Optional Excursions
Below you will find optional excursions and prices (per person) offered onboard. We display prices in EUR as this is the base currency used by the cruise operating company. You can prebook optional excursions before going on a cruise. The price will be calculated using the EUR / GBP exchange valid on the date of your booking.
KIEV
Kievo - Pecherskaya Lavra EUR 30
(coach/walking tour - about 3.5 hours)
Min. number of pax - 20
It was founded in XI century. The reserve is located on the 24 hectare area and includes 102 buildings (from XI to XX centuries)
In 1990 year the whole complex of Lavra buildings was included in the list of World heritage of UNESCO organization.
You will see Lavra’s territory, 3-4 interiors with unique church relics (crosses, the Bible, annals, jewelry, painting), also you will visit caves, where holy relics are buried).
ZAPOROZHYE
Cossack Show EUR 25
(coach tour – duration about 1.5 hours)
Min. number of pax – 50
The show takes part in old Cossack country estate with different wooden buildings and ground for Horse Show. You can enjoy fits in Cossack style, folk-national games, and confirmation into Cossack, canon shouting with traditional Cossack delicious.
ODESSA
Visit of Art Gallery EUR 32
(coach / walking tour - duration about 3 hours)
Min. number of pax - 20
The exposition occupies twenty-six halls and it is arranged in the historical and chronological succession following a monographic principal of each artist presentation. Works by the masters of Russian and Ukrainian realistic school of the 19th century - the early 20th century comprise the great part of the Museum's collection. The Russian art of that time is represented by pictures of I.Kramskoy, A.Savrasov, I.Levitan, I.Shyshkin, A.Kuindzhi, I.Repin, V.Surikov and many others, which were known as Wanderers.
A tribute to a romanticism epoch - equipped under the basic case of a building an extensive grotto with the vaulted overlapping, simulating a natural cave with artificial falls. The part of the underground corridors which had an exit in extensive park, going down on a hill slope to sea coast has remained. Now the grotto is opened for visitors. Here too it is possible to familiarise with history of a building and the museum located in it.
Classical music performed by the violinist and a champagne glass will create unforgettable impressions.
Odessa different cultures EUR 25
(coach/walking tour - duration about 4 hours)
One of the most popular tours in Odessa. The city has always been cosmopolitan and multi-confessional. So, numerous marvelous temples for various religions are located in the city.
Within this tour you’ll have an opportunity to visit:
In Arcadia you’ll attend one of its cozy cafes and get one drink for free.
Private Concert incl. champagne and snacks in Count Tolstoy’s Palace EUR 50
(evening performance - duration about 2.5 hours)
Min. number of pax - 40
A bus brings you to the entrance of the palace where a local guide - a research assistance of the museum - meets you. Then you will have an excursion through the palace where lived one of the most famous family of Odessa history. You will visit the main White hall where the Tolstoys organized concerts with participation of well-known violinists, pianists, singers; see the most interesting exhibit - legendary grand piano of Ferenc List who had concerts in Odessa and left his grand piano in our city; hear the stories about the family members and their contribution on evolution of Odessa.
After that you will go to one of three concert halls (depends on the amount of the group: Grand Hall - a picture-gallery of the Tolstoys, White Hall, Walnut Reception-Room) and enjoy a wonderful music of the string quartet “Harmonies of the World”. The quartet, which members are soloists of the Odessa National Symphony Orchestra, is famous and very popular all around the world (Germany, France, Austria, Switzerland, USA, Spain etc.). The music they play is from classic till popular and known for everyone. One of the best musicians not only of Odessa, but also of Ukraine, Honored artist Vladimir Tomaschuck (clarinet) soloist of the National Symphony Orchestra, takes part in the concert.
You will have a magic time of music, in the pause having some champagne and a unique possibility to talk with such great and famous people as the musicians of the quartet “Harmonies of the World”.
