harties boat cruises

• Daily Cruises
• Boat Rentals
• Sunday Lunch
• Shingalani Safaris & Bush Camp
• Accommodation in Harties
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Boat Cruises

Daily Lunch Cruise

• R545 per person
• Children 6-12 R295.00
• 13h00 to 15h00
• 2 hour cruise
• Buffet of finger & Fork gourmet Snacks
• Music & Cash Bar

Champagne Sunset Cruise

• 16h00 to 18h00
• Champagne Welcome drink

Daily Brunch Cruise

• R545 per adult
• 10h00 to 12h00
• A beautiful 2 Hour Cruise around Hartbeespoortdam
• Breakfast/Brunch Gourmet Finger Food Platters
• Cash Bar on board

Best Dam Sunday Lunch Cruise

• R495.00 per adult
• Children 6-12 R245.00
• Welcome Drink on Arrival
• 3 Course Buffet Lunch

Come celebrate your birthday on one of our cruises

Why not book a combo

Boat cruise & bush braai combo, harties boat company offers a unique canvas in hartbeespoort dam to make your next corporate event/cruise memorable..

• Breakfast/brunch Cruise (10 to 12) with a generous finger and fork buffet breakfast
• Lunch Cruise (13h00 to 15h00) with either a menu of hot and cold finger & fork lunch or full 3 course buffet
• Sunset Cruise (16h00 to 18h00) with platters of canopies and a gourmet cocktail finger & fork menu

HARTIES BOAT COMPANY CRUISES

Hartbeespoort Dam, fondly known as Harties, has long been Gauteng’s hideaway and playground, located 45 minutes from Joburg & Pretoria and on route to Sun City and Pilanesberg.

Come and enjoy a cruise on Harties (Hartbeespoort Dam) with friends and family, and the best boat cruise company in Hartbeespoort, in the North West and most probably South Africa, who always put you first in everything we do.  Our cruises are legendary and enjoyed by all our beautiful passengers from all walks of life.  Our Chefs cooks their hearts out to bring you the tastiest gourmet buffet of finger and fork food that is sure to satisfy those empty tummies.  Our friendly welcoming staff will treat you like VIPs from the time you call, till we meet you again on your next cruise celebrating your birthday, special occasion, wedding, conference, team building or leisure day cruise with the Harties Boat Company.

Our highly trained and seasoned friendly courteous crew will ensure a great day out for you and your loved ones.  From serving you your favourite drink to choosing the right music for your cruise. Sit back and enjoy what Hartbeespoort Dam has on offer with our breakfast and lunch cruises, or Sunset cruises that are available 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

So hop aboard ….. it is your turn to come and enjoy Harties!

We operate three vessels and each one has its own charm and personality which caters for different needs.  Danny Buoy is our most famous and can be seen singing and dancing its way across the waves.  Toro Ya Me our family cruiser is a little more subdued but just as much fun.  The newest member to our family The Alba takes cruising on Harties to another level.

We now offer you our Zanzibar Beach Café and Shishanyama Lounge, to chill before and after your 2-hour cruise with lekker music that often goes on till late.

A visit to the Adventure Capital of the North West will definitely be a memorable one and our cruises are the perfect way to experience Hartbeespoort without any traffic!

Daily Cruises Click here

Corporate & Private Events Click here

The Alba Fine Dining Click here

Book your Harties Boat Cruise today

Enjoy a luxurious, 2-hour boat cruise on the placid waters of the Hartebeespoort Dam.

With 3 tours departing daily, at 10:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 4:00 PM, pick the time that fits your schedule and hit the water.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Definitely a must when you go to Hartebeespoort!

Make a booking below, and we will make sure you have the most memorable visit .

Cruises start from R295 per adult, and R147,50 per child. Regret no children under 6 for safety.

Please complete all fields. You will be directed to the booking page once complete.

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The only Daily Boat Cruise in Hartebeespoort

Join us for an amazing day at Hartbeespoort Dam! Our friendly crew is here to make sure you and your loved ones have a fantastic time. From serving your favorite drinks to choosing the perfect music, we’ve got it all covered on our breakfast, lunch, and sunset cruises, available 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

Experience the charm and personality of our three unique vessels. Watch Danny Buoy sing and dance across the waves, enjoy the family-friendly vibes of Toro Ya Me, or elevate your cruise with the newest member, The Alba.

But the excitement doesn’t stop there! Before and after your 2-hour cruise, relax at our Zanzibar Beach Café and Shishanyama lounge, where the cool vibes and great music extend late into the night.

Escape the traffic and make your visit to the Adventure Capital of the North West unforgettable with our hassle-free cruises. Get ready for a memorable experience on the waters of Hartbeespoort Dam!

Daily Lunch Cruise

A daily 2hr guided tour of Hartbeespoortdam whilst snacking to a scrumptious selection of traditional South African hot and cold finger and fork gourmet snacks.

Daily Sunset Cruise

A 2 hour cruise around the dam. Champagne & Canapés are served as well as a selection of hot and cold cocktail snacks on this cruise of celebration.

Weekend Brunch

A beautiful 2 Hour Cruise around Hartbeespoortdam from 10h00-12h00. Breakfast/Brunch Gourmet Finger Food Platters.

What Our Customers Have to Say

Smooth boat ride, lovely view of western area of Hartbeespoort Dam. Plentiful food in the buffet on the cruise!

