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St. Petersburg, Russia

St. Petersburg, Russia, emerged from the vision of one man, Czar Peter the Great, at the beginning of the 18th century and was the country’s capital for 200 years, until the Russian Revolution. Pushkin called it Russia's "window to Europe," and like Venice and Amsterdam, two cities that inspired Peter, the city was built on a network of canals. Explore one of St. Peterburg many canals and bridges on a European cruise to the Baltic Sea.

Among the city's tourist attractions, the Hermitage is its most famous. It is one of the world’s greatest art museums, and the largest museum in the world—with almost three million objects collected in five buildings. Performing arts, too, abound: Many of Russia’s greatest ballets, plays and operas have premiered at the Mariinsky Theatre. Nearby, the summer residences of the czars, including Peterhof, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are dazzling gilded Baroque palaces for sightseeing in St. Petersburg. Cruise to the Baltic Sea and tour beautiful palaces during the day and in the evening experience the beautiful sound of opera or the graceful art of the ballet on a shore excursions in St. Petersburg . 

St. Petersburg is at its most beautiful during the famous White Nights, when summer days stretch late into evening hours. Residents make the most of the period with festivals and concerts and fun things to do, and the city’s many pastel-colored buildings and neoclassical palaces glow in the warm light of the long days. Enjoy St. Petersburg and many different countries on a Baltic Cruise   with Holland America. 

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Scandinavia & Baltic Cruises

Unpack once and visit seven different scandinavian countries.

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On a Baltic cruise with Princess®, unpack once and visit seven different countries within Scandinavia and the Baltic region. Let the gold-lined palaces and monuments recount stories from these revolutionary regions. Along the way, meet the many famous figures that call these lands home. From Vikings to castles and cathedrals, relive history as you come face-to-face with these significant sites.

Scandinavia & Baltic cruises

On a Scandinavia and Baltic cruise, discover a whole new way of life. Feel the spirit of Stockholm’s Gamla Stan, hear from craftsmen in Tallinn and explore Helsinki’s Senate Square, where art, culture, religion, politics and education converge. Trek throughout these cities alongside expert guides who hold secrets of seasons past. Or step into the homes of locals to uncover long-standing traditions.

Featured Scandinavia & Baltic Cruise Ports

Discover some of the world-renowned destinations that await you on an Scandinavia & Baltic cruise with Princess.

With a history as long as its city wall, Berlin is a staggering destination for any traveler. On a Baltic cruise, honor those who lost their lives at the Holocaust Memorial. Watch history unfold as you visit the 20th-century remnants of the Berlin Wall. Or enjoy a change of pace touring the rooms and gardens of German dukes before you at Schwerin Castle.

Copenhagen boasts equal parts charm and culture. Before you set sail on your European cruise, indulge in thrills at Tivoli Gardens, and ride a bike along Nyhavn’s waterways, passing multicolored homes on the way. Tour ancient fortresses, like Kronborg Castle, which inspired Shakespeare’s “Hamlet.” Or make a stop to see Copenhagen’s most famous symbol, The Little Mermaid.

With a deep-rooted respect for design, Helsinki is cloaked in elaborate styles from the present and past. On a Baltic cruise, admire the creative architecture of Suomenlinna Fortress, and learn about the city’s naval past. At Market Square, shop hand-crafted goods, or see a collection of artifacts at the Kiasma Modern Art Museum.

As a major trading port, it should come as no surprise that Oslo is home to many valuables. On a Baltic cruise, visit Vigeland Sculpture Park, and view over 200 colossal figures created by a famous Norweigan sculptor. Watch experts blow glass at the Hadeland Glassworks gallery. Or snap a photo at the Holmenkollen Ski Jump, featured during the 1952 Olympic ski-jumping competition.

Covering 14 separate islands, Stockholm is a cultural playground waiting to be explored. On a Scandinavia cruise, waltz through the Royal Palace, and explore 600 royal rooms. Capture postcard-worthy shots of Stockholm City Hall, one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. Or transport to the 10th century when you arrive in Sigtuna — Sweden’s original capital — and discover where it all began.

Travel back in time as you walk through the medieval streets of Tallinn, admiring the city’s preserved history and architecture. On a Russia cruise, journey through the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and learn about tsar regime. View tombs and coats of arms that live in St. Mary’s Cathedral. Or get a rare taste of local tradition at the Museum of Estonian Drinking Culture.

If you are interested in the longer Scandinavia & Baltic cruises, you’ll love Princess® Epic Voyages. Learn more about our expertly curated itineraries for your next extraordinary adventure.

Why Cruise Scandinavia & Baltic Cruises

From astounding fjords to astonishing palaces, the treasures of Scandinavia and Baltic region welcome you to explore.

Step back in time

Get up close to historical gems on a Baltic cruise with Princess. View ships and treasures found in royal burial mounds of the Oslo fjord at the Viking Ship Museum. Or learn what it’s like to be a prize winner at Stockholm's Nobel Peace Museum, and get up close to the world’s oldest preserved warship at the Vasa Museum

Fjords & Viking Legends

Formed by the hands of the glaciers

A Baltic cruise is your key to the Norwegian Fjords — Mother Nature’s crown jewel. Upon arriving in Stockholm, ride along the brinks of Tyrifjord, a 52-mile inlet that boasts greenery and deep blue waters. Relax amidst the serenity of Oslo Fjord, and discover treasures from beneath its seas at the Viking Ship Museum. With Princess, sail to Scandinavia’s oldest capital and revel in the natural wonders before you.

Unique Architecture

Magnificent and monumental

Travel to lands where ancient architecture abounds. Wander the cobbled streets of Stockholm’s old town, Gamla Stan, one of the largest and best-preserved medieval city centers in Europe. Explore a treasure trove of late Renaissance and Rococo architecture in Copenhagen, like Rosenborg Castle, Kronborg Castle or Frederiksborg Castle. Or walk through 'Upper Old Town,' home to some of Tallin's oldest and most notable structures. Experience it all on a Baltic cruise.

Shore excursions

Our award-winning Scandinavia and Baltic cruise shore excursions bring you to palaces, Viking heritage and hidden gems. In partnership with Discovery™, tour three royal residences in Copenhagen — including Fredensborg and Frederiksborg Castle. You’ll also enjoy a Hamlet-themed journey through Kronberg Castle, which inspired the famous play. Or travel through a traditional Danish village, and discover hundreds of years of history along the way.

Local connections

On a Baltic cruise, learn the secrets to crafting an Estonian beer from a master brewer, and pair your sips with snacks. Journey through Tallinn’s most notable sites — including Palace Square and the Great Guild Hall. Or stroll through Stockholm’s ‘Haymarket,’ and sample regional delicacies while hearing from chefs and vendors.

Enjoy even more history and culture with More Ashore late-night departures and overnight stays. On a Baltic cruise, see Berlin’s most iconic sites — like Checkpoint Charlie and the Brandenburg Gate. Or stroll under the Nordic twilight, and end the night at Oslo’s Ice Bar.

Baltic & Scandinavia Cruise Onboard Experience

Curated comfort, world-class entertainment and international flavors await you.

Experience Scandinavia without ever stepping off the ship. Our onboard activities bring the diverse cultures of the region directly to you. Sing, dance, feast and celebrate in a way that only the Baltic and Princess know how.

Accommodations

Your home away from home

Your stateroom is where you rest and recharge between adventures. That’s why every room is equipped with the expertly designed Princess Luxury Bed, 100% Jacquard-woven cotton linens and our SLEEP program created by a board-certified sleep expert. From interior cabins to full suites, unwind in any of our staterooms, and enjoy peace of mind with the option of connected rooms for families of four or more traveling together.

Flavors that inspire

Take a week-long vacation on a Bahamas cruise with more to love, calling on additional Caribbean ports. Visit Princess Cays for a day in the sun, sand and surf. Then have more time to explore Trunk Bay – one of the “Cruise Wonders of the World” – during a late-night stay in St. Thomas on Eastern Caribbean itineraries. From relaxation to adventure, experience cruises to the Bahamas that have more range with Princess.

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Find your joy

Embark on adventures by day, and indulge in entertainment by night. Watch Movies Under the Stars® at our 300-square-foot outdoor theater. Attend original productions from Broadway legend Stephen Schwartz, composer of  Wicked . Or learn traditional moves, like Flamenco or Irish stepdance, and listen to popular music from the destinations on your itinerary. On a European cruise with Princess, the choice is yours.

Youth & Teen Center

Step outside the classroom

Our European cruises were crafted with every guest in mind — even the younger ones. From 6-month old babies to 17-year old teens, kids can unwind and relax or play and explore. In partnership with Discovery™, kids can learn even more with special insights about Italy, Greece and everywhere in between. With engaging activities on board and ashore, kids can see history books come to life before their eyes.

Reset, recharge, relax

Your European cruise should be every bit as refreshing as it is inspiring. Unwind in the Sanctuary, a retreat just for adults, and relish in tranquility. Or book an appointment at the Lotus Spa®, named "Best Spa on a Cruise Ship" by Spafinder Wellness 365™. Enjoy relaxing treatments — like facials, hot stone massages and detoxifying wraps — that will leave you recharged for upcoming adventures.

Vegas hits the seas

Experience the thrill of cards, dice, roulette and blackjack at the casino onboard our European cruises. Learn from experts — like our staff or perhaps other guests nearby — and put your skills to the test. More casual players can pull up a seat at the slot machines for the same adrenaline at their own speed. For an afternoon full of games, join fellow travelers for Bingo, or compete in scheduled group tournaments.

Sailing Scandinavia & Baltic cruises

Our Princess fleet includes ships that range from small to large vessels. While aboard, marvel at Europe’s breathtaking scenery and enjoy regionally inspired cuisine. Those sailing on Scandinavia and Baltic cruises even have the chance to experience Sky Princess®.

European Cruise Articles

Read about storied attractions, charming history, diverse cultures and preparation advice for cruising Europe.

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The top ten things to do in Norway

Planning a holiday to Norway? Discover the best museums, restaurants, cafés, attractions and experiences in the Scandinavian country.

Must-do summertime activities in Scandinavia

Discover the best summer holiday activities in Scandinavia, including wild swimming in Stockholm and rooftop drinking in Oslo.

Five reasons to cruise from Southampton

Looking for a cruise vacation from Southampton? Set sail to Canada, the Mediterranean, Scandinavia, Florida and around the British Isles with Princess Cruises.

How to see Stockholm from a unique perspective

Ice bars, rooftop tours, meatballs and more – use our handy city guide to get a fresh view of Sweden’s brilliant capital.

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Princess EZair flight quotes are available on our cruise search result details pages.

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Extend your cruise vacation, and simplify your travel plans with a hotel stay at the beginning or end of your cruise. With a Cruise Plus Hotel Package, a Princess representative meets you at the airport and pier, transporting you to and from your hotel. The package includes the cost of your hotel stay, transportation, luggage handling and the representative’s services.

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Scandinavia & Baltic Cruises

Scandinavia and Northern Europe were shaped by the mercantile culture of the Hanseatic League, and graced with astonishing beauty. Come experience the world’s iconic cities in Norway and Sweden. See Peter the Great’s namesake Russian capital. Discover the jewels of Estonia.

