CRUISE RUSSIA
MOSCOW TO ST. PETERSBURG
WITH BURT WOLF

AND HELP SUPPORT PUBLIC TELEVISION

CRUISE PRICED FROM $4,280 TO $5,719 PER PERSON (plus airfare)
DEPART U.S. 18TH SEPTEMBER 2012 – RETURN 30TH SEPTEMBER 2012

Burt Wolf, the host of the public television series Travels & Traditions, invites you to join him on an 11-night Russian Waterways Cruise through the heart of Russia along its colorful and historic waterways. We will explore Moscow, then cruise north and visit the Golden Ring cities of Uglich and Yaroslavl. We’ll continue along the Volga-Baltic Waterways and through Europe’s two largest lakes, Onega and Ladoga with stops in Goritsy, Kizhi, and Svirstroy, to St. Petersburg, one of the world’s most beautiful cities, spread over 101 islands and 66 canals.

BURT WILL BE YOUR ON-BOARD HOST THROUGHOUT THE ENTIRE CRUISE

Burt’s wife Natalia, who is fluent in Russian, will also be onboard. For a number of years, Burt’s television programs have broadcast in Russia so they will both be using their contacts to make this an extraordinary experience for all of us.

During our trip, Burt will offer a series of private on-board tastings of the regional wines, beers, liquors and foods related to the area through which we cruise. In addition, Burt will talk about European Architecture, the History of Vodka, and the History of Chocolate. This is a unique opportunity to travel with Burt, see some of Russia’s most fascinating cities.

BURT WOLF

Since 1982, Burt has written and produced over 4,000 segments for Cable News Network (CNN), 800 segments for ABC (the American Broadcasting Company), 125 half-hour programs for the travel division of The Discovery Channel, and 300 half hours for Public Broadcasting. He has been nominated for two Cable Ace Awards and a national Emmy in connection with culture and history.

RUSSIAN WATERWAYS CRUISE ITINERARY

CRUISE DAY 1 – TUESDAY 18 SEPTEMBER 2012 * DEPART U.S. FOR MOSCOW, RUSSIA

CRUISE DAY 2 – WEDNESDAY 19 SEPTEMBER 2012 * ARRIVE MOSCOW - BOARD SHIP

Arrive in Moscow and transfer to our ship. This evening we will meet our fellow passengers at the Welcome Cocktail Reception followed by dinner. (D)

CRUISE DAY 3 – THURSDAY 20 SEPTEMBER 2012 * MOSCOW

After breakfast, we begin our day with a Moscow city tour which includes a visit to Red Square where we’ll see the Kremlin and Lenin’s Tomb. During free time, visit the iconic St. Basil’s Cathedral or perhaps the GUM, the vast Soviet-Era main department store. We will lunch on a day-boat as we cruise the Moscow River. Later this afternoon, we’ll also visit the Tretyakov Museum, which houses the foremost collection of Russian fine art in the World, with more than 130,000 exhibits. Tonight, there is an optional visit to the Moscow Circus. (B,L,D)

CRUISE DAY 4 – FRIDAY 21 SEPTEMBER 2012 * MOSCOW

Today we tour within the walls of the Kremlin – the former royal residence of the Czars and main center of the Russian Orthodox faith. After lunch, we continue our tour of the Moscow Metro system, easily the most architecturally extravagant subway system in the world. Many of the stations are adorned with chandeliers, sculptures and frescoes more reminiscent of a palace than a metro station. Tonight, there is an optional “Moscow By Night” with fellow passengers. (B,L,D)

CRUISE DAY 5 – SATURDAY 22 SEPTEMBER 2012 * UGLICH

Located on the banks of the Volga, Uglich was founded by merchants in 1148. Rich in history, Uglich is home to some of Russia’s most beautiful churches and cathedrals, and we’ll see a sampling during our city tour. The most noteworthy include the Chambers of Prince Dimitry and the magnificent Church of Dimitry. Uglich is also the site of an AmaWaterways’ exclusive shore excursion. We’ll visit the home of a local Russian family, learning about everyday life in Uglich, and experiencing Russian hospitality first-hand. (B,L,D)

CRUISE DAY 6 – SUNDAY 23 SEPTEMBER 2012 * YAROSLAVL

Founded in 1010 by Prince Yaroslav the Wise, this is one of Russia's oldest cities, tracing its roots back to the Vikings. It stretches for miles along the confluence of the Volga and Kotorosl Rivers. We’ll explore the city’s history through its architecture, including the fortified 12th-century Transfiguration Monastery and the Yaroslavl Museum of Russian Art, the former residence of the Governor of Yaroslavl. (B,L,D)

CRUISE DAY 7 – MONDAY 24 SEPTEMBER 2012 * GORITSY

Goritsy is a peaceful farming town and a typical Russian village. Our tour includes the Monastery of St. Cyril on the White Lake and the Museum of Icons. Return to the ship to sail for Kizhi. (B,L,D)

CRUISE DAY 8 – TUESDAY 25 SEPTEMBER 2012 * KIZHI

Kizhi is an island that is situated at the north end of Lake Onega and home to some of the most amazing wooden architecture in Russia. Forever linked to Novgorod the Great, the style of architecture reflects its early introduction to Christianity. In 1764 locals built the Church of Intercession, its towering walls and 22 domes, without the use of a single nail. Our walking tour includes the Museum of Wooden Architecture. (B,L,D)

CRUISE DAY 9 – WEDNESDAY 26 SEPTEMBER 2012 * SVIRSTROY

Svirstroy is 100 miles from St. Petersburg with a population of only 1,000. Enjoy some free time to stroll through this unspoiled Russian village and browse for irresistible handmade trinkets. This is the best place to do souvenir shopping before reaching St. Petersburg. (B,L,D)

