lebarge tropical sunset cruise

LeBarge Tropical Cruises

• See all photos

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

LeBarge Tropical Cruises - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024) - Tripadvisor

Le Barge Tropical Cruises

Review Highlights

“ We took the sightseeing/wildlife cruise but will go back for the sunset cruise when we're back in Sarasota next year. ” in 18 reviews

“ Get onboard early to buy a drink, a snack and head upstairs for a great view! ” in 2 reviews

“ In addition to learning about dolphins & manatees, she provided great info about Sarasota Bay . ” in 5 reviews

Location & Hours

Suggest an edit

2 Marina Plz

Sarasota, FL 34236

You Might Also Consider

Marina Jack II

0.1 miles away from Le Barge Tropical Cruises

Escape aboard the Marina Jack II. Join us for a relaxing narrated sightseeing lunch tour or sunset dinner cruise through the inter-coastal waters and the Gulf of Mexico and enjoy delicious dining, outstanding views, and exceptional… read more

in Fuel Docks, Boating

Liquid Blue Outfitters

1.1 miles away from Le Barge Tropical Cruises

Embark on a journey through pristine waterways with Liquid Blue Outfitters and explore the hidden gems of Florida's diverse ecosystems. Whether you're a seasoned paddler or a first-timer, our expertly curated pedal kayak fleet… read more

in Rafting/kayaking, Paddleboarding

Siesta Key Pontoon

2.0 miles away from Le Barge Tropical Cruises

Pontoon boat rentals, Sarasota. We specialize in daily and weekly rentals. Convenient locations. siestakeypontoons.com read more

in Beach Equipment Rentals, Boating

Amenities and More

About the business.

Come join us aboard LeBarge, a Sarasota landmark for 30 years. Our casual laid-back atmosphere is enhanced by our tropical décor and yes, the palm trees are real. Let the mermaids lead the way through the tranquil waters of Sarasota Bay. We offer you a full menu of cruises, each totally different: the morning Dolphin & Manatee Watch Cruise, afternoon Sightseeing & Nature Cruise, and the world-renowned Tropical Sunset Cruise with live entertainment. All cruises feature a full bar and light food menu. In addition to our regular cruises, LeBarge offers Private Charters, the perfect venue for weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, office parties, reunions and even the occasional burial at sea. No vacation in paradise is complete without time spent on Sarasota Bay aboard LeBarge, Sarasota's tropical cruise experience. …

Ask the Community

Ask a question

How smooth was the ride (wondering about sickness)?

It's the bay & gulf so fairly calm

Recommended Reviews

• 1 star rating Not good
• 2 star rating Could’ve been better
• 3 star rating OK
• 4 star rating Good
• 5 star rating Great

Select your rating

Overall rating

My friend and I had an absolute blast on this cruise during our mini vacay from only 1 1/2 hrs away in Palm Harbor. The DJ was so fun, great cocktails and what an amazing way to take in the beautiful views of Sarasota. Highly recommend this cruise!

My husband and I did the Sightseeing and Nature cruise and it was the highlight of our vacation. No complaints at all. We didn't have any trouble with parking or following directions for check-in. The staff was friendly and very accommodating. Drinks were expensive, but that's to be expected. We learned a lot about the Sarasota area and saw dolphins, manatees, and lots of local birds. Be sure to take cash for tipping the bartender and narrator.

All aboard!

View from the top deck

This is the worst sunset cruise ever. Music keeps cutting out. We are going 5 MPH for an hour. Not even on the ocean.

Fantastic cruise boat that you must book with! We did the tour from 2-4pm and it was $29 a person. The staff were extremely friendly and made it a fun ride. They even stopped anytime there were dolphins around to allow us to watch. This boat took us on a loop around all the nice houses on the docks. There was also food and drinks for purchase on board. We had a ton of fun and it was 100% worth the experience!