OR
Odessa National Academic theater of Opera and Ballet EUR 50
(evening performance - duration about 2.5 hours)
Min. number of pax - 40
Coach tour to Shabo Village (coach/walking tour – duration 8 hours) EUR 60
Min. number of pax - 25
A beautiful kingdom Shabo is ancient cellars of 10 000 sqare meters. Huge storehouses are located on three levels: zero level, 5 meters-under level and 9 meters-under level. A special attention should be paid to a unique Herris cellar. Dry Herris is rare wine; there are almost no specialists in Ukraine who have kept ancient traditions of creating of this beautiful drink. In Shabo the secrets of its creating are passed across the generations. Very famous is so-called “Royal cellar” which was created by French settlers more than 200 years ago.
The excursion about “Wine culture center in Shabo” includes:
The lunch at a local restaurant will be served for the clients on that tour.
SEVASTOPOL
Coach tour to Bakhchisaray (coach/walking tour - duration 4 hours) EUR 38
Min. number of pax - 20
Bakhchisaray is a former capital of Crimean Khanate (XV century). You will see Khan Palace, which was built in the end of XVI century. On the territory of palace you will see the mosque, harem territory, many fountains and famous fountain “Tears fountain”. Near of Bakhchisaray Palace you will see outside Uspensky monastery.
Concert of the Ensemble of the Black Sea Fleet EUR 35
(evening performance - duration about 1.5 hours)
Min. number of pax - 50
YALTA
Visit of the Alupka Palace with wine tasting EUR 40
(coach/walking tour - duration about 3.5 hours)
Min. number of pax - 30
Upon arrival in Alupka your guide will take you on a walking tour of the grand Vorontsov Palace. Designed by English architects in 1828 for Count Vorontsov, the building is a bizarre combination of Scottish castle and Arabic fantasy in the setting of an exotic park. It is difficult to find in Crimea a more popular and more beautiful place to visit. The park itself is a real masterpiece of garden art. The tour will continue with a wine tasting ceremony at the famous Alupka Wine-Tasting Hall. You will have an opportunity to try 8 samples of local wines and to feel the romantic atmosphere of this idyllic place.
OR
Visit of the Botanical Gardens of Nikita EUR 30
(coach/walking tour - duration about 3.5 hours)
Min. number of pax - 20
This tour highlights some of the more unusual attractions of Greater Yalta. Your coach will take you to the Botanical Gardens of Nikita, which comprises more than 18 thousand species of plants from Mediterranean countries, South East Asia, Africa and South America. The Botanical Gardens of Nikita is also a major scientific-research institute with production and experimental grounds.
NESSEBAR
Bulgarian Village EUR 30
(coach/walking tour - duration about 2 hours)
Min. number of pax - 20
A picturesque countryside drive through the scenic landscape takes you just inland from Nessebur to a small rural village. Visit to the charming local East-Orthodox church dating back from 18 century and tucked away in the center of the town. The modest size is compensated by its atmospheric interior. Visit to a Bulgarian home - a chance to take a glimpse of a traditional rural house, to speak with the hosts, to see their home and well-tended garden. Home-made snacks and drinks will be offered as refreshment.
OR
Wine Tasting EUR 36
(coach/walking tour – duration about 2,5 hours)
Min. number of pax – 20
A picturesque countryside drive through the scenic landscape takes you just inland from Nessebur to a charming ethnographic complex with inviting traditional Bulgarian atmosphere. Alongside with the impressive wine cellar the complex offers a group of artisans’ workshops showcasing the traditional Bulgarian crafts. After touring the wine cellar you will be invited for a wine tasting session of specially selected wines. A wine expert will provide explanations and in-depth commentary on each drink you taste. A traditional cheese-and-salami hors d’oeuvre will indulge your senses. Shopping opportunities will be provided after choosing your favourite vintage.
