Viking Ingvar

The Viking Ingvar river cruise offers an unparalleled journey through Russia's most iconic and culturally rich landscapes. Named after the legendary Viking warrior Ingvar the Far-Traveled, who is said to have embarked on epic voyages across Eastern Europe and Asia, the cruise embodies the spirit of exploration and adventure that defined the Viking Age.

The Viking Ingvar is one of Viking River Cruises’ premium ships, designed to provide guests with a luxurious experience while cruising through Russia’s waterways. The ship was refurbished in 2020, ensuring that it meets the highest standards of comfort and style. With a capacity of 204 guests, the Ingvar offers an intimate setting with personalized service, allowing passengers to enjoy the scenic vistas in a relaxed and elegant environment.

Onboard, the ship features well-appointed staterooms, each with a view of the river, ensuring that guests are never far from the breathtaking landscapes of Russia. The ship’s public spaces, including the Panorama Bar and the Sun Deck, offer ample opportunities for relaxation and socialization, with panoramic views that enhance the cruising experience.

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The Viking Ingvar’s most popular itinerary is the “Waterways of the Tsars,” a 13-day journey from Moscow to St. Petersburg, or vice versa, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of Russia. The cruise covers several key destinations, each offering a unique glimpse into Russia’s past and present.

• Moscow: The journey begins in Russia's vibrant capital, where guests can explore iconic landmarks such as the Kremlin, Red Square, and St. Basil’s Cathedral. The city’s blend of modernity and tradition sets the stage for the adventure ahead.
• Uglich: A picturesque town on the Volga River, Uglich is known for its stunning Church of St. Dmitry on the Blood, a memorial to the young prince Dmitry Ivanovich. This stop offers a poignant reminder of Russia’s turbulent history.
• Yaroslavl: One of the oldest cities in Russia, Yaroslavl is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, guests can visit the Church of Elijah the Prophet and the Transfiguration Monastery, both masterpieces of Russian architecture.
• Goritsy: A small village that provides a glimpse of rural life in Russia, Goritsy is home to the Kirillo-Belozersky Monastery, one of the largest medieval monasteries in Russia. The site offers insights into the spiritual life of Russia during the Middle Ages.
• Kizhi Island: Located on Lake Onega, Kizhi Island is famous for its open-air museum featuring wooden churches and houses. The Church of the Transfiguration, with its 22 domes, is a remarkable example of Russian wooden architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Mandrogi: A reconstructed village that gives guests a taste of traditional Russian life, Mandrogi is known for its handicrafts and Vodka Museum. This stop allows passengers to experience the rich folklore and crafts of Russia’s rural communities.
• St. Petersburg: The journey concludes in Russia's cultural capital, St. Petersburg. Known for its magnificent palaces, museums, and canals, the city offers endless opportunities for exploration. Highlights include the Hermitage Museum, Peterhof Palace, and the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood.

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The Viking Ingvar cruise is not just about visiting historic sites; it’s about immersing oneself in Russian culture. Onboard, guests can participate in lectures on Russian history and culture, enjoy performances of traditional Russian music and dance, and even take part in cooking demonstrations to learn how to make classic Russian dishes.

The cruise also offers a variety of optional excursions, including a visit to the home of a Russian family, where guests can experience Russian hospitality firsthand, or a guided tour of the Hermitage Museum with a focus on its vast collection of European art.

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