

• priority dining and spa reservations/shore excursions booking

Balcony Cabin

Balcony cabins are in 3 types - DOUBLE, TRIPLE and QUAD.

TWIN cabins are with 2x single beds (convertible to a Queen-size double bed).

TRIPLE cabins are with 2x single beds plus one upper bunk.

QUAD cabins are with pop-up single bunk beds (two sets of single bunks/1x upper + 1x lower). Lower bunks can be joined to a Queen-size double bed (+ 2 upper bunks). Some QUADS are with 1x single bed, 1 single sofabed and 2x upper bunks.

The cabin door's width is 57 cm.

Oceanview Cabin

Oceanview cabins are in 3 types - DOUBLE, TRIPLE and QUAD.

QUAD cabins are with 2x lower single beds and 2x upper bunks.

Star Princess ship's oceanview cabin categories were OV, OW, OY, OZ-Obstructed, OC, OF, OE-Porthole.

Interior Cabin

TWIN Interior cabins are with two lower twin beds convertible to a Queen-size double bed.

TRIPLE Interior cabins are with two lower twin beds plus one upper bunk (single).

QUAD Interior cabins are with two lower twin beds plus two upper bunks (single).

Wheelchair-Accessible Handicap Cabin

The cabin door's width ranges between 86-88 cm. The bathroom door's width is 83 cm.

Wheelchair-accessible (adapted for passengers with disabilities) cabins feature wider doorways (cabin and bathroom), more spacious interiors (to allow wheelchairs to be used inside), larger bathrooms (shower only/no bathtub or hot tub, shower seat, extra handrails, no steps), a ramp to access the balcony, pillow menu (3 different types of pillows).

TWIN CABINS are with twin beds (convertible to a Queen-size double bed, except cabins 9732 thru 9733, which are with two single beds (fixed against the walls).

TRIPLE CABINS (category IE) are with 2 single beds plus 1 upper bed. The other categories are with double occupancy.

On P&O Pacific Encounter cruise ship, handicapped cabins are in the following categories (room numbers):

• OW (8301, 8302, 8303, 8304)
• MD (9732, 9733)
• IB (10248, 10252, 10312)
• B2 (10301, 10302, 10303, 10304)
• IC (12248, 12252,12312, 14248, 14252)
• BB (11301, 11302, 11303, 11304)
• IE (8716, 8717)
• BC (12301, 12302, 12303, 12304)

Pacific Encounter cabins review

Star Princess (Pacific Encounter) cabins with balconies are 719 (80% of all the 935 outside staterooms). Wheelchair-accessible cabins (for disabled passengers) are 25 (of which 12 balcony, 4 outside, 9 inside).

Follows the review of Star Princess (Pacific Encounter) staterooms as amenities, furniture and included (complimentary) services:

• Suites with step-out balconies (Grand Suite, all grades Balcony Suites and Mini-Suites) have walk-in closets (ample storage space), living rooms (sofabed, desk, vanity table, armchairs), bathroom (WC-toilet, shower stall, whirlpool bathtub, double sinks).
• Family Suites are with 3 interconnected rooms (the living room is in between). Both bedrooms are with ample closet space, bathroom (shower, bathtub), desk, drawer. The living room has a sofabed. Floor-ceiling sliding doors lead to a large step-out balcony.

Bonus amenities in all Suites are the deluxe mattress/pillows, 2 smart HDTVs, CD/DVD player, upgraded bathroom amenities (massage showerheads, luxury bath products), luxury furniture on the balcony, complimentary services (Spa Thermal Suite, Internet Cafe, laundry/dry cleaning, one-time minibar).

All balcony cabins feature sliding glass doors (floor-ceiling) opening to a private verandah equipped with 1 round table and 2 patio chairs. Balcony cabins are with large wardrobes, bathroom (WC-shower), desk, drawer, some have additional beds (for 3rd/4th passenger). Category BI is Interconnecting (Family Balcony).

Oceanviews (outside cabins) have a picture window (category OP have Porthole Windows). Categories OV, OW and OY are with an obstructed view. Category OI is interconnecting (Family Outside). Inside cabins have the same size and amenities as the OceanViews but lack the window. Category II is interconnecting (Family Inside)

All Star Princess (Pacific Encounter) staterooms as complimentary amenities offer living area (mirrored vanity, writing desk, seating), 2 twin beds (convertible to Queen-size double bed), deluxe bedding sets (Egyptian cotton linens), wardrobe, desk with chair, smart HDTV, direct-dial phone, electronic safe box and lifejackets (in the closet), hairdryer, bath products (shampoo, body lotion, conditioner), mini-bar/fridge, individual air-conditioning, evening turndown service, complimentary 24-hour room service.

