Moscow Excursion

[docmsf]

We have signed up for the Moscow Excursion while in SPB. There is a disclaimer that "a minimal participation is required".

 

Is this excursion ever canceled because of this? And, for back-up, has anyone ever used a private tour company to go to Moscow from SPB for a day trip?

[Honorine]

I suggest you call Seabourn and ask them if they have met their minimum already. They may be able to reassure you. Or you could email their excursions department.

I am using a private tour to Moscow (and SPB) this summer. They will fly us to Moscow instead of using the train that Seabourn is using and the day has been compacted to allow my group to get back to the ship for dinner (and a good night’s rest). The only draw back is that because of the Moscow tour, we now need Russian Visas. The Russian embassy close to me confirmed that was the reason for needing one. I’m going by plane so no idea if by train I would have needed one. I am also unsure if the embassy even knew what they were talking about or completely understood my question to them.

I am going to the embassy next week and I hope it will be easy and painless.

[kerryatsea]

The year I did that cruise the guests definately flew between St Petersburg and Moscow. They left very early in the morning and returned after midnight. I have never heard of doing that excursion by train. It is about 800 kms. between cities. The entire excursion would be on the train. :(

[Honorine]

Seabourn says it's a 4 hour high speed train ride to Moscow.

 

How long was your flight? Did you need a visa?

[JaneBP]

Interesting, there are two options; air and rail. The rail trip seems long, but could be very interesting. I have never been on a TGV before.

http://www.seabourn.com/PlanACruise/Search/index.cfm?CruiseID=SOJ110603

[Honorine]

Unfortunately, though the choice is mentioned under shore excursions it is not available under "already booked" choices.

 

My ideal would be train to Moscow with flight back to ship. The best of both worlds.

[JaneBP]

I wonder if there are truly two different excursions, that both options will be diluted and therefore not have the requisite enrollees, thereby canceling each other out?

 

A few years ago, I had booked this cruise and then made arrangements to fly to Moscow with the group and then be met by a car/guide for a personal tour. This was arranged by Seabourn. Unfortunately, an illness forced me to cancel. One of my great regrets.