jordan viking yacht

Michael Jordan's $80 Million Yacht Is a Luxury Boat Fit for the GOAT

Let's face it: The average joe, or even most above average joes for that matter, isn't going out and buying 200-foot super yachts. Only a select few of the most successful people in this world can afford such a luxury. Take the greatest player in NBA History, Michael Jordan , for example.

There's pretty much no denying it: Michael Jordan is the GOAT. Not only was he an NBA legend who won six NBA championships with the Chicago Bulls, but the five-time MVP also turned his Jordan brand into a super-successful business, making billions of dollars for Nike and opening the door for other athletes to do the same, like LeBron James. As of today, the billionaire owner of the Charlotte Hornets' net worth puts him on the Forbes list year after year.

Now, Jordan is no stranger to boating. A while back, he bought a massive sport fishing Viking Yacht named Catch 23 . It rocked the Air Jordan 3 sneaker elephant print color scheme, and he commonly used it to compete in fishing tournaments. However, one of his more recent purchase puts his old fishing boat to shame. I mean, it is an $80 million luxury yacht after all.

Below, we'll check out what the North Carolina's native pride and Joy (that's the boat's name, by the way) has to offer.

Michael Jordan's Yacht a.k.a. Joy

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Coming in at a massive 230 feet, Joy can be spotted miles and miles away. With eight different full-sized cabins onboard, the yacht can house family, friends, or anyone else worthy of staying in the Master Suite with no problem at all. Inside, you'll also find a full bar with a beautiful dining room area and a 270-degree ocean view. Of course, Jordan has also hired some of the world's finest chefs and bartenders as crew members, to serve himself and the guests while out on the water.

Along with an amazing view, the rear deck is fitted with a jacuzzi and a surrounding lounge area for hanging out or tanning. Jordan isn't the kind of person that likes to just sit around though, so it makes sense that there's also a full gym at his disposal to get the blood pumping. Those five-star meals need to get burned off somehow. Additionally, it wouldn't truly be a yacht owned by basketball player Michael Jordan without a full-sized basketball court. He may not play professionally anymore, but that doesn't mean he can't teach his guests a few lessons on the court from time to time.

When it comes down to it, Jordan is a businessman. Because of that, there's also a room that's mainly dedicated to meetings with important clients. The room is fitted with top of the line audio/visual equipment, and a satellite to give a presentation that is nearly impossible to decline. What better way to pitch your ideas than from this luxurious meeting room?

To put things in perspective, this yacht costs around $840,000 each week in order to man the ship and to keep the vessel in seaworthy condition. Not exactly a small price to pay on top of the $80 million price tag, but for the top-of-the-line amenities, it seems to be worth every penny to Jordan. He truly is living the life, pulling up to the beach club on a Caribbean island, ready to take play some 1-on-1 with anyone willing to take on the GOAT.

This article was originally published on March 7, 2022, and has been updated since. 

READ MORE: 25 Michael Jordan Quotes That Show Why "His Airness" is the Greatest

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Check out Michael Jordan’s Massive Sportfish Catch 23

Earlier this year Michael Jordan’s yacht, a beautiful Viking sportfish, participated in the Ocean City, Maryland White Marlin Open .

Touted as the world’s largest billfish tournament, the White Marlin Open draws thousands of anglers and spectators every summer. More than $5 million in prize money was awarded in 2018. At the August 2019 event Jordan entered his Viking, named Catch 23, and he was entry number 123.

The custom 80 foot Viking is decked out in a wrap matching the famous elephant print from his Air Jordan 3 sneakers. His plane is decked out in the same print.

Jordan himself was spotted on the yacht enjoying cigars and some great weather and fishing! The Viking 80 set up to win, the 216 square-foot cockpit is equipped for tournament fishing with a transom door,  freezer, tackle, and general stowage space, live well capacity, fish wells, an ice chest and a chill box for drinks. 

Update: June 9, 2020 MJ was in Morehead City, NC for the Big Rock Tournament and his Viking hauled in a 442.3 lb Blue Marlin! It won’t win the tournament, but it was great to see the billionaire owner of one of these boats actually there at the weigh in!

MJ’s ‘Catch 23’ in with a 442.3 pound blue marlin at Big Rock. “I’d love to be back with a little bit bigger fish,” Jordan said in the post-catch interview. pic.twitter.com/51hQTbF1KG — Ross Martin (@RossMartin_IC) June 9, 2020

Check out Catch 23 in action !