During the Star Princess ship’s 2017 refurbishment, all staterooms were upgraded with “Princess Luxury Bed”. The new “cruise bed” was developed in collaboration with PhD Michael Breus (commonly known as “The Sleep Doctor”) and the designer Candice Olson. The new cabin beds feature a luxury pillow-top mattress, individually wrapped coils (reducing surface sway) and hypoallergenic duvets.

All top-tier Suites plus M1-Mini Suites enjoy exclusive access to Byron Beach Club ( deck 16 forward ), complimentary in-cabin dining (hours d’ oeuvres), priority embarkation/disembarkation/tendering, a separate area (part of the MDR /main dining room) reserved for Suite passengers only. The exclusive dining experience includes expedited seating, dedicated waiter staff service, exclusive menu (featuring chef’s specials) and tableside preparation of some dishes. Suite Dining is available for breakfast and dinner every day, and also for lunch on sea days only.

Cots are available in selected cabins only and not available in any interior and oceanview quad cabins. Bedding configurations 3- and 4 -berth staterooms may vary. It may not be possible to have Queen-size bedding when the upper bunks (3rd and 4th beds) are in use.

Wheelchair-accessible cabins are with  wider doorways (fitted for wheelchairs), no thresholds into the  bathroom, handrails around the b athroom. Ambulatory Accessible cabins have grab bars and/ or fold down shower seats. These are not  wheelchair-accessible staterooms.

Pacific Encounter cabin and suite plans are property of P&O Australia (P&O Cruises) . All floor plans are for informational purposes only and CruiseMapper is not responsible for their accuracy.

Pacific Explorer Oceanview

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• Ship info and tracking
• Cabin Check

Pacific Explorer Oceanview cabin location, stateroom cabin videos, stateroom cabin pictures, floor plans, diagrams, stateroom features and perks. Cruisedeckplans.com also provides links to actual stateroom cabin pictures and videos on this page. You can see details and floor plans for all of Pacific Explorer's different stateroom cabin categories on the NEW cabins page.

Stateroom Features

• Two twin beds that convert to a queen
• Picture window (categorie OW is obstructed by lifeboats or ship structures)
• Refrigerator
• Spacious closet
• Bath with shower
• Category O5 has a large sloping window.

Sub Categories

   Oceanview

   Obstructed View

100% Egyptian cotton linens / Chocolates on pillow /

Deck Locations

Five  

Eight  

Nine  

Eleven  

Important Information

Cabin size ranges from 147 to 155 square feet. Handicap cabin size is 226 square feet with 33" door. Category CC, C and DD are 183 square feet.

Oceanview Typical Floor Plans

Pacific Explorer Oceanview pictures

Pacific Explorer Oceanview stateroom videos

Scroll over cabin (stateroom) tiles below to click and watch videos. Cruisedeckplans.com shows up to 10 of the most recent videos added to our collection on this page. Be sure to click the link in the section below to see other cabins we have videos for. The date shown is the date video was published. Use this to see decor changes.

Looking for specific Oceanview cabins with pics/videos?

Other categories on pacific explorer.

Click on a category below to go to that page. Stateroom cabin categories are simply the way that PO AU groups the different types of staterooms (cabins). You can see details and floor plans for all of the categories on Pacific Explorer on this page.

Pacific Explorer Oceanview Virtual Tour

Double click on image for full screen. Click and drag to pan room. Use mouse to zoom in and out.

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STATEROOMS & SUITES

All for one and room for all, top-notch amenities spacious accommodations.

Our staterooms are designed with every type of guest in mind. Whether you’re sailing with your significant other, your family, a group of friends, or traveling solo — we’ve got the perfect room to accommodate your party and budget. Take your pick from Interior or Ocean View rooms, Balcony staterooms, or spacious Suites. You can even connect rooms allowing you to stay together with extended family or friends. The options are endless, and the comfort is always guaranteed.

Interior Staterooms

Our interior staterooms include a wide array of amenities for your whole family to enjoy..

Ocean View Staterooms

Savor the seaside and snapshots of landscapes from shore to shore..

