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6 Night Pacific Coastal Cruise

Your ship brilliance of the seas.

SEIZE THE SEA DAY

Adventure Ocean ®

Rock Climbing Wall

WOAH-WORTHY EATS

Chops Grille℠

Giovanni's Table

SHOWTIME AT SEA

Now and Forever

Tango Buenos Aires

Schooner Bar

Day 1: vancouver, british columbia.

BUBBLING WITH ADVENTURE

FULL OF FRESH AIR

COLONIAL CHARISMA

LOCAL CUISINE

Day 2: Victoria, British Columbia

WALK TO REMEMBER

Adventure eden.

RAISE A CUPPA TO TRADITION

popular Shore Excursions

Amazing experiences coming soon., day 3: cruising.

Sports Court

Day 4 - 5: San Francisco, California

Wander the Marin Headlands

Mission Possible

Afternoon at Alcatraz

Local Cuisine

Day 6: Catalina Island, California

Walk Through the Wrigley Memorial

Art Deco Appreciation

Sit and Sip

Day 7: Los Angeles, California

Explore the Outer Beach Towns

Star-Studded Trails

Hit the Hills

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Experience the Majesty on a Pacific Coastal cruise

From natural landscapes to city views you’ll see it all on a Pacific Coastal cruise . Experience it all as you cruise from Los Angeles or San Diego. From the architectural icons that define San Francisco’s skyline to the English gardens of Victoria, Canada, there’s plenty of beauty everywhere you turn. Combine that with our award winning speciality restaurants, casino, and entertainment and you'll have a holiday of a lifetime.

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SAMPLE --> Cruise the Pacific Coast on Award-Winning Ships

Cruise to the Pacific Coast in style on our award-winning ships. Voted best onboard entertainment, Best Speciality Restaurants, and Best Casinos, you know you're in for an exciting cruise. Sit back, relax, and let Norwegian take you so some of the most beautiful destinations.

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• Victoria, BC
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Best Pacific Coastal EXCURSIONS

We know the destinations you'll be visiting and what there is to see, do and experience. We offer you a variety of excursions to choose from, in every port you'll visit.

Historic Astoria & Fort Clatsop

Discover historic Astoria! You’ll make a brief photo stop at the Astoria Column which was built in 1926....

Ocean Wildlife & Orca Exploration

This tour is designed to showcase to you as much wildlife as possible, as they explore their natural feeding grounds along the shores of British Columbia's rugged coastline....

Space Needle and Chihuly Garden of Glass

Enjoy a 360 view of Seattle from the top of the Space Needle and see the city’s artistic side at Chihuly Garden and Glass. Built for the 1962 World’s Fair to symbolize humanity’s ...

Rainforest Wildlife Sanctuary, Eagles & Totems

This eco-exploration includes a guided nature hike, raptors, a Native Totem Park and a historic sawmill at an exclusive reserve located in the forested mountains at rustic Herring...

Pacific Coastal HOTELS

• LOS ANGELES

Hilton Checkers Los Angeles

Less than a mile from The Museum of Contemporary Art, this genteel hotel in a 1920s building is a mile both from the Walt Disney Concert Hall and from the Grammy Museum at L.A. Live.

Relaxed rooms offer flat-screen TVs, marble bathrooms and desks, as well as coffeemakers. Suites add separate living areas.

Relaxed rooms offer flat-screen TVs, marble bathrooms and desks, as well as coffeemakers. Suites add separate living areas. Some include patios and/or fireplaces.

There's a polished bar and an elegant restaurant. Other amenities include a fitness centre, a business centre and a rooftop terrace, plus meeting and event space.

Distance/Airport: 18 miles Distance/Pier: 23 miles

Package includes: Room and room tax Bellman gratuities Transfers between Hotel and Pier

Important Note: Accommodations are based on double occupancy per room. Some accommodation will allow triple and quad guests in a room and are subject to availability and surcharge will apply. Additional hotel rooms to accommodate triple and quads may be required, and surcharge will apply.

The Sheraton Grand Los Angeles

Part of the Bloc shopping and entertainment centre, this upscale high-rise hotel is a minute's walk from a metro station, and less than a mile from the Crypto.com Arena.

Sophisticated rooms offer Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and coffeemakers; microwaves and minifridges are available on request. Suites add separate sitting areas. Club rooms provide access to a lounge with complimentary continental breakfast and afternoon snacks.

There's a hip restaurant featuring farm-to-table fare, and a lobby bar serving cocktails. Other amenities include a gym, plus 35,000 sq ft of meeting space.

Phone: (213) 488-3500

Distance/Airport: 17.5 miles Distance/Pier: 23 miles

Read THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT Pacific Coastal Cruises

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Bask in true luxury from port to ship and back again. Get the scoop on what it's like to cruise in The Haven, from port to stateroom.

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American West Coast

Live the ultimate american dream.