Highlights of Scandinavia & Baltic Cruises

Europe’s Baltic nations boast some of the continent’s most atmospheric Old Towns. Hanseatic homes and churches dot the cityscape of Tallinn, Estonia. The cobblestone streets of Stockholm’s Gamla Stan straddle one of the oldest inhabited islands of the city’s scenic archipelago. St. Petersburg, Russia’s sparkling jewel, hosts remarkably preserved palaces. The nations of the Baltic Sea were made for exploration, and Viking makes your discoveries all the more rewarding. Here are a few sample highlights you will enjoy on a Scandinavia cruise:

• Stockholm’s archipelago, the “Venice of Scandinavia”
• Neoclassical and Art Nouveau treasures of Helsinki
• St. Petersburg’s magnificent gilded architecture
• Tallinn’s red rooftops and slender steeples
• Brightly colored houses of Copenhagen’s Nyhavn district
• Picturesque wooden buildings hugging Bergen’s harbor
• Norway’s splendid vistas of fjords, glaciers and soaring peaks
• Breathtaking sculpted massifs of the Lofoten Islands
• Dazzling wintertime displays of the northern lights
• Extended daylight hours of the midnight sun

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Tips for Visiting St. Petersburg Russia on a Cruise

By: Author Carrie Ann Karstunen

Posted on Published: April 29, 2020  - Last updated: January 19, 2023

I f you’re planning a Baltic or Northern Europe cruise that includes a stop in St. Petersburg, Russia, there are a few things you’ll need to know before your visit.

Saint Petersburg , formerly Leningrad, is situated on the Neva River and overlooks the Gulf of Finland in the Baltic Sea. It’s Russia’s second-largest city and is considered the country’s cultural capital.

Note: This post was originally published well before Russia’s invasion of Ukraine , back when it was safe for cruise ship guests and other tourists to visit St. Petersburg. Tourism to Russia is (obviously) on hold right now. My heart goes out to the Ukrainian people, and I wish for their safety and security during this unprovoked Russian invasion.

With so many museums, grand baroque palaces , and elaborate Orthodox cathedrals, it’s no wonder many cruise itineraries include an overnight stay at this port.

Disclaimer: I may receive a small commission when you make a purchase from a link on this site, at no added charge to you. For more info, please read my  Disclosure Policy .

You won’t need a visa if you’ve booked with an approved tour company

Citizens of most countries usually need a visa to visit Russia. Exceptions are former Soviet republics, several Central and South American countries, and a few others. US, Canadian, UK, Australian, and NZ nationals all generally need a visa when traveling to Russia .

However, the Russian government allows cruise ship passengers to visit St. Petersburg without a visa for up to 72 hours.

Without a pre-arranged visa, you can only go ashore if you’ve booked a tour with a licensed tour operator. You’ll also be required to live on board the ship, meaning that you sleep there and not at a hotel or at someone’s home.

If you’re visiting family or friends (or if you want to explore the area on your own) you’ll need to secure a Russian visa prior to your cruise.

You can’t leave the ship unless you’re with your tour group

Part of Russia’s visa-free entry program for cruise visitors to St. Petersburg requires that passengers stay with their tour group at all times.

If you want to make the most of your visit to St. Petersburg, two-day tours of the city’s highlights are available through your cruise line. To save a significant amount of money, consider booking through an independent tour operator.

Some cruisers also opt to take a day trip to Moscow via the bullet train . Normally a 7.5-hour journey by car, the high-speed train cuts travel time almost in half. It’s a long day, but you can visit Russia’s capital city without the hassle and expense of a visa.

Most of the tours offered to cruise ship passengers are daytime trips, but adding on some evening entertainment is a great way to maximize your time in the city. A traditional Russian dance performance is a popular add-on excursion for cruise visitors.

Don’t miss the ship in St. Petersburg

Returning late to your cruise ship when it’s bound for the next port is always a recipe for disaster. If the ship leaves without you, you’re on your own to secure a flight home or to the next port. If you manage to get separated from your tour group in St. Petersburg and miss the ship, it can take up to 20 days to secure a visa to allow you to leave the country.

So stick with your tour guide and make sure you get back on your cruise ship!

Getting a Russian visa

If you really don’t want to be tied to a tour group when you’re off the ship, you could apply for a Russian visa . However, it’s a complicated and expensive process, and I don’t recommend bothering with it unless you adamantly don’t want to stay with a guide.

Be sure to start the application process early, because it can take several weeks to obtain your visa. Russian immigration won’t issue visas at the passport control desk.

Going through immigration at the cruise terminal

Give yourself plenty of time to get through immigration in St. Petersburg , especially if you’re meeting a tour group. Depending on the time of day, it can take up to 45 minutes to get through passport control. Each adult passenger needs to go through by themselves, even if you’re traveling with your family.

Immigration officials in St. Petersburg are notoriously stern, so don’t be offended if they don’t make eye contact, smile, or acknowledge your greeting. That’s just how they are.

Have your passport, visa (if you have one), cruise card, and tour tickets ready before you approach the window. If you’re entering as part of the visa-free program, the agent will give you a small piece of paper to tuck in your passport. Don’t lose this paper! You’ll need to present it when you return.

Pack for potentially chilly and/or wet Russian weather

St. Petersburg’s cruise season runs from the end of April to the end of October, with its peak in the months of June and July. Even if your visit is during the height of summer, don’t forget to dress in layers and pack a raincoat or umbrella in your day bag.

The weather in St. Petersburg is notoriously unpredictable. It also might be a bit colder than you’d expect, even in the height of summer. Although the average high temp in July is a little over 70°F (21°C), it can be significantly warmer or cooler.

In the days leading up to our cruise ship docking in St. Petersburg, the weather there had been hot (86°F/30°C) and sunny. During my visit, the warmest part of each day only reached the high 50s (about 14°C). The sun was nowhere to be seen and a chill wind made me wish I’d brought a down jacket!

St. Petersburg is also Eastern Europe’s fourth-rainiest city , with an average of 24.9 inches (633 mm) of precipitation each year. Thankfully, many of the most popular attractions in St. Petersburg for visitors are indoors, and you could easily spend hours exploring the palaces and museums on rainy days.

Tourist attractions around St. Petersburg are spread out

Unlike in many European cities , most of the major tourist attractions in the St. Petersburg area are spread out over a wide area. Since many of the stops on a guided tour are former royal residences with extensive grounds, expect to do a lot of traveling to get from one place to another.

The cruise port itself isn’t very close to most of the usual attractions, with the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood being the closest at about 25 minutes away by car. Be prepared for long rides in between stops by bringing a paperback or ebook, and keep your devices charged with a portable charger if you want to play a game or read to pass the time.

Get ready for crowds and long lines everywhere

During our time in St. Petersburg, several members of our tour group remarked (read as: complained repeatedly) to our incredibly patient tour guide about just how crowded most of the sites we visited were.

“Oh, this is nothing,” he smiled. “I’d say we’re only about seventy percent full compared to how it usually is. We got lucky!”

Our tour had skip-the-line tickets (wherever they were available) included in the package. We did have to queue up a few times to get inside some of the palaces, but it was nothing compared to the giant lines we saw for people who didn’t already have tickets.

Even though our waits were much shorter than the lines for tickets, the crowds we encountered inside many of the palaces were a bit overwhelming. This was especially true at the Hermitage , Catherine Palace , and the Peterhof .

Wall-to-wall with people, we shuffled through room after room. We were sometimes packed so tightly that it was impossible to walk normally, so we had to take tiny shuffling steps.

With huge crowds also comes the potential for pickpockets, and we saw several signs encouraging visitors to be aware. Don’t put your wallet or phone in your back pocket, and consider wearing a money belt to keep your cash, cards, passport, and phone safe.

Don’t expect that all the locals speak English (but some do)

If you’ve traveled much in Europe, you’ve probably noticed that encountering shop and restaurant staff that speak at least some English is becoming more common. I’ve found this to be especially true in cities and in areas frequented by English-speaking tourists.

In much of Northern Europe , especially in the Nordic countries, English is taught in school starting in the early grades. In Russia, studying a foreign language is required, but it doesn’t have to be English. Although English is more popular now, during the Soviet era, German was the number-one foreign language studied by Russian pupils.

During my two-day tour of St. Petersburg, I didn’t encounter many people who spoke much English, including employees at the major tourist attractions and waitstaff at the restaurants we visited. One notable exception was the cashiers and sales staff at a huge, overpriced souvenir shop that I couldn’t imagine a local ever visiting. They all spoke English very well.

If you (like me) have never studied Russian, it’s a good idea to learn a few basic phrases in the language before your trip. Also, be sure to download Russian for offline use in your Google Translate app if you don’t have an international phone plan.

Do you have an aptitude for languages? Spend a little time learning the phonetic pronunciation of the Cyrillic alphabet before you go.

Although Russian looks almost as indecipherable as hieroglyphics to me, I practiced sounding out the words on road signs, shop fronts, and buildings as we traveled around the city. I was shocked at how many words I was able to sound out and understand! Plus it was a fun way to pass the time during our coach travel between stops.

Spending money in St. Petersburg

The currency in Russia is the Russian ruble . Dollars and Euros aren’t accepted, even in very touristy areas. You can exchange money at the cruise terminal, but you’ll generally get a better rate by using an ATM. Remember that many shops won’t accept the 5000₽ note (about $66 US).

Or, skip dealing with currency altogether and use your credit card for purchases. American Express, Visa, MasterCard, and Eurocard are commonly accepted, but Discover rarely is. Check to see if any of your cards don’t charge foreign transaction fees to save a bit of money.

Shopping for souvenirs in St. Petersburg

Odds are you’ll want to pick up a souvenir or two to remember your visit to St. Petersburg, especially if it’s your first time in Russia . If you’re booking a guided tour, your guide will usually make a stop or two at some souvenir shops.

The most popular memento that tourists pick up is the hand-painted matryoshka , Russia’s famous nesting dolls. Some of the shops we visited had an enormous selection of matryoshki of varying sizes (and price points). Not only did we find many examples of the classic style adorned with images of women in traditional dress, but hundreds of other styles from cartoon characters to pop culture icons to world leaders.

Other popular souvenirs are Fabergé-style eggs and enameled trinkets, lacquered boxes, amber jewelry, and fur hats. Russian caviar is also for sale at many shops, both fresh (in refrigerated cases) and pasteurized.

If you’d like to take home some of Russia’s renowned caviar, check to see how much you can bring into your home country (for the US and Canada it’s 250g). If you have a long flight home, fresh caviar will tend to lose its delicate flavor the longer it’s not refrigerated, so plan to enjoy it on the ship or opt for a pasteurized version.

Shopping at the cruise terminal

After you get through immigration, there’s a fairly large shopping area in the St. Petersburg cruise terminal where you can buy souvenirs, get coffee or a snack at the café, and exchange money. Consider setting aside time before or after your tour to do some shopping. You won’t need to stay with your tour group to explore this part of the cruise terminal even though it’s located after passport control.