Balcony Staterooms

Claim your slice of paradise with balcony views just outside your door. .

Suite Staterooms

Enjoy expansive accommodations that take luxury to the next level. .

Dedicated stateroom attendant

Daily cleaning service

Exclusive bedding collection

Stateroom climate control

Ample closet and storage

In-room HD-TV

In-room safe for valuables

Deluxe toiletries: shampoo, conditioner & body wash

AND MUCH MORE…

Enhanced room service

Voom High-Speed Wifi

Laundry & dry-cleaning

Movies on-demand

YOUR PLACE, YOUR SPACE

You’ll never find a shortage of unbelievable room options. From romantic couples staterooms to spacious family suites, you’ll find just what you’re looking for to complement the adventure of a lifetime. Take a virtual tour to get a better look at our stateroom collection call dibs on your just-right space.

Accessible Interior

Promenade view interior, central park view interior, spacious ocean view, spacious ocean view balcony*, royal suite, grand suite, owner's suite, aquatheater suite.

ROOM TO UNWIND

There’s so much to do each day and night. But somewhere in between it all, you’ll want to relax, unwind, and enjoy some “me time.” When choosing your ideal cruise ship stateroom, first consider how much space you need, and which amenities are most important to you. We’ve broken it down to help you decide which stateroom fits your vacation needs.

FAMILY STATEROOMS

When traveling with your family, space is always on your mind. A cozy Interior Room is our most budget-friendly option, and we offer Spacious Interiors, along with connecting rooms to accommodate larger families. The range of ultra-spacious cruise rooms across categories spans all the way up to our new Ultimate Family Townhouse — three stories that elevate the way you stay and play.

STATEROOM FOR COUPLES

If you’re planning a getaway for you and a special someone, we’ve got a range of cruise suites to serve as a romantic backdrop. A private balcony, luxurious bedding and in-suite dining are just a few of the upgraded amenities you’ll enjoy. And if it’s extra pampering you seek, be sure to save time for a relaxing service at  Vitality Spa℠ .

SPACIOUS ROOMS FOR GROUPS

Looking for the perfect stateroom for you and your crew? When traveling with a group of friends, there are many options to choose from. Each category has options that offer maximum space to spread out. From Spacious Interior rooms to Ultra Spacious Ocean View rooms, to our top of the line Villa Suite with four bedrooms.

AWE INSPIRING ACCOMMODATIONS ELEVATE YOUR SUITE STAY

Customized adventures, exclusive access and inclusive amenities. Luxury cruise suite accommodations on Royal Caribbean elevate every aspect of your adventure. From full-size tubs in Junior suites to 24-hour room service in Owner Suites and dedicated check-in for Royal Suite class, it’s little details you’d expect — plus elevated experiences you may have never imagined.

THE SUITE LIFE  

Level up your vacation with a spacious suite. Choose between an intimate Junior Suite with great views, or a Grand Suite featuring a bedroom, living area and private balcony. And if you’re looking for the ultimate suite to complement an unforgettable adventure, opt for the Owners Suite loaded with extra added perks.  

ROYAL SUITE CLASS

In Royal Suite Class — available on Oasis Class and select Quantum Class ships —every detail is thought of, so you won’t have to lift a finger. Sea, Sky and Star tiers include perks that range from exclusive spaces and venues to a Royal Genie or Concierge who will craft VIP experiences just for you — and more.

THE ULTIMATE FAMILY SUITES

In the Ultimate Family Suite , you don’t even have to leave your stateroom to enjoy the thrills. Kids have their own in-suite slides and private game room. Plus there’s plenty of perks for parents too, like a private balcony jacuzzi. And our biggest suite ever, the Ultimate Family Townhouse on Icon of the Seas℠  maxes memories across three levels.

Accessible staterooms OUR GUESTS ARE ALWAYS OUR PRIORITY

All our ships have staterooms designed to accommodate guests with mobility disabilities and other disabilities that require the features of an accessible stateroom. Accessible staterooms range from 159 square feet to 298 square feet, and offer a five-foot turning radius in sleeping areas, plus bathrooms and sitting areas for easy maneuverability.

EXPLORE ACCESSIBLE OPTIONS

Royal Up BID YOUR WAY TO A CRUISE UPGRADE

Scoring a fantastic upgrade is easy! Simply browse through stateroom options and select the amount you’re willing to pay the upgrade. Then, you’ll be notified via email if your bid was accepted. From Ocean View and Balcony staterooms to the most expansive suites at sea, the possibilities are endless.