Having been on this cruise several times over the years, it was just meh this last time. The staff were all great,". However, the live music was all over the place as far as genre. While he wasn't bad, it would have been better if he either sang yacht rock type of music or Le Barge had yacht rock playing. Most of the music was odd for being on a boat. The top half bar never opened, so it meant going downstairs anytime you wanted anything. For me, I think it may be time to say, " Bon voyage..." for a while, unless they change their style. My suggestion? Hire another bartender instead of live music or food on the bottom and drinks on the top. Also, talk the your passengers. Let them know in advance all drinks must be finished before stepping off. Thank them over the loudspeaker prior to port. Take a lesson from the fun airlines. ‍

I've been on little mini cruises similar to this one many times, mostly on the Great Lakes. This was my first Gulf "cruise". We were looking forward to going! We reserved our tickets online a couple days prior. On launch day, you need to get there at least an hour early as they board by order of arrival. You DEFINITELTY want to get seats on top of the boat as that's were all the action and alcohol is! They start boarding a half hour before departure. Once seated (we grabbed seats on top in the back are so we could watch the waves and such) it was obvious it was going to be tight as the crowd rushed up the stairs to be on top. But it was manageable. PRO TIP - if you have mobility issues with stairs or climbing, the upper deck probably isn't going to be for you. The access stairs are SUPER steep, nearly like climbing a ladder. We took off smoothly. The steel drum music started almost immediately. It was nice and mellow. Just loud enough. It was a very relaxing and enjoyable trip. There was a table near us of about 8-10 older women who were having a GOOD time but they weren't obnoxious. They serve drinks and food on board. Drinks were well made but expensive, as was the food. Mostly snack type food: hot dogs, pretzels, spinach dip etc. This is a good trip if you've never been out on the near Gulf as you get to see a lot of Gulf side communities and mansions. We also had a couple dolphins jump through our wake. Trip last about 2 hours. Worth the price.

The boat...

Went out for a Private party so yes you can rent this boat out for special occasions and cater your own food!! We had a blast and the captain is a great driver lol! So fun and we all had a wonderful time!!! Shout out to the crew! Drinks were ON POINT!! I have been on the cruise regularly and ya gotta get there early to get the best seat and they have like snacky foods or small portions if you get hungry. Have fun! Bon voyage!!

We did the sunset cruise. Having been to Sarasota countless times this is the first time we did the cruise. Highly recommend and I would do it again in the future.

See all photos from Michael D. for Le Barge Tropical Cruises

We arrived before the checkin opened. Your representative, a young women, advised us where to wait and that we would be checked in in order of arrival. There was 1 elderly couple ahead of us. We were second in line, a group of 4, to check in. We waited about 15 minutes before a larger group arrived and checked in behind us. When boarding begin the first couple was called and boarded. We were standing directly behind them. Your representative then called a "party of 1" from the larger group behind us. There is no possibility that this person checked in before us as they arrived with group waiting behind us checked in after us. Your representative looked at us like oops but it was obvious it was intentional. The person ran ahead of us and grabbed the entire section of tables at the back of the top deck which was the area we had hoped to sit and why we had gotten there so early. Not a good way to start. We found other seating and decided not to let it ruin our trip. It's a shame that rude people are rewarded for bad behavior. The couple that was first in line were elderly and the gentlemen was using a cane. After checkin we said why don't you sit down to wait. We know you were here first. When they got back in line to board the people in the behind us where making rude comments even though we explained that they were first in line. They certainly didn't worry about breaking in front of us. The people on board, the cruise, entertainment and drinks were enjoyable. It was a beautiful night for sunset cruise.

Make a reservation in advance to guarantee your spot. You can do online. Read the sunset cruise & evening cruises are quite popular and more crowded. That's more of a floating party atmosphere, where the dolphin tour is very chill and family friendly. We knew it wasn't going to be a beach day (vacationing) so we took a chance on dolphin viewing cruise at 11am with our family. 2 hour cruise under $25 per person was a good deal. Very enjoyable! Crew is friendly, boat is clean & decorated colorfully & fun marine decor. There are plastic chairs & tables to sit at, like outdoor lawn chairs. Upper deck the palm trees are real! It was windy & overcast so we opted to stay on lower level which is indoor, until dolphin spotting began then walked outside. There are a couple bathrooms. Tiny but do the job. Full bars and both decks, featuring daiquiris which you can get without alcohol should you choose. (Not me..my kids. I had a beer. Lol!) Saw dolphins so that's a win. The marine life expert who narrates the cruise, Tina was very knowledgeable and fun. Circulating the entire boat for people's questions. In addition to learning about dolphins & manatees, she provided great info about Sarasota Bay. If you enjoy your marine expert, be sure to tip them on the way out in the dolphin jar on the bar. There's a bar on each deck with daiquiris with it without alcohol. Snacks and some hot food..more of snack types than a meal. Drinks are reasonable. Bring jackets, sweatshirt etc. The breeze can make quite chilly even on warm days. Next time we come I would love to do one of the evening excursions to enjoy the views with some cocktails and music. Whatever cruise you choose, you can't go wrong with LeBarge.