More resources for your Baltic cruise

• Visiting The Hermitage in St. Petersburg Russia
• Best Things to Do in Tallinn Old Town in One Day on a Baltic Cruise
• Visiting the Vasa Museum in Stockholm
• What to Pack in Your Cruise Carry On Bag
• How to Have the Best Embarkation Day on a Cruise

Have you visited St. Petersburg, Russia on a cruise? Did you take a guided tour, or did you secure your own visa? Let me know in the comments below!

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Saturday 13th of June 2020

That's so interesting! I am from Russia originally and of course, have been to St. Petersburg many times, but I have never thought of all of those little details! I am sure most of those would be really useful to someone visiting Russia for the first time! (Also, I love cruising and am super excited that you went to Russia on a cruise!) Hope you enjoyed your trip!

Wednesday 17th of June 2020

Marina, I loved St. Petersburg, and I hope I can return one day! Thanks so much for stopping by :D

Friday 12th of June 2020

Visiting popular tourist sights takes so much more planning these days doesn't it. We planned a trip to Spain last year, and we had numerous places that had skip the line tickets, which is well worth the extra cost. Who has time to waste 4 hours in a ticket line! That's your day gone, and when you're on a cruise, and only have limited time on shore, every minute counts.

Jay, it totally does! I miss the days when you could just wing it - walk right up to a ticket counter and head inside. Now we have to pre-plan everything! You're so right that every minute counts on a cruise. Thankfully, most port stops in St. Petersburg have at least one overnight so it doesn't feel quite as rushed.

Thursday 11th of June 2020

Russia is definitely on my list of European countries to visit. I never thought of taking a cruise there, great idea! Also good to know about the crazy wait times. Skip the line tickets are definitely the way to go.

Kat, I so agree with you on the skip the line tickets. We would have missed out on most of what we saw in St. Petersburg if we had to wait in any of those lines!

4 hour wait time?! Absolutely great information to know - planning ahead would be crucial especially if you don't have a lot of time. I also didn't know about needing a visa if you're not with a group! Definitely saving this for later

Pam, isn't that just insane? I had to take a pic of that sign because it was so shocking. Who wants to stand in a four-hour line? I'm SO thankful we were able to zip right in.

I loved visiting Saint Petersburg, but we did it the hard way and found out later that we could have done it through a Baltic ferry or cruise. After going through the visa process we may use the cruise method next time. Such a beautiful city though and SO worth the hassle of getting a visa.

Isn't St. Petersburg wonderful? I hope you're able to take a cruise to St. Petersburg next time! There's so much to see that I'm sure one visit isn't enough :D

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Cruise to St. Petersburg, Russia

St. petersburg shore excursions, amazing experiences coming soon., sorry, there are no excursions for this port at this moment., things to do in st. petersburg.

Czars and Saviors

Front of the Winter Palace in St. Petersburg, Russia

Located near the waterfront and housed in the former Romanov Winter Palace, the Hermitage Museum sits due north along Nevsky Prospekt from the Church of the Savior on Blood, St. Petersburg's other most iconic attraction.

Discover the Unusual

View of Saint Isaac's square in St. Petersburg, Russia

St. Petersburg's city center is overflowing with history — why not choose museums that offer something a little different? Visit the quirky Faberge Museum, dedicated to the work of Russian jeweler Carl Faberge. Or enjoy an interactive experience at the Museum of Emotions.

Imperial Excursion

Take a drive to some imperial palaces outside the city center. Under an hour away by car lies exquisite Peterhof, whose fountains alone are worth the price of admission. Cruise to St. Petersburg and go by train to the Baroque-style Catherine Palace — can you guess which Russian ruler often stayed here?

Local Cuisine

Russians flock to St. Petersburg because of its cosmopolitan vibe, but use your stop here to discover local cuisine. Head to the restaurant-rich Nevsky Prospect to sample borscht beet root soup (the cold version in summer), dumplings of meat ( plmeni ) and sour cherries ( vareniki ) or hearty beef stroganoff — yes, that's a Russian dish!

St. Petersburg's shopping options are as grand as its architecture. The luxurious Gostiny Dvor mall is an essential stop with your St. Petersburg cruise. If you're looking for a more down-to-earth experience, try your luck (and your Russian language skills) at Udelnaya Flea Market and bargain for one-of-a-kind antique samovars or imperial porcelain.

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Note: The safety and security of our guests, crew and communities we visit is our top priority. Due to the escalated situation between Russia and Ukraine we have made the decision to alter itineraries and remove calls to St. Petersburg, Russia from our sailings indefinitely.

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St. Petersburg

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Tag: St. Petersburg

Cruises that visit st. petersburg, russia.

St. Petersburg is a popular cruise destination and the leading cruise port in Russia for Norwegian fjords, Scandinavia, Baltic Sea & Russia cruises. The Port of St. Petersburg welcomes many cruise ships throughout the year. St. Petersburg is home to an impressive collection of interesting attractions and places of historic significance with much to intrigue the curiosity of visitors to the city. Discover the wonders of Scandinavia, Russia, Baltic and Norwegian fjords with spectacular Northern Lights & Midnight Sun tours, where Vikings roamed and czars reigned.

Easily find and compare all cruises to the port of St. Petersburg, Russia for every major cruise line

Cruising to St. Petersburg, Russia

St. Petersburg tourist attractions. When Peter the Great decided to found the city of St. Petersburg in 1703, his vision was for the new settlement to become the most lavish and spectacular in all of Russia, which is excellent news[…]

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Russia Cruises and Saint Petersburg

Matryoshkas, vibrant cities and caviar. silversea’s northern europe cruises take you back to the ussr..

A huge country with a past shared between empire and revolution. Two eras that changed and marked the world with the style of their cities. Magical landscapes, cathedrals topped by onion domes, pavement cafes bordering the Neva River… that’s our vision of Russia.

Silversea’s Russian Far East cruises are well known to our guests, but our Northern European cruise to St. Petersburg are well worth discovery too. As the largest country in the world, there is a myriad of opportunities to explore in the ex-Soviet states. Enjoy everything from Imperial grandeur to the country's historic Soviet legacy aboard our Northern Europe itineraries. Explore the splendour of St Petersburg with its colourful palaces French-style gardens reminiscent of Versailles and sumptuous plazas. This superb tsars is home of many wonders.

Imbibe in the extravagant tsarist legacy of the Winter and Peterhof Palaces. Just as the rich is the Hermitage museum and its impressive square. If you are a history lover then this city full of museums is for you. Shopaholics will definitely want to visit Nevsky Prospekt, with its majestic arches this is surely the perfect place to go splash the cash.

Isn’t it time that you fell in love with one of the most beautiful and mysterious countries in Europe?

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ST. PETERSBURG

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Silversea’s fleet is composed of some of the smallest ships you can find on the market. Their small size allows us to visit even ports that are difficult to access with style. Our brand new ships, Silver Dawn and Silver Moon, offer you a cosy home with a view on the Baltic Sea.

Luxury Oceanview Suites

Imagine a spacious, comfortable and sophisticated suite with a private veranda with a view on the Baltic Sea. What a perfect way to enjoy your cruise to Russia. Marble bathroom, comfy sitting room, everything has been thought for you to feel home. Also note that almost all of our suites have a balcony, an occasion to admire the white nights during summer.

Personalised Service

After experiencing our luxurious personalised services, you’ll miss them once you’ll get back home. Every single suite, regardless the category, has a butler at your disposal to answer all your requests and to make your holiday a unique experience. Just picture all your needs being taken care for you by our very caring white-gloved staff. You’ll wonder how you ever managed before!

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Think that contrary to others, all our cruises are all-inclusive. But when we say all-inclusive, it’s really all inclusive. Excursions, butler service, haute cuisine, gratuities, gym classes, flights transfers… Note that some suite categories even have business class flights and transfers as well. All-inclusive cruises where all is actually included and everything has been thought for you.

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Silversea always rhymed with high gastronomy. Aboard Silver Dawn and Silver Moon you can take your travel experience further with the S.A.L.T. (Sea And Land Taste) experience. A destination focused restaurant serves you delicious local cuisine and the S.A.L.T. Kitchen is the perfect place to learn to cook local dishes by yourself. Break out the caviar for your Russian cruise!

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Baltic Cruises

Embark on a voyage of discovery to the Baltic region, a destination that brings together awe-inspiring landscapes, deep cultural heritage, and diverse urban sophistication. On a Northern European cruise, immerse yourself in the distinctive charm of the Baltic Sea, known for its captivating coastal cities and untouched wilderness. Breathe in the fresh sea air, admire the stunning archipelagos, and let the region's unique beauty captivate your senses. Each port along the Baltic Sea unfolds like a new chapter in a storybook, offering scenic vistas and enriching experiences.

The Baltic Sea boasts a myriad of highlights, each more intriguing than the last. From the historic charm of Tallinn , Estonia , to the vibrant modernity of Stockholm , Sweden , the ports of call offer a compelling mix of past and present. St. Petersburg, Russia, often dubbed the 'Venice of the North', enchants with its opulent palaces and majestic cathedrals. As you sail along these waters, gaze upon the natural spectacle of sprawling archipelagos, dense forests meeting the sea, and the mesmerizing interplay of light that the Baltic region is famed for.

Baltic Cruise Lines

Each Baltic cruise features a one-of-a-kind combination of thrilling activities and luxurious amenities, all of which are designed to make the most of every moment. Learn more about the selection of Baltic cruises in 2024 from major cruise lines such as Holland America , Norwegian Cruises , Oceania Cruises , P&O Cruises , Silversea Cruises , and Viking Cruises , as well as other ocean cruise lines.

Departure ports for Baltic cruises

Cruises to the Baltic typically depart from one of the cities in Northern Europe, such as Bergen , Copenhagen , Le Havre (Paris) , Oslo , Rotterdam , Southampton , and Stockholm , which are among the most popular departure ports.

The best time to take Baltic cruises

The Baltic region is a year-round destination, with each season offering unique charms. Summer (June to August) provides long daylight hours and warm temperatures, perfect for exploring outdoor attractions and wildlife spotting. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) present milder weather and fewer crowds, ideal for city tours and nature walks. The winter months (December to February) add a magical touch to the region, with snow-covered landscapes and a chance to see the Northern Lights. Take a look for Baltic cruises during the months of September 2024 , April 2025 , May 2025 , June 2025 , and August 2025 .

Baltic Cruise Schedule 2024

A cruise to the Baltic region is more than just a journey — it's an invitation to experience a mosaic of cultures, explore stunning landscapes, and connect with a vibrant history. From charming coastal towns to mesmerizing natural spectacles, the Baltic Sea has a way of capturing the heart of every traveler. As you sail away from this enchanting region, you'll carry with you unforgettable memories and a longing to return. So set sail for the Baltic and let the adventure unfold.

14-day Norwegian Fjords cruise from Bergen

Viking jupiter, viking ocean cruises.

Date: April 28, 2025

Ports of Call: Bergen, Bergen, Eidfjord, Stavanger, Oslo, Oslo, Aalborg, Copenhagen, Warnemunde, Bornholm, Gdansk, Mariehamn, Stockholm, Stockholm; View Itinerary

12-day Baltic cruise from Le Havre

Norwegian dawn, norwegian cruise line.