EXPLORE ROYAL UP

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Wondering if you should pick a stateroom that’s forward or aft? We’ve got you covered.

Planning to spend your sea days by the pool? Or maybe you’re most excited about a particular specialty restaurant. Depending on where you plan to spend most of your time, you may have a preference of which venue or part of the ship you prefer to call home. Deck plans vary by ship and can be a helpful tool for picking your stateroom.

If you’re motion sensitive, you’ll want to choose a stateroom that’s lower to the water line and closer to the center of the ship. Layout and location varies by ship, so be sure to check your specific sailing and itinerary.

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• P&O Cruises ( Australia )

Pacific Adventure obstructed oceanview cabins

By LuckiePuris , October 19, 2022 in P&O Cruises ( Australia )

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LuckiePuris

has anyone stayed in an obstructed oceanview on this ship and have photographs to show the lifeboat obstructions?

in particular I’ve noticed there are some obstructed cabins that sit between one lifeboat to the right, one to the left, and may have less view obstructed. If anyone has any photos of these in particular this would be fantastic thanks!

have cruised on other ships with obstructed views so have a general idea but just hoping to see how obstructed they are on this ship.

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There is a youtube clip of 8521 from when it was the Golden Princess. You can find lots of photos on cruisedeckplans >old ships.>golden princess if you are a member (only $8.99 for a year). 

I attach a few photos to give you and idea.

3 hours ago, andlep said: There is a youtube clip of 8521 from when it was the Golden Princess. You can find lots of photos on cruisedeckplans >old ships.>golden princess if you are a member (only $8.99 for a year).  I attach a few photos to give you and idea.

Thank you very much for posting, looks to be more than fine for me, and atleast can see some daylight and the weather 🙂  Thank you!

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• P&O Cruises ( UK )

ocean view rooms on Iona

By DebiGee , December 3, 2022 in P&O Cruises ( UK )

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So sorry if this has been asked before but do the ocean view rooms have proper windows or just the portholes. Also if there are both how do I know which have windows from the deck plans?

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Hi stayed in an accessible ocean view cabin not long after Iona launched and it had a good sized window not a porthole.  Just booked same cabin next year. Have a good time

Somerset Cruiser

I don't think any have portholes, but to be certain don't go forward of the forward staircase. 

I fact we book with a certain cruise club, they will know 😉

Studying the deck plans and a photograph of Iona, there do not appear to be any cabins with portholes but if thinking of a very forward or very aft cabin, best to just double-check.

We had a fab oceanview cabin on deck 4 with a window seat. Midship near stairs/lifts. 4517

We had a lovely big window seat very forward right next to the gym , and no there was not any noise coming from the gym, we wouldn’t hesitate in staying in it again.

Thank you everyone . Ok now I know ocean view sounds good, for winter especially.

I’ve had four cabins on deck 4, all with lovely windows. I’ve been forward and mid and really like these cabins, it’s lovely being so close to the water and you either have a window seat or a wide window ledge so you can sit and watch the sea. I prefer these cabins to a balcony, especially if it’s a colder cruise.

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P&O Arvia sea view Cabin Tour

This post may contain affiliate links. Purchases made through affiliate links wont cost you any more but it may mean we receive a small commission.

Welcome to our P&O Arvia ocean view cabin tour. This is a tour of our ocean view stateroom 4463onboard P&O Arvia

This ocean view cabin Is exactly the same as a P&O Iona ocean view cabin, check out our tour of that here:  P&O Iona sea view Cabin Tour

Standard cabin facilities you’ll find in the P&O Arvia ocean view cabin are:

• Daily steward service
• TV, radio and telephone
• Hairdryer (type of hairdryer may vary dependent on cabin)
• Refrigerator
• Tea/coffee making facilities
• Air conditioning
• Vanity/writing desk and chair
• Wardrobe and drawer space
• Toiletries pack
• A number of coat hangers are provided in the wardrobes – the amount of which can vary, however you are welcome to bring your own should you wish. 

* Safe sizes vary from ship to ship but as a guide they are approximately: Height : 13.5 cm / 5.25 inches Width: 24 cm / 9.5 inches Depth : 20cm / 7.75 inches

You’ll find a multipurpose desk with chair for writing a postcard home or getting ready for the black tie evening along with wardrobe and drawer space for all your clothes.