Adventure is everywhere on the American West Coast. With over 1,500 miles of stunning shores, there is no shortage of things to see and do. From Seattle’s iconic Space Needle to San Francisco’s famous foodie scene, from Oregon’s towering Redwoods to Baja California’s desert landscape, there has never been a better time to experience the authentic beauty of the American West Coast.

Silversea is known for its superb destination knowledge, its immersive shore excursions and its small, ultra-luxury ships. Whichever ship you travel on, you’ll be with like-minded friends every wave of the way. Our ships offer the superb all-included Silversea promise: excellent dining options, included shore excursions and yes, even a butler to turn down your duvet.

Follow in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark. Isn’t it time you discovered America’s stunning West Coast?

Find your cruise

American west coast dreams.

This exclusive collection of voyages is designed with our most adventurous travellers in mind. Each luxurious journey has been carefully curated to bring you one unforgettable experience after the next.

Leaving the tourist trail far behind, you'll be astounded by the wonders of man and nature on a voyage delivering the rarest pearls the world has to offer.

American West Coast BROCHURE

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Our ships going to the american west coast cruises.

Silver Moon

Built by cruise lovers, for cruise lovers, Silver Moon will be the epitome of 21st century luxury travel.

• Crew Onboard 411
• Guest Capacity 596
• Dining Options 8
• S.A.L.T. Bar
• S.A.L.T. Lab
• Panorama Lounge
• Fitness Centre
• Zagara Beauty Spa
• Observation Library
• Connoisseur’s Corner
• Pool Deck & Jacuzzi Area
• Zagara Beauty Salon
• Venetian Lounge

Silver Shadow

Award-winning Silver Shadow has all the hallmarks of extreme luxury at sea. With one of the highest space-to-guest ratios at sea, Silver Shadow is a firm favourite in the Silversea fleet.

• Crew Onboard 302
• Guest Capacity 392
• Dining Options 4
• Connoisseur's Corner
• The Show Lounge
• Card Room/Conference Room

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Enjoy 75% off your second guest’s cruise fare and get bonus savings of up to $200. Plus, additional guests in your stateroom sail free on select sailings.

Pacific Coastal Ports

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Take your sense of wonder to new heights with our in-depth Pacific Coast itineraries. From the sun-soaked beaches of Southern California, to the rich green rainforests of British Columbia, you’ll experience a vacation like no other.

Set sail and discover the many treasures of West Coast cruise ports. Enjoy breathtaking natural beauty as we make our way along Pacific. Many of the port towns and cities boast gorgeous landscape with wonderful opportunities for outdoor adventure. Whether it’s hiking, white water rafting, kayaking or other outdoor activities, you’ll uncover a marvelous terrain that’s dense with old-growth forests, amazing deserts, roaring rivers, and great beaches.

Visit the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, eat your way through San Francisco’s amazing food scene when we dock overnight. Discover the delicious wines of Washington state on a wine tour, browse Seattle’s famous Pike Place Market, stroll the world-class gardens of Vancouver, and so much more.

Explore the Pacific Northwest with our carefully curated itineraries and sailings that open the region like never before. Enjoy unparalleled accommodations, incredible services, dine in restaurants with Michelin-starred menus, plus amazing amenities as we journey to some of the most idyllic destinations.

Departure Ports Pacific Coastal

Los Angeles, California

San Diego, California

Vancouver, British Columbia

Ports of Call Pacific Coastal

Astoria, Oregon

Catalina Island, California

Ensenada, Mexico

San Francisco, California

Monterey, California

Santa Barbara, California

Victoria, British Columbia

Seattle, Washington

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West Coast, Best Coast: 2021 West Coast Cruises

by The Cruise Web Team June 22, 2021, 2:59 pm

2021 West Coast Cruises

With the long-awaited return to cruising finally upon us, cruise lines have been announcing their 2021 United States restart dates day after day. While the popular east coast ports of Florida and New York have owned in the spotlight, the U.S. west coast is home to plenty more phenomenal departure ports not to be overlooked. Here, we will take a look into the ports that the westernmost United States has to offer, and their unique experiences that make for pre- and post-cruise vacations of themselves. Explore below for more about what cruise lines are offering for 2021 West Coast cruises:

Los Angeles Cruises

Famous for its beautiful beaches and rich, diverse culture, the City of Angels has much to offer for an unforgettable pre- and post-cruise experience. Film buffs may enjoy exploring Hollywood and experiencing the TV and movie industry hub first-hand, or strolling past their favorite actors’ names etched into the Hollywood walk of fame. Los Angeles has plenty to offer for music aficionados as well, as the city is home to the Los Angeles Music Center, Walt Disney Concert Hall, and the famous Los Angeles Philharmonic. Whether travelers want to experience the culture of the city or to relax and kick back on the beach in Malibu, Los Angeles will never disappoint.

Click here to view The Cruise Web’s best Los Angeles offers and itineraries.