Sandra Black

Refreshing, beautiful view, nice breeze. Good company and awesome music. A welcome drink and the food was delicious. 

Matjie Nong

It was really fun and relaxing. Definitely a must when you go to Hartebeespoort!

Lerato Mokhemisa

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Sunshine Cruises

Contact us now to book a leisure cruise or speedboat trip!

Speedboat Trips 6 Seater

Enjoy a day out with your family or friends!

CALL US 071 200 1586

Contact us [email protected], facebook page sunshineharties, sunshine boat cruises offers various cruises on hartbeespoort dam.

Experience Hartbeespoort dam the way it should be and view the sites around the dam from the water, including the lavish houses of the hidden estates and the picturesque Magaliesberg Mountain Range. You can take in the sights and sounds of this pristine environment whilst enjoying the company of your family, friends or work colleagues.” Sunshine Cruises are perfect for smaller groups with a more intimate & private environment, cruises can also be shared to make it even more affordable. With us you are not a number you arrive as client and depart as friends. Relax and enjoy the sound of water splashing under the boat, the birds flying over the water and the fish jumping from below while you sip on your drinks listening to your special song or what nature has to offer. You will be captivated by the uniqueness of our services which provide the perfect base for leisure and/or adrenalin seekers to explore Hartbeespoort Dam.

• For the more energetic person, speedboat rides and other water sports can be included in your cruise. [special arrangement]
• Packages can be tailored to suite business or private cruises.
• Fees can change on short notice, please confirm current fees via email [email protected]
• Cruise times may change according to weather and seasons.

Sunshine Leasure or Speed Boat 8/11 Seater

Speedboat trips 8 seater.

Best Times: With the recent changes in weather conditions, it could be anytime but recent experience appear to be early  morning…..

A]   R 270.00 per person * Duration: 60 minute cruise [slow cruise only]

B]   R 390.00 per person * Duration: 90 minute slow cruise

• Minimum of 8 pax & Maximum of 11 pax [weight TC’s]
• Private or shared cruises
• Own drinks allowed @ no hidden fees
• Sound system, you can listen to what you prefer

Leasure Cruise Boat

Best Times: Any time for the adrenalin junky…….

A]   R 285.00 per person * Duration: 60 minutes (combo cruise & speed – min 8 passengers or private option)

B]   R 430.00 per person * Duration: 90 minutes (combination slow & speed, min of 8 passengers)

C]  Tube rides or water-ski on request [10 minute per person]

• Prices on request [R980.00] separate event [prices can change]
• Minimum of 2 pax & Maximum of 4 pax
• Private or shared trips/cruises
• Own drinks allowed @ no extra fee
• Sound system

Leisure Boat

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• Boat Cruises
• Our Vessels

Choose your vessel...

Smaller Barge Vessel: 2hr Cruise with Buffet Catering R495.00pp (Max 16 Passagners) Our Most popular smaller barge cruise is our 2 Hour barge cruise inclusive of Buffet catering and welcome drinks for only R495.00 pp. The alternative is a 1 Hour barge cruise at R190.00 pp. We aim to give you the most relaxing and fun filled experience you can possibly have at Hartbeespoort Dam. Our barges, speed boats, cataraman and sailing boat are equipment with all the lateast safety features and are all SAMSA registered and all have highly skilled and qualified personal at the helm, so rest assured your in safe hands. All our vessels are equiped with sound systems that really get the party started. We look forward to setting sail with you.

View our selection of vessels you can charter here...........

Smaller Barge

Enjoy a 2 hour cruise with full Buffet Catering! ( Max 16 Passangers) R550.00 pp

Enjoy a 1hour speed boat cruise around the dam. (Max 9 Passengers) R240.00 pp

Small Yacht

Enjoy a 2 hr intimate cruise with full Buffett catering (Min 4 passengers) R550.00 pp

Largest Barge

Enjoy a 2 hour cruise with full Buffet Catering! Min 35 Passengers,Max 90 Passangers R550.00pp

Jet Ski Rides

Enjoy a Jet Ski ride around the dam. Adrenaline filled 15mins R190pp

Large Yacht

Large catamaran cruise with full Buffet catering, 2hr Cruise Minimum 10 passengers R750.00pp

Fun Filled Tube Rides for 15 mins R190.00 pp

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The Hartbeespoort Dam Construction wasn’t all plain sailing

We thought you might like to know a bit more about the history of Hartbeespoort Dam.  The beautiful valley in which the dam was built is flanked by the Witwatersberg and Magaliesberg mountains. In 1898, forward thinking landowner Hendrik Schoeman built a stone and concrete wall, damming the Crocodile river at Witwaterspoort. He named the dam after his wife Sophia and spent a small fortune in the day, the princely sum of £10 000.00 building it. At the time to dam was the biggest in the Southern Hemisphere, but unfortunately for Schoeman, a mistake by his engineers led to dam to collapse in heavy rain fall and the structur was washed away.

It was only in 1906 that another feasibility study was undertaken, and in 1909 test hold were drilled to make sure that the ground rock suitable for building such a huge dam. There were many fits and starts in the construction of the dam over the next decade, with work interrupted by the 1 st World War, and legal cases that led to the bankruptcy of the original construction company. Nothing much happened until 1920, when work began in earnest on the project, but once again it was beset by disaster. Upriver temporary structures holding back the Crocodile river collapsed during the floods in March 1921, the original engineer on the project admitted defeat and quit.