Date: May 16, 2025

Ports of Call: Le Havre, Bruges, London Tilbury, Amsterdam, Copenhagen, Warnemunde, Gdansk, Klaipeda, Riga, Helsinki, Tallinn, Stockholm; View Itinerary

7-day Baltic cruise from Copenhagen

Sirena, oceania cruises.

Date: September 19, 2024

Ports of Call: Copenhagen, Warnemunde, Ronne, Klaipeda, Riga, Tallinn, Helsinki, Stockholm; View Itinerary

13-day Iceland cruise from Stockholm

Silver dawn, silversea cruises.

Date: April 30, 2025

Ports of Call: Stockholm, Oslo, Oslo, Bergen, Torshavn, Akureyri, Isafjordur, Reykjavik, Reykjavik; View Itinerary

18-day Northern Europe cruise from Southampton

Date: April 12, 2025

Ports of Call: Southampton, Rouen, Rouen, Rouen, Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Hamburg, Hamburg, Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Helsinki, Tallinn, Tallinn, Stockholm, Stockholm; View Itinerary

10-day Baltic cruise from Stockholm

Date: September 26, 2024

Ports of Call: Stockholm, Helsinki, Kotka, Tallinn, Riga, Klaipeda, Gdansk, Ronne, Warnemunde, Warnemunde, Copenhagen; View Itinerary

Viking Sky, Viking Ocean Cruises

Date: August 12, 2025

21-day Norwegian Fjords cruise from Rotterdam

Rotterdam, holland america line.

Date: September 21, 2024

Ports of Call: Rotterdam, Eidfjord, Alesund, Geiranger, Bergen, Rotterdam, Oslo, Aarhus, Warnemunde, Tallinn, Helsinki, Stockholm, Visby, Ronne, Kiel, Copenhagen, Rotterdam; View Itinerary

11-day Baltic cruise from Stockholm

Date: June 16, 2025

Ports of Call: Stockholm, Helsinki, Tallinn, Riga, Klaipeda, Gdansk, Warnemunde, Kiel, Aarhus, Oslo, Oslo, Copenhagen; View Itinerary

14-day Baltic cruise from Rotterdam

Date: September 28, 2024

Ports of Call: Rotterdam, Oslo, Aarhus, Warnemunde, Tallinn, Helsinki, Stockholm, Visby, Ronne, Kiel, Copenhagen, Rotterdam; View Itinerary

14-day Baltic cruise from Stockholm

Date: August 26, 2025

Ports of Call: Stockholm, Stockholm, Mariehamn, Gdansk, Bornholm, Warnemunde, Copenhagen, Aalborg, Oslo, Oslo, Stavanger, Eidfjord, Bergen, Bergen; View Itinerary

9-day Baltic cruise from Stockholm

Date: May 28, 2025

Ports of Call: Stockholm, Helsinki, Tallinn, Riga, Klaipeda, Gdansk, Warnemunde, Kiel, Copenhagen, Oslo; View Itinerary

Date: May 12, 2025

14-day Baltic cruise from Southampton

Britannia, p&o cruises.

Date: September 20, 2024

Ports of Call: Southampton, Kiel, Helsinki, Helsinki, Tallinn, Visby, Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Southampton; View Itinerary

10-day Baltic cruise from Oslo

Date: June 6, 2025

Ports of Call: Oslo, Kristiansand, Aarhus, Copenhagen, Warnemunde, Gdansk, Visby, Riga, Helsinki, Tallinn, Stockholm; View Itinerary

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St. Petersburg, Russia

Founded by Peter the Great in 1703, St. Petersburg edges the Neva River and is considered one of the cultural capitals of the world. Ships often dock here overnight, allowing cruisers extra time to visit the city's attractions. St. Petersburg is home to more than 250 museums, including the world-famous Hermitage Museum, where more than 3 million artworks and artifacts are housed in six beautiful buildings like the baroque Winter Palace. At the Hermitage, visitors can admire the masterpieces of Rembrandt, van Gogh, Picasso, Michelangelo and more. For shopping and nightlife, take a stroll along the Nevsky Prospekt, the metropolis' main avenue. Other can't-miss sights include city's churches and their magnificent domes, from the colorful Russian-style onion tops of the iconic Church of Our Savior of the Spilled Blood, to the 300-foot gilded dome capping St. Isaac's Cathedral and the Trinity Cathedral's spangled blue cupolas.

Driving Directions and Parking Information Marine Facade Passenger Port 1, Bereg Nevskoy Guby Vasilievsky Island St. Petersburg, Russia

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Cruises to St. Petersburg, Russia

Tabs view st. petersburg cruises, st. petersburg port guide.

St. Petersburg Shore Excursions

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There’s no destination on a Scandinavian cruise that’s more mysterious and enduring than St. Petersburg, Russia. An enigma of historic and religious sites and the birthplace of of some of literature’s greatest works, here you’ll explore museums housing some of the biggest and best art collections in the entire world. St. Petersburg is an intellectual city, a cultural capital where arts, music, and creativity thrive despite the bitter winters. May to July brings about the White Nights, a short time in St. Petersburg where the sky is completely lit up throughout the entire day, making late spring and early summer a prime time to visit St. Petersburg.

Make a day of museum hopping from the Hermitage Museum onto the Dostoevsky Museum, finishing the afternoon off at the Russian Museum. If church tours are more your thing, check out the ornate domes of the Church of Our Savior on Spilled Blood, or take photos of the beautiful Nikolsky Cathedral. Vodka tastings? You bet Russia’s most famous export is alive and well in St. Petersburg, too. Whatever you fancy, Russia’s cultural capital will captivate you on your St. Petersburg cruise.

With the safety of our guests and crew always our top priority, we are removing St. Petersburg, Russia from upcoming itineraries in 2024, due to the current situation in Ukraine. Our thoughts are with all who are impacted by this conflict.

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Top sights & attractions for cruises to st. petersburg, hermitage museum.

There are over 350 rooms in the world-renowned Hermitage Museum, so you’ll find it impossible to see everything in the short time you have there. When you cruise to St. Petersburg, Russia, come here with a plan on how to see your favorite artists and time periods on display here.

Church of Our Savior on Spilled Blood

Elaborate and breathtaking, this Russian Orthodox cathedral is one of the most recognizable sights in all of St. Petersburg. The mosaics and colorful domes are what the cathedral is famous for, along with it being the site of an assassination attempt of Tsar Alexander II. Beauty and Russian history collide as you explore the church.

Russian Museum

Even if you were previously uninformed about Russian art, the Russian Museum is the perfect primer for the local art scene. Spend the day perusing the museum at your leisure, then bring all sorts of art history tidbits back to the ship with you.

Peterhof Palace

This set of palaces and gardens is yet another example of St. Petersburg’s opulence. Meant to invoke a similar reaction as the Palace of Versaille, Peterhof stands up to the hype. It’s open from 9am to 7pm Sunday through Friday, and closed Mondays.

Learn More About St. Petersburg Shore Excursions

Top things to do in st. petersburg, tour the palace of rasputin’s famous murder.

The elaborate Yusupov Palace along the Moyka River was built for Russian aristocracy in the late 1700s, and it encapsulates the art and culture of Russia at the time. Don’t miss a tour through the very castle where Rasputin was assassinated. It’s a harrowing place where you’ll quickly get a taste of the wealth and status of the day.

See the Winter Palace

The Winter Palace also comprises part of the Hermitage Museum, but you could easily spend your entire time there simply walking the colorful grounds, where the palace glitters in gold and teal blue. Russian emperors lived in the Winter Palace from the 1700s until the 1900s.

Explore the Dostoevsky Museum

Famous Russian writer Fyodor Dostoevsky lived in St. Petersburg for much of his life, and the Dostoevsky Museum was erected in the apartment where he lived from 1878 to 1881. Today, you can walk in his footsteps and experience his apartment for yourself. It’s a must-see for literary types and fans of Russian literature.

Top Food and Drink Spots Near the St. Petersburg Cruise Port

Address: Nevsky Prospekt 47, St Petersburg

Classic Russian cuisine comes with a side of history at Palkin, which was also the site where famous Russians like Dostoevsky, Tchaikovsky, and others once sat and broke bread together. Try the fried foie gras, the salmon caviar, or the boar and venison dumplings. Adventurous, filling dishes are the name of the game here. 

Address: Petropavlovskaya St., 4, St Petersburg

You might not have tried truly authentic Russian food before, but Chekov is the place to change that. Inside, you’ll feel transported back to the 19th century, though the menu is decidedly modern. Try the marinated brandy trout fillet or the chicken liver pate. Delicious dumplings, called pelmeni , are stuffed with meat and made in-house daily.

L’Europe Restaurant

Address: Mikhaylovskaya Ulitsa, д. 1/7, Saint Petersburg

Located within the Grand Hotel Europe is a fine dining experience like no other in St. Petersburg. It’s one of Russia’s oldest restaurants, which only adds to the charm of getting to spend an evening here. Sunday brunch is a favorite. Every Wednesday, dancers and performers move to the classical sounds of Tchaikovsky during the dinner service. There is a wine-pairing menu as well as an elaborate seven-course menu including dishes like duck confit, salmon tartar, red caviar, and a four-cheese tortellini.

Culture & History of the St. Petersburg Cruise Port

Tsar Peter the Great founded the capital city of St. Petersburg in 1703. Ever since, St. Petersburg has become a cosmopolitan hub for arts, culture, and style. Famous authors like Nikolai Gogol and Dostoevsky were inspired and influenced by their times living in the city, which is immortalized in their literature. Though the climate was harsh and the winters almost unbearable, St. Petersburg remained a place where immigrants and visitors flocked to for hundreds of years. Today, it’s the second-largest city in Russia behind Moscow, home to a population of over 5 million people.

St. Petersburg Port Facilities & Location

When your cruise to St. Petersburg, Russia docks in port, you’ll have to quickly go through immigration before continuing on to explore everything the city has to offer. The port, called the Marine Facade, is a passenger port equipped to handle wide berths and plenty of cruise traffic.

Transportation in St. Petersburg

The metro system in St. Petersburg is comprehensive and runs daily until midnight. Otherwise, biking and taking a taxi or shuttle bus from the port into the center of town are great bets for getting around during your St. Petersburg cruise stop. It’s about a 30-minute drive from the cruise port to the city center, or around 45 minutes to get to the Hermitage Museum.

Shopping Near the St. Petersburg Cruise Port

You won’t be hard-pressed to find some of Russia’s enduring souvenirs, from famous nesting dolls to Russian vodka, chocolate, and other goods that tourists love to take back home with them. These souvenir shacks and stands are scattered throughout the city, making it easy to shop when you feel like it. But St. Petersburg isn’t all kitschy wares. There’s also a growing boutique shopping scene here, like the impressively large Galeria or a smattering of vintage shops selling clothes dating back to the days of the Soviet Union.

Local Currency & Tipping Customs

The local currency in Russia is the rouble (stylized as R), and you’ll find credit and debit cards are used all over the place here. Still, it’s handy to have a little bit of cash in case you need it. ATMs are widely available, too. Tipping your taxi driver isn’t expected, but you can round up or leave behind a few R if you’re particularly happy with the service you received. At restaurants, leaving 10% is customary.