San Francisco Cruises

It all began for this one-of-a-kind city in the year 1849, when the Gold Rush increased San Francisco’s population from 1,000 people to 25,000 people in just on year. Since then, San Francisco has grown to a whopping 875,000 people and is home to many famous sites like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. Ride the last functioning cable-car system in the United States, wander through Golden Gate Park and enjoy the beautiful flowers and trees, or check out the Mission, home to the city’s oldest building during your stay in San Francisco.

Click here to view The Cruise Web’s best San Francisco offers and itineraries.

San Diego Cruises

Bordering Tijuana, San Diego is the second most populous city in California and home to some of the nicest weather anywhere. The port of San Diego is equipped with incredible facilities, including the historic Broadway pier which doubles as a cruise ship terminal and public venue. To no surprise, almost all the top cruise lines go through San Diego as it is a city with much to offer. Whether you choose to go out to a Padres baseball game, seek thrills at the Belmont amusement park, or relax and enjoy the Southern California weather, San Diego makes for a wonderful stay in addition to your cruise.

Click here to view The Cruise Web’s best San Diego offers and itineraries.

Alaska Cruises

No matter which departure port you visit in the last frontier, Alaska never ceases to amaze with its breathtaking sights and ever spirited wildlife. Sail from Alaska’s state capital of Juneau, the nation’s only state capital with no roads in or out of the city. Seward, most known for its picturesque views and many visitors’ attractions, is one of the state’s oldest and most scenic towns. The towns of Skagway, Whittier, and Fairbanks also serve as Alaskan departure ports, and have no shortage themselves of beautiful views and vivacious wildlife.

Click here to view The Cruise Web’s best Alaska offers and itineraries.

For more information on departure ports around the world or to book your dream vacation today, call The Cruise Web at 1-800-377-9383 or visit us online at www.cruiseweb.com.

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Enjoy the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal, or soak up the sun along the California Coast. Savor the journey in Mexico, or experience the aloha of Hawaii. Whichever paradise you choose, Holland America Line can take you there on a West Coast cruise. Here are the best reasons to sail away with us and enjoy all that the Pacific has to offer.

Book Flexible Itineraries with Convenient Departure Ports

Need a quick escape to embark on a weekend adventure? We’ve got you covered with a getaway along the Pacific Coast . Looking to turn a one-week vacation into three? Consider the 22-day journey through the world-famous Panama Canal . With Holland America Line, you’re not limited to weekend-only departures. Our cruises embark on adventures at different times throughout the week, whether it’s on a weekend or even a Tuesday. Plus, you can enjoy the convenience of departures from Vancouver, B.C., Seattle, San Diego and Fort Lauderdale, making it easier than ever to experience the Pacific lifestyle. Whichever route you take, a West Coast cruise will be a memorable one.

Enjoy the views of the Pacific Coast.

Indulge in Locally-Inspired Flavors

With fresh flavors and time-honored culinary techniques, we ensure you have an unparalleled dining experience throughout your journey. Led by a team of world-class celebrity chefs, our award-winning dining will delight your senses with menus unique to the journey. Plus, you can choose from a selection of cocktails and beverages that will complement the flavors and quench your thirst.

Explore Our Perfectly Sized Ships

Relax and explore cruise ships that are large enough to offer a wealth of entertainment and dining options, but small enough to reach ports that megaships can’t. Our elegant fleet of ships provide spacious staterooms, expansive views, fine dining, excellent entertainment, and enriching and relaxing activities to ensure your vacation from the everyday is nothing short of extraordinary.

Experience the coastal cities of Mexico.

Enjoy Award-Winning Personalized Service

For 150 years, Holland America Line has sailed sea to sea in service of others. We care deeply about providing exceptional service throughout your cruising adventure, and that commitment has been recognized by others. Most recently, Holland America Line received the 2022 Cruise Critic Editor’s Pick Award for Best Service.

From personal cruise consultants that help you plan epic and memorable vacations, to stewards that know your name and dining preferences, we look forward to welcoming you aboard.

Enjoy Activities Day & Night

From outdoor sports and painting classes to cutting-edge concerts and exclusive destination programming, you’ll have plenty of onboard activities to choose from throughout your journey. Consider playing pickleball, grooving to tunes that have captivated generations in our music clubs, or learning more about the places and cultures you’ll soon experience in each destination. That includes learning to hula or play the ukulele on Hawaii cruises, and gaining expert insights from a Panama Canal historian when sailing the marvelous wonder.

Immerse yourself in paradise, visiting the islands of Hawaii.

Learn more about the treasures that await you. Check out our West Coast cruises highlighted on our Holland America Line site and YouTube channel, or contact a Personal Cruise Consultant to begin planning your next adventure.

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Tour the West Coast on a California Coastal Cruise

Though it's a single state, California makes up more than half of the West Coast in the U.S., affording it some of the most beautiful weather, Pacific coastline and destinations in the country. And while you could hit the road to explore the many sights and sounds that the Golden State has to offer, why not travel in style with a California Coastal cruise from Princess Cruises? Choose from our selection of three-and five-day cruises, all with different itineraries to suit your interests and take you to new places.