Included in your toiletries pack in a standard oceanview cabin on P&O Arvia or P&O Iona will be:

• 300ml shampoo (in dispenser)
• 300ml bath & shower gel (in dispenser)
• 300ml hand wash (in dispenser)
• 300ml conditioner (on request only)
• 300ml hand and body moisturising lotion (on request only)
• Shower cap (on request only)

We hope you find this information useful, if you would like to know more about P&O Arvia, or P&O Iona, Check out the links below:

P&O Arvia – Everything you WANT to know, answered!

P&O Iona Review – Full review of Iona

P&O Cruises

P&O Arvia Inside Cabin Tour

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Russian River Cruise from St Petersburg To Moscow.

By: Author Kate O'Malley

Posted on Last updated: December 6, 2021

Home >> Russia >> Russian River Cruise from St Petersburg To Moscow.

Have you ever dreamed of strolling through Moscow’s Red Square or seeing the ballet in St Petersburg – A city where opulent palaces offer a glimpse into one of the world’s most  intriguing royal dynasties .

Russia’s two great cities still invoke the old school romance of travel – a journey into the enigmatic and exotic. However, in a country as immense as it is fascinating, there is so much to see beyond the metropolis of Russia’s great cities.

A Russian River Cruise , St Petersburg to Moscow on Viking Cruises Waterways of the Tsars cruise will take you to Russia’s great cities and beyond.

Sailing the rivers and lakes of Russia from St Petersburg to Moscow takes you into Russia’s heartland. It is deep in the country where you find the Golden Ring cities, charming towns and iconic, sometimes forgotten monuments that helped define Russia’s history.

A Russian river cruise opens up possibilities to visit parts of Russia that may otherwise be logistically difficult. It also offers a very efficient and cost-effective way to see the best of this vast country.

Table of Contents

Visiting Russia

Unfortunately, Russia is a country too often sidestepped by many travellers. It has been more than two decades since Russia emerged from behind the Iron Curtain and began welcoming tourists with semi-open arms and a cold stony smile.

However, Russia still carries the stigma of being a difficult country to travel to and in. Thanks mostly to a reputation of complicated, bureaucratic visa processes and rumoured corruption.

Russian Visa Requirements

If you are travelling through Russia on a river cruise, unless you are eligible for the new 16 day e-Visa, most foreign nationals must have a tourist visa.  The Russian visa process can take up to a month or two. It is important to check your visa requirement and make sure you get it submitted well in advance of your intended travel date.

The gradual introduction of the new e-visa is making the process simpler but is restricted for visits of only eight days and specific entry points. Based on this, the e-visa is not suitable for a river cruise in Russia. 

Applying online for your Tourist Invitation Letter is quick and simple, allowing you to proceed with your application. You can read more about planning your trip to Russia here . 

Travel in Russia

As independent travellers, our biggest dilemma with Russia is logistics. Russia covers two continents and nine time zones, and the highlights and must-sees are spread far and wide, with nothing in between.

When you don’t have unlimited time or an unlimited budget, the distances can pose some issues. Transport through Russia can be expensive and less than comfortable, and car hire could be a costly alternative.

Is a River Cruise The Best Way To See Russia?

We would say yes, a river cruise is a fantastic way to see Russia. For most, Russia is a once in a lifetime adventure, so, it boils down to how much of Russia do you want to see.

A river cruise makes sense for most travellers to Russia and most travel budgets. A cruise enables visitors to experience more of Russia than perhaps they would on their own.

You Might Also Like: What to Take on A Russian River Cruise

Viking River Cruise in Russia

Much like some of the unreliable, uncomfortable transport methods available in Russia, some of the Russian cruise lines are shall we say, still a little Soviet.

Viking Cruises, on the other hand, offers a product in Russia to the same high, 5- star standard as their river cruises throughout Europe. A full-service luxury river cruise from the moment you make your booking to the time you disembark.

And much like Viking’s European itineraries, the Viking Russian Cruise itineraries are destination focused with high quality shore excursions and enrichment experiences. 

Plan Your Trip to Russia: Know The Best Time to Visit Europe

Viking’s All-Inclusive Cruise Packages

The big appeal of cruising for some is the all-inclusive aspect, so they know what to expect. With Viking Cruises, you can expect so much more than just an all-inclusive cruise package of meals and drinks.

In addition to optional excursions, there are also lots of free shore excursions throughout the cruise. 

