lake champlain sailboat cruises

Whistling Man Schooner Company

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Whistling Man Schooner Company - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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SAIL Adirondacks

Old boats, new adventures.

SAIL ADIRONDACKS (SAIL ADKs) is a crewed sailboat charter service with locations in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains at our Saranac Lake  base and on beautiful Lake Champlain at our Port H enry  base.

SAIL ADKs offers the region’s only crewed sailing experience...

 ...on a fleet of classic sailboats plying some of the most beautiful pristine waters of the world. Whether you choose the challenge of mastering the fickle winds and multiple islands of our small mountain lakes or prefer the wide open cruising grounds of Lake Champlain, SAIL ADKs has a sailing experience to add fun and excitement to your visit to the Adirondacks.

  Sign up for a learn to sail lesson and master the basics of harnessing mother nature to move you swiftly and quietly across the water, or kick back and relax while our experienced captain sails you past some of the best views in the North Country.

Sailing with SAIL ADKs is always fun, hands-on and informative. Choose the inland lakes or the cruising grounds of wide-open Lake Champlain (or both) and book your SAIL Adirondacks experience today.

Choose an experience from one of our two bases

Book Port Henry Experience

Book Saranac Lake Experience  

My wife and I joined Captain B. on his Saranac Lake vessel for an early Autumn outing. The sun was shining and we chartered a nice course through the lakes many corners observing the orange leaves aglow. Its amazing to experience the speeding momentum of the craft accompanied by the calm tranquility of the lakes waters. The lake is both pristine and uncrowded. Captain B is a very convivial host and instructor who works well with nervous inexperienced sailors. Many thanks to Captain B and the O'Day 23 for a very special, memorable outing.

I also felt the experience was very convenient and an excellent value. The Captain provides excellent directions to the boat launch and goes above and beyond the call of duty to make the trip an excellent outing. I would recommend the 3 hour time slot for future sailors to get the full experience of different sailing techniques

Kellen & Briana B. 

thank you for great sailing. 

We did like it a lot.

-Mila 

Your Reservation Starts Here!

We look forward to crafting your perfect sailing experience. Please  let us know your preferred  dates, cruise option and base location below. Captain Barry will contact you to set up your charter! 

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Upper Saranac Lake

Indian carry state fishing access.

7.4 miles east of Tupper Lake 

NYS Route 3

Port Henry Base

Bridgeview Harbour Marina   https://bridgeviewharbour.com/.   

54 Harbour Lane,

Port He nry, NY  12974

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Join us aboard buttercup for a tour of lake champlain

Enjoy an outing on the water while hearing stories about lake champlain and its history.

You can hop aboard one of our regular cruises or reserve a private charter! We depart from the Burlington Community Boathouse.

To read about the types of cruises we offer, check out the Your Experience page.

Sailing Sea to SEE S/V BLU NORTH A CHARTER ACTIVITY

Sailing tours on lake champlain, plattsburgh ny, book now for 2024 season, charter reservations are available , book now 2024, spend the day sailing the broad waters of lake champlain.

Private or group sailing excursions on Lake Champlain aboard the classic sailing sloop, Blu North, We offer 2.5-hour tours aboard our C&C Landfall 38-foot sailboat.

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Carillon Boat Cruises Highlight Discoveries of What Lies Beneath Lake Champlain

Tours operate Tuesday-Sunday starting May 24, 2024 and highlight dozens of archaeological sites

The Carillon will return to Fort Ticonderoga with boat tours beginning on May 24th. The 75-minute narrated boat cruises cover some of the most archaeologically rich waters in North America while surrounded by breathtaking lake views, commanding mountains and the majestic fort.

This attraction at Fort Ticonderoga - a major cultural destination, museum, and National Historic Landmark located in New York’s 6-million-acre Adirondack Park - offers passengers a unique travel experience. The tours feature Ticonderoga’s epic story as one of North America’s most strategic strongholds and places the iconic fort into a larger context as part of the imperial struggle for the continent in the 18th century.