3 other reviews that are not currently recommended

Other Boat Charters Nearby

Ratha B Fishin Charters

Ratha B Fishin is run by Captain Jeff who’s been fishing since he was 4 years old. He has an unrelenting passion for fishing and being on the water. He grew up fishing the waters of New England, but has spent the last few years… read more

in Boat Tours, Boat Charters, Fishing

Morning Star Sailing Charters

Embark on an unforgettable sailing adventure with Morning Star Sailing Charters in the captivating Florida Keys. Discover a range of thrilling opportunities to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this stunning destination.… read more

in Boat Tours, Sailing, Boat Charters

Collections Including Le Barge Tropical Cruises

Sarasota (non Restaurant) Things To Do

Siesta Key, Florida

By Terri W.

People Also Viewed

Kathleen D Sailing Catamarans

Shore Thing Tiki Cruises

Kokomo Charters

Fun Boat Tours

Siesta Key Watersports

Bradenton Beach Marina

Cortez Watersports

Casey Key Water Taxi

Cruisin’ Tikis Sarasota

YOLO Adventures

Best of Sarasota

Things to do in Sarasota

People found Le Barge Tropical Cruises by searching for…

Boose Cruise Sunset Tour Sarasota

Dolphin Tour Sarasota

Best Boat Cruise in Sarasota

Best Boat Tour in Sarasota

Best Sunset Booze Cruise in Sarasota

Harbor Cruise in Sarasota

Lunch Cruise in Sarasota

Party Boat in Sarasota

Party Venues in Sarasota

Sunset Dinner Cruise in Sarasota

Water Activities in Sarasota

Dolphin Watching in Sarasota

Browse Nearby

Things to Do

Sunset Cruise

Restaurants

Other Places Nearby

Find more Boat Charters near Le Barge Tropical Cruises

Find more Boating near Le Barge Tropical Cruises

Related Cost Guides

Boat Charters

Boudoir Photography

Bounce House Rentals

Event Photography

Valet Services

Videographers

• 5 More Cost Guides

Your browser is not supported for this experience. We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari.

Find Your Favorite Beach

Atlantic Coast

Beach Camping

Family-Friendly

Places to stay.

Campgrounds

Travel Ideas

Accessible Travel

Eco-Friendly Travel

African American Heritage Travel

More Travel Ideas

Popular links.

Florida Webcams

Toll Roads Info

Travel Guides

LeBarge Tropical Cruises

• Highway 41 at Marina Plaza (downtown) Sarasota, FL 34236
• (941) 366-6116

LeBarge Tropical Cruises

• See all photos

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

LeBarge Tropical Cruises - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• Things To Do in the Fort Myers Area
• Things To Do in the Naples Area
• Things To Do in the Sarasota Area
• Attractions
• Places To Stay

LeBarge Tropical Cruises in Sarasota

Offering a wide variety of family-friendly cruise tour options for over 30 years.

Sightseeing and Nature Cruise

Relax and enjoy an educational and fun Sightseeing and Nature Cruise. Discover Sarasota’s history, see local wildlife and spectacular waterfront homes on this two-hour narrated tour.

Tours depart at 2 p.m. each afternoon Tuesday through Saturday and daily in season.

Dolphin Watch Cruise

The two-hour Dolphin Encounter Cruise is offered each morning. Learn about Sarasota’s resident 120 bottlenose dolphins on this educational tour, which is narrated by a trained naturalist/marine biologist. Guaranteed dolphin or manatee sighting. If not, free passes for the entire party on any other regularly scheduled cruise.

Tours depart at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, and Tuesday through Saturday in Season.

Tropical Sunset Cruises

Relax with family and friends while you listen to Jimmy Buffett-style musicians and watch the sun set into the Gulf of Mexico. Each Tropical Sunset Cruise features live entertainment and dancing, full bar, light-fare menu, and restrooms available onboard. Reservations are recommended.

Sunset cruises depart between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. depending on the time of year and time of sunset. Boarding and entertainment begin one half hour prior to departure time.

Rhythm on the Bay Cruises

Relax with a drink in your hand on an afternoon Rhythm on the Bay cruise around Sarasota Bay. Enjoy the tropical scenery while listening to the sounds of a steel drum. Reservations are recommended.