Departing from your port of call in Los Angeles, this incredible Princess Cruises California getaway sails north to San Francisco before turning around to visit Santa Barbara, San Diego and the Mexican coastal destination of Ensenada - finally returning to the City of Angels.

And if you think you've already seen the best of the best along the West Coast, think again. With nearly 1,000 miles of beautiful coastline, there's always something new to discover in a state as diverse as California. Here are some of the destinations waiting for you on an unforgettable California coastal cruise.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles may be the City of Angels, but it's also the town that Hollywood calls home. At any given moment, you could spy a famous actor strolling down the street, run into a beautiful leading lady out for lunch or even get an autograph from your favorite comedian prior to one of his nightly shows.

The majority of the action is centered around the world famous Hollywood Boulevard, which is considered one of the central hubs of Los Angeles. Many of the city's historic theaters are located in this area, so you'll have the opportunity to pose for pictures in front of TCL Chinese Theatre or the Dolby Theatre nearby. As you move up the street, don't be surprised if you find yourself treading on some of Hollywood's biggest names as part of the legendary Walk of Fame. And, of course, don't forget the iconic Hollywood sign situated in the hills off in the distance.

San Francisco

This island located in the choppy waters of the San Francisco Bay is one of the world's most historic and storied prisons - Alcatraz. While the island no longer contains any federal inmates, it is currently a national park that allows tourists to explore the facility.

However, Alcatraz's history doesn't end with being a home for America's most wanted felons. Prior to its status as a prison, the island was the largest fort west of the Mississippi during the Civil War in addition to one of the West Coast's first lighthouses. From the island, you'll also have a breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean, the city of and the Golden Gate Bridge.

Santa Barbara

Though not as big of a tourist destination as Los Angeles or San Francisco, Santa Barbara is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful regions on the California coastline. If you're looking for a little slice of history, you'll want to head over to view the stunning architecture of the Santa Barbara Mission, which was constructed by Catholic missionaries back in the late 18th century.

However, one of the main draws of Santa Barbara is the rolling hills of the Santa Ynez Valley - wine country. Here, you can explore the gorgeous wineries of California while sampling a diverse array of their merlots, shirazes and cabernet sauvignons, among others. Paired with the delicious regional cuisine, a day of wining and dining is sure to make Santa Barbara one of the most memorable stops on your Princess Cruises California voyage.

Known for its beautiful blue waters, pristine sandy beaches and incredible year-round weather, San Diego is one of the most enjoyable cities in all of California. Consider stopping over and going to a Chargers football game or Padres baseball game. You can also see some of the world's most exotic and incredible wildlife at the San Diego Zoo , Sea World or Wild Animal Park!

The wonders of the West Coast are just waiting to be unlocked, so get ready to escape completely® on a California Coastal cruise with Princess Cruises. From the spotlights of Hollywood to the sandy shores of Mexico, you won't forget your adventure down the Pacific coastline. Begin your journey!

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Moscow - Russian Rivers and Waterways Port of Call

Moscow is a wonderful city to visit, and travelers on river ship cruise tours to or from St. Petersburg spend a few days in Moscow . This capital city of Russia was our last port on a river cruise tour, and we had about four days to see most of the highlights. Our first day we did an overview driving tour and rode the subway under the Mockba (Moscow) River to Red Square. The next day we toured the State Armory and the Kremlin.

These photos show some of the other highlights you can see with three or four days in Moscow .

The Northern River Terminal is located on the Moscow Canal in the northwest section of Moscow at the Khimki Reservoir.

Most river cruise ships sailing between Moscow and St. Petersburg use the ship as a hotel while in Moscow. Because of traffic, it's often a long drive into the city, but the sights along the way are interesting, and you only have to unpack once for the river cruise.

View of Downtown Moscow from Sparrow Hills

Sparrow Hills is the best place to get a great panoramic view of Moscow. The Sparrow Hills overlook the Mockba River and are near Moscow State University.

Novodevichy Convent in Moscow

Novodevichy Convent in Moscow was founded in 1524, and was once used as a sort of prison for the unwanted wives and sisters of the Tsars. Peter the Great sent both his first wife and his sister to Novodevichy. Since the convent had such famous nuns, it was very wealthy due to the many donations of the Tsars and their families. At one time in the 1700s, the cloister had over 36,000 serfs working in 36 villages. Novodevichy was ravaged by the French armies in 1812, but the brave nuns saved the buildings by disarming the fuses set to blow them up. The Soviets wanted to make the convent into a museum in the early 1920s, but it was again saved.

Novodevichy also has a cemetery with the graves of many famous Russians, including Nikita Khrushchev, Anton Chekhov, Raisa Gorbachev, and Yuri Nikulin.

View of the Mockba River in Moscow, Russia

The Mockba (Moscow) River runs into the Volga via the 79.5 mile long Moscow Canal.