Fly Cruise Packages

You can book your Russian river cruise inclusive of flights from your home port, wherever in the world that may be. An attractive option for those wishing to take the guesswork out of arranging flights, knowing you have access to Vikings Cruises discounted fares and upgrades.

Fly cruise packages include all taxes and airport transfers in Russia. Helpful for those who don’t like to navigate the taxi hustle on arrival in a new country. (Speaking from first-hand experience, Russia certainly has some good taxi scams running from the airport).

Information to assist you with the visa process is also included, the most daunting prospect of visiting Russia for many.

More Incredible Viking Cruises You Can Take in Europe:

• Viking Cruises Paris to Swiss Alps Christmas Market River Cruise
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• Viking Homelands Cruise Review. The Best of Northern Europe
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Shore Excursions and Tours in Russia

During the river cruise, a high quality tour itinerary of shore excursions and tours are included to ensure you experience the best things to do in Russia.

There are also some delightful surprises, such as an evening at the ballet in St Petersburg. The tour schedule is designed with the arts and culture in mind, not just the big tourist hot spots.

Additional or Optional Tours can also be purchased at each destination such as our traditional Russian Banya experience in Mandrogy or the vodka tasting on board.

You also have access to some very appealing Exclusive Access tours such as a behind the scenes look at the Hermitage in St Petersburg.  All tours include transfers where required, entry fees and extremely knowledgeable, tourism professionals as your guides.

On Board Lectures, Demonstrations and Activities.

In addition to activities during cruising times, such as cooking demonstrations and traditional Russian tea’s, the guides also offer daily lectures on Russian history and politics.

The lectures are one of the highlights of the trip. Engaging and well-researched lectures, delivered from a Russian perspective, provide an entirely different and refreshing perspective on Russian culture and politics.

Russian Cuisine on Board

Viking River Cruises always excel when it comes to onboard dining. Interchangeable a la carte menus are available at all meal times showcasing Russian cuisine and produce.

The less adventurous are well catered for with an excellent “always available” a la carte menu. Portions are sensible to allow for all courses to be tried and savoured. Unlike the glutenous portions or “ all you can eat” buffet’s some cruise ships favour. 

Drinks are complimentary with all meals, including a tipple of champagne at breakfast if you are so inclined.

A Silver Drinks Package can be purchased, which gives you unlimited drinks from the bar for the entire cruise as well as a vast selection of wines.

The Convenience and Comfort of River Cruises

There is a lot to be said for having your floating hotel accompany you on your journey through Russia. Unlike some ocean cruises where the focus can be on shipboard life at the expense of the destinations, on this Russian river cruise, the destinations are the focus.  

You get the complete package of the best things to see in Russia without having to navigate multiple modes of transport or having to unpack, pack and move accommodation all the time.

Once you are on board, whether it be in the big cities or the remote countryside, you only need to check in and out once. You do feel like you have your hotel on the road with you – A fantastic boutique hotel.

And it is not only the tour guides who are tourism professionals. You also have at your disposal a 5-star hotel team — professional food and beverage staff, well versed in the art of fine dining and world-class chefs.

The staterooms are spacious and extremely comfortable. Private balconies, quality furnishings, and enough high tech amenities such as Satellite TV and WIFI to keep you entertained are standard throughout the ship.

There are also plenty of comfortable public spaces, both indoors and out with panoramic views to relax and take in the vista while you are cruising.

Cruise St Petersburg to Moscow

For us, opting to travel through Russia on a river cruise was primarily motivated by the itinerary. Most people would be happy to visit Moscow or St Petersburg. But why make an effort to visit this intriguing country and miss all the beautiful and exciting things to see outside of the main cities despite the vast geographic distances.

The Cruise Itinerary

The river cruise itinerary is what sold us on this mode of travel. The itinerary enabled us to spend ample time in St Petersburg and Moscow; then with our floating hotel in tow, we took to the river.

It is here where we saw the other Russia. Stunning countryside, small villages, abandoned churches and majestic cathedrals dotted along the river banks. A view of Russia that speaks volumes about the country’s history and culture.

As we slipped down the river, we had the  White Nights  in our favour so could take advantage of the long days and very short nights of summer. Enjoying the sights of the Russian countryside en route to our next destination. Each day a different destination with a cruising schedule set to maximise time spent ashore.