Rhythm on the Bay cruises depart at 2 p.m. Boarding and entertainment begin one half hour prior to departure time.

Also offers private charters. All cruises depart from Marina Jack Plaza.

Present this coupon to receive a free souvenir cup with purchase of adult ticket.

Business Info

• 2 Marina Plaza Sarasota, FL 34236
• 941.366.6116
• www.LeBargeTropicalCruises.com

Related Articles

RECENT ARTICLES

Fort Myers, Florida Baseball Spring Training

Sun, Sea, and Fun: Unveiling the Magic of Bonita Boat Tours

Embracing the Circus Magic: The Circus Arts Conservatory in Sarasota

Digital editions.

LeBarge Tropical Cruises

• See all photos

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

LeBarge Tropical Cruises - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• Celebrity Cruises

Can They Make Me a Moscow Mule?

By starri , May 24, 2017 in Celebrity Cruises

Recommended Posts

Dumb question I know, but I've been wondering this for a while, and I don't think I've seen it answered. Obviously not offered in Vintages, the Martini Bar, or World-Class, but what about at the Sunset Bar or in Michael's?

Also, Pimm's Cup, same question.

Link to comment

Share on other sites.

Yes to the Pimms in Michael's Club.

always_chasing

I was able to get a Moscow Mule at the World Class Bar on Equinox in December.

Sent from my iPhone using Forums

Yay! Thanks so much.

Ensemble Lounge or Passport bar (I forget) also offered them on Equinox. They now offer Ginger Beer on the ship which you need for the "mule". :cool:

Vineyardfan

The Martini bar, Sunset bar, Passport bar and Ensemble lounge all normally carry both ginger ale and ginger beer, so you shouldn't have a problem (as long as the bartender is somewhat knowledgeable).

so you shouldn't have a problem (as long as the bartender is somewhat knowledgeable).

I don't know about the knowledgeable part...I asked for a Paralyzer in a few bars on my March 2017 B2B Constellation cruise and they had no idea until I finally found a "knowledgeable" bartender midway thru my second cruise. I also asked for a Pain Killer during my 30 days on the ship and no bartender knew how to make one or the desire to google it.

Lived on these on Solstice last October! The barman in Ensemble Lounge made the best one ever. I would often stop by to get one, or he also worked at the Sunset Bar so also got them there during the day. I know Mast Bar also made them but w're not as good IMO.

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

I was able to get a Moscow Mule at the World Class Bar on Equinox in December.     Sent from my iPhone using Forums

Same for us...served in the copper mugs!

We're also on the Solstice. Do you remember his name?

I'm not really going on the cruise to drink, but I need a libation or two in evenings.

If you happen to find yourself on Qsine, they make a mighty fine version of the mule as well.

Tiggertastic

I've never found anyone to have the crystalised ginger but they still taste great

Sent from my iPad using Forums

Can you get one on the classic package? They have become a go to of mine here at home!

midwestchick

What is a Moscow mule? :confused: Never heard of it.

Vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice. Usually served in a special copper mug.

Are they good?

On the Solstice now and I've had several in the Passport bar

Dumb question I know, but I've been wondering this for a while, and I don't think I've seen it answered. Obviously not offered in Vintages, the Martini Bar, or World-Class, but what about at the Sunset Bar or in Michael's?   Also, Pimm's Cup, same question.

Never had a problem getting anything if they had the makings, even if you needed to explain how to make it.

I like them because they're not too sweet, and I really love the spiciness of the ginger. I don't really like sweet drinks, but I can do a Pimm's cup because of the cucumber and lemon.

I believe that when ordering more obscure drinks, or something that you might prefer to be made a certain way, you should know the ingredients and be able to communicate that to the bartender. I would not assume a bartender is going to Google a drink recipe. Perhaps a PARALYZER or PAIN KILLER are well known cocktails, but I have never heard of them.

We enjoy a top-shelf margarita made according to a recipe we enjoy at home. A friendly discussion with the bartenders at the Mast Bar and Michael's Club, along with instructions on the proper preparation, got us service with a smile... and a nearly perfect margarita each time.

Enjoy yourself!

The taste depends on the brand of ginger beer. There is Goslings, Bunderberg and Fever Tree to name the brands that they have had on board. Sometimes if you order one they may also use ginger ale. Fever Tree is rare. A 4 pack of 6.8oz bottles at the lowest price is about $5, available at Sur La Table for $8.