River ships sailing between Moscow and St. Petersburg on the Baltic Waterways embark and disembark at the Northern River Terminal about an hour's drive from the city. The drive time can vary significantly in length because of the heavy Moscow traffic. The river looks peaceful here, as it winds around the cosmopolitan area of Moscow.

Cathedral of Christ the Redeemer (Cathedral of Christ the Savior) in Moscow

The Cathedral of Christ the Redeemer, also known as the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, is the largest church in Russia, holding 10,000 worshipers.

The original Cathedral of Christ the Savior was built over 44 years to celebrate the 1812 victory over Napoleon. It was completed in 1883. Stalin had the church destroyed in 1931, but it was rebuilt using mostly private funds in 1999. The new church is a replica of the original. Note that it took 44 years the first time and only 4 years the second to complete the church! Isn't modern technology impressive.

One interesting tidbit is that it took three attempts to blow up the church in 1931. Stalin planned to build a huge Palace of the Soviets on the cleared land, but engineers determined that the land was too boggy. In the 60 years intervening, the space was used for a variety of things, including a year-round swimming pool!

Vendors' Market and Ski Jump at Sparrow Hills in Moscow

The panoramic view of Moscow from Sparrow Hills is a stopover for most tour groups, so we were not surprised to see a large number of vendors. The ski jump was a surprise, but Moscow gets very cold in winter, so winter sports are very popular. This ski jump is near Moscow State University and has a great view of the city. Seeing this ski jump reminded me of the famous Holmenkollen Ski Jump in Oslo, which also has a great view of that northern capital city.

Russian Soldiers' Memorial in Victory Park in Moscow

Matryoshka dolls for sale in moscow.

I thought this display of dolls was beautiful! The Matryoshka nesting dolls range in price from just a few dollars to thousands of dollars.

Central Museum of Armed Forces in Moscow, Russia

This small band greeted us at the Central Museum of Armed Forces in Moscow. They played a variety of band music and made us all feel very welcome.

Grand Triumphal Arch Celebrates the Victory Over Napoleon in the War of 1812

This arch looks a little like the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, and it is located near the Victory Park Metro Station in Moscow.

This Grand Triumphal Arch is decorated with the coats of arms from the 48 Russian provinces. To celebrate the victory over France in the war of 1812, it also includes bas-reliefs of the "Expulsion of the French." The arch was originally built in 1834, but has only been on this site since 1968.

It is a little ironic that this arch resembles the Paris Arc de Triomphe , which Napoleon built between 1806 and 1836 to celebrate his French victories.

Moscow Metro Station at the Ploshchad Revolyutsii (Revolution Square)

This station near Red Square has many statues honoring the workers of Russia.

Moscow Metro Station near Victory Park

The Metro in Moscow is one of its shining industrial achievements. Construction on the Metro was begun in 1931 and continues today. The system has over 165 stations and 155 miles of track. Over 9300 trains, traveling sometimes as fast as 56 mph, navigate the huge system each day. Almost 10 million people ride the Moscow Metro every day, which is more than the New York and London systems combined. We found the Metro to be very efficient, with trains arriving every few minutes.

Navigating the Metro system can be somewhat of a problem for non-Russian speaking riders. Most of the signage is in Cyrillic only, and the stations are quite large. Trying to find the correct exit while walking long distances underground can be challenging.

On our cruise tour, we rode the Metro as a group with our program director from near Victory Park under the Mockba River to Red Square. Several of the group ventured out on their own during our time in Moscow, and many rode the Metro. They all returned with stories of getting lost underground, but none seemed the worse for the experience, and they all loved telling the tales.

Red Square in Moscow

Red Square in Moscow is a must-see for visitors to the capital city of Russia.

The Kremlin in Moscow, Russia

The Kremlin is a favorite of Moscow tourists. Inside these walls are buildings for the government of Russia, cathedrals, and the wonderful State Armory museum.

Taras Bulba Restaurant in Moscow

We enjoyed a traditional Ukrainian lunch at this cute restaurant in Moscow before checking in at our hotel.

Buses Wait for Passengers Outside Museum

River cruise tour groups are usually divided into groups for the duration of the tour. Each group had their own bus when touring.

Military Airplanes at the Central Museum of Armed Forces in Moscow, Russia

Although much of the military museum was indoors, there was quite a collection of planes, helicopters, missile launchers, and tanks outside.

Foreign Ministry Building, One of Moscow's Seven Stalinist-Gothic Skyscrapers

Seven skyscrapers with layers giving them a "wedding cake" appearance dot the Moscow skyline. The style is considered Stalinist-Gothic.

Russian and American War Veterans at the Central Museum of Armed Forces

Meeting with some World War II Russian War veterans was a highlight of our day at the Central Museum of Armed Forces in Moscow.

Rocket Launchers and Missiles at the Central Museum of Armed Forces in Moscow

The inside of this museum is particularly impressive, but you will need a guide since all of the signage is only in Russian.