ISTANBUL
Whirling Derwishes Performance combining with an illumination tour EUR 30
(coach/walking tour – duration about 2,5 hours)
Min. number of pax – 20
Sufi Music Concert and Whirling Derwishes ceremony by the Sufi Group of Istanbul Galata mevlevi Lodge will take place either in a building of the Sirkeci Train Station (famous by the Orient Express Train) or in the Hammam building. After the concert you will make a night tour. An illumination tour of the city covering the new part of the town and crossing the Bosphorus Bridge with a pause at Camhca Hill by having a magnificent view from the city, One cup of tee or Turkish coffee will be served during the pause.
Private Boat Trip on the Bosphorus EUR 32
(coach and boat tour 2 ½ hours)
After the dinner,we leave the hotel and go to Eminönü by our tour busses with the local guides. Eminonu area is at the junction of the Golden Horn and the starting point of the Bosphorus. As the boat leaves, you will have a great view of the old city peninsula with Topkapi Palace, Aya Sofya and Suleymaniye Mosque all rising from the hill in full splendor.
As you head towards the first stop on the European side, you will see the second residence of the Ottoman sultans, called Dolmabahce Palace, built in 1849 by the Balyan brothers. The boat will stay close to the European side for some time and you will pass one of the other works of the Balyan brothers - Ciragan Palace. After that, you will pass by the village of Ortakoy, which plays an important role in the summer nightlife of Istanbul. It has many water-side restaurants, bars and cafes. It is also an area supporting three religions - having a church, a mosque and a synagogue.
Once you pass under the first bridge, built in 1973, you will see two stylish outdoor night clubs on the European side, with Beylerbeyi Palace on the opposite Asian side. Soon you will approach an artificial island in the middle of the sea, named Galatasaray Island, built for the sports team by that name
On the return, get off at Eminonu again and go back to the hotel.
Kievo - Pecherskaya Lavra EUR 30
(coach/walking tour - about 3.5 hours)
Min. number of pax - 20
It was founded in XI century. The reserve is located on the 24 hectare area and includes 102 buildings (from XI to XX centuries)
In 1990 year the whole complex of Lavra buildings was included in the list of World heritage of UNESCO organization.
You will see Lavra’s territory, 3-4 interiors with unique church relics (crosses, the Bible, annals, jewelry, painting), also you will visit caves, where holy relics are buried).
ZAPOROZHYE
Cossack Show EUR 25
(coach tour – duration about 1.5 hours)
Min. number of pax – 50
The show takes part in old Cossack country estate with different wooden buildings and ground for Horse Show. You can enjoy fits in Cossack style, folk-national games, and confirmation into Cossack, canon shouting with traditional Cossack delicious.
ODESSA
Visit of Art Gallery EUR 32
(coach / walking tour - duration about 3 hours)
Min. number of pax - 20
The exposition occupies twenty-six halls and it is arranged in the historical and chronological succession following a monographic principal of each artist presentation. Works by the masters of Russian and Ukrainian realistic school of the 19th century - the early 20th century comprise the great part of the Museum's collection. The Russian art of that time is represented by pictures of I.Kramskoy, A.Savrasov, I.Levitan, I.Shyshkin, A.Kuindzhi, I.Repin, V.Surikov and many others, which were known as Wanderers.
A tribute to a romanticism epoch - equipped under the basic case of a building an extensive grotto with the vaulted overlapping, simulating a natural cave with artificial falls. The part of the underground corridors which had an exit in extensive park, going down on a hill slope to sea coast has remained. Now the grotto is opened for visitors. Here too it is possible to familiarise with history of a building and the museum located in it.
Classical music performed by the violinist and a champagne glass will create unforgettable impressions.
Odessa different cultures EUR 25
(coach/walking tour - duration about 4 hours)
One of the most popular tours in Odessa. The city has always been cosmopolitan and multi-confessional. So, numerous marvelous temples for various religions are located in the city.
Within this tour you’ll have an opportunity to visit:
- Preobrazhensky Cathedral (Transfiguration Cathedral) - the largest among Odessa Orthodox Churches, founded in 1794. In 1930 the church was destroyed by Bolsheviks. Now the Cathedral has been fully rebuilt.