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Saint Petersburg (Russia)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Baltic - Norwegian Fjords - Russia

Local Time 2024-09-16 09:50

Saint Petersburg is Russia's largest cruise port and second largest city (after the capital Moscow ). The city is located on Neva River, while the seaport is at Gulf of Finland (Baltic Sea). St Petersburg is one of Russian Federation's all 3 federal cities - together with Moscow and Sevastopol .

The city has federal status. It was named Saint Petersburg in 1703. The name was changed to Petrograd in 1914, and to Leningrad in 1924, and back to Saint Petersburg in 1991. Tsar Peter the Great established it on May 27, 1703. Between 1713-1728 and 1732-1918, it was Russia's imperial capital. The central government bodies moved to Moscow in 1918. St Petersburg is Russia's 2nd-largest city (after Moscow) with population over 5,3 million, as well as country's largest and most important Baltic Sea port.

St Petersburg is Russia's most westernized city, its cultural capital and also world's northernmost city with population over 1 million. The Historic Centre (downtown) and Related Groups of Monuments are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is home to The Hermitage, one of the biggest art museums in the world. A wealth of international corporations, foreign consulates, businesses and banks have offices here.

IMPORTANT: Since 2020, foreign cruise tourists visiting Russia via Port St Petersburg are required to have E-Visas (single-entry visas). They are issued via the website government.ru, valid for 30 days and allow entries for max 8-day stays. E-Visa applications must be applied within 20 days of disembarkation (intended arrival) but no later than 4 days prior arrival. E-Visas allow tourists to go through the city's immigration checks multiple times during their stay.

After the port city is named the 2009-built icebreaker Sankt-Peterburg .

Port St Petersburg

In peak-season June 2017 alone, the cruise port handled a total of 56 ships and 122,770 passengers. Two new ships (TUI's Mein Schiff 6 and Regent's Seven Seas Explorer ) made inaugural calls. On May 2, 2017, was the maiden call of the newbuild ship Viking Sky ( Viking Ocean Cruises ). In 2017, the port handled 243 ship calls with over 540,000 passengers (19% increase over 2016). The port had 20 long-term berthing contracts with cruise companies and the ferry operator MOBY LINES .

In 2017, the cruise port had a total of 105 ship days and handled 441451 tourists. Just in the week July 10-16, the port received 17 liners with a total of 36,233 passengers. On July 11 and 12 here docked 7 liners with 23,458 passengers. July 2017's total ship days and handled passengers were, respectively, 34 and 130,283.

For season 2019, the cruise port had scheduled/booked 262 ship calls (including 10 maiden visits) with estimated 625,000+ passengers. However, the season (April 28 through October 21) ended with handled 265 ship calls (270 in 2018) and 647,640 passengers. Compared to season 2018, port's cruise passenger shipping traffic increased by 4% due to vessels' increasing capacity. Based on the berth bookings, the traffic in 2020 will increase to 648,000 passengers via 258 ship calls (including 11 new cruise ships ). Also in 2020, Tallink Group (Baltic Seas's largest cruiseferry operator) plans to use Passenger Port St Petersburg for the first time.

Port's busiest cruiseship day so far was in 2018 (June 30), when were handled 18,000+ tourists from 6 vessels (Norwegian Breakaway, Regal Princess, Britannia, Mein Schiff 1, Zuiderdam, Oceania Marina). In August 2019 was inaugurated the new sports and fitness center (in the seaport area) which mainly serves ships' crew while their ships are in port. Also in 2019 was started the Berth 7's extension (by 42 m) to 484 m (1588 ft). When completed in 2021, Berth 7's capacity will be two large passenger liners simultaneously, each with max LOA length 330 m (1083 ft).

Regularly scheduled St Peter Line ferries connect St Petersburg with Helsinki (Finland) , Tallinn (Estonia) and Stockholm (Sweden) . The ship operating the route (St Petersburg-Helsinki-Stockholm-Tallinn) is Princess Anastasia (crossing time 62,5 hours). To Helsinki are offered 2 weekly crossings (13 hours travel), to Tallinn 1 weekly crossing (14 hours) and to Stockholm1 weekly crossing (39,5 hours).

For FY2018 (fiscal), the port authority company (Sea Port of Saint Petersburg JSC) reported a record year with handled 7,7 million cargo tons (12% increase over FY2017). The traffic growth was attributed to terminal developments of facilities dedicated for transshipment cargoes (cast iron, metal scrap, ores, fertilizers, TEU-containers). Port's exports increased 15% (to 7,45 million tons), while imports decreased 38% (to 252,000 tons). Exports are ~97% (imports ~3%) of seaport's throughput.

Next statistics relate to cargo transshipments.

• Total general cargo increased 5% (to 6,67 million tons, of which 3,74 million ferrous metal).
• Mineral fertilizers increased 75% (to 477,000 tons).
• Non-ferrous metal decreased 10% (to 1,24 million tons). Wood pellets transshipment increased 1% (to 297,000 tons).
• Metal scrap decreased 38% (to 825,000 tons).
• Dry bulk cargo increased 260% (to 597,000 tons, of which 328,000 tons of ore).
• Bulk mineral fertilizers increased 270% (to 106,000 tons).
• TEU throughput (containers shipped on boxships ) increased 30$ (to 33,300 TEUs) of which over 27,000 export and over 6,000 import.

On June 5, 2019, Maersk (world's largest container shipping company) started the construction of its new cold storage warehouse (3-chamber facility) specializing in storing perishable goods (fresh and frozen produce). For the project was contracted the Russian company PNK Group, which as of 2019 owns and operates 28 industrial parks in Russia. The new warehouse is within PNK Park Sofiyskaya KAD and sized 23700 m2 (255,100 ft2). It has 35 loading/unloading docks (daily capacity 200 container trucks), max storage capacity 50,000+ tons (30,000+ pallet locations) and is operated by 200+ employees. ~40% of the warehouse is planned to serve exclusively Fyffes plc (Japanese-owned fruit company headquartered in Dublin Ireland ).

In February 2020 was established the state-owned (100%) company "Passenger Port of Saint Petersburg Marine Facade" as a sole operator for all passenger terminals. Marine Facade now operates all 6 passenger terminals and all 9 berths at Port St Petersburg, plus 1 rive cruise terminal and 6 berths serving riverboats (at Morskoy Vokzal).

In December 2020, for Container Terminal St Petersburg were ordered two STS (ship-to-shore) container cranes from Konecranes Oyj (Finland). As of 2022-Q1 (new cranes' deliveries), the cargo terminal has (all Konecranes-built) 6x STS cranes plus 24x RTG (rubber tyre gantry) cranes. Both new STS cranes were specially designed for operation at -40 Celsius, with power chains (instead of cable festoons) and with Collision Avoidance System.

Saint Petersburg cruise terminal

The following photo shows St Petersburg cruise port's ship terminals.

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Baltic Cruise – From Copenhagen to St. Petersburg

There are actually only 3 Baltic states: Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. However, 9 countries have a shoreline along the Baltic Sea: Sweden, Denmark, Estonia, Latvia, Finland, Germany, Lithuania, Poland, and Russia. Much like a cruise in Alaska ( see out post ), a Baltic cruise is an efficient and relaxing way to explore the maritime regions of these countries, which is why cruise lines for all budgets cruise the Baltic Sea.

A fair wind at our back is best – Norwegian proverb

Silversea has some of smaller ships (about 200m) perfectly suited for the Baltic Sea – the smaller ships, for instance can dock on the Neva river in Russia either at the Lt. Schmidt’s embankment (see below) or the English embankment, which is even closer to downtown. Either way, it’s at most a 30 minute walk to the Hermitage Museum .

Sea conditions can be influenced by rogue events like earthquakes, but conditions usually depend on ocean currents and wind speed, wind duration, and fetch (the distance over water that the wind blows in a single direction). Cruises are only available in summer months, and winds are typically calmest during July, August and September. One of the highest waves ever measured was observed in January 2017 during storm Toini, which produced a 14 meter (42 foot) wave.

The Baltic Sea is connected to the ocean only through the Danish waters via shallow and narrow straits, resulting in virtually no external ocean current or wave energy. So when the wind is calm, the sea is calm, as shown above during our cruise in August.

TIP: Westerly winds predominate over the Baltic Sea and storms that pass eastward over central Scandinavia have the most impact on severe wave conditions, so weather forecasts of Copenhagen and Stockholm may help forewarn you.

5 Ports of Call on a Baltic Cruise:

The popular ports of call are Helsinki (Finland), Tallin (Estonia), Stockholm (Sweden), Copenhagen (Denmark) and St. Petersburg (Russia), and the latter was the highlight of our Baltic Sea cruise.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen , Denmark is the starting point for most of the Baltic Sea cruises. It’s a wonderful walking city with a strong culinary tradition. The city’s historic center is comprised of an 18th century rococo district, and still home to the royal family. There are many notable sites to visit.

The Little Mermaid, a bronze statue by Edvard Eriksen, depicting a mermaid becoming human and based on the 1837 fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen has become a major tourist attraction.  It is among the world statues that symbolize cities.

The Stroget area of Copenhagen is a walking area in the old centre, one of the longest pedestrian shopping streets in Europe at 1.1 km. It has long been one of the most high-profile streets in the city.

There are two iconic castles within the city of Copenhagen, Christiansborg Castle and Rosenberg Castle, both worth a visit. Just outside the city (44 minutes by car), and worth the short trip is the Kronborg Castle (Unesco World Heritage Site) in the town of Helsingor, Denmark, immortalized as Elsinore in William Shakespeare’s play Hamlet.  Elsinore is right where the distance between Denmark and Sweden is the shortest. Built in the renaissance style in 1420s, It’s been burned to the ground and rebuilt since, but always maintained its vital position at the head of the Sound. Ships passing into the Baltic Sea paid tolls at Kronborg Castle and the town was once one of the most important towns in Europe.

Denmark’s early culinary tradition was a simple one. It was the Danish farmers’ lunch, a local favorite delicacy, that is now even served in high-end restaurants and considered its national dish. The open-faced sandwich consists of a slice of rye bread, fish or meat, vegetables, and sauce on top. The heavier dishes consisted of crispy pork with parsley sauce and potatoes or breaded pork patties or meatballs. Such dishes satisfied the appetites of Danes for centuries. Since the 2000s, partly due to the fact that it has the most important cooking school in Northern Europe, Danish cuisine has undergone a transformation. Using local and international produce, the visionary chefs have adopted a new philosophy of cuisine, and the international community has responded enthusiastically, patronizing the high end, Michelin starred restaurants. It is home to Noma, voted the World’s Best Restaurant in five years: 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2014 and 2021 (Noma 2.0) with three Michelin stars, Geranium which holds three Michelin stars and was voted the fifth best restaurant in the world in 2019 and second best in 2021, after Noma. In the 2021 guide, 14 restaurants across the city received at least one Michelin Star and 23 total stars.

Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn, Estonia is an adorable capital with a 15th century defensive tower and a Gothic town hall built in the 13th century. The old historic center is easy to navigate and is filled with restaurants and cafes.

The origins of the city of Tallinn date back to the 13th century, when a castle was built there by the crusading knights of the Teutonic Order, who constituted a small mercenary military for the protection of Christians in the Holy Land and the Baltics. It developed as a major centre of the Hanseatic League, a commercial and defensive confederation of merchant guilds and market towns in Northwestern and Central Europe.

