Best for:

Well-traveled adults who want a river cruise with a company that specializes in Russia and the Ukraine. Those who enjoy traveling with an international crowd and do not require all the latest river boat bells and whistles.

Atmosphere and experience onboard:

Small older ships (some have had major refurbishments) designed for inland waterways cruising with outside cabins. The atmosphere is warm and homey. Meals – continental, Russian, Ukrainian, as well as cuisine of regions visited – are served in the ships' dining rooms. Some ships have beauty parlors, bars, music salons and small shops; laundry service is available.

English-speaking tour guides accompany passengers on shore excursions. Onboard entertainment includes musical performances, lectures, folk shows, Russian and Ukrainian language lessons, picnics at recreation stops, blini and vodka tastings.

The company has a long established partnership with the Russian Orthodox Cruise company, the largest ship operator in Russia – and is able to offer specialized cruises that are different from those offered by other lines.

While the most popular Russia itineraries are between Moscow and St. Petersburg (with calls at Uglich, Kostrom, Yaroslavl and Goritzy), this line also offers specially designed programs that include tours to the Golden Ring Cities of Vladimir, Suzdal and Zagorsk and Solovki Island.

Imperial also has special programs from Moscow to Volgograd or Rostov on the Don; roundtrip cruises from Kiev (including the Crimean Peninsula) and itineraries from the Baltic Sea to the Black Sea.

Yearly special departures include a spring classical music cruise with the EMI Award winning Russian National Orchestra with concerts in the ports of call and the Orthodox Christianity cruise – both on Russian waterways.

Clientele:

World travelers with an appreciation of Russian history and cultural traditions who enjoy an international crowd.

Policies regarding children onboard:
All travelers under 18 must be accompanied by an adult