- Church of the Holy Trinity - the oldest Odessa church. At first there was a wooden church. In 1804 - 1808 new stone church was being built on the same place. It is one of Odessa’s main architectural monuments.
- Catholic Cathedral of Dormition of Virgin Mary - the largest Odessa Catholic church. Built 1847 - 1853. The building is an amazing mixture of Roman and Gothic styles.
- Main Synagogue - built in 1850. It was only recently returned to Jewish society.
- Arabic Cultural Centre.
In Arcadia you’ll attend one of its cozy cafes and get one drink for free.
Private Concert incl. champagne and snacks in Count Tolstoy’s Palace EUR 50
(evening performance - duration about 2.5 hours)
Min. number of pax - 40
A bus brings you to the entrance of the palace where a local guide - a research assistance of the museum - meets you. Then you will have an excursion through the palace where lived one of the most famous family of Odessa history. You will visit the main White hall where the Tolstoys organized concerts with participation of well-known violinists, pianists, singers; see the most interesting exhibit - legendary grand piano of Ferenc List who had concerts in Odessa and left his grand piano in our city; hear the stories about the family members and their contribution on evolution of Odessa.
After that you will go to one of three concert halls (depends on the amount of the group: Grand Hall - a picture-gallery of the Tolstoys, White Hall, Walnut Reception-Room) and enjoy a wonderful music of the string quartet “Harmonies of the World”. The quartet, which members are soloists of the Odessa National Symphony Orchestra, is famous and very popular all around the world (Germany, France, Austria, Switzerland, USA, Spain etc.). The music they play is from classic till popular and known for everyone. One of the best musicians not only of Odessa, but also of Ukraine, Honored artist Vladimir Tomaschuck (clarinet) soloist of the National Symphony Orchestra, takes part in the concert.
You will have a magic time of music, in the pause having some champagne and a unique possibility to talk with such great and famous people as the musicians of the quartet “Harmonies of the World”.
OR
Odessa National Academic theater of Opera and Ballet EUR 50
(evening performance - duration about 2.5 hours)
Min. number of pax - 40
Coach tour to Shabo Village (coach/walking tour – duration 8 hours) EUR 60
Min. number of pax - 25
A beautiful kingdom Shabo is ancient cellars of 10 000 sqare meters. Huge storehouses are located on three levels: zero level, 5 meters-under level and 9 meters-under level. A special attention should be paid to a unique Herris cellar. Dry Herris is rare wine; there are almost no specialists in Ukraine who have kept ancient traditions of creating of this beautiful drink. In Shabo the secrets of its creating are passed across the generations. Very famous is so-called “Royal cellar” which was created by French settlers more than 200 years ago.
The excursion about “Wine culture center in Shabo” includes:
- visiting of primary wine-making department
- visiting of cognac yard
- visiting of three-leveled storehouse
- visiting of cool bottling department
- visiting of Royal cellar
- visiting of Herris cellar
- wine tasting
The lunch at a local restaurant will be served for the clients on that tour.
SEVASTOPOL
Coach tour to Bakhchisaray (coach/walking tour - duration 4 hours) EUR 38
Min. number of pax - 20
Bakhchisaray is a former capital of Crimean Khanate (XV century). You will see Khan Palace, which was built in the end of XVI century. On the territory of palace you will see the mosque, harem territory, many fountains and famous fountain “Tears fountain”. Near of Bakhchisaray Palace you will see outside Uspensky monastery.
Concert of the Ensemble of the Black Sea Fleet EUR 35
(evening performance - duration about 1.5 hours)
Min. number of pax - 50
YALTA
Visit of the Alupka Palace with wine tasting EUR 40
(coach/walking tour - duration about 3.5 hours)
Min. number of pax - 30
Upon arrival in Alupka your guide will take you on a walking tour of the grand Vorontsov Palace. Designed by English architects in 1828 for Count Vorontsov, the building is a bizarre combination of Scottish castle and Arabic fantasy in the setting of an exotic park. It is difficult to find in Crimea a more popular and more beautiful place to visit. The park itself is a real masterpiece of garden art. The tour will continue with a wine tasting ceremony at the famous Alupka Wine-Tasting Hall. You will have an opportunity to try 8 samples of local wines and to feel the romantic atmosphere of this idyllic place.
