Cruising Ukraine
Acclaimed Australian travel writer Catherine Marshall of Traveller discovers the joys of cruising Ukraine's rivers, a spectacular yet little-visited European country.
Though close neighbours who enjoy a long, shared and at times tumultuous history, travellers who choose a river or ocean cruise in Russia or Ukraine will be rewarded with rich, unique and varied culture, cuisine, history and art.
Viking River Cruises began life in Russia more than 20 years ago, and today we are considered the Russia river cruise expert, with our wealth of experience and the most modern fleet sailing these waterways of the tsars. Destinations such as St Petersburg are also accessible on Baltic Sea ocean cruise itineraries. Whether you choose a river or ocean cruise, you can expect to spend longer in port with Viking - allowing plenty of time to explore the treasures of Russia and Ukraine.
GET TO THE HEART OF RUSSIA AND UKRAINE
From the swirling onion domes and stout towers of Moscow’s Red Square to the majestic Peterhof Palace and priceless arts of the Hermitage in St Petersburg, Russia is full of cultural, historic and artistic marvels. Take the scenic route with a river cruise along the Volga River and her tributaries - known as the 'Queen of Rivers' - to discover the real Russia and her idyllic countryside.
Meanwhile Europe's best kept secret - Ukraine - offers a wonderful travel experience, where colourful folk traditions, hearty cuisine and rich culture are brought to life. A voyage with Viking along the Dnieper River and its maze of whisper-thin tributaries follows ancient trade routes from Kiev to the Black Sea.
Whether you choose to explore Russia or Ukraine, your voyage with Viking is designed to be destination focused and culturally enriching – it’s why we’ve become known as ‘The Thinking Person’s Cruise. Our bespoke itineraries allow you to immerse yourself in the unique history and culture of each destination on a deeper level, offering a window into Russia and Ukraine's rhythms of local life, their it’s working world and taking you behind closed doors with our signature Privileged Access.
On this page, you'll find inspiration about the most incredible sights, experiences and cuisines that tell the story of Russia and Ukraine, as well as information to help you plan your Viking river or ocean cruise adventure. Explore all the possibilities today.
TRAVEL GUIDES & TIPS
The best way to experience a destination is with the guidance of a local, and that’s exactly how Viking helps you explore. Here you’ll find our handy destination guides, as well as our top tips to help you plan your visit.
FOOD, WINE & RECIPES
The flavours and fragrances of a dish can evoke fond memories of travels past, and ignite your imagination for travel in the future. We have curated some of our best-loved recipes, customs and culinary-inspired regions – and we highly recommend cooking along at home!
CULTURE
Discovering the intricate rhythms and traditions of daily life is a vital part of the travel experience for the curious traveller. From language to religion, every nation has its own unique customs. Here you will discover what makes each destination’s way of life special.
HISTORY
Like you, Viking believes that understanding a destination’s past is fundamental to appreciating it’s present. Here you will find a window into the historical record of the forces that have shaped this destination, and continue to play an important role in the cultural fabric you see today.
ART, MUSIC, FILM & LITERATURE
Appreciating a destination’s art tells the stories of its people, and its soul. It has been said that the basic condition required to appreciate art in all its many forms is a chair, a statement that’s never rung truer than right now. We hope you enjoy this virtual journey into the wonderful world of art, music, films and literature.
VIRTUAL INFORMATION SESSIONS
Discover the world of Viking by joining one of our Virtual Information Sessions - free to watch in your own time. Simply register and look forward to an enriching, 45-minute presentation to take you deeper into the destinations of your choice.
CRUISE RUSSIA & UKRAINE WITH VIKING
RUSSIA & UKRAINE EXTENSIONS AND TOURS
More days means more to discover, with extension packages you can add before or after your Viking cruise or cruisetour. Enjoy additional days to explore your embarkation or disembarkation city, or see a new destination altogether with a choice of exciting cities.