Much of the modern history of Estonia involves the Soviet Union and Russia today. As a relatively small country (the size of Dallas, Texas), its three-decade-old independence doesn’t mean that it is free from Russia’s gaze. With Russia’s increased influence in the region, and as the Russians are only two hours away from its capital, Tallinn, Estonia remains in a difficult position and is doing all it can not to provoke a Russian re-entry.

The Estonians do not have a positive view of Russia and its far reaching aspirations, throughout history Estonia has been in and out of the Russian sphere. The Estonians desperately would like culturally and politically to be allied with the northern European countries, the likes of Denmark and Sweden. The Cathedral of Alexander Nevky, built in the old Russian orthodox style of the 1894 to 1900s when Estonia was part of the Russian Empire, gives us a glimpse of the past Russian presence.

Estonia’s culinary tradition incorporates elements from Germany, Russia, Sweden and Denmark. The basis is one of seasonal peasant food, including sprats, sauerkraut, jellied meat and blood sausage. The kiluvõileib is a sprat sandwich much like the Danish open sandwiches, with a greyish fish on top of dark bread and a sauce, sometimes served with egg. From the Russian tradition, Kohuke  is basically freshly pressed sweet curd covered in chocolate or caramel. One Estonian dish not adapted from other cuisines is the Mulgipuder  , a porridge of potatos and grouts, usually served with bacon.

Stockhom, Sweden

Stockholm, Sweden is the capital and a relatively large metropolis (1 million). The city has a very European feel, a global city that is one of the top 10 regions in Europe by GDP. Its location is the junction of Lake Mälaren and Salt Bay, an arm of the Baltic Sea, opposite the Gulf of Finland. The city is built upon numerous islands as well as the mainland of Uppland and Sodermanland. The charm of its setting lies in the intermingling of land and water – the intricate pattern of waterways encompassing the city. The city has world-class museums, theaters, galleries, and gorgeous parklands, with an extensive public transit system, the underground railway system, the Tunnelbana (T-bana), takes you almost anywhere in the city. A highly efficient and regular bus network fills in any gaps between destinations.

Dating from the 1200s and crammed with must-see sights, attractions, cafés, authentic restaurants, and boutique shops, the area of  Gamla Stan (Old Town ) is a living museum in its own right. This is the original nucleus of the city, consisting of Stads Island, Helgeands Island, and Riddar Island. The buildings in this area are mainly from the 16th and 17th centuries. This well-preserved city nucleus, with the original network of streets and many of its buildings dating from the Middle Ages, is legally protected from change. Across the bridge from the Old Town is Monteliusvagen, a 500 meter long walking path with views of Lake Malaren. It is the iconic Stockhom view and makes for great photography.

Generally, the Changing of the Guard ceremony – including a military marching band and parade – is held every day from April 23 to August 31. The Royal Guards Ceremony at the Royal Palace of Stockholm lasts about 40 minutes. It starts at 12:15 pm in the palace outer courtyard on weekdays, and at 1:15 pm on Sundays.

Sweden’s culinary history dates back to the Vikings, who inhabited all of Scandinavia more than one thousand years ago. The Vikings were some of the first to develop a method for preserving foods. In preparation for long voyages, foods were salted, dehydrated, and cured. Although there is no longer a need for such preservation methods (refrigeration, etc), the Swedes continue to salt, dehydrate and cure. Swedish cuisine has not been as popular as other European cuisine and modern-day restaurants in Sweden tend to serve more foreign dishes than their own. The Kanelbulle or the cinnamon bun is delicious spiced rolls, which can be found in every café, bakery and food shop around the country.  Herring is plentiful in the area and Swedes are pros at cooking, pickling and smoking these small, flavorful fish. Husmanskost  is a style of cooking, roughly translated as ‘house owner’s fare’, comprising the peasant-style cooking that was meant to sustain you through a long day. These days, the owner’s fare is made up of many of the dishes Sweden is most famous for, including meatballs. However, being a major metropolitan centre, Stockholm does not lack fine dining establishments. There are also several Michel starred restaurants, Frantzen (3 stars), Oaxen (2 stars) and Aloe (1 star).

Helsinki, Finland

Helsinki , Finland’s capital sits right on the Gulf of Finland and was rebuilt in 1812 by the Russians, along the same lines as St. Petersburg. In 1809 Finland had been ceded to Russia by the Swedes, although the Finns did retain a considerable amount of autonomy. They kept their own legal system, religion, and were exempt from Russian military service. From 1917 on, Finland was independent until it was invaded by the USSR in 1944. Even though Finland had to concede some land, it was able to defend its territory and was never a Soviet State. It retained its independence after WWII. As a result, unlike the Estonians, Finnish attitudes toward Russia are warm and cold, depending on the time.

Today, Helsinki has a very small town feel, even though it is an international metropolis. Mannerheimintie is the central avenue and is full of iconic institutions including the National Museum, tracing Finnish history from the Stone Age to the present as well as the Parliament House and Kiasma, the contemporary museum.

Helsinki’s cathedrals are well known icons throughout the world. Uspenskin Cathedral is an Eastern Orthodox cathedral built during the period 1862-1868. The Helsinki Cathedral is Lutheran, and a neoclassical masterpiece of western and Russian styles designed by one of Finland’s greatest architects, Carl Ludvig Engel. The Temppeliaukion Church is a Lutheran Church built in 1969, and built directly into solid rock.

Traditional Finnish cuisine include Karjalanpiirakka or Karelian pies, as they are also known, small pies that fit into your hand. The crust was traditionally made with rye flour and filled with potatoes, rice or carrots.  Kalakukko are similar to karjalanpiirakka, but bigger in size and made with fish. They are most commonly filled with muikku, a small herring-like fish found in the Lake District of Eastern Finland. In the summer especially, grillimakkara are popular. These big, fat sausages made for grilling and are eaten with mustard. Reindeer are found in Finland’s northern province of Lapland and their meat is cooked in a stew and served with mash potatoes. Crayfish parties or “kraftskiva”, were originally a Swedish tradition that the Finns adopted.

St. Petersburg, Russia

St. Petersburg , Russia was founded by Peter the Great in 1703, and was the imperial capital for 2 centuries. It is the cultural center of Russia, with 221 museums and with the incomparable, world famous Hermitage .

TIP : small cruise ships dock closer to downtown. Large ships can’t sail into the city center and must dock at Morskoy Fasad on Vasilyevsky Island, a few miles from the city.

TIP : a port side cabin looks onto the beautiful orthodox Church of the Assumption of Mary (Tserkov’ Uspeniya Presvyatoy Bogoroditsy) cathedral, but the starboard side views onto an industrial shipyard. At the English embankment, both sides have a view, but port side is still better for noise at night.

The Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg is the second-largest art museum in the world, it was founded in 1764 when Empress Catherine the Great acquired a collection of paintings from Berlin. It is the home to the largest collection of paintings in the world, with the total number of pieces to be somewhere around 3 million. Not all the paintings can be displayed at one time.

One of the most memorable cruise experiences was the private music performance that Silversea was able to obtain for its guests (booking required in advance). The event began after the museum was officially closed so we had the Hermitage museum completely to ourselves without the throng of daily tourists. Truly memorable.

Catherine’s Palace

 30 km south of St. Petersburg is Catherine’s Palace, named after Catherine I, the wife of Peter the Great who ruled Russia for two years after her husband’s death. Originally a modest two-storey building commissioned by Peter for Catherine in 1717, Catherine’s Palace owes its awesome grandeur to their daughter, Empress Elizabeth, who chose the location Tsarskoe Selo as her chief summer residence. Starting in 1743, reconstruction began to completely redesign the building on a scale to rival Versailles. The resultant palace, completed in 1756, is nearly 1 km in circumference, with elaborately decorated blue-and-white facades, it took over 100 kg of gold to decorate the palace exteriors, an excess that was deplored by Catherine the Great when she discovered the state and private funds that had been lavished on the building.

A visit to Catherine’s Palace is highly recommended.

Russian Cuisine

The basis of the old Russian cuisine (9th-16th century) was grain products, baked pancakes, rye pies, boiled flour. The Old Moscow cuisine (17th century) introduced at the table of the nobles included foreign meals and culinary techniques, roast meat, game and poulty. Cuisine under Peter and Catherine the Great (18th century) borrowed heavily from West European traditions as the Russian nobles brought French chefs to Russia. Minced meats, casseroles, pates and French and German soups. St. Petersburg cuisine (from the 1860s) imported extensively from all of Europe. Tomatoes for side dishes were brought in as were sausages, omelets and compotes.

The influence of French traditions is evidenced in Russia’s most famous dish, Beef Stroganoff. The dish takes its name from one of the wealthiest noble families in Russia, and primarily consists of small beef pieces in a sour cream sauce, with different vegetables often added into it. The story is that the French chef named Charles Briere invented the dish in St. Petersburg while working for the Stroganoffs in 1891 in order to enter a cooking contest (he won). Part of the story includes the reason for such thin slices of beef – the count had failing teeth.

Of Ukrainian origins, the staple Russian dish loved by families across the country is borscht, a beetroot-based soup that’s bold in color and flavor.

Russian dumplings, known as pelmeni, are made from paper-thin pastry, shaped into parcels and packed full of meat and herbs before being boiled and served fresh from the pan, garnished with dill and a spoonful of sour cream, or in a warm broth. The general thought is that  pelmeni  were carried by the Mongols to Siberia and the Urals and then gradually spread as far as Eastern Europe. 

Mondisti’s Baltic Cruise Trip Tips

• The luxury cruise lines that travel the Baltics are Silversea and Regent amongst others;
• Crowds are biggest in St. Petersburg, Copenhagen and Stockholm, but that’s because they’re great cities and fun to stay at least a couple of nights.
• Because of the northern latitude, days will be long: from 18 to 21 hours of sunlight depending upon the month of the tour;
• Hire a private guide before hand, and avoid the crowded shore excursions organized by the ship. Some of Silversea’s excursions should not be missed, however. The Hermitage excursion was priceless.
• A trip to Catherine’s Palace in St. Petersburg is a must.

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cruise ship & Ferry To St Petersburg find out how to get to russia's northern capital by sea & visa free

Planning a trip by cruise ship or ferry to St Petersburg, Russia? If so, learn more on your Baltic Cruise with our best insights and recommendations.

In the last few years, travelling by cruise ship or ferry to St Petersburg has become one of the most popular ways to get to Russia. Currently, more than 600,000 passengers come to visit St. Petersburg on a cruise ship because it is fun, easy, and relaxing. And, it can be a romantic idea for a weekend getaway or a great short break destination in summer .

By sea, you can enjoy a wonderful scenery across the Baltic Sea and the Scandinavian coastlines while drinking, eating, and relaxing on the ship, and most importantly, you will be able to enter Russia without a Visa by taking advantage of a little loophole.

Many first-time visitors from the USA and Canada choose to cruise on a big ship liner, while others, mostly Europeans such Germans , prefer to come on a ferry cruise. Naturally, between ferries and cruise liners, there are some differences when it comes to cost, comfort, and onboard service but there are also some tiny travel restrictions on arrival that may limit your visit to the cultural capital of Russia.