Old Arbat Pedestrian Shopping Area in Moscow

We all enjoyed exploring the shops on this mile-long pedestrian shopping area.

Food prices were high in the tourist attraction, with two small pizzas, two small beers, and a bottle of water at an outdoor cafe costing $40. Many of our group ate at the large McDonalds, where prices were more reasonable.

Female Cosmonaut Model at Star City Cosmonaut Training Center near Moscow

Female cosmonauts play an important role in the Russian space program. In 1963, Valentina Tereshkova from Yaroslavl was the first woman in space.

Souvenir Shop in Old Arbat Shopping Area in Moscow

The area of Old Arbat had many English signs to attract the tourist trade.

Centrifuge at Star City Outside Moscow, Russia

This 18 meter centrifuge is the world's largest. The centrifuge weighs over 30000 tons, and the maximum load is 30 G, but most tests are run at 3 or 4 G.

A centrifuge ride is the first test for a cosmonaut, whose entire training school takes from five to eight years. The centrifuge can simulate the extreme force of gravity that cosmonauts (and astronauts) face when going into space. A centrifuge training session lasts about 30 minutes, and the trainee experiences both the centrifugal force as well as the spin of the pod he/she is riding in. Just typing this makes me a little queasy!

Cosmonaut's Bathroom Facilities on First Space Flights at Star City

Just like in the USA, everyone who visits the Star City cosmonaut training center near Moscow wants to know how cosmonauts "go to the bathroom". They have more sophisticated equipment today, but this contraption from the early space flights is fairly self explanatory.

Star City Tank Used for Cosmonaut Weightlessness Training near Moscow

This 12-meter deep pool is used to simulate weightlessness training. The pool is flooded and the cosmonauts perform repair tasks on the model of the International Space Station. SCUBA diving underwater is very similar to the weightless experience the cosmonauts experience when working in outer space.

Mir Space Station Replica at Star City near Moscow

The original Mir disintegrated when it fell to earth in 2001. Mir, which means peace in Russian, was launched in 1986.

Marvel Paull with Statue of Yuri Gagarin at Star City near Moscow

Yuri Gagarin was the first man in space, and the Star City Cosmonaut training center was named after him in 1968.

River Cruise Passengers with Yuri Onufrienko, Russian Cosmonaut at Star City

In case you can't tell, Yuri is the one in the middle. My famous traveling mother, Marvel Paull, is on the left and Dick, a cruise friend is on the right.

A highlight of our day in Star City was a visit with Yuri Onufrienko , a Russian cosmonaut who spent extended time in space at the Mir space station in 1996 and the International Space Station in 2001-2002. Yuri patiently took many questions from our small inquisitive group.

Cosmonaut Space Suit at Star City near Moscow

Cosmonauts sit in this position on take off. Thanks to Jerry G. for the tip about the sign. It says, "Don't touch!"

Stained Glass Window at Star City near Moscow

Program directors at farewell dinner in moscow.

After 16 days of discovery, learning, and fun, we had a farewell dinner with the six Program Directors - Evgeny, Olga, Vladimir, Svetlana, Violetta, and Marina - in Moscow.

The Kremlin is a triangular, walled citadel in the center of Moscow. The Kremlin is considered by most to be the heart of the city. First conceived in the 12th century, the Kremlin (which means fortress) was expanded by Tsar Ivan III (Ivan the Great) during the 15th century. His architects designed the magnificent Cathedral of the Assumption and the Faceted Palace, and the Kremlin was an interesting mix of both Russian and Renaissance styles. During the Soviet time of the 1930s, many of the Kremlin buildings were destroyed or vandalized, and the complex remained closed to the public until 1955.

Today the Kremlin is home to the Russian President and his administration. Many buildings are open to the public, but you may need to be with a guide (check in advance).

I visited the Kremlin when in Moscow on a Russian Waterways cruise tour from St. Petersburg.

The Kremlin was also one of the 21 finalists for the New Seven Wonders of the World.  

Red Square in Moscow, Russia

Red Square's name has nothing to do with Communism or Soviet Russia. The old Russian word for "beautiful" and "red" was the same; the square was supposed to be called "Beautiful Square". Red Square has been the center of Moscow activity since the 16th century when the Tsar cleared the area and allowed vendors, shoppers, and businesses to fill the square. Today this square is surrounded by the Moscow Kremlin, the State Historical Museum, GUM Shopping Mall , and St. Basil's Cathedral .

Many of the important events of the last three hundred years in Russia have been marked by parades or demonstrations in Red Square. Anyone who enters Red Square will have memories from TV or movie reels of this magnificent public square. Those of us who grew up during the Cold War era can remember the parades of soldiers, tanks, and other armaments past Lenin's Tomb just outside the Kremlin Wall. The World War II generation remembers Red Square as the site of a huge victory celebration at the end of the war.