A young engineer was then appointed, and he changed the design of the dam wall to an arch design. Upriver the holding dams were rebuilt, and the river tamed so that construction could begin. The dam was completed in April 1923 and the new road over the dam wall was completed in the September, thise road is still used today and takes you through the 56,5m tunnel into the town of Schoemansville.

Want to know more about Hartbeespoort Dam?

This year the Hartbeespoort Dam celebrates its 97 th birthday and to celebrate we though we would share a few facts about the dam.

• The Magaliesberg Mountain range is the oldest mountain range in the world
• Schoemansville, the town located on the banks of the Dam is name after General Hendrik Schoeman, the landowner that owned most of the farmland the dam now covers.
• The young engineer F.W Scott who designed the dam wall has a street in Schoemansville named after him.
• Hartbeespoort was the name of Hendrik Schoeman’s farm and is where the dam got its name.
• Hartbeespoort Dam supplies water to neighbouring farms through 544km’s of canals
• Hartbeespoort Dam has its own NSRI [National Sea Rescue Institute] and is one of only three inland bases in South Africa.
• Hartbeespoort Dam is the only dam in South Africa to use the arch designed dam wall.
• The dam wall is 149.5m long and 54,9m high
• The deepest part of the dam is 45,1m and the average depth is 9,6m
• The surface area of the dam is 2062,8 hectares
• When it’s full the dam has 195,000,000 m3 of water in it

We can’t wait to see you all aboard Danny Buoy to cruise the famous Hartbeespoort Dam with us. We host daily cruises on Hartbeespoort Dam. Cruise with us, our midmorning, lunchtime and sundowner cruises are ideal for the family, couples and groups celebrating special occasions.

Our cruises include a welcome drink and finger foods, and a cash bar is available.

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REAL-LIFE WATER WORLD

Bahamas cruises.

Soak up island views and aquatic adventures with a cruise to the Bahamas.

A respite for sun and sand seekers, the Bahamas is home to light blue beaches, translucent underwater caves, a rich royal heritage and exclusive private isles. These can all be found throughout a beautifully scattered string of 700 islands (most of which are uninhabited). Cruise to the Bahamas to take a dive and witness a majestic coral garden at Orange Bowl reef, hang out at ultra-luxurious resorts like Atlantis, and shop resort fashion in Paradise Island or Nassau. The Bahamas has an island for every taste and style, and it's easy to enjoy its subtropical charm during an overnight stint or a week-long cruise. Discover the magic with a Bahamas cruise.

Save Big With These Bahamas Cruise Deals

Explore more while spending less with Bahamas cruise deals onboard our best cruise ships

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FIND YOUR SUN-DRENCHED PLAYGROUND

Home to enchanting shades of blue and deliciously warm breezes, the Bahamas is the ideal place for adventures involving the sea. The best Bahamas cruises will allow you to dive and discover underwater worlds, meet marine animals and shop for island souvenirs by the ocean. 

INTO THE BLUE

Dive and drift through warm waters to reach colorful coral reefs in Bimini like Rainbow Reef. See mysterious shipwrecks like Theo's Wreck and Sea Star Wreck in Grand Bahama. And take part in some thrilling wall diving — where you can explore deep reef edges — in New Providence.

AQUATIC ADRENALINE IN ATLANTIS

For water thrills and close encounters with marine creatures, head to lush and majestic Atlantis, the fantasy resort by the sea that boasts the world's largest open-air marine habitat and what is perhaps the most exhilarating waterpark around: Aquaventure.

SHOP SEASHELLS BY THE SEASHORE

Shop in the Bahamas with an ocean breeze blowing your way as you explore the crafts center in Bimini, the straw market in Grand Bahama and the exclusive hub that is Crystal Court in Atlantis resort.

BEYOND THE BEACH

Beyond the coasts lie more wonderful discoveries. Saunter the lively streets of Nassau, chill by a freshwater pool in Perfect Day at CocoCay, or get a history lesson at the Heritage Museum during your cruise to the Bahamas. 

ROADS LESS TRAVELED

Shake off the sand and delve deep into towns like Nassau and Freeport and the remote island of CocoCay. Take a nature walk or a Jeep adventure through the pine forests, or stretch your legs at the Rand Nature Center, which offers bird-watching and installations by local artists.

THIS IS YOUR PERFECT DAY

To take your vacation experience to an entirely new level, visit Perfect Day at CocoCay, where a perfect day is waiting. Swim in the Bahamas' largest freshwater pool, go down the tallest waterslide in North America, and chill with a book in the only private overwater cabanas in the Bahamas.

PLAY IN PASTIMES

Out of all the towns in the Bahamas, Nassau encapsulates this destination's heritage with many historical landmarks. Stop by Fort Charlotte, the Queen's Staircase, Pompey Square or the Heritage Museum of the Bahamas and get a dose of its past.

WATERSCAPES ON THE BEST BAHAMAS CRUISES

A cruise to the Bahamas is filled with exciting destinations, each with its own style and vibe. Discover the Bahamas onboard the Best Royal Caribbean Cruise Ships.