Here’s what the interior of a Viking 80 looks like:

Want one of your own…this one is for sale! But you’ll have to be a qualified buyer to get the price…

https://www.hmy.com/yachts-for-sale/80-viking-enclosed-bridge-tbd-2020-2020/

Want a used one you can get your hands on now?

This Enclosed bridge 80′ Viking is just $6,850,000, available from HMY yachts

Learn more about Michael Jordan’s yacht, the Viking 80!

Powered with tier 3 MTU Series 2000 V16 M96L engines each developing 2,635 mhp with Blue Vision controls and display monitors, our testing calculations indicate a top speed in excess of 40 knots with an effortless high 30 knot cruise, depending upon load, sea conditions and ambient environmental factors. These engines are the same as used aboard the 92 Convertible. It is interesting to note that MTU looked to Viking to be the first manufacturer to use this new propulsion system and Viking’s success with its 92 series verified the engines comprise a winning combination for speed, efficiency, range, acceleration and quietness, which will replicate aboard the new 80 Convertible.

Entered through an electric sliding door on the cockpit mezzanine deck, the salon is a forest of satin walnut joinery and leather appointments, created by the artful direction from the team of the William Bales and Company. The 21 ft. 5 in. beam and the use of the vertical space is immediately apparent creating a free flowing movement with the ambiance of a great room. A day head is immediately to starboard. To port, a J lounge and coffee table is a virtual conference area, opposite walnut cabinetry housing a 60 in. flat screen television on an electric lift. Forward to starboard a raised built-in dinette serves a dual purpose with rod stowage for 80 pound outfits. The fore and aft style of the galley maximizes useful space with under counter refrigeration beneath a second dining area with bar stools, while the outboard counter accommodates a double sink and electric cooktop. Forward of the galley, a versatile walk-in pantry is as spacious as a stateroom and can be outfitted as such.

Built for the ultra rich

Inviting accommodations include five generously appointed staterooms, including a full beam master suite with a king size walk-around bed. The port and forward staterooms have walk-around queen beds. The two starboard staterooms have upper and lower berths, and are surprisingly spacious thanks to the use of sliding entrance doors which maximize interior space. Every stateroom has a large head and fiberglass shower stall. A washer and dryer are located in the companionway.

On the flying bridge, a center console command station gives the operator a great view underway and while fishing. Three pedestal helm seats are standard, and additional seating is available on port and starboard lounges, each with rod stowage below. A U-shape lounge and table forward of the console seats more guests, and is notably below the forward sightlines of the helmsman thanks to the raised standing platform behind the console. A freezer is forward between a refrigerated box and a sink with a freshwater outlet. While air conditioning is available on the open flying bridge, a climate controlled enclosed bridge with access from the salon and the mezzanine deck also is available. Additionally, the enclosed bridge convertible also can be ordered with an open Sky Bridge.

A lengthy list of standard equipment includes a hydraulic bow thruster, a centralize seawater system, dual freshwater pumps, Veem S-class propellers, two 29 kW Onan generators, two Glendinning Cablemasters, Charles PM 100 shore power cord combiner and isolation transformer, and an Octoplex touch screen electrical distribution panel with monitors in the salon and on the flying bridge with manual back-up.

Looking for luxury on a more attainable scale than Michael Jordan’s yacht? Check out this Vandutch 55 for rent starting at $4000 !

Rent this VanDutch 55 yacht that Leonard Dicaprio was spotted on for $4000 a day

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Michael Jordan reels in a 442-pound blue marlin on his $8M yacht 'Catch 23' in fishing tournament

The yacht has already reeled in an impressive fish.

Michael Jordan took his 80-foot, $8 million convertible Viking sportfishing yacht to Morehead City, North Carolina to take part in the Big Rock Fishing Tournament. This is the NBA legend's first time competing in the tournament, which is a non-profit event to raise money for local charities. 

The boat is named "Catch 23," a nod to his iconic number. 

Of course, No. 23 did not miss a detail on the boat, which has his Jordan Brand elephant print along the side and a panther on the stern. 

The graphics match his plane, because why have a yacht and a plane if you aren't going to make them coordinate, right?