As with most drinks if you change the spirit it is a different drink. Use rum instead of vodka and it is a dark and stormy. That is usually made with Goslings Ginger Beer and Goslings rum. I prefer Kraken rum over the Goslings.

Drink up 🍷 🍹 🍺 🍸

The taste depends on the brand of ginger beer. There is Goslings, Bunderberg and Fever Tree to name the brands that they have had on board. Sometimes if you order one they may also use ginger ale.

I hope not. Ginger ale is too sweet.

Melissa at Mohair Meadows

Yes, Indeedy. I wave may magic wand and -- ping -- you are a Moscow mule.

(Definitely need a cruise).

what is it called when its made with Jameson, ginger beer and lime juice. I just bought those ingredients today but do not know what its called.

jayoldschool

We got them to make Irish Mules, and Kentucky Mules as well.

Please sign in to comment

You will be able to leave a comment after signing in

• Welcome to Cruise Critic
• New Cruisers
• Cruise Lines “A – O”
• Cruise Lines “P – Z”
• River Cruising
• Cruise Critic News & Features
• Digital Photography & Cruise Technology
• Special Interest Cruising
• Cruise Discussion Topics
• UK Cruising
• Australia & New Zealand Cruisers
• Canadian Cruisers
• North American Homeports
• Ports of Call
• Cruise Conversations

Announcements

• New to Cruise Critic? Join our Community!

Write Your Own Amazing Review !

Click this gorgeous photo by member SUPERstar777 to share your review!

Features & News

LauraS · Started Wednesday at 08:11 PM

LauraS · Started Tuesday at 07:43 PM

LauraS · Started Tuesday at 01:14 AM

LauraS · Started April 26

• Existing user? Sign in OR Create an Account
• Find Your Roll Call
• Meet & Mingle
• Community Help Center
• All Activity
• Member Photo Albums
• Meet & Mingle Photos
• Favorite Cruise Memories
• Cruise Food Photos
• Cruise Ship Photos
• Ports of Call Photos
• Towel Animal Photos
• Amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome Cruise Photos
• Write a Review
• Live Cruise Reports
• Member Cruise Reviews
• Create New...

• Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Best of Moscow by high speed train

By shuguley , February 15, 2014 in Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Recommended Posts

Sure would appreciate someone who has taken "Best of Moscow by high speed train" from St. Petersburg could please share their impressions of this shore excursion. From the description this sounds like a very long day.

Wondering how the 4 hour train trip was in terms of accommodations, etc. Also what time did you leave the ship and what time at night did you return? Were both legs of the trip on the high speed rail (I read that slower trains also travel the same tracks)?

My wife and I are considering this excursion. We thought that if we are making all the effort to go to Russia then how could we pass up going to Moscow, walking in Red Square, seeing St. Basil, etc.

Link to comment

Share on other sites.

If you are considering this on the 2015 June Baltic cruise on Voyager; my suggestion is don't. There is so much to do in St. Petersburg and although a train is one of my favorite ways to travel the time would be far better spent in St. P.

Thanks for the advice. Yes, this would be on the Voyager during the 2015 season but not yet sure exactly which cruise.

We did the Moscow excursion "on a different luxury line", but from your brief description it sounds very much like the same trip, so I will operate on that assumption. It is a VERY long day! We left the ship at 5:30 AM and returned at 12:30 AM. The highspeed train trip is comfortable, and while they call it "Business Class" it does not compare well to the equivalent class on say Rail Europe. When we did it in 2011, we did have highspeed both ways, and the trip back seemed much longer as the adrenaline and excitement had worn off!:D

Moscow itself is not that terribly different from any other big city in the world, but this Cold War kid never thought he would ever stand in Red Square, never mind walk the grounds of The Kremlin, or tour The Kremlin Palace, or see (but not visit) Lenin's Tomb, or visit The Armoury. But he did, and he loved every minute of it! Yes, it is a long day, and you barely scratch a scratch on the surface, but it is worth it. There is a tremendous amount to see in St. Petersburg, but every Baltic cruise goes to St. Petersburg, so you can go back if you choose to. Not every cruiseline offers you the chance to see Moscow.