DECK DEFYING DAYS

Fill your days on a short escape with Oasis Class thrills — onboard Allure of the Seas ®. Tame waves on two FlowRider® surf simulators. Zipline nine decks up. And catch jaw dropping entertainment, night after night. All while sailing to the picture-perfect shores of The Bahamas and our private destination Perfect Day at CocoCay.

EXPLORE ALLURE OF THE SEAS

EXPLORE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE ISLES

If you’re craving crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs and island vibes turned way, way up, these getaways check all the boxes. Each week-long sailing onboard Adventure of the Seas includes two thrill- and chill-filled days at our top-rated private destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay — plus stops in Grand Bahama Island and  Cozumel . 

EXPLORE PERFECT DAY AT COCOCAY

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Bahamas Cruises Insider

As a subtropical destination, the Bahamas is blessed with year-long comfortable temperatures that range between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. This makes packing an easy chore, with only spring and summer frocks to carry for your trip.

To get around, take the local jitneys, the buses making the rounds to Nassau and Cable Beach. Visit the Bahamas and hop on the ferry to get to Paradise Island, the home of the Atlantis resort.

For those looking to encounter some of the Bahamas famous aquatic critters, October to January is the best time to see Tiger Sharks, December to March is when Hammerhead Sharks migrate through Bimini, and you can find Oceanic Whitetips April to June.

Everything You Need to Plan a Perfect Day at Cococay

May 13, 2024

Planning on maximizing your experience at Perfect Day at CocoCay discover everything you need to know from record-breaking slides and rides, free kid-friendly attractions to delicious restaurants, and chilled out activities.

What to Eat at Coco Beach Club

May 7, 2024

Perfect Day at CocoCay® is Royal Caribbean's® private island escape. It's best known for its thrilling water park, gorgeous cabanas and beautiful beaches, but it's also a foodie's dream come true.

Weekend Getaways: Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas [Infographic]

May 6, 2024

Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas gives you the best opportunity to create your own great weekend getaway the way you want to travel!

Top Free Activities and Free Things To Do at Perfect Day at CocoCay

April 12, 2024

The best free activities and free things to do at Perfect Day at CocoCay®, Royal Caribbean's private island in the Bahamas.

Take Your Perfect Day at CocoCay® to the Next Level | Royal Caribbean Cruises

March 8, 2024

Who said you shouldn't mess with perfection? Visit a thrilling water park or a relaxing lagoon to make your Perfect Day at CocoCay® even better.

Traveling With a Toddler to Perfect Day at CocoCay | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Traveling with a toddler is easy when you book a cruise to Perfect Day at CocoCay. Read on for advice and tips for traveling with a toddler.

Best Food in Nassau, Bahamas

A guide to the best food in Nassau, Bahamas. Discover new flavors in restaurants by the water or within the historic city of Nassau.

One Day, Three Ways At Perfect Day At Cococay

Planning your time at the new CocoCay? If you want to unwind, head to Chill Island on the east side of CocoCay. Or visit the Oasis Lagoon or the Thrill Waterpark to get on the side of adventure.

Ultimate Guide To Oasis Lagoon

The best Oasis Lagoon at Perfect Day at CocoCay insider Tips to discovering all the amazing things to do, family-friendly attractions and thrills you don't want to miss. Find cruise deals to Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Best Cruises From Miami

Cruise from Miami and start your vacation in one of the worlds best places to visit, then set sail from the Port of Miami to The Bahamas, Mexico, Puerto Rico and beyond on weekend getaway cruise or a longer Caribbean adventure. Here are the best cruises from Miami

Perfect Day Honeymoon Guide

Celebrate your newly-wedded bliss on a romantic Caribbean honeymoon cruise to Perfect Day at CocoCay, the best Caribbean destination for newly married couples. Find cruise deals to Perfect Day at CocoCay

The Ultimate College Spring Break Cruise Vacation

If you are looking for an all-out college spring break vacation filled with beach vibes, thrilling rides and amazing parties it doesn’t get any better than a spring break cruise to Perfect Day at CocoCay. Find cruise deals to Perfect Day at CocoCay

Top 7 Most Thrilling Things to do at Perfect Day At CocoCay

Experience the top 7 most thrilling things to do at the Perfect Day at CocoCay from sliding down the tallest waterslide in North America to zip lining across the island and much more.

Top 4 Insider Tips to Thrill Waterpark

Thrill Waterpark at Perfect Day At CocoCay top 4 insider travel tips uncovers free things to do, places to go and thrills you can share with friends. Find cruise deals to Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Best Restaurants at Perfect Day At CocoCay

Explore all the restaurants on the Perfect Day at CocoCay island and discover all the complimentary dining venues that offers loads of food and drink favorites that will fuel you up in between adventures.

Guide To Chill Island at Perfect Day

Discover Chill Island insider tips to all the relaxing things to do from renting overwater cabanas with VIP services, snorkeling with the friendly manta rays to finding the best places to unwind and soak up the island vibes.

The Ultimate Kid-Friendly Vacation to Perfect Day at CocoCay

Set sail to the best kid-friendly destination in the world on a cruise from Miami, Fort Lauderdale and Orlando to Perfect Day at CocoCay and discover all the amazing family-friendly activities, award-winning shows, and record-breaking attractions.