Looks like Michael Jordan will be participating in this week’s @bigrockfishing Tournament. #Catch23 pic.twitter.com/Mg650UeNPn — Talk of the Town (@1037WTIB) June 5, 2020

On Monday, the second day of the tournament, local station WITN reported that the boat brought in a 442.3-pound marlin.

According to National Geographic , marlins average anywhere from 200 to 400 pounds, but can weigh over 1,985 pounds. If M.J. wants to reel in one of those, to quote Jaws, he's gonna need a bigger boat.

Jordan is used to being crowned champion, but right now a boat called 'The Predator' is in the lead with a 494-pound blue marlin.

Up for grabs is The Fabulous Fisherman prize and $552,500, which will go to the first boat to bring in a big blue that weighs over 500 pounds.

With a net worth of over $2 billion, Jordan doesn't exactly need the money, but I'm sure he'd love to add another title to his resume.

The fishing boat has many features including a hydraulic bow thruster, a centralized seawater system, dual freshwater pumps, Veem S-class propellers and manual back-up, according to  HaulOverinlet.com . It sleeps 10 guests and has a top speed of 48 mph.

This is not Jordan's only boat, his other vessel is an $80 million, 230-foot yacht that reportedly costs $840,000 a week to operate.

Jordan does a lot more with his money than purchase impressive boats, however. Just last week he committed to donating $100 million over ten years to help organizations that "ensure racial equality, social justice and greater access to education."

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A Closer Look at Michael Jordan’s $8 Million Yacht

April 14, 2022 by Martin Banks • Print Story

Michael Jordan, the owner of the Charlotte Hornets and possibly the greatest basketball player of all-time, dropped the bag on an impressive yacht in 2021. Named Catch 23, it cost a whopping $8 million and currently sits in the harbor of Jupiter, Florida.

The name has a triple meaning. It invokes the famous book and old saying "Catch 22" while integrating the boat's main function — fishing — and Jordan's iconic basketball number, 23.

This yacht is just the latest example of Jordan's competitive nature and propensity to drop serious dough on his various hobbies. Aside from his accomplishments on the basketball court, Jordan is an avid gambler, golfer, and accomplished fisherman, participating in deep-sea fishing tournaments in the Atlantic and Caribbean.

Let's take a closer look at Catch 23's features and see what all the fuss is about.

Aboard Catch 23

Catch 23 is a Viking 80 made by Viking Yachts, one of the most prestigious yacht manufacturers in the world. It's a 2018 model with some balanced measurements:

- 84 feet long - 103 tons - Standard MTU naval engine - Tops out at 40 knots (about 48 mph) - Range of over 500 nautical miles - 2,600-gallon fuel capacity - Fits eight guests and two crew members

The boat's hull has an elephant wrap with a blue, white, and grey color scheme. These colors invoke the Jordan 3 basketball shoe and his college days at the University of North Carolina, where he rocked Tar Heel blue as a promising young NBA prospect.

The deck is designed for functionality, with a standard layout and plenty of seats and storage to handle a deep-sea fishing expedition. As you will see, Catch 23 is more of a hobby vessel than a refuge for relaxation. Still, the interior has enough luxurious features to make up for it.

The interior has a pleasing design, with white leather seating and smooth hardwood tables. There are couches for lounging, booths, and bar seats for eating, and an impressive kitchen with white marble countertops.

The hangout areas and sleeping arrangements comfortably fit 10 people (although the master bedroom takes up most of the space). The bathroom has a sizable shower, making hygiene a much easier task than on other ships.

Not that Jordan needs to watch his spending — he has a net worth of over $2 billion — but he did overpay for Catch 23. The vessel notably cost $2 million above the Viking 80's original value for two reasons: the custom design and the overall spike in boat prices. Boat prices have risen by almost 10% in recent years, enticing many people to sell their boats just to break even. We don't think Jordan will have this problem, but other boat owners should be aware of this trend.

Catch 23's Performance

Catch 23 isn't a fancy yacht by upper-class standards. You can certainly find more extravagant yachts in the water, including another owned by Jordan. His other yacht is a 230-footer named Joy that cost $80 million, but he can't exercise his competitive spirit on such a leisurely behemoth. This time, he opted for a sleek multipurpose vessel, just like his style of play on the court.