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Moscow (Russia)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Russia Rivers

Local Time 2024-04-20 04:39

Moscow is a Volga River cruise port, Russia's capital and largest city (population over 12,2 million, metro 17 million). Moscow City covers a total area of approx 2610 km 2 (970 mi2). By population, the city is ranked the world's 14th largest. Moscow is one of the Russian Federation's all 3 federal cities - together with St Petersburg and Sevastopol .

Being Russian Federation's capital, Moscow is a major economic, political, scientific and cultural center, as well as Europe's biggest city.

According to Forbes 2013, Moscow has been ranked as the 9th most expensive city in the world by Mercer and has one of the largest urban economies, being ranked as an alpha global city according to Globalization and World Cities Research Network. It is also one of the fastest-growing tourist destinations in the world according to MasterCard Global Destination Cities Index. Moscow is the northernmost and the coldest megacity and metropolis on the Earth. It's home to Ostankino Tower, the tallest free-standing European structure; the Federation Tower, the tallest European skyscraper; and the Moscow International Business Center. 

Moscow is situated on Moskva River in the Central Federal District of European Russia, which makes it the most populated inland city in the world. Moscow city is well known for architecture, particularly its historic buildings like Saint Basil's Cathedral. With over 40% of its territory covered by greenery, it's one of the greenest capitals and major cities in Europe and the world. Moscow is the seat of power of the Russian Government, being the site of Moscow Kremlin, a medieval city-fortress that is now the residence of the President of Russia. Moscow Kremlin and Red Square are among the several World Heritage Sites in the city. 

Moscow has 2 passenger terminals, North River Terminal (Rechnoy vokzal) and South River Terminal. The regular ship routes and cruises along Moskva and Oka rivers are used mostly for entertainment. North River Terminal (1937-built) is currently the main hub for long-range routes along the river. There are 3 freight ports that serve Moscow.

In late-July 2021 the city announced plans to incorporate a fleet (unspecified number) of fully electric passenger ferries into its public transportation network from summer 2022, the goal being to reduce the dependence on cars.

• The boats are designed with length ~22 m (72 ft), passenger capacity 42, modern amenities (Wi-Fi, USB charging points, tables for working commuters), spaces for storing scooters and bicycles.
• Moscow Transport confirmed that two routes (with max daily capacity ~16,000 passengers) have already been mapped out.
• Passengers will be able to pay via bank cards, the city’s Troika card (smart card for travel by any public transportation) or biometric payment cards. Those with monthly/yearly public transit tickets will use the boats at no extra cost.
• The new electric ferry service is up to 5 times faster (in comparison to other city public transports) and ~2 times faster than by car.

Moscow cruise terminal

Moscow's cruise terminal is called North River Terminal or River Station  ("Rechnoy Vokzal" / "речной вокзал").

The terminal was opened in 1937 and is one of 2 passenger terminals (the other being South River Terminal) of the city's river transport. North River Terminal is the main hub for long-range (including cruise) shipping routes. 

South River Terminal (above photo) was opened in 1985.

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THE 10 BEST Moscow Boat Rides & Cruises

Boat rides & cruises in moscow.

• Boat Rentals
• Scuba & Snorkeling
• Fishing Charters & Tours
• Water Sports
• Stand-Up Paddleboarding
• Surfing, Windsurfing & Kitesurfing
• Kayaking & Canoeing
• Waterskiing & Jetskiing
• Parasailing & Paragliding
• River Rafting & Tubing
• Dolphin & Whale Watching
• Speed Boats Tours
• Submarine Tours
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3rd Transport Ring (TTK)
• District Central (TsAO)
• Garden Ring
• District Northern (SAO)
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Couples
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Adventurous
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Flotilla Radisson Royal

2. Moscow River Boat Tours

3. Sup-Club

4. Akvanavt Diving Centre

5. Diving Center Crocus City Oceanarium

6. CheapRussia Tours

7. Kite School Kiteclass

8. SUP Center

9. Erwin. Reka

11. Easy Russia Tour Guide

12. Lovely Russia Tours

13. Capital River Boat Tours - Moscow Centre

14. Alfa Centr

15. Diving Club Divers

16. Sup Outdoor

17. MORE MOSCOW

19. Soho Sailing Style

20. Diving Center Crocodile

21. Mosparokhodstvo

22. Dive-Project

24. Kosinskiy Children Marine Club

25. Kayak Moscow

26. DIVECLUB CHE

27. FLOW Moscow

28. Moswake

29. Morskiye Volki

30. S-cruises

What travelers are saying

• CheapRussia Tours
• Easy Russia Tour Guide
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• MORE MOSCOW
• Insider Moscow Tours
• Flotilla Radisson Royal
• Moscow River Boat Tours
• Capital River Boat Tours - Moscow Centre
• Diving Center Crocus City Oceanarium

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Cruising the Moskva River: A short guide to boat trips in Russia’s capital

There’s hardly a better way to absorb Moscow’s atmosphere than on a ship sailing up and down the Moskva River. While complicated ticketing, loud music and chilling winds might dampen the anticipated fun, this checklist will help you to enjoy the scenic views and not fall into common tourist traps.

