Day 5 YAROSLAVL
Founded in 1010, Yaroslavl is one of Russia’s oldest and best-known provincial cities located along the "Golden Ring." During the coach and walking tour you explore Yaroslavl’s ancient history through its architecture including the Church of Epiphany and Church of St Elijah the Prophet with its completely intact icons and frescoes from the 17th century. Return to the ship for lunch and cruise through the night.

Day 6 GORITZY & VOLGA–BALTIC WATERWAY
A typical Russian village, Goritzy is home to the 16th century Monastery of the Resurrection. Not far away is Russia’s famous Kirillov Belozersky Monastery which today houses an extensive museum. After a morning excursion, return to the ship for lunch and sail along the Volga-Baltic Waterway, a system of rivers and canals spanning 300km linking the Volga River with the Baltic Sea. As you pass the gentle hills, extensive plains, pine forests, and wooden farmhouses, relax on board with a variety of different activities.

Day 7 KIZHI
After cruising Lake Onega, Europe’s second largest lake, you arrive in charming Kizhi. After lunch you tour the Open Air Museum of Architecture which has been added to theUNESCO World Heritage List for its unique ensemble of ancient houses, windmills and churches constructed in the traditional wooden style. The island’s showpiece is the Church of the Transfiguration, built in 1764 without a single nail. NB-closed on 04MAY cruise.

Day 8 MANDROGUI
Lots of merriment with our on shore barbecue, also known as a ‘green stop’ virtually in the middle of nowhere !

The MS Chernyshevsky is the perfect way to see Russia’s inland waterways and experience the country’s enigmatic culture. Named after a famous 19th-century writer, the MS Nikolay Chernyshevsky was built in East Germany in 1981 and underwent renovation in 2007. The ship boasts a spacious sun deck, where you can relax and enjoy the passing panorama of lush countryside, charming towns, and onion-domed cathedrals as you make your way from one fascinating port to the next. Whether you choose to spend your time on board participating in activities, relaxing in one of the lounges, or taking in the view from the sweeping sun deck, you’re sure to enjoy the Russian experience aboard this ship. The MS Chernyshevsky can accommodate up to 258 passengers, so you enjoy the friendliness of a small ship without sacrificing the convenience and amenities of a larger vessel. Public areas include a restaurant/music bar, coffee bar, cocktail bar, conference hall, sauna, laundry service, ironing room, sundeck, fitness room, gift shop, and medical room. A hairdresser is also available on board at certain ports of calls. Plus, all of the ship’s cabins are outside and have a large opening picture window, climate control, mini-refrigerator, hairdryer, wardrobe, and private bathroom with nautical-style shower and toilet combination. On board there are 93 Twin Cabins (but there is an entire Lower Deck we do not use), 17 Singles, 8 Junior Suite Twins, 2 Junior Suite Doubles and 2 x 2 roomed suites. While aboard the MS Chernyshevsky, all your meals are included and are served in one sitting (although lunches may be served as buffet), allowing for a leisurely dining experience. The menu features continental cuisine, as well as traditional Russian favorites like blini (pancakes) and caviar. The atmosphere in the dining rooms and throughout the Chernyshevsky is casual — meaning no formal evenings, just the intimate atmosphere of a warm, relaxed shipboard environment. Plus you’ll enjoy a number of onboard activities which will allow an even better insight into the Russian culture.You can get acquainted with Russian history and culture through onboard lectures; dance the night away in the dance lounge; or practice your Russian in an informal class. You’ll also be treated to live folklore music performances.