Cruise ships tend to be more expensive than Ferries for obvious reasons, but nowadays both are easy ways to travel to Russia thanks to the new law that allows cruise ship passengers to visit the city of St Petersburg without Russian visa for up 72 hours if they meet certain requirements (more on that later).

This magical visit Russia visa free loophole is available only by cruise. It is operated exclusively via the St Peter line ferry onboard Princess Anastasia as well as via several international major cruise liners (see list at the end of the page).

We , Anastasia and I (Davide) , have been travelling by ferry to St Petersburg on several occasions, and we still remember that time when we were chilling out on the deck and looking at the beautiful Baltic Sea and blue Gulf of Finland while passing through the coastlines of Finland and Estonia on the way to Russia . It was amazing! ☺

HOW TO TRAVEL BY FERRY TO ST PETERSBURG

Now let's get into the content of ferry to St Petersburg and see what cruise ship or ferry you should keep an eye on to get here. To get started just click on the links below or scroll down the page. Happy reading!

Quick Links:

Getting to St Petersburg by Sea

Should I go by Ferry or by Ship Cruise?

About St. Peter Line Ferry

Where to Buy Tickets

Good to Know

The Two Passenger Terminals

From the Sea Port to Downtown

Tips and Recommendations

List of Major Cruise Ships

GETTING TO ST PETERSBURG BY SEA

Saint Petersburg , sitting at the eastern end of the Baltic Sea, has been a major port city and an attractive destination for sea travellers since its foundation by Peter the Great . So getting to Russia's Imperial Capital by sea won't be difficult, but just a long pleasant trip.

Today, if you would like to travel by sea you have two options : you can take one of the major international ship cruise lines such as Princess , Norwegian , Royal Caribbean , Holland America , Carnival , Cunard Line , Celebrity , MSC , and so forth. Or you can take the popular St. Peter Line Ferry , the only operator offering both a ferry cruise and a cargo ship directly to Saint Petersburg, Russia .

Alternatively, if you are looking for other options that are not going direct to St. Petersburg, then you could also take a ferry from Stockholm to Helsinki and from Stockholm to Tallinn, including from/to Riga with Tallink & Silja Lines or Viking Cruises . Both are two established European shipping companies offering access to the entire Baltic Sea region with the most modern fleet. From there, you can continue your trip to St Petersburg by bus , by train , or by car .

If you are on a tight budget then you could also try your luck with freight travel . We know that there is a direct ferry to St. Petersburg, Russia from countries such as Germany, Poland, Spain, UK, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Estonia, and Sweden operated by Finnlines Cargo-Passengers Ships , but we're not sure if they still board passengers, so before you go check the company for yourself.

The most popular routes by ferry or cruise ship from Northern Europe are Helsinki to St. Petersburg, Stockholm to Helsinki and St. Petersburg, or Tallinn to St. Petersburg or Stockholm, and reverse. Instead, all the international ship cruise lines have a route to St. Petersburg, but they include several stops in some European capital cities, and even worldwide, if you board from the USA, China, or Australia for instance.

Speaking of travel time, if you travel by ferry to St Petersburg from the Baltic States it may take from 14hrs to 38hrs , depending on the route chosen. Instead, if you're going with one of the international ship cruises it may take days or even weeks.

SHOULD I GO BY FERRY OR by CRUISE SHIP?

Going on a cruise ship is totally a different travel experience than going on a ferry to St Petersburg. Cruise ships are ships to entertain passengers, and a big cruise ship lasts for 1 or 2 weeks. Ferries, on the other hand, are used to only transport passengers (or cargo) from one point to another and they are cheaper.

If you travel on a big ship cruise , for example, with Princess , Carnival , or Costa cruises , you can make friends on board, relax with all the services provided (sauna, massage, gym, swimming pool, jacuzzi, etc), sleep comfortably, eat delicious food a' la carte, and enjoy the onboard entertainment (shows, night clubs, bars, casino, etc) together with great sea scenery.

On the contrary, if you go on a ferry to St Petersburg, for example, with St. Peter Line Ferry you can relax on the deck and have a meal or drink and enjoy your cruise by watching the Gulf of Finland but don't expect any luxury. The ship is vintage with fake gold handrails, dark maroon carpets, and basic sparse cabins. Based on our research we can tell you that nowadays most people prefer big ship cruises to ferries because they're all-inclusive, very comfortable, and give you the chance to truly unplug and see more cities along the way. However, you should know that between the two ships there is also another difference, which is notable and lies on the Visa loophole .

When you arrive in Saint Petersburg by an international ship cruise in order to go ashore you must book a group tour offered by the cruise company ( This option gives you less freedom of movement unless you book an alternative tour with an authorized local company ). Instead, if you arrive with St. Peter Line in order to leave the ship you must book the mandatory city bus tour along with other things ( This option gives you complete freedom to wander off in the city alone but you may feel disoriented without any guide ).

Personally speaking, for the greatest amount of freedom of movement, it is worth the effort to obtain a Russian Tourist Visa . Today the Visa process is not arduous or slower or costly as it used to be in the past but it is very easy to do it. With a visa, you can freely come and go from the ship as you please without being tied to any guided tour unless you want one, and you can visit other Russian cities.

Lastly, but no less important, the cruise ticket price varie s according to the cabin category and cruise package you choose, the season you are travelling, and the time or date you are planning to leave. Our advice is to plan your trip via ferry to St Petersburg early. And, most importantly, don't forget to book your sightseeing program in the city before you go as you will surely need and should have one regardless of how you come.

about ST. PETER LINE FERRY

If you're thinking to go via ferry to St Petersburg, remember that currently, the only ferry operator working this route is St. Peter Line . The ship sails from Stockholm, Helsinki, and Tallinn directly to St. Petersburg and reverse. Here is a short introduction to the company.

The St. Peter Line is a famous Russian based ferry operator that offers moderate high-class Baltic cruises on Princess Maria and Princess Anastasia ferries, as well as on a regular cargo ship. Today, the company is owned by Moby SPL Limited.

Cargo ship won't be of interest we think, so let's look in more details at the two most popular cruise ferries, Princess Maria and her sister Anastasia , the only options that will bring you directly to St Petersburg Visa-free if you decide to go with them of course. ☺

As far as we know, these ferries were named after daughters of the last Russian tsar, who were murdered by the Bolshevik secret police after the Red Revolution . They both offer a good level of service and entertainment onboard but not similar to those big cruise liners. However, cabins are basic by cruise standards but lavish compared to a ferry. Lucky for you the prices are more like ferries too.

To give you an indication of the prices, a one-way trip starts at €38/$43 in a shared cabin below the car deck, while a two-berth cabin on an upper deck starts at €165/$186 . Alternatively, a B-class private cabin for yourself, both ways, costs around €356/$400 (including the mandatory city bus tour).

Certainly, you could economize your journey by buying a special offer package, sharing a cabin with someone else, or booking a few months early. Just do your research and book in advance!

On the ship you can expect a few cruise-ship features, such as an entertainment lounge, casino, tax-free shop, cinema, sauna, and even a small swimming pool deep in the bowels of the ship.

Not too bad for being a mix of a ferry and cruise, is it? But there is more!

When taking St. Peter Line, you can also benefit from luggage delivery to your cabin, hotel or excursions packages, and you can even bring your pet onboard, at a price obviously. But the best part, the one we suppose why you might choose to go with them, is that if you buy their city bus tour at the same time as you book your ferry trip, you qualify for the 72 hours visa-free rule .

This mandatory city bus tour is actually no more than a shuttle bus that would take you to the city from the port and back to the port. It costs 25Euro per person and set you free up to 72 hours. However, keep in mind that you are not hiring a tour guide but you are buying a shuttle bus ticket only. So, if you need a local guide to tour the city you will need to book one separately.

That said, the difference between the two ships is their sea route.

If you sail with Princess Maria , you will cruise directly from Helsinki to St. Petersburg, and reverse (average time 15 hrs), while if you sail with Princess Anastasia , you will cruise from Stockholm to St. Petersburg or from Tallinn to St. Petersburg, and  reverse (average time 40 hrs).

WHERE TO BUY CRUISE TICKETS

If you're wondering where to buy the ticket for your ferry to St Petersburg you basically have two options: you can ask a travel agency or book online directly through the ferry or ship cruise company.

The best thing to do would be to find the website for the cruise company of your choice, and then see if they provide a ticket reservation service online. Alternatively, you can find a travel agency that represents the cruise company you have chosen and ask them to arrange the tickets for you. Nowadays there are many Baltic tours available and so many travel agencies you can contact, so choose well! 

Remember , by buying online, you can avoid the inflated prices of some tour operators or the travel agent service fees, and you won't need to call or go to the agency. So, online is really the way to go as you can get a better deal while booking comfortably from your home.

To find the best cruise deals you should start looking through some of the most popular cruise search engines such as Expedia , Kayak , CruiseDirect , CruiseCritic , CruiseWatch , to name just a few. However, keep in mind that these cruise websites are actually a cruise line’s own site - since technically, cruise booking websites aren’t allowed to undercut the prices that the cruise lines set.

Our best recommendation when buying your cruise tickets is to keep your schedule flexible. Play around with the dates of sailing to ensure you maximize your visa-free period. ☺

good to know

If you plan a trip by ship or ferry to St Petersburg you must know that to qualify for the Visa-free access you have to meet some requirements, which between the one and the other are slightly different.

So Read on carefully... If you arrive on an international cruise ship in Saint Petersburg, Russia you can go ashore on the condition that you stay no longer than 72 hours , you are accompanied by an authorized tour guide , and stay overnight in the ship . This means that from the moment you leave the ship in the morning (usually about 8 AM) until the moment you return to it (around 5 PM), you will have to follow the arranged schedule and you will not have the opportunity to visit the city or other cities on your own.

Please note that this regulation applies not only if you arrive in Saint Petersburg but also if you arrive from any of the following Russian ports: Anadyr, Arkhangelsk, Kaliningrad, Korsakov, Novorossiysk, Murmansk, Sevastopol, Sochi, Vladivostok, Vyborg, and Zarubino.

On the contrary, if you arrive with St. Peter Line Ferry you can go ashore on the condition that you stay no longer than 72 hours , you book accommodation by yourself ( Hotel , Hostels , or Flat ), and you buy a round-trip ticket with the same company.

In addition to that, you must also book a " City Bus Tour ", which has nothing to do with an organized excursion group but it has the pretense to do so . This way the ferry trip is classified as a cruise ship and you can benefit from this visa loophole.

For your information , the city bus tour through St. Peter Line is actually no more than a shuttle bus that would take you from the port to the city center of St.Petersburg to the St.Isaac’s Square and reverse. As soon as the driver drops you off you're free to go anywhere in the city without a tour guide, free to use public transportation, visit museums , palaces , monuments , theaters , Russian restaurants , shops , etc.

Speaking of the tours, we don't recommend package shore tours provided by the ship cruises because most of the time they offer only expensive standard city tours in large groups with zero flexibility. Instead, if you book a private tour with a local company you are sure to get a better introduction to the city, have fun and see more. Also, you enjoy much more freedom of movement and choice because you can choose what to see and what to do.