How to find the right boat?

There are plenty of boats and selecting the right one might be challenging. The size of the boat should be your main criteria.

Plenty of small boats cruise the Moskva River, and the most vivid one is this yellow Lay’s-branded boat. Everyone who has ever visited Moscow probably has seen it.

This option might leave a passenger disembarking partially deaf as the merciless Russian pop music blasts onboard. A free spirit, however, will find partying on such a vessel to be an unforgettable and authentic experience that’s almost a metaphor for life in modern Russia: too loud, and sometimes too welcoming. Tickets start at $13 (800 rubles) per person.

Bigger boats offer smoother sailing and tend to attract foreign visitors because of their distinct Soviet aura. Indeed, many of the older vessels must have seen better days. They are still afloat, however, and getting aboard is a unique ‘cultural’ experience. Sometimes the crew might offer lunch or dinner to passengers, but this option must be purchased with the ticket. Here is one such  option  offering dinner for $24 (1,490 rubles).

If you want to travel in style, consider Flotilla Radisson. These large, modern vessels are quite posh, with a cozy restaurant and an attentive crew at your service. Even though the selection of wines and food is modest, these vessels are still much better than other boats.

Surprisingly, the luxurious boats are priced rather modestly, and a single ticket goes for $17-$32 (1,100-2,000 rubles); also expect a reasonable restaurant bill on top.

How to buy tickets?

Women holding photos of ships promise huge discounts to “the young and beautiful,” and give personal invitations for river tours. They sound and look nice, but there’s a small catch: their ticket prices are usually more than those purchased online.

“We bought tickets from street hawkers for 900 rubles each, only to later discover that the other passengers bought their tickets twice as cheap!”  wrote  (in Russian) a disappointed Rostislav on a travel company website.

Nevertheless, buying from street hawkers has one considerable advantage: they personally escort you to the vessel so that you don’t waste time looking for the boat on your own.

Prices start at $13 (800 rubles) for one ride, and for an additional $6.5 (400 rubles) you can purchase an unlimited number of tours on the same boat on any given day.

Flotilla Radisson has official ticket offices at Gorky Park and Hotel Ukraine, but they’re often sold out.

Buying online is an option that might save some cash. Websites such as  this   offer considerable discounts for tickets sold online. On a busy Friday night an online purchase might be the only chance to get a ticket on a Flotilla Radisson boat.

This  website  (in Russian) offers multiple options for short river cruises in and around the city center, including offbeat options such as ‘disco cruises’ and ‘children cruises.’ This other  website  sells tickets online, but doesn’t have an English version. The interface is intuitive, however.

Buying tickets online has its bad points, however. The most common is confusing which pier you should go to and missing your river tour.

“I once bought tickets online to save with the discount that the website offered,” said Igor Shvarkin from Moscow. “The pier was initially marked as ‘Park Kultury,’ but when I arrived it wasn’t easy to find my boat because there were too many there. My guests had to walk a considerable distance before I finally found the vessel that accepted my tickets purchased online,” said the man.

There are two main boarding piers in the city center:  Hotel Ukraine  and  Park Kultury . Always take note of your particular berth when buying tickets online.

Where to sit onboard?

Even on a warm day, the headwind might be chilly for passengers on deck. Make sure you have warm clothes, or that the crew has blankets ready upon request.

The glass-encased hold makes the tour much more comfortable, but not at the expense of having an enjoyable experience.

Getting off the boat requires preparation as well. Ideally, you should be able to disembark on any pier along the way. In reality, passengers never know where the boat’s captain will make the next stop. Street hawkers often tell passengers in advance where they’ll be able to disembark. If you buy tickets online then you’ll have to research it yourself.

There’s a chance that the captain won’t make any stops at all and will take you back to where the tour began, which is the case with Flotilla Radisson. The safest option is to automatically expect that you’ll return to the pier where you started.

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Helicopter used to evacuate pregnant passenger from disney cruise ship.

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A pregnant passenger had to be evacuated from a Disney Cruise ship via helicopter after a medical emergency.

The Coast Guard said the Disney Fantasy ship was 180 miles off the coast of Puerto Rico on Monday, when the 35-year-old patient required a higher level of medical care.

Once on scene, the Coast Guard Jayhawk aircrew deployed a rescue swimmer aboard the cruise ship. A rescue basket was used to hoist the patient and a cruise ship doctor onto the helicopter.

“Our crew was able to quickly, safely, and efficiently execute a long-range MEDEVAC for the patient to receive the higher level of care she required,” said Lt. Cmdr. Todd Stephens. “This case demonstrates the value of good crew resource management and the capabilities of our Jayhawk helicopter.”

The woman was taken to a hospital in San Juan for treatment. Her current condition was not immediately available.