Waterways of the Tsars Schedule

Seven different destinations are visited in the 13 days onboard. This includes three full days in both Moscow and St Petersburg. We would not have achieved this on our own in the two weeks we had.

Viking Cruises Waterway of the Tsars St Petersburg to Moscow Itinerary

Commencing either in St Petersburg or Moscow, the itinerary allows for three days in each city. You can read about the cruise itinerary and shore excursions in St Petersburg and Moscow here.

St Petersburg & Moscow

Between Moscow and St Petersburg, you can experience the beautiful Golden Ring cities and villages of Russia. These are the towns and cities that lie beyond Russia’s great cities on the Waterways of the Tsars. 

Mandrogy Russia

Mandrogy, built in 1996 as an open-air museum, is a replica of   Verkhine Mandrogi , a Russian village destroyed during WWII. The enterprise was intended to give travellers cruising between St Petersburg and Kizhi a feel for traditional Russian life. 

Unfortunately, we found Mandrogy to be very much that – a fabricated tourist attraction including costumed craftsmen and women with innumerable craft stalls and workshops selling the same trinkets. 

Paint your Own Russian Matryoshka Doll

The central premise for this village appears to be shopping and, of course, the famed Russian Matryoshka Dolls. You can partake in a workshop to learn how to paint your own nesting dolls or, watch any number of the local artists paint dolls in their style. These, of course, are available for purchase. 

While Mandrogy was not our cup of tea, there was a silver lining to this little settlement – the traditional Russian Banya.

Experience a Russian Banya

The banya is one of those quintessentially Russian experiences.  One of the oldest Russian traditions dating back centuries. A tradition that has not lost its appeal and is still popular today.

Essentially the banya is a steam room or sauna where water is poured over hot rocks to create steam with temperatures often exceeding 93ºC. However, the banya comes with a little more ceremony than your average steam room or sauna.

Specific brooms are used in the banya called veniks . These are usually bunches of birch or oak branches which are dipped into cold water in the sweltering steam room. They are then smacked briskly over the body.

Typically,  there will be a person responsible for this task – a banschik.  As the banya is considered a very social activity, a  banschik  is often not required as friends will usually smack each other with the veniks.

Thankfully our experience included a banschik as we would not have known the sequence of events nor the protocols for polite smacking! So, how does one banya?

• Enter the banya and wait for temperatures to become almost unbearably hot.
• Relax while the banschick  completes a ceremonial beating of everyone’s bodies with the veniks.  It includes intense rustling of the branches either side of your head, which is repeated several times.
• Leave the banya and allow the  banschick  to pour freezing cold water over you.
• Adjourn to the adjacent room for tea and jam.
• Repeat steps 1 & 2.
• Leave the banya house and run to the river to plunge into the icy waters.
• Repeat step 6.

You get the gist! Used as a method of bathing in Russia for centuries, the banya is said to have a myriad of health benefits. There are many communal or public banyas in the cities and towns, and some people still have private banyas in their homes.

The banya is one Russian experience we highly recommend, providing you have the constitution to withstand the intensity of it.

Near the centre of the Lake Onega, the second largest lake in Europe, you will find the wild and isolated island of Kizhi. Kizhi is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed open-air museum.

At only 6 km long and 1 km wide, this tiny island is one of Russia’s most visited. The settlements buildings date back to the 15th century, some of which were moved from various Karelian villages during Soviet times to help preserve them.  

However, the islands most notable and recognisable attractions are the famous wooden onion-domed buildings- the twenty-two domed Transfiguration Church and the nine domed Intercession Church.

Locals will tell you; both churches were constructed without the use of a single nail. The unknown builder is also said to have destroyed his axe on completion of the Transfiguration Church. He is quoted as saying: “ There was not and will not be another to match it”.

Within the smaller Church of the intercession, you may hear the local clergy, a beautiful and moving baritone choir intone the ancient liturgy. The islands ancient settlement gives insight into the harsh realities of life in the Russian heartland. Places where entire settlements were isolated for much of the year throughout long winters. You can read more about  visiting Kizhi Island here .

Along the Volga – Baltic waterway you will find the urban settlement of Kuzino approx. 600km north of Moscow.

In addition to some fascinating churches, some abandoned or in various states of repair that are worth exploring, the highlight of this region is the Kirillo – Belozersky Monastery. More like a fortress than a monastery, the magnificent complex sits on Severskoye Lake.