I have not personally done this tour, but our last time in St Petersburg, the private guide that we hired for a day was leading the regent tour to Moscow on the high speed train the next day. He said it was way better than the previous alternative, which was flying to Moscow and back. He said that you actually got to Moscow faster because you didn't have to deal with airline checkin etc. it did seem like a very long day to me, and there is so much to see and do in st. Petersburg that I didn't consider doing it.

countflorida

We toured to Moscow from St. Petersburg via the hi-speed SAPSAN train last September, from a Baltic cruise on the Oceania Marina. You need to have a two-night, three day port call in St. Petersburg to take this tour because the tour typically leaves the ship around 5:00 - 5:30 AM and doesn't return until after midnight the next day. We didn't take the ship's tour; we made private arrangements with TravelAllRussia for three days of touring, the first and third days in St. Petersburg and the second day the tour to Moscow by train. Our cost for the private tour for three days was about the same as what the ship charged for the excursion to Moscow alone. There are a number of private tour agencies that operate in St. Petersburg and offer the Moscow train tours; we would strongly recommend them over the ship's tours.

All three days had private guides with car and driver. The second day, the driver picked us up at the ship and took us to the train, but we were alone on the train, and met in Moscow by the guide on the station platform. After our tour and dinner, we were brought back to the train and after the return train trip met by the driver and taken back to the ship. Because you are alone on the train you must have your own Russian visas.

If this is your first visit to St. Petersburg, I would agree there is much more to see there. We found Moscow somewhat a disappointment, particularly Red Square. The Kremlin and the cathedral in Red Square were also worth seeing. But the best thing we saw was the Moscow subway! I worked for the Washington Metro system back in the 1980s as it grew from 40 to 80 miles and although I was in the computer area, I learned a lot about the challenges of running a subway system. We used the Moscow system to get across the city from where we had dinner to the train station, and I was amazed at the cleanliness', speed of operation, the short headways maintained, and the courtesy of everyone involved. A very impressive experience!

We had been to St. Petersburg before, and so had the time to take a day and go to Moscow. Also, I really like trains, and the SAPSAN is a German train set running on Russian rails. Seats are like first class domestic air, spacious but not too plush or comfortable, but with enough room. Not too much recline, and almost 8 hours on the train in two shots is a lot for an old man. They come through and sell drinks, candy, etc. but the sellers don't speak English and no one around us helped, so we had just poor coffee once coming, and brought stuff with us for the trip back. Not too much to see from the train either, particularly on the return when it is night the whole way.

If you decide to go, take a private tour and avoid the overly expensive ship's tour. I'm glad we did it, but wouldn't bother to repeat the tour; we've seen Moscow.

Thanks so much to all of you for the thorough and thought insight. Yhe information you have provided is most helpful.

countflorida: Your detailed post is very helpful. We are not quite ready for a Baltic cruise but should do so within a year. Time enough to do our pre travel research, bookings and visa gathering.:) Thank you!

Emperor Norton

Sure would appreciate someone who has taken "Best of Moscow by high speed train" from St. Petersburg could please share their impressions of this shore excursion. From the description this sounds like a very long day.   Wondering how the 4 hour train trip was in terms of accommodations, etc. Also what time did you leave the ship and what time at night did you return? Were both legs of the trip on the high speed rail (I read that slower trains also travel the same tracks)?   My wife and I are considering this excursion. We thought that if we are making all the effort to go to Russia then how could we pass up going to Moscow, walking in Red Square, seeing St. Basil, etc.

I did this on Seabourn. IMO DONT. Take Aeroflop (er Aeroflot). The train has non folding seats where you are literally knee to knee with your fellow passenger (facing each other). Further they don't believe in air conditioning. It's also the worlds slowed bullet train. I think I would have found more enjoyment wandering around the St. Petersburg and Moscow airports.

Countflorida,

This is a little off topic,, however we had planned a river cruise in Russia but decided we would rather stay on land and have booked about two weeks with Travel-All-Russia using the private guide and driver. I'm curious as to how you found them as a tour company.

The guides they provided were fine. We had a different guide each of the days in St. Petersburg, but both were flexible, pleasant, knowledgeable and spoke English very well, as did the guide in Moscow, incidentally. She was a bit aloof, distant, not too friendly, but otherwise fine. In fact, she was the one who suggested taking the Metro, which unexpectedly became one of the highlights of the Moscow excursion. If I have a complaint with AllTravelRussia, it is with their plan and its execution (more later).