Amazing Family Friendly Summer Cruise Vacations

Enjoy your family summer vacation on a cruise to Perfect Day CocoCay and discover the private islands beautiful beaches, kid-friendly attractions, great restaurants and record-breaking water rides and activities for all ages. Find summer cruise deals.

The 5 Most Relaxing Things to do at Perfect Day At CocoCay

Discover the most relaxing things to do on your luxury getaway to Perfect Day at CocoCay from the luxury CocoCay Overwater Cabanas to the most popular Chill Island Cabanas and much more.

Relaxing Weekend Caribbean Vacation Ideas

Envision your next weekend Caribbean vacation, plan a short cruise or quick getaway to the best travel destinations to visit. Adventure awaits!

Bahamas Travel Hacks for Families

If you're taking the whole family on a Bahamas vacation, we've got some travel hacks for families to make your kid-friendly trip easier.

Quick Bahamas & Key West Vacations

Bahamas & Key West vacation getaways are perfect for travelers looking for pristine beaches, rich history, delicious food, & stunning wildlife encounters.

Look for the "Bahamahost" sticker when getting a taxi — the label identifies those belonging to a program that promotes excellent service to tourists.

If you happen to visit on the second Friday of the month, go find the Government House and witness the Changing of the Guard, a British custom that's been performed since 1958.

The Bahamian dollar is kept at the same value as the U.S. dollar, making it easy to pay, as both are used interchangeably.

LOCAL CUISINE ISLAND TWIST AND TANG 

There's a lot of similarity between the soul food of the southern U.S., and Bahamian cuisine, that blends the Caribbean tang with its very own spice, creating a trademark flavor unique to the region.

FRUITS OF THE SEA

Little-known as a culinary ingredient in the continental U.S., conch is a large mollusk (akin to clams) with a meaty texture. Locals use it to prepare conch salad, conch fritters, conch chowder and more.

PEAS N' RICE

Pigeon peas are mixed with onions, tomatoes and spices, and incorporated into cooking rice. Often simply called Peas n' Rice, but there's a lot of savory flavors thrown in, like tomato paste, fresh thyme and salted pork or bacon.

CITRUS DELIGHT

Switcha, which many locals consider the official Bahamian drink, blends lemons and limes to concoct a powerful accompaniment to dessert or a refreshing beverage on a hot sunny day.

RELATED PORTS

Laze in a beachside hammock or get your thrills at Thrill Waterpark on Perfect Day at CocoCay. Jump onboard a Bahamas cruise to stroll along the waterfront of capital city Nassau and see its distinctive pastel-colored buildings. Or explore waterfalls and botanic gardens on Grand Bahama Island.

Nassau, Bahamas

Grand Bahama Island, Bahamas

Baltimore, Maryland

Charleston, South Carolina

Bimini, Bahamas

Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas

Miami, Florida

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Rusmania • Deep into Russia

Out of the Centre

Savvino-storozhevsky monastery and museum.

Zvenigorod's most famous sight is the Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery, which was founded in 1398 by the monk Savva from the Troitse-Sergieva Lavra, at the invitation and with the support of Prince Yury Dmitrievich of Zvenigorod. Savva was later canonised as St Sabbas (Savva) of Storozhev. The monastery late flourished under the reign of Tsar Alexis, who chose the monastery as his family church and often went on pilgrimage there and made lots of donations to it. Most of the monastery’s buildings date from this time. The monastery is heavily fortified with thick walls and six towers, the most impressive of which is the Krasny Tower which also serves as the eastern entrance. The monastery was closed in 1918 and only reopened in 1995. In 1998 Patriarch Alexius II took part in a service to return the relics of St Sabbas to the monastery. Today the monastery has the status of a stauropegic monastery, which is second in status to a lavra. In addition to being a working monastery, it also holds the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum.

Belfry and Neighbouring Churches

Located near the main entrance is the monastery's belfry which is perhaps the calling card of the monastery due to its uniqueness. It was built in the 1650s and the St Sergius of Radonezh’s Church was opened on the middle tier in the mid-17th century, although it was originally dedicated to the Trinity. The belfry's 35-tonne Great Bladgovestny Bell fell in 1941 and was only restored and returned in 2003. Attached to the belfry is a large refectory and the Transfiguration Church, both of which were built on the orders of Tsar Alexis in the 1650s.  

To the left of the belfry is another, smaller, refectory which is attached to the Trinity Gate-Church, which was also constructed in the 1650s on the orders of Tsar Alexis who made it his own family church. The church is elaborately decorated with colourful trims and underneath the archway is a beautiful 19th century fresco.

Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is the oldest building in the monastery and among the oldest buildings in the Moscow Region. It was built between 1404 and 1405 during the lifetime of St Sabbas and using the funds of Prince Yury of Zvenigorod. The white-stone cathedral is a standard four-pillar design with a single golden dome. After the death of St Sabbas he was interred in the cathedral and a new altar dedicated to him was added.

Under the reign of Tsar Alexis the cathedral was decorated with frescoes by Stepan Ryazanets, some of which remain today. Tsar Alexis also presented the cathedral with a five-tier iconostasis, the top row of icons have been preserved.