“From shipwrecks to a massive bridge that the Americans built in 1776, Lake Champlain holds defining stories of America’s past,” said Beth L. Hill, Fort Ticonderoga president and CEO. “Fort Ticonderoga’s layers of history carry right from the land onto the water. The Carillon boat tours help ignite visitors’ imaginations as they explore this internationally strategic stretch of water and has quickly become one of the most popular attractions as part of the Fort Ticonderoga experience.”

Boat tours will run Tuesday-Sunday May 24 through mid-October. The 60-foot boat is available for daily tours, field trips, sunset cruises, and private charters. A selection of regional beer and cider, wine, soft drinks, water, and snacks are available for purchase on board. Tickets for the boat cruise are available online at www.fortticonderoga.org or can be purchased on-site during a visit on a first-come basis. Boat tours are available rain or shine.

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4 Brothers Charter Co.

We offer private cruise experiences. Your party will have the tug to yourself. Contact us if you cannot find a convenient cruise time and we will do our best to accommodate your party.

The finest charter experience on lake champlain..

4 Brothers Charter Company  offers the finest private charters in the area with a safe and hearty USCG inspected vessel and well-seasoned captains at the helm. 

Welcome Aboard!

4 Brothers Charter offers something that other charters do not; the privacy of a smaller vessel with the big heart of a Tug. Our Captains ensure that everyone on board has the chance to enjoy their experience while laughing, learning, and making lasting memories. TUGLIFE!

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14 Best Boat Rentals in Vermont

If you’re spending time in Vermont, renting a boat is a great way to see the state from a different perspective. But with so many different rental options out there, how do you make the right choice?

That’s where we can help! We’re going to explore 14 of the best boat rentals in Vermont . And whatever kind of trip you’re planning, we hope you’ll find the perfect solution.

So if you’re ready, let’s find out what’s out there!

Best Boat Rentals in Vermont

1. woodard marine, hydeville, vermont.

Woodard Marine in Hydeville has a fantastic range of different boats to rent. Note that you’ll need to be at least 24 years old and have a boating license in order to operate any of their models.

If that’s not a problem, you can choose from fishing boats , standard, deluxe and premium pontoons, and deluxe runabouts. They’re available to rent on a daily basis, with a day’s rental starting at 9 am and finishing at 4 pm. Rent for multiple days and you can benefit from cheaper rates.

All the boats come with a full tank of gas. You’ll just need to fill up again before you return.

The biggest vessels are the premium pontoons. They’re actually tri-toons and they’re 23 feet long. They’ll carry a maximum of ten people and can be used with boards, skis and tubes. Those are available to rent separately too.

The standard and deluxe pontoons are both 22 feet long and will carry up to eight people. Note that the standard versions aren’t suitable for pulling tubes.

Anglers will like the 14-foot aluminum fishing boat with capacity for up to four people. And for speed, choose the deluxe runabout, a 21-foot open bow boat with a 200-horsepower engine. That’s suitable for up to eight people.

2. Champlain Classic Charters, Burlington, Vermont

If you’re looking for a charter experience in Burlington, check out Champlain Classic Charters.

Their fleet can accommodate up to eleven passengers in two boats. The Butter can host up to six, while the Peanut will carry up to five.

The captain and crew will be provided for you. Choose between a daytime and sunset excursion. Both are a standard 2 hours long, but can be extended to 3 or 4 hours for an additional cost.

Bring along your own food and drink for the trip . You’ll have access to multiple yeti coolers and 20 pounds of ice to store them in.

There’s also a Bluetooth stereo, so you can plug in your playlist. And you’ll get eight freshly laundered towels to dry off if you decide to take a dip.

3. Apple Island Marina, South Hero, Vermont

South Hero’s Apple Island Marina offers a choice of pontoon or non-motorized rentals to enjoy your time on Lake Champlain.

The pontoons come in two different sizes, carrying a maximum of eight or ten people.