I had requested emphasis on World War II (in Russia, the Great Patriotic War) sites and info. In scheduling us, they weren't careful about dates and a couple of the sites we wanted to see were scheduled on the third day, after we'd been to Moscow. But both sites were closed that day of the week, and that info was readily available, right on web sites describing them. Also, the included meals (lunches in St. Pete, dinner in Moscow) were not what we asked for: light meals with some choices, so we could avoid things we didn't like and choose things we did like. My request was ignored; we were given full Russian meals with a fixed menu, no choice. On the first day, a fish dish was the entre, but I am allergic to fish. Fortunately, I had the e-mail I'd sent with me and showed it to the guide, and she was able to change my entre to chicken, which was very good actually. But we didn't want a 3-4 course lunches or dinner (in Moscow). We had the guide drop the lunch the third day, although we never got any credit or refund. But, particularly in contrast to the ship's tours, the prices were so reasonable we didn't worry too much about it.

The people who were on the ship's tour to Moscow saw us boarding the same train for which they were forced to queue up and wait on the way back, and asked us what we had done. I was candid and open so they were not happy when I explained what we had arranged and particularly what it had cost. Also, when we returned to the ship, we found they had laid on a late supper for those who had gone to Moscow, so up we went and had something. Well, it turns out the late supper was supposed to be just for those on the ship's tour, but we and others on 'independent' tours, there were a dozen or more of us, crashed the party, actually got there first, and they didn't realize it until the larger group arrived and there weren't enough tables/places set. By that time, the 'independents' had all gotten served and were eating; what could they do?

A couple from the larger group sat down with us and asked us about our tour, and they were the ones I told about our arrangement and its cost. They turned to others who’d been with them and announced the details, loudly enough so the whole room heard, which started a lot of bitching and complaining. I gathered they weren't very happy with the ship's tour to begin with, and this was the straw that broke the camel's back. We finished up and beat it out of there, but overheard later that one of the excursion staff came to check on something and ran into a real mess. I caught a cold on the trip, which forced me to bed the second day following in Tallinn, so by the time we reappeared we heard about the contretemps' but apparently no one recalled who started it, thankfully.

Because of what happened to us, I would probably not use AllTravelRussia if I were to go again, or if I did, I would be sure to get confirmation of every detail of the tour. They do have good reviews generally, and we were certainly helped by their visa department and liked the guides and drivers. Their weakness, I say now with full 20:20 hindsight, is that once the sales person who plans the tour, sells it to you and collects your money, he (or she) transfers the plan to their Russia office for implementation; there is no follow-up to make sure it gets done right. And that is where our problems arose; we paid for a custom tour but got a standard package with a few destinations switched, and no one checked them out, even to see when they were open the day we were scheduled to go. If you check every detail that’s important to you, it should be OK, but that’s a hell of a way to have to do business, in my opinion.

Thank you for the 20/20 hindsight observation on your Russian tour operator, and better priced than the ship's excursion cost.

Thanks very much for the feedback.

We had the same experience as you so far as price. We originally booked a Viking Cruise but, hearing some things about the river cruises that made us unhappy, looked into other options. T-A-R cost the same or less than a cruise and had us in hotels for 11 days. We opted for the private tour. They have three tour levels, based on hotels. We originally opted for the four star as it did not cost much more than the three star hotels. Finally we decided to throw it all in and upgraded to five star. In Moscow we will be at the newly opened Kempinsky which is two blocks from Red Square. In St. Petersburg it is the Grand Hotel Europe, one of the most vaunted luxury hotels in Russia. Location is important for us as the tours use up only part of the day so being in the center of everything for our independent touring is important. As with many other cities, the less you pay, the farther out of the center of town you are.

We have been working with our salesman in D.C. and he seems to get back to us with the changes we want. He recently returned from Russia so is up on everything. When I asked they said they paid the full TA commission if I wanted so I got my usual TA on board so he is watching our back and giving us that extra level of comfort. He also set up our air, which I know pays him little or nothing, and got us business class for much less than T-A-R wanted for economy, though it took working for a while with a consolidator. He's happy to get his 10 percent on this trip without having booked it. He also took care of the trip insurance. We've been doing a lot of research on the CC sister site Trip Advisor and will write a report there. We will, I guess, become a source of info for CC members after having spent 5 days in Moscow and 6 in SP.