Tsaritsa's Chambers

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is located between the Tsaritsa's Chambers of the left and the Palace of Tsar Alexis on the right. The Tsaritsa's Chambers were built in the mid-17th century for the wife of Tsar Alexey - Tsaritsa Maria Ilinichna Miloskavskaya. The design of the building is influenced by the ancient Russian architectural style. Is prettier than the Tsar's chambers opposite, being red in colour with elaborately decorated window frames and entrance.

At present the Tsaritsa's Chambers houses the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum. Among its displays is an accurate recreation of the interior of a noble lady's chambers including furniture, decorations and a decorated tiled oven, and an exhibition on the history of Zvenigorod and the monastery.

Palace of Tsar Alexis

The Palace of Tsar Alexis was built in the 1650s and is now one of the best surviving examples of non-religious architecture of that era. It was built especially for Tsar Alexis who often visited the monastery on religious pilgrimages. Its most striking feature is its pretty row of nine chimney spouts which resemble towers.

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The 8 best Hawaii cruises in 2024 and 2025

C ruising the Hawaiian Islands offers U.S. travelers an immersive South Pacific escape with all the comforts of home. In fact, the Aloha State is in many ways an ideal cruise destination. It has year-round sunny weather, four main islands featuring varied topographies — including sandy beaches, cascading waterfalls, volcanic mountains and vibrant green valleys — and a wide array of land- and water-based activities.

The main caveat? Hawaii cruise options are somewhat limited — just a fraction of what's available in the Caribbean — and many itineraries involve multiday crossings from the West Coast. Only one cruise line offers Hawaii itineraries throughout the year; most others visit during specific months or when repositioning ships in spring and fall.

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Looking for the Hawaiian Islands sailing that's right for you? Here's a look at the eight best Hawaii cruises for every type of traveler.

Norwegian Cruise Line's 7-night Inter-island Hawaii

For travelers who want more aloha time than the typical eight-hour port call allows, Norwegian Cruise Line has a solution. Its 2,186-passenger Pride of America lets vacationers sample four Hawaiian islands over seven days, with overnights in Maui and Kauai, plus port calls on both Hilo and Kona on the island of Hawaii. In total, this itinerary offers nearly 100 hours of shore time.

Pride of America sails round-trip from Honolulu every Saturday year-round. As a U.S.-flagged ship, it's the only large vessel permitted to sail this way. Not only do you skip the long Pacific crossing that most cruise ships do to reach Hawaii, but passports are not required for U.S. citizens, and you can tack on pre- or post-cruise stays on Oahu.

The overnights on Maui and Kauai also mean it's possible to try several of Hawaii's signature experiences that most port calls don't allow. Passengers can catch dusk or dawn from atop Maui's massive 10,023-foot dormant volcano with sunrise and sunset excursions to the Haleakala Crater. And with the ship in port all night on Kauai, guests who want to enjoy traditional Hawaiian cuisine, music and hula performances can book the Luau Kalamaku for a fun evening out.

Pride of America, which has been cruising Hawaii since 2005, doesn't have the onboard thrills (race track, virtual-reality gaming, waterslides) of Norwegian's newer ships , but that's okay because the islands, not the ship, are your main destination. Its American-themed decor celebrates U.S. cities in a vibrant, and at times, kitschy way, but a 2021 refurbishment left its cabins and public spaces feeling refreshed.

Many of Norwegian's specialty dining venues (which incur a surcharge) are on board, including Cagney's Steakhouse, Le Bistro (here, it's Jefferson's Bistro), Moderno Churrascaria and Teppanyaki.

Who should go: Anyone seeking a convenient way to island-hop — and see a lot of Hawaii — by making the most of the generous shore time with a combination of independent exploration and shore excursions. Most sailings attract couples ages 50 and older, although summer and holiday sailings have plenty of families on board.

Related: Best time to cruise Hawaii

UnCruise Adventures' 7-night Hawaiian Seascapes

Cruisers seeking a less traditional, more carefree Hawaii experience can have it from November to April aboard UnCruise Adventures ' 36-passenger Safari Explorer. The seven-night Hawaiian Seascapes itinerary, which begins either on Molokai or the island of Hawaii, is an unconventional one designed for those who enjoy going off the beaten path in an intimate and more authentic setting. U.S. passports aren't required to sail.

UnCruise visits four islands — Maui and Lanai plus Molokai and Hawaii — and focuses on not only their striking landscapes and underwater beauty but also the cultural traditions, cuisine and music of the Hawaiian people. On Molokai, where there's not a single traffic light and the lifestyle is slow-paced, passengers get a chance to "talk story" with locals and enjoy a pa'ina (feast) and evening jam session. Lanai activities range from snorkel, paddleboard and kayak excursions to off-road adventures exploring the privately owned island's dramatic sea cliffs, red rock formations and vast fields once filled with Dole pineapples.

Most UnCruise sailings are during Maui's humpback whale season, so sightings while cruising off the coast of Maui are possible. You might also catch glimpses of dolphins and sea turtles. A "Captain's Choice" day is a wild card determined by the weather, marine life in the area and other factors, while the final two days are spent exploring the Big Island of Hawaii — including a hike up Hualalai volcano and a skiff ride along the rugged coast.

Constructed in 1998, Safari Explorer was designed with adventure itineraries in mind (in summer the U.S.-flagged ship repositions to Alaska). Its size allows it to navigate areas larger ships can't reach, which in Hawaii means bays and coves ideal for snorkeling or watersports.