Severskoye Lake is deemed so pure no motorboats are allowed on it. According to urban myth, the waters were blessed, giving them qualities similar to those of the mythical fountain of youth.

From humble beginnings in 1397 when two monks founded the monastery in nothing more than a cave dug by two men. By 1494, now a stone structure, it was the largest church in medieval Russia.

Defended by thick walls and towers it was a refuge for not just monks and peasants, but also a place of pilgrimage for Tsars and so benefited from generous donations and tax breaks. Ivan the Terrible was said to be a regular visitor and big tipper. The financially favourable guest list enabled the monastery to grow in size and importance.

By 1764, Catherine the Great had stripped the monastery of its land and converted the complex into a prison. In 1924 the Bolshevik government shut the complex down and executed or arrested the monks. Interestingly, unlike most monasteries, it was not converted into a concentration camp but rather a museum.

Yaroslavl, the largest city on the Volga, lies just 250 km’s north of Moscow which makes this Golden Ring city a popular weekend getaway.

Perhaps this quaint city of six hundred thousand should be called the city of churches because here you will find an impressive kaleidoscope of onion domes. At the convergence of the mighty Volga and Kotorosl rivers is the historic part of the city, a listed UNESCO World Heritage site.

The city dates back to Prince Yaroslav or Yaroslav the Wise  when he came ashore in around 998, slew the sacred bear worshipped by the local pagan tribes and converted them to Christianity. Hence, the bear on the city’s coat of arms.

While these events may have attributed to the city’s religious fervour – the churches that now adorn the skyline were the work of 17th and 19th century merchants on a quest to outdo each other in a bid to beautify the city.  To this day it remains a magnificent city, one that appears to have remained unscathed by the soviet facelift given to much of Russia. 

Uglich, another of the Golden Ring Cities. A picturesque riverside city filled with inviting parks and brightly coloured church domes. The history of Uglich is steeped in a murder mystery that changed the history of Russia.

Ivan the Terrible was never quite right following the death of his wife Anastasia and so instituted a reign of terror that earned him his name. Although respected for his military victories and management of Russian interests, he was also feared for some terrible deeds.

One such deed was accidentally killing his son and heir with a blow to the head. Due to this faux par on Ivan’s behalf, his crippled son Feodor, who by all reports was not well in mind or body, ascended to power. However, the country was being run by Feodor’s brother in law, Boris Godunov.

Quietly in the wings was Dimitry, Ivan’s younger son who could have succeeded the throne in light of Feodor’s lack of interest in political issues. In 1591, at the age of ten, Dimitry was found dead thanks to a stab wound. It was decided Dimitry slit his own throat with a sword during an epileptic fit.

At the risk of stating the obvious – it was widely assumed the boy was murdered. However, those who dared to accuse Boris Gudunov only did so once. The mystery remains, and so does this beautiful city close to Moscow.

Should You Choose A River Cruise to Travel Russia?

When it comes to visiting a country like Russia, we feel a river cruise is possibly the best way to maximise your experience of this incredible country.  Had we decided to travel independently, there is no way we would have had the vast and varied experiences we were able to on this cruise.

The 5-star hotel service, excellent dining and professional tour organisation far exceeded any of our expectations. We now understand why people often choose river cruises as the best way to experience a country. We have since travelled on a number of river cruises through Eastern Europe and the Danube and still believe it to be a value for money way to travel, especially in Europe.

If you are looking to see Russia beyond the big cities, cruising the waterways from St Petersburg to Moscow will reveal the beauty of the towns and the landscapes of Russia’s heartland. A river cruise is a fabulous way to travel Russia and a great way to glean a deeper understanding of this mysterious country.

Viking River Cruise In Russia Facts

• Viking River Cruises has three vessels operating in Russia offering a  13-day “Waterways Of The Tsars” cruise  running between Moscow and St Petersburg.
• Prices start at ~USD $4,500. Viking Cruises also offer some great “Early Bird” specials available for advance bookings.
• The cruise includes accommodation, all meals, drinks with meals, tours and onboard lectures. Additional or  Optional Tours  can be purchased on board.
• Flights, including taxes and transfers, can be arranged inclusive of your cruise price.
• A tourist visa will be required for most foreign nationals to enter Russia, it is important to check if you will require this well in advance of your cruise date.

We would like to thank Viking Cruises for hosting us on the Waterways Of The Tsars cruise to facilitate this article. As always, all opinions expressed are our own and have not been influenced in any way.