You’ll be captaining the boat yourself. Operators born after January 1 1974 will need to be certified as having completed their home state’s Boat Safety Course. They’ll also need to be at least 18 years old and have a full driver’s license and credit card.

All rentals are for a half or full day. The half day slots run from 9 am to 1 pm or 1.30 to 5.30pm. The full day starts at 9 am and finishes at 5.30 pm. Go during the week for the cheapest rates. Fuel costs extra.

If you want to get closer to the water, canoe, rowboats and single and tandem kayaks can be hired too. Like the motorized vessels, you can choose between a half and a full day’s rental.

4. Red, Burlington, Vermont

Red offers private sailing on a classic yacht captained by an expert. Red is a 1969 Swan 43, and she is both elegant and comfortable.

The design allows the boat to be operated from the helm, so you won’t need to scurry around the deck during maneuvers! And if you’d like to, you’ll have the opportunity to take the wheel for a spell.

Two-hour sails are available, and they’ll be private for your group. There are a number of departures each day, as well as a sunset cruise.

All excursions include non-alcholic drinks, and you can bring your own food too. (Note that chips are banned, as they stain the deck.)

If you’re looking for something special, other options are available too. There are corporate days out and chances to take part in races. And the highlight is a biennial trip to the Caribbean.

  5. Sail Wild Air, Burlington, Vermont

Sail Wild Air offers charter sail boats on Lake Champlain in Burlington. This is another case where the captain will be provided for you – but otherwise, you’ll have the boat to yourself.

The Wild Air is a 32-foot Beneteau First yacht that sails out of Mallets Bay. It’s both nimble and large enough to be stable on the water. You can choose either to practise your sailing skills, or just relax and enjoy the ride.

Tours take in Burlington, Colchester and Vermont, or Plasttsburgh, Essex and Westport, New York. You can head out for 2 or 3 hours, or extend your trip for an additional fee.

Note that all passengers must be at least 12 years old and fully vaccinated against Covid.

6. Umiak Outdoor Outfitters, Stowe and Richmond, Vermont

Umiak Outdoor Outfitters offer a range of “car top rentals” from their stores in Stowe and Richmond.

Hire a canoe, solo or tandem kayak, white water kayak or SUP for the day or several days. If you’re just renting for the day, you can book online. For longer rentals , give them a call. There’s a slight reduction in the rate for the second day onwards.

All the necessary equipment will be included with your rental. You’ll get instructions on loading and unloading the boat from your car too. The staff will also be able to provide expert advice on where to paddle.

You can pick up your boat any time after the store opens, and you’ll need to return it before closing. The Stowe store is open from 9 am to 6 pm seven days a week. The Richmond store opens an hour later and is closed on Mondays.

7. Ladd’s Landing Marina, Grand Isle, Vermont

Head to Ladd’s Landing Marina in Grand Isle and you’ll find a great selection of powerboats and sailboats to rent.

You can rent your chosen boat for either a day, or for a six-day block. It’s recommended to book in advance, and you’ll need to pay a 50 per cent deposit. Note that operators will need to have completed a Boat Safety Course and must present the relevant certificate.

The boats on offer include 17-foot classic Boston Whalers, 17-foot center consoles , and 19, 21 and 24-foot pontoons. There are also 14-foot aluminum fishing boats and a 22-foot old Boston Whaler.

Note that insurance requirements mean you won’t be able to use any of these boats for towing or waterskiing.

If you prefer a sailboat, you’ll have the choice of a catamaran or daysailer. The former is a 14-foot Hobiecat Wave for up to four people. The latter is an elegant 23-foot Paceship Bluejacket, which will seat at least four people in comfort.

8. Point Comfort Boat Rentals, Danville, Vermont

Point Comfort offer a range of pontoon boats that are great for groups looking to spend time on the water.

They’re named after their colors (or, at least, their accent colors). You can choose from the 25-foot tan and 24-foot green boats, both of which will carry up to twelve people. There’s also a 21-foot beige boat, which will carry up to nine. And 18-foot pink or blue boats will carry up to eight.