With such a small number of passengers aboard, guests get to know each other — and Safari Explorer's friendly and knowledgeable crew — quite well. Passengers come together over meals featuring locally sourced ingredients, and as all UnCruise fares include unlimited wines, spirits and microbrews, shipmates can raise a glass without worrying who's buying a round. It all lends itself to an exclusive yet utterly relaxed week of cruising.

Who should go: The ship's laid-back onboard vibe paired with its land- and water-based activities make the Hawaiian Seascapes itinerary ideal for active travelers seeking a nature-focused itinerary — although cruise fares (which start around $5,900 per person) are among the priciest for a Hawaii cruise.

Related: Why it's easier to meet new people on a smaller cruise ship

Holland America's 17-night Circle Hawaii

Travelers who have more than two weeks to spare and who prefer to arrive in Hawaii via ship rather than an airplane can do so on Holland America 's 17-night Circle Hawaii itinerary. They'd better also love sea days because crossing the Pacific from San Diego or Vancouver to Honolulu and back requires 10 days.

That means passengers enjoy five or six days in Hawaii on Kauai, Oahu, Maui and the island of Hawaii. Some itineraries stay in select ports overnight. Cruises departing from San Diego also call on Ensenada, Mexico. With either departure port, passports will be required.

The itinerary is offered in 2024 and 2025 on the 2,650-passenger Koningsdam and 1,432-passenger Zaandam.

Travelers with more time on their hands can also visit Hawaii as part of longer Pacific island cruises with Holland America. Koningsdam will sail a 35-night Hawaii, Tahiti & Marquesas itinerary in 2025 that combines visits to four Hawaiian islands with calls on five islands in French Polynesia and Fanning Island, Kiribati (and 20 sea days).

Related: Holland America unveils epic cruise to Hawaii and Alaska for 2025

Zaandam will also sail 51- to 56-night Tales of the South Pacific itineraries that visit multiple islands in Hawaii and French Polynesia along with ports in the Cook Islands, American Samoa and Fiji.

Holland America is popular with cruisers ages 60 and older, many of them retired, who have time to enjoy longer itineraries on ships that offer good value with a focus on culinary and musical enjoyment. Two of Koningsdam's most popular venues are its live entertainment area with three venues — B.B. King's Blues Club (for Memphis-style rhythm and blues), Billboard Onboard (for chart-topping hits played by a live pianist) and Rolling Stone Rock Room (for a live band playing classic rock), and World Stage, a theater with a 270-degree screen used for both special BBC Earth in Concert and theatrical productions.

Onboard specialty dining options (at an added cost) include Pinnacle Grill for steaks and seafood, Tamarind for Pan-Asian cuisine and Rudi's Sel de Mer for French Brasserie specialties and seafood.

Who should go: Mature travelers who prefer not to fly and who enjoy a more traditional cruise experience. They should also love sea days as much (or even more so) than port exploration.

Related: 16 mistakes cruisers make on cruise ship sea days

Princess Cruises' 15- or 16-night Hawaiian Islands

Princess Cruises is also a good option for longer sailings. The cruise line offers numerous round-trip itineraries to Hawaii from Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Diego in the fall and winter.

The majority of sailings are aboard the 3,080-passenger Crown Princess and Ruby Princess from San Francisco, and the 2,600-passenger Grand Princess and 3,080-passenger Emerald Princess from Los Angeles.

Ships are in port for nine to 11 hours in Hawaii (Hilo), Kauai and Maui and for 16 hours in Oahu. Itineraries include a stop in Ensenada, Mexico (so passports are required), plus nine or 10 sea days.

The ships feature many of Princess' popular dining venues, including Alfredo's Pizzeria (a sit-down venue serving personal-size pizzas), Crown Grill for steaks and Sabatini's Italian Trattoria. There's plenty of outdoor space for soaking up the sun — including an adults-only sun deck — and a dazzling Piazza for enjoying cocktails, gelato and pop-up street performers.

Fans of Princess' Movies Under the Stars poolside screenings (with free popcorn) and Discovery at SEA enrichment programming will have ample time to enjoy these perks on a Hawaii sailing.

Who should go: These sailings will appeal to couples or groups of friends who prefer to have a wide choice of sailing dates, can take the time to enjoy a leisurely Pacific crossing and appreciate Princess' focus on quality cuisine and a sun deck designed for relaxation rather than thrills.

Related: Best Hawaii cruise shore excursions

Celebrity's 9- to 12-night Hawaii Cruise

Travelers seeking modern interior decor on a ship designed with couples in mind can visit Hawaii aboard Celebrity Cruises ' 2,852-passenger Celebrity Solstice or 2,918-passenger Celebrity Edge on itineraries ranging from nine to 13 nights — but only if the timing is right. That's because the line offers only two sailings per ship each year (in spring and fall) as the ships reposition between Alaska and destinations in the Pacific. The itineraries are one-way (Vancouver to Honolulu or vice versa) with passports required.

These cruises call on three ports on two islands: Honolulu (Oahu) and Hilo and Kona (Hawaii), with one or two overnights in port and 10 hours ashore on one-day visits. All include five days in a row at sea. Since the itineraries either begin or end in Honolulu, there's also a chance for some pre- or post-cruise exploration.