We do also recommend booking a private guided tour even if you take advantage of the Visa loophole offered by St Peter Line Ferry because, with only 72 hrs, which effectively is only 2 nights stay and 1 day and half of sightseeing, you will not have enough time to see all the city's main attractions , especially if you plan to tour the city by yourself.

With the help and knowledge of a local guide, you are sure to maximize your cruise to St Petersburg and make your short visit an unforgettable vacation. ☺

THE TWO PASSENGER TERMINALS

If you are wondering where your ship will dock when sailing to St Petersburg you should know that the city has two sea passenger terminals: one for sea passengers and one for river passengers.

If you will be travelling by cruise ship or ferry to St Petersburg , you will dock at the new Sea Passenger Port ( Marine Facade ), while if you will be travelling by ship via the Volga river, then you will dock at the old River Passengers Port ( Rechnoy Vokzal ).

Specifically, the new terminal of Marine Façade is the place where you will arrive when taking a ferry to St Petersburg with St. Peter Line or any other major ship cruise lines such as MSC, Norwegian Star, Queen Elizabeth, and so on (See the full list below).

Built-in 2011 and located in the Harbor of Vasilevsky Island the Sea Terminal Marine Facade comprises a modern building, with a total area of 18,500 square meters and landing-stages capable of taking four ships at once. Inside you will find comfortable and spacious arrival halls, ATM machines with a currency exchange function, cafes, a souvenir shop, post office, duty-free shop, information desk, VIP waiting area, and much more.

Today , the seaport handles more than 200,000 passengers each year and provides ferry connections with the cities of Tallinn, Helsinki, and Stockholm, and also sea trips, excursions, and cruises.

On the contrary, the old River Passenger Terminal Rechnoy Vokzal , welcomes all Russian river cruises travelling on the Volga River between Moscow and St. Petersburg or between Moscow and Kazan, Nizhny Novgorod, Saratov, or Volgograd, including cruises on the river going vessels along the Neva as well to the islands of Valaam and Kizhi (the most beautiful Russian islands located in the Ladoga lake).

FROM THE SEA PORT TO THE DOWNTOWN

If you're planning to go by ferry to St Petersburg, and you hold all the necessary documents  to go ashore ( your boarding card, city bus tour, and passport ), then keep reading the information below, while if you are a cruise passenger skip this paragraph, as you cannot leave the ship on your own.

Upon your arrival in Saint Petersburg, from the Sea Passenger Port Terminal ( Marine Facade ) into the city you can take the Bus № 158 or the Minibus ( Marshrutka ) which goes to metro station Primorskaya (Green line), two stops from the famous Nevsky Prospekt in the city center. When you get off the bus, walk past the many shops and street vendors to get to the metro station.

If you don't like taking the bus or the subway, then you can always arrange a taxi from the information desk at the seaport to go downtown, or much better, you can book a taxi with us before you come. ☺

The price should be less than €13 or $15 for a taxi, while 44Rubles (€0.50/$060) for the Marshrutka . The car trip from the port to the city is 40 Km and takes approximately 20 minutes.

However , if you travel by ferry to St Petersburg with St Peter Ferry Line, once you're outside look for the signs for the City Bus/Shuttle Bus with the Moby/St Peter logo, if you have booked a tour with them. There is a helpful attendant who will guide you to the right bus.

The bus is comfortable with space for luggage storage underneath. The journey into downtown St. Petersburg will take around 40 minutes. You will be dropped off at St Isaac’s Square near the beautiful St. Isaac Cathedral and the oldest Astoria Hotel.

Instead, if you arrive from the River Passenger Terminal ( Rechnoy Vokzal ) to the city you can easily walk to the nearest metro station Proletarskaya (Green line) - it takes about 10 minutes - and from there, take the metro , taxi , or bus to reach the central part of the city.

TIPS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Below we have summed up what we think is the most important information you need to know to travel by ferry to St Petersburg . Hope you find our tips and recommendations helpful for the planning of your trip to St Petersburg , Russia.

• Remember , if you want to take advantage of the visa-free access you have to options: you can book the guided tour offered by your international cruise ship, or you can book one of the guided tours offered by many other local authorized companies like us.
• Learn more about our St Petersburg shore excursions , or get in touch with us if you need more help or still have some questions about how to travel by ferry to St Petersburg. We can arrange individual, family, and group VISA-FREE customized shore excursions in St. Petersburg, and more. ☺
• For your information, the main cruise lines that visit St. Petersburg are Carnival Corporation & plc, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, and MSC Cruises.
• The best time to come by ferry to St. Petersburg is in the summer, though the sea navigation starts at the end of April until November.
• You should know that the port authority in St. Petersburg prohibits independent tour operators from entering the port for 90 minutes after a ship docks in St. Petersburg. Instead, guests who booked a tour via the cruise ship will not be delayed and will be given priority disembarkation.
• If you travel by ferry to St Petersburg with St. Peter Line Ferry we recommend buying Priority Exit, which costs 20Euro, and later to pick the line with the Europeans, if you want to get through the Russian immigration faster.
• Remember, to leave the sea terminal and return, you’ll have to make sure you carry your passport and cruise card, including the slip you will be issued by the Russian immigration. Keep that slip safe together with your passport until you depart.
• Give yourself plenty of time to get through immigration, especially if you’re meeting a tour group. Depending on the time of day, it can take up to 45 minutes to get through passport control.
• When going through immigration at the cruise terminal, you must show the mandatory tour pass or confirmation tour voucher along with a passport valid 6 months beyond intended stay. The tour pass is similar to the confirmation tour voucher but is provided by the international cruise ship, which offers direct assistance while on an excursion, insurance, priority disembarkation, and much more. Instead, the confirmation tour voucher is provided by a local authorized tour company like us, which takes care of your excursion in the city, disembarkation, transportation, and your safety.
• After you get through immigration, there’s a fairly large shopping area where you can buy Russian souvenirs , get coffee or a snack at the café, and exchange money.
• Keep in mind that your cruise boarding pass serves as your Visa during your stay in the imperial city. You will NOT get a visa in your passport, you'll simply carry around the boarding cruise pass with you at all times, along with your passport, and of course your Russian travel insurance .
• When you take a ferry to St Petersburg with St. Peter Line bear in mind that if you arrive from outside the Schengen area , you must have a multiple entry Schengen Visa to enter back to Finland after the cruise. See here for more info ! And, if you aren’t on top of your Schengen situation or even know what this refers to, check out also this helpful article .
• You should know that passengers arriving under the Visa-free regime must stay within the territory defined by the pre-paid excursion program. This means you can't visit other towns or cities in Russia! Also, if you arrive in St. Petersburg on a cruise but want to leave Russia by plane, train, or other modes of transportation, then you need to apply for a Russian Visa .
• Remember , in the event you're taking a ferry to St Petersburg from Stockholm, Helsinki or Tallinn with St. Peter Line you don't need to book a hotel if you leave on the same day as your arrival, but you must return in the same way as you came.
• If you miss your cruise ship or ferry to St Petersburg, then you will need a Visa to be able to leave Russia by some alternative means of transportation. Keep in mind that the Russian authorities can take up to 20 days to approve an exit visa, during which time you will have to deal with the costs.
•  We suggest returning to the ship 2 hours before your scheduled ship departure.
• If you go on a ferry to St Petersburg with St. Peter Line you'll need to present at the passport control your hotel confirmation, your return ferry-ticket, and the mandatory city bus tour along with your passport. In the event, you rent a flat (We don't recommend it) an invitation letter is also requested. You can get an invitation letter here!
• From 1st October 2019 , some cruise passengers visiting Saint Petersburg can do so with an e-Visa, available for some nationalities only, to be obtained before boarding the cruise. Alternatively, the current procedure of Visa-free remains in place.
• Remember , the Visa-free program is basically set up so that ferry or cruise passengers book tours and/or accommodation with them. But you should know that booking accommodation elsewhere is fine even if you read somewhere on the official cruise or ferry websites that is not. So don't be afraid to arranged tours with someone else. ☺
• Please note that to take the river cruises on the Volga river is compulsory to process the Russian Visa and obtain a letter of invitation, specifying the main cities in which you will be.
• You might find it interesting to know that in addition to St. Peter Line, it is also possible to go into the city of St. Petersburg or Vyborg without a Visa by traveling from Lappeenranta with the Finnish company Saimaa Travel and purchasing some of their guided tours.
• Finally, keep in mind that if your passport is lost or stolen while you are visiting St. Petersburg, you will not be allowed to return to your ship until you get a new passport through your country’s Embassy or Consulate, so be very careful not to lose your passport.

Happy ferry to St Petersburg, Russia! ☺

list of major cruise ships going to st petersburg

Below you can find a list of the main international cruise liners travelling to St. Petersburg, Russia.

AIDA Cruises (Germany) - Ships: AIDAcara, AIDAdiva, AIDAmar, AIDAprima, AIDAluna.

MSC Cruises (Italy-Switzerland) - Ships: MSC Meraviglia, MSC Poesia.

Costa Cruises (Italy) - Ships: Costa Magica, Costa Pacifica.

Norwegian Cruise Line (USA) - Ships: Norwegian Getaway, Norwegian Pearl, Norwegian Spirit.

P&O Cruises (UK) - Ships: Arcadia, Aurora, Azura.

Olsen Cruise Lines (Norway) - Ships: Balmoral.

Royal Caribbean (Norway) - Ships: Brilliance of the Seas, Serenade of the Seas, Explorer ot the Seas.

Celebrity Cruises (Greece) - Ships: Celebrity Silhouette, Celebrity Reflection.

Cruise & Maritime Voyages (UK) - Ships: Columbus, Magellan, Vasco da Gama.

Marella Cruises – TUI UK (UK) - Ships: Marella Explorer, Mein Schiff 1 NEW, Mein Schiff 3, Mein Schiff 4.

Ocean Cruises (USA) - Ships: Marina.

Holland Amercia Line (USA) - Ships: Nieuw Statendam, Rotterdam.

Cunard Line (USA) - Ships: Queen Victoria, Queen Elizabeth.

Princess Cuises (USA) - Ships: Regal Princess, Sapphire Princess, Pacific Princess.

Saga Cruises (UK) - Ships: Saga Sapphire.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises (USA) - Ships: Seven Seas Explorer.

Viking Ocean Cruises (Switzerland) - Ships: Viking Jupiter, Viking Sky, Viking Sun, Viking Sea.

Pullmantur (Spain) - Ships: Zenith.

Disney Cruise Line (USA) - Ships: Disney Magic.

Seabourn Cruise Line (USA) - Ships: Seabourn Ovation.

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises (Germany) - Ships: Europa 2.

Please note that all these cruise ships listed above arrive at “ Marine Façade ”, the maritime passenger terminal of St. Petersburg located in the western part of Vasilievsky Island. For more information about the seaport please click here .

Hello! We are Davide & Anastasia the founders of st-petersburg-essentialguide.com . ☺

We would like to let you know that apart from writing unique content for our travel website we can also help with the arrangement of your Airport Transfer , Private City Tour , and Russian Visa Support , or anything else you may need during your stay or the planning of your trip to St Petersburg Russia . Just get in touch with us today for more info!

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