The boats come with six gallons of gas. You’ll need to pay hefty deposits for damage and cleaning. But these are refundable if the boat is returned clean and undamaged.

Also on offer are rowboats, canoes , pedalboats and solo or tandem kayaks. Rowboats and kayaks can be rented by the day or half-day, canoes and pedalboats for a full day or hourly.

9. Waterhouses, Salisbury, Vermont

Head to Waterhouses Marina on Lake Dunmore and you can pick from a range of motorized and non-motorized boats.

You’ll have a choice of pontoons, carrying between 6 and 12 people, two-person pedalboats and small 2-Stroke fishing boats. All options except the pedalboats can be hired for a full day or by the hour. Pedalboats are hired out hourly.

Note that anyone born after 1974 will need a Boat Safety Certificate to operate any vessel. And if you’re renting a motorized boat , you’ll need a credit card too.

10. Whistling Man Schooner Company, Burlington, Vermont

Whistling Man Schooner Company offer tailored sailing experiences for those who charter their classic sloops.

The beautiful Friend Ship and Wild Rose are perfect for those looking for a touch of nautical romance. They feature detailed, carved woodwork, brass fittings and old-time rigging. And they’re perfectly suited to the environment of Lake Champlain.

Friend Ship is the larger of the two, with a capacity of up to twelve people. It also has a larger center deck and a table at which to eat. Wild Rose is very similar in other respects, but will carry only six people.

Day time and sunset cruises are available on both boats , and they include a professional captain. You can book online, and if there’s no availability for your chosen slot, you can be added to a waitlist.

11. North Hero Marina, North Hero, Vermont

If you’re in North Hero, you can rent a 21-foot Premier pontoon from North Hero Marina. It can be rented for a half day, day or multiple days. But in all cases, note that it must be back at the marina by 5.30 pm each day.

The half day slots run from 8 am to 12.20 pm, or from 1 pm to 5.30 pm. A full day counts as 8 am to 5.30 pm.

All boat operators must be at least 18 years old and have a full driver’s license . And those born after January 1 1974 must be able to present a valid boat safety card.

12. Up North Canoe and Kayak, Lamoille County, Vermont

Up North offer a range of options to rent their canoes and kayaks. You can rent for a day or multiple days. If you wish, they can drop the vessels wherever you’re staying anytime between 7 am and 4 pm. And they can arrange pick-up too.

All the kit is included with your rental . That means lifejackets, foam blocks, straps and paddles. If you need any other equipment, just let them know. Chances are they can provide it.

And if you’re in a group, they can offer discounts to keep costs affordable.

13. Reservoir Dawgs Kayak Rentals, Chittenden, Vermont

Reservoir Dawgs provide solo and tandem kayaks and canoes for use on the beautiful Chittenden Reservoir. You can also take them on the wildlife and birdwatcher’s paradise that is Lefferts Pond.

The non-motorized craft allow you to get close to the wildlife without disturbing it. And for a small extra charge, you can have your vessel taken to your chosen launch area.

There are a wide variety of solo kayaks to choose from, suitable for all skill levels. The rental fee includes taxes and paddles. And with kayak rental, it includes PFD too.

14. Vermont Canoe and Kayak, Jeffersonville, Vermont

If you want to explore the Lemoille River, Vermont Canoe and Kayak are a great choice. They offer a choice of SUPs, solo and tandem kayaks, and two and three-seat canoes. All are rented for a full day, and prices include paddles, lifejackets and a shuttle service.

There’s a choice of three different drop-off points offering 1.5, 2 or 3 hours of paddling. Well-behaved dogs are welcome on the boats too.

Private guides are available to accompany you on request. And if anyone in your party has their own canoe or kayak, they can transport it for them. A small charge is payable for the service.

Ready to Rent a Boat?

That brings us to the end of our look at the 14 best boat rentals in Vermont. We hope you’ve enjoyed finding out more about what’s on offer.