• 4 months later...

scubacruiserx2

Anybody considering a day trip to Moscow from St. Petersburg on the Sapsan may want to look at our travelogue filled with pictures.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1927687

Very informative. Thanks dor sharing. Jeff

Please sign in to comment

You will be able to leave a comment after signing in

• Welcome to Cruise Critic
• New Cruisers
• Cruise Lines “A – O”
• Cruise Lines “P – Z”
• River Cruising
• Cruise Critic News & Features
• Digital Photography & Cruise Technology
• Special Interest Cruising
• Cruise Discussion Topics
• UK Cruising
• Australia & New Zealand Cruisers
• Canadian Cruisers
• North American Homeports
• Ports of Call
• Cruise Conversations

Announcements

• New to Cruise Critic? Join our Community!

Write Your Own Amazing Review !

Click this gorgeous photo by member SUPERstar777 to share your review!

Features & News

LauraS · Started Wednesday at 08:11 PM

LauraS · Started Tuesday at 07:43 PM

LauraS · Started Tuesday at 01:14 AM

LauraS · Started April 26

• Existing user? Sign in OR Create an Account
• Find Your Roll Call
• Meet & Mingle
• Community Help Center
• All Activity
• Member Photo Albums
• Meet & Mingle Photos
• Favorite Cruise Memories
• Cruise Food Photos
• Cruise Ship Photos
• Ports of Call Photos
• Towel Animal Photos
• Amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome Cruise Photos
• Write a Review
• Live Cruise Reports
• Member Cruise Reviews
• Create New...

Dolphin & Manatee Watch Cruise

Quick Details

• Hour Glass Duration: 2 hours
• User Ages: All ages
• Clock Time of Day: Morning , 11:00am
• Info Info: No outside food or beverages allowed on board. We do not allow any smoking of any kind on board. All schedules are subject to change. , A minimum number of passengers is needed for our trips. If the minimum is not reached, you will be notified to be rescheduled or receive a refund.
• Cruise Ship Note: No reserved seating, first come first serve. Check in begins 1 hour prior to departure, everyone in your party must be onsite in order to check in.
• Hour Glass Arrival: Please arrive no later than 30 minutes prior to departure

JOIN US FOR A SARASOTA DOLPHIN TOUR

Join LeBarge and a Sarasota Bay Explorers-trained marine biologist on this two-hour cruise and learn about the lifestyle and behavior of our local population of over 160 bottlenose dolphins, as well as manatees (in season). The guide explains their hunting techniques, physical adaptations, and social hierarchy, plus you learn of the effects brought on by humankind and what is being done to protect this magnificent mammal.

Sarasota Bay is the ideal location to observe these intelligent marine mammals. All of our marine biologists are guides with our sister company, Sarasota Bay Explorers, located at Mote Marine Laboratory, to ensure that you receive the latest, most accurate information regarding these marine mammals.

We must meet a minimum passenger count to run the cruise. Reservations are highly recommended. We take reservations for regularly scheduled cruises no more than 3 weeks in advance. All scheduled cruises are subject to change.

Know Before You Go

• Bayfront parking lots and garages are owned, operated, and monitored by the City of Sarasota. Please pay attention to all posted signs and ordinances and allow time for parking upon arrival.
• Times to remember: CHECK-IN begins 1 hour prior to departure time and BOARDING begins 30 minutes prior to departure.
• To ensure we leave on time and keep on schedule all passengers must be on board 5 minutes prior to scheduled departure time OR YOU WILL MISS THE BOAT.
• Please be advised that our boarding procedures have changed. We board by order of check-in time and will call your name when it is your turn to board. If you have multiple parties arriving separately, and would like to board consecutively, please take this into account and check in at the same time.
• No outside food or beverages, and smoking or vaping of any kind on board.
• All scheduled cruises are subject to change.
• A minimum number of passengers are needed for our trips. If the minimum is not reached, you will be notified to be rescheduled or receive a refund.

Related Cruises

• Most Popular
• Hour Glass Please arrive no later than 30 minutes prior to departure
• Clock Evening
• User All ages
• Hour Glass 2 hours

Tropical Sunset Cruise

End your day with a breathtaking sunset aboard our floating tropical island. This cruise sails most nights and features drinks and live music!

• Clock Afternoon , 2:00pm

Sightseeing & Nature Cruise

Relax on this narrated cruise along the shoreline, offering beautiful views of Sarasota Bay and its marine life. Food and drinks are available!