OR
Visit of the Botanical Gardens of Nikita EUR 30
(coach/walking tour - duration about 3.5 hours)
Min. number of pax - 20
This tour highlights some of the more unusual attractions of Greater Yalta. Your coach will take you to the Botanical Gardens of Nikita, which comprises more than 18 thousand species of plants from Mediterranean countries, South East Asia, Africa and South America. The Botanical Gardens of Nikita is also a major scientific-research institute with production and experimental grounds.
NESSEBAR
Bulgarian Village EUR 30
(coach/walking tour - duration about 2 hours)
Min. number of pax - 20
A picturesque countryside drive through the scenic landscape takes you just inland from Nessebur to a small rural village. Visit to the charming local East-Orthodox church dating back from 18 century and tucked away in the center of the town. The modest size is compensated by its atmospheric interior. Visit to a Bulgarian home - a chance to take a glimpse of a traditional rural house, to speak with the hosts, to see their home and well-tended garden. Home-made snacks and drinks will be offered as refreshment.
OR
Wine Tasting EUR 36
(coach/walking tour – duration about 2,5 hours)
Min. number of pax – 20
A picturesque countryside drive through the scenic landscape takes you just inland from Nessebur to a charming ethnographic complex with inviting traditional Bulgarian atmosphere. Alongside with the impressive wine cellar the complex offers a group of artisans’ workshops showcasing the traditional Bulgarian crafts. After touring the wine cellar you will be invited for a wine tasting session of specially selected wines. A wine expert will provide explanations and in-depth commentary on each drink you taste. A traditional cheese-and-salami hors d’oeuvre will indulge your senses. Shopping opportunities will be provided after choosing your favourite vintage.
ISTANBUL
Whirling Derwishes Performance combining with an illumination tour EUR 30
(coach/walking tour – duration about 2,5 hours)
Min. number of pax – 20
Sufi Music Concert and Whirling Derwishes ceremony by the Sufi Group of Istanbul Galata mevlevi Lodge will take place either in a building of the Sirkeci Train Station (famous by the Orient Express Train) or in the Hammam building. After the concert you will make a night tour. An illumination tour of the city covering the new part of the town and crossing the Bosphorus Bridge with a pause at Camhca Hill by having a magnificent view from the city, One cup of tee or Turkish coffee will be served during the pause.
Private Boat Trip on the Bosphorus EUR 32
(coach and boat tour 2 ½ hours)
After the dinner,we leave the hotel and go to Eminönü by our tour busses with the local guides. Eminonu area is at the junction of the Golden Horn and the starting point of the Bosphorus. As the boat leaves, you will have a great view of the old city peninsula with Topkapi Palace, Aya Sofya and Suleymaniye Mosque all rising from the hill in full splendor.
As you head towards the first stop on the European side, you will see the second residence of the Ottoman sultans, called Dolmabahce Palace, built in 1849 by the Balyan brothers. The boat will stay close to the European side for some time and you will pass one of the other works of the Balyan brothers - Ciragan Palace. After that, you will pass by the village of Ortakoy, which plays an important role in the summer nightlife of Istanbul. It has many water-side restaurants, bars and cafes. It is also an area supporting three religions - having a church, a mosque and a synagogue.
Once you pass under the first bridge, built in 1973, you will see two stylish outdoor night clubs on the European side, with Beylerbeyi Palace on the opposite Asian side. Soon you will approach an artificial island in the middle of the sea, named Galatasaray Island, built for the sports team by that name
On the return, get off at Eminonu again and go back to the hotel.