Catch 23 has a custom frame built for both leisure and competitive fishing. It has plenty of space for a small crew and all the capabilities to handle deep-sea fishing. Jordan himself caught a 442-pound marlin as captain of the ship at the 2020 Big Rock Fishing Tournament in North Carolina. He also caught a 25-pound mahi-mahi (dolphinfish) at the same tournament in 2021. Those catches earned him eighth and fourth place, respectively.

Notorious for his obsessive winner's mentality, Jordan made a point to win a fishing event with his prized vessel. He accomplished that goal by taking first place at the 2021 Buccaneer sail-fishing tournament in North Palm Beach, Florida. Although Jordan wasn't the captain, he reeled in two of the seven sailfish Catch 23 caught during the two-day event.

When he's not participating in world-class fishing tournaments, you might spot Jordan lounging on Catch 23 at its designated spot in the Jupiter harbor, casting lines and enjoying the boat's luxurious features.

Find Your Catch 23

While you probably don't have $8 million lying around to spend on a high-class yacht, you might have the funds to invest in a reliable compact fishing vessel. Boating is a challenging but fulfilling hobby, with energetic and relaxing features that everyone can enjoy. If you've always wanted a boat, start your search now and you might find your own Catch 23.

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Catch 23 Boat

• On March 22, 2023
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If you’re here, you’ve probably seen or heard about the cool “Catch 23” boat and its awesome custom hull wrap, and you’re curious about who owns such a one-of-a-kind boat.

In this article, we’re going to delve into the details of the “Catch 23”, from its construction and specs to its famous owner and how he spends his time on board. Let’s dive in!

The Owner of the Catch 23

Specs and performance, home dock and frequent fishing destinations, captain and crew, a closer look at the catch 23.

Michael Jordan , one of the greatest basketball players of all time, is the proud owner of the “Catch 23” . With an estimated net worth of around $2 billion USD, he is more than capable of maintaining this $8 million Sportfishing yacht , even with annual running costs of approximately $800,000 (Give or take).

The Catch 23: An Overview

The Catch 23 is an 80-foot Viking Sportfishing Boat built in 2018. Known for their high-quality sportfishing and cruising yachts, Viking Yachts has its roots in New Jersey, USA, and was founded by brothers Bob and Bill Healey in 1964.

Today, the company is one of the world’s leading yacht builders.

Equipped with powerful MTU engines, the Catch 23 boasts a top speed of 40 knots and a range of over 500 nautical miles. Designed to accommodate up to 8 guests and a crew of 2, this Sportfishing Boat is perfect for sports fishing tournaments and leisurely trips alike.

The Catch 23 calls Jupiter, Florida, its home dock, but Michael Jordan has been known to take it up and down the East Coast of the US and the Bahamas for various sports fishing tournaments.

Over the years, the Catch 23 has participated in some of the biggest Marlin tournaments in the world, such as the Ocean City, Maryland White Marlin Open and the Big Rock Tournament in Morehead City, North Carolina.

Jordan’s yacht and private jet both feature the same wrap print based on his iconic Air Jordan 3 sneakers. He uses the Catch 23 for sports fishing tournaments and relaxation, often enjoying cigars and good company on board.

The captain of the”Catch 23″ is Stetson Turney, and he has performed well for Mr. Jordan. For example, during the 2022 Mid-Atlantic Tournament, the crew secured a first-place finish with a 73 lb White Marlin, although I don’t believe Jordan was on board.

Despite being a vessel designed for function more than luxury relaxation, Jordan has ensured that the Catch 23 is equipped with comfortable and stylish interiors.

The yacht features white leather and marble finishes, as well as hardwood surfaces, allowing guests to relax on couches, bar stools, and booth seating in the salon and galley on the main deck.

The enclosed flybridge is spacious, offering ample seating for guests who prefer to be near the helm rather than downstairs. If Jordan chooses to have a crew on deck, this space ensures that everyone can socialize and enjoy their time on board.

You might also be interested in reading:

Who Makes The Biggest Sport Fishing Boat?

What Is A SportFish Boat?

What is the Definition of a Yacht

What is a Bosun on a Yacht

How Long Is Yachting Season

Steve Momot

Steve is an accomplished professional photographer and marketer who specializes in the Fishing, Yacht, and Boating industry. With a strong presence as an influencer and marketing expert in the Marine Industry, he has made a significant impact in the field. Additionally, Steve is the original creator and co-founder of Sportfishtrader. Prior to his career as a marine photographer, he gained extensive experience as a licensed boat and car dealer in South Florida.