From sailboats to pontoons, powerboats to kayaks, there’s something here for every boating enthusiast. We hope we’ve inspired you to take a trip very soon!

Related posts:

• Top 8 Best Boat Rentals in Massachusetts
• 10 Best Boat Rentals in Virginia
• 9 Best Boat Rentals in Pennsylvania
• Top 8 Best Boat Tours in Connecticut

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Efforts to raise a Revolutionary War gunboat from Lake Champlain discussed

Lake Champlain was the site of several naval battles during the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812. The general consensus had been that it was best to keep shipwrecks in the lake because the cold clean water helped to preserve them. But invasive species and climate change are increasing the risk of deterioration and some are calling for the vessels to be removed from the lake. The current focus is on the Spitfire, which sank after a Revolutionary War battle. But raising it could take decades and millions of dollars.

The Spitfire is a gunboat that sank when the Americans retreated after the Battle of Valcour Bay on October 11, 1776. In 1997, a survey team from the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum found the gunboat on the lake bottom in pristine condition.

The Clinton County Historical Association hosted a recent talk by Lake Champlin Maritime Museum Director Emeritus Art Cohn on efforts to raise the Spitfire from the lakebed.

“I was in this room seven years ago to announce our first level of concepts, of thoughts, about how we best preserve this boat,” recalled Cohn. “I was part of the team that discovered the Spitfire 27 years ago. And unlike probably your imagination that oh on the day he discovered the boat they were jumping all over the place and opening the champagne, I can tell you it was the opposite of that. It was a sobering reality that had to be taken care of, managed in the best possible way we knew how to do that. The Spitfire is really right in the middle of an evolving societal issue. Who gets to manage these shipwrecks and how do we best preserve them for this and future generations?”

One attendee felt if the Spitfire is raised it should remain in the community to help increase tourism and historical awareness. Cohn said while that is not the primary reason to remove it from the lake water, it is a substantial secondary purpose.

“That’s not why we would do it, but I think that’s important to look at that,” Cohn said. “This boat fought at the Battle of Valcour Island under the command of Benedict Arnold with a cast of characters that are important to understand. So I think there’s some really high values to be served there.”

The project to raise the Spitfire began in 2017. Outside the venue before he began his presentation, Cohn explained that a 22-year timetable and estimated $44 million cost have not changed.

“Some of the logistics have changed to make it easier,” noted Cohn. “New York has expressed an interest in possibly taking a leadership role. And so it’s actually consolidated some of the issues for us. And so I think that’s part of the new examination that we’re having at this time.”

Cohn says he has been doing nautical archaeology for over 40 years and until now has never recommended that a boat be recovered from the lake’s waters.

“For most of my career I’ve been very vocal about leave them where they are unless there’s a compelling reason to talk about disturbing them. Leave them in situ. That’s the best option. We built replicas so that we didn’t have to raise originals,” said Cohn. “By the same token based on the environmental changes and it’s driven by now that we have invasive mussels in Lake Champlain. We’ve done a study. We can predict that those mussels will encrust this boat and they will degrade it. So we’ve got a little bit of a window to plan.”

Cohn adds they are reviewing other shipwreck projects and the engineering required to successfully raise the Spitfire.

“It’s a Champlain Valley project,” asserts Cohn. “New York, Vermont and Quebec sort of working together. We have a network of historic sites from Chambly to Saratoga and every place in between. We think that it will empower the region. But at the end of the day the most important consideration from my point of view is what can we determine is best for the resource. How do we best preserve this object for future generations and make sure that it is doing the best job it can at sharing its stories with us.”

The Spitfire is protected by the Sunken Military Craft Act. It is in water deep enough and its specific location has not been divulged to protect it from recreational divers.

Another gunboat, the Philadelphia, was raised from the bottom of Lake Champlain in 1935 and is on display at the Smithsonian Museum.

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Russia is again welcoming travelers!

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Check our COVID-19 Policy page to learn more.

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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.

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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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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.

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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.

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