CRUISE DAY 10 – THURSDAY 27 SEPTEMBER 2012 * ST. PETERSBURG

One of Russia's former capitals, this city rivals Paris or Venice for its romantic image. Dating from the beginning of the 18th-century, it was built to the exact specifications ordered by Peter the Great. The city is home to many museums, galleries, palaces, impressive squares, and streets. Our sightseeing tour of this beautiful city shows us Nevsky Prospect, Palace Square, St. Isaacs Cathedral and the cruiser Aurora. Tonight, we can attend an optional folkloric show. (B,L,D)

CRUISE DAY 11 – FRIDAY 28 SEPTEMBER 2012 * ST. PETERSBURG

This morning, we tour the Hermitage Museum – one of the oldest and largest museums in the world. Founded by Catherine the Great, the museum is a complex of six buildings, including the former Winter Palace, and houses nearly three million works of art. This evening, we will experience a night of traditional Russian ballet at the Hermitage Theater.

CRUISE DAY 12 – SATURDAY 29 SEPTEMBER 2012 * ST. PETERSBURG

Today we tour St. Petersburg’s most spectacular Imperial Estate, Peterhof. Also known as the “Russian Versailles,” the palace was built on the shore of the Gulf of Finland by Peter the Great, initially as a resting place en route to the Imperial Naval Base. Our tour includes the Lower Gardens, the Grand Cascade and Samson Fountain, commemorating Russia’s victory over Sweden during the Great Northern War (1700–21). (B,L,D)

CRUISE DAY 13 – SUNDAY 30 SEPTEMBER 2012 * ST. PETERSBURG (DISEMBARK) - DEPART FOR U.S.

This morning after breakfast onboard, disembark and head to the airport for homebound flights which arrive back in U.S. on the same day (Sunday 30th September 2012). (B)

THE MOST LUXURIOUS SHIPS ON THE RIVERS

The most luxurious ship ever built for Russian rivers, MS AmaKatarina is the perfect showcase for the legendary and historic waterways of Russia. Completely renovated and reconstructed from bare steel by AMAWATERWAYS in 2010, the ship is unequaled in terms of spaciousness, accommodation levels and public areas.

The ship will carry 212 guests in 106 staterooms, seventy-six of which feature balconies. On average, AmaKatarina’s staterooms are 43% larger than those of the competition.

We can choose from an incredible array of 10 stateroom categories, including four magnificent suite categories. All staterooms feature a bathroom with a separate shower area, which is unusual for Russian ships. The top stateroom category, Imperial Suite, features an immense 432 sq. ft. of space. There is a Panorama Lounge and an intimate Bar/Nightclub Alternative Restaurant. Concerts and talks are in the Conference Hall. There is a Sauna and a Solarium. The main Restaurant is lined with panoramic windows. Other amenities on board AmaKatarina include an elevator, gift shop and infirmary.

Unlike ocean cruising, our river cruise often docks right in the city center so we can tour close to the ship or venture farther into town. The ship’s entire interior is non-smoking and all announcements are in English. AmaKatarina’s English-speaking Captain, Cruise Manager and Crew are experienced professionals dedicated to our comfort.

Please note: AMAWATERWAYS makes their best efforts to keep to the itinerary as noted, however, factors may arise during the tour that compel AMAWATERWAYS to adjust the schedule.

EXCELLENT FOOD

One of the most popular aspects of a Burt Wolf River Cruise is the excellence of the food. Each full day on-board, there is a full breakfast, lunch, and dinner – with open seating arrangements. There is also a Cocktail Welcome Reception and Dinner, and a Farewell Dinner. AMAWATERWAYS’ on-board culinary staff offers sophisticated menus comprised of homemade soups, fresh produce, high-quality meats, and fresh fish and seafood.

Breakfast on-board: Start each day on-board with a champagne breakfast buffet. Choose from an assortment of breads, pastries, a variety of fresh fruit, yogurt, cereals, cheeses, cold cuts and local sausages, as well as a daily regional special. An array of traditional breakfast items is also available from the menu.

Lunch on-board: Start with hot or cold appetizers and soups, then choose from a selection of entrees, finish off with a dessert and complimentary cappuccino.

Dinner on-board: In the evening, there is a five-course dinner or a theme night with a selection of regional specialties. White and red wines, beer and soft drinks are complimentary throughout dinner. Specialty coffees are available at no charge throughout the day.

CRUISE COSTS

Cruise Cost, per person (based on double occupancy):

ALL STATEROOMS ARE OUTSIDE-FACING. PASSENGER ELEVATOR AVAILABLE TO MAIN DECKS.

DECK PLANS

Reconstructed: 2010; Length: 443 ft.; Width 52 ft.; Crew: 74; Staterooms: 106; Two Dining Rooms; Bar; Solarium; Sauna; Elevator; Gift Shop; Physician onboard; Internet consoles in cabins.

CABINS FOR SINGLE OCCUPANCY

Staterooms are available for single occupancy at a 40% surcharge.

EXPENSES NOT INCLUDED

Expenses not included in the Cruise Cost: roundtrip airfare (airline reservation may be made privately or through AMAWATERWAYS), optional travel insurance, port tax ($231.00), optional excursions, miscellaneous on-board expenses (laundry, telephone, minibar, liquor/food not on the regular menu, airport porters, excess baggage fees, gratuities to your Cruise Manager, guides, crew), passport, visa, airport transfers in Russia and all other items of a personal nature.