Sea days offer opportunities to enjoy the chic, grown-up ambience and amenities aboard these ships. Each vessel offers multiple complimentary and extra-fee specialty restaurants. Celebrity Solstice features Tuscan Grille for Italian specialties and steak and Murano for modern French cuisine, while Celebrity Edge offers the whimsical Le Petit Chef and the international Eden Restaurant.

Celebrity's signature Martini Bar and many other onboard watering holes keep the grown-up vibe going day and night. Choose cruise fares that include alcohol and Wi-Fi, or pay a lower rate and pay for your drinks as you go.

Who should go: The slightly shorter one-way sailings and the ships' contemporary ambience make these itineraries ideal for couples and groups of friends seeking a relaxing escape — especially Gen Xers in their 40s and 50s, who are Celebrity's target market.

Related: 6 national parks you can reach by cruise ship (and 2 are in Hawaii)

Carnival's 14- or 15-night Hawaii from Los Angeles

If fun is your cruise mantra, the "Fun Ship" brand Carnival Cruise Line offers a handful of round-trip sailings to Hawaii from Los Angeles (Long Beach) aboard the 2,984-passenger Carnival Radiance. Like other roundtrips from the West Coast, these itineraries spend just five days in Hawaii, offering eight to 14 hours of shore time in ports on four islands: Maui, Kauai, Oahu and Hawaii. Along with enjoying eight sea days, guests will also call on Ensenada, Mexico, so passports are required.

Carnival Radiance first sailed under that name in 2021, but it's not a new ship. Before an epic makeover, it sailed for the cruise line as Carnival Victory. Ship features include many of Carnival's signature complimentary and extra-fee dining venues, including Guy's Burger Joint and Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse, BlueIguana Cantina, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse and Bonsai Sushi Express.

Additional guest favorite destinations on board include the RedFrog Pub, Alchemy Bar and WaterWorks aquapark. Expect high-voltage theater shows from Playlist Productions at night and poolside interactive contests by day.

Who should go: Socially inclined cruisers who love Carnival's emphasis on onboard fun and can appreciate a colorful ship with a lively ambience and lots of day and evening activities.

Related: Best Hawaii cruise tips for getting the most from your island-hopping trip

Royal Caribbean's 9- to 13-night Hawaii Cruises

A megaship cruise experience to Hawaii is available, too — with pricing that's quite affordable. Royal Caribbean cruises there on two vessels in one of its newer classes of ships: the 4,180-passenger Quantum of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas.

All are one-way cruises just before or after the Alaska cruise season (so late April or early October) between Oahu and Vancouver (or vice versa). The ships call on two Hawaiian islands and spend four or five days in a row at sea. Passports are required since these itineraries begin or end in Vancouver.

Ovation of the Seas and Quantum of the Seas feature a mix of thrills for all ages. These include RipCord by iFly simulated sky diving, FlowRider simulated surfing, bumper car racing in the SeaPlex indoor activity complex and the North Star sightseeing capsule, which ascends 300 feet above the top deck for 360-degree views.

Both ships also offer 14 dining venues, including the innovative Wonderland, Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver and kid-favorite Dog House, as well as bar options that include Schooner Bar for by-request piano tunes, Boleros for mojitos and merengue and Bionic Bar for drinks poured by robotic bartenders. Entertainment includes live cover bands in the Music Hall and multimedia music and dance performances in Two70.

Who should go: Cruisers who love a big ship with a wide array of dining choices, all kinds of evening entertainment and plenty of exciting activities to pass the time on sea days. Quantum-class ships are great for families, but the sail dates might not work for those with school-age kids.

Related: Do you need a passport for a cruise?

Viking's 16-night Hawaiian Islands Sojourn

For a guaranteed adults-only sailing in a relaxed, boutique-style setting, upscale cruise line Viking also offers round-trip Hawaii cruises from Los Angeles in late 2024 and early 2025 on its 930-passenger Viking Neptune.

What sets Viking apart from most of the other lines offering Hawaii cruises is that it includes a free shore excursion in every port. These include a highlights tour of Honolulu and Pearl Harbor on Oahu and a visit to a scenic waterfall and the Kilohana sugar plantation on Kauai. Additional excursions can be booked at an extra charge.

The 16-night Hawaiian Islands Sojourn sailings visit four islands — Hawaii (Hilo), Oahu, Kauai and Maui — and like other round-trip sailings from the West Coast include 10 sea days and a call on Ensenada, Mexico, so passports are required.

Viking Neptune will also do 32-night Grand Hawaii and Polynesia sailings round-trip from Los Angeles in late 2024 and early 2025 that visit four islands in Hawaii and four in French Polynesia.

The ship, which debuted in 2022, features sleek Scandinavian-inspired decor, a soothing spa with a complimentary thermal area, an aft infinity pool and hot tub, a panoramic Explorer's Lounge and five onboard restaurants. Specialty restaurant Manfredi's serves an extensive menu of Italian specialties, while The Chef's Table offers rotating five-course themed menus, including Asian, French and California-inspired.

In addition to the free shore excursions, pricing includes complimentary wine or beer with lunch and dinner, specialty dining at no extra charge, crew gratuities and transfers.

Who should go: Couples who prefer the quieter ambience of a ship that doesn't allow anyone under 18 onboard, doesn't have a casino and offers presentations by regional experts that enhance immersion into local culture. Viking cruisers are generally over age 55.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.