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Michael Jordan’s Yacht: Catch 23

by Marine Diesel Specialists | Jan 12, 2021 | Blog , Marine Events , Yacht Life | 0 comments

In 2019, Michael Jordan purchased Catch 23 , an 80-foot Viking sportfish luxury fishing boat featuring some amazing details. Marine Diesel Specialists are in awe over this beauty, so we endeavored to find out some of the most interesting facts about Michael Jordan’s yacht and all it has to offer. Marine Diesel Specialists are the best in the industry offering OEM parts and MAN engine overhauls. Here are ten interesting facts about Catch 23, from its powerful MTU engines to its matching elephant print design with Jordan’s private jet:

Photo Courtesy of CBS Sports

1. The Catch 23 yacht is powered by MTU engines.

Our Fort Lauderdale marine diesel mechanics are in shock at the speeds that Micheal Jordan’s fishing boat can reach. Catch 23 has a max speed of about 40 knots with a range of more than 500 nm. Depending on the load as well as other environmental factors, the Catch 23 fishing boat can effortlessly cruise at 30 knots. 

2. The Catch 23 yacht was built and designed by Viking Yachts in 2018. 

Viking Yachts is a premier yacht manufacturer in Riviera Beach, FL. They specialize in convertible yachts as well as open and motor yachts. Jordan’s fishing boat is a convertible Viking 80EB sport fisher motor yacht. Viking Yachts designed both the interior, exterior, and engineering behind this impressive fishing boat. 

3. Michael Jordan uses Catch 23 for fishing tournaments.

Michael Jordan is definitely not a newbie when it comes to fishing. He frequently uses the Catch 23 fishing boat in a variety of tournaments. In June of 2020, Jordan participated in the Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament and reeled in a 442.3-pound marlin. 

4. Michael Jordan’s Viking Yacht can accommodate 10 people.  

Catch 23 can comfortably seat 8-10 guests and a 2-person crew. 1  

5. Catch 23 is worth $8 million.

That’s right, Michael Jordan’s yacht is worth $8 million, which is pocket change for someone with a $1.6 billion net worth according to Forbes. 2 He is famously considered the richest former professional athlete in the world. After winning 6 titles with the Chicago Bulls, he deserves this boat. 

6. Catch 23 was named after Jordan himself. 

For fishing and boat enthusiasts, naming your yacht is serious business. Jordan used a clever pun to name his vessel, playing off the common phrase “catch-22,” tying it into his off-the-court fishing hobby with “catch,” and incorporating his jersey number, 23. 

7. Michael Jordan’s fishing yacht matches his plane.

It wouldn’t be a luxury fishing boat if there wasn’t a matching plane to complete the set. Both feature the famous elephant print from the Air Jordan 3 sneakers, released in 1988, as well as Jordan’s signature panther on the stern to match his private jet. 

8. The boat is docked in Jupiter, Florida. 

You can find Jordan’s 80-foot fishing boat docked in Jupiter, Florida most of the time. Catch 23 can often be spotted around North Carolina where Michael Jordan enjoys participating in non-profit fishing tournaments and other national fishing competitions. 

9. Catch 23 includes several rooms and amenities. 

Michael Jordan’s Catch 23 yacht has a virtual conference area, 2 dining spaces, and a J lounge where Jordan and his guests can hang out between catches. The sleeping quarters include the main suite with a king-sized bed, 2 staterooms with queen-sized beds, and 2 additional staterooms with bunk-style beds, or berths. Each of the 5 staterooms also has its own shower stalls and there’s even a washer and dryer in the companionway. 

Additionally, the Catch 23 yacht also features a centralized seawater system, dual freshwater pumps, Veem S-class propellers as well as a manual backup. 3  

10. Catch 23 isn’t Jordan’s only boat. 

The famous basketball player also owns another boat that is worth roughly $80 million. The 230-ft mega yacht includes a full-sized basketball court as well as 8 cabins, a full gym, and a jacuzzi. 

Marine Diesel Specialists Fort Lauderdale is Here to Help

Michael Jordan’s yacht, Catch 23,  is a luxurious and impressive vessel that showcases his passion for fishing and his penchant for high-end toys. From its powerful MTU engines to its stunning design by Viking Yachts, Catch 23 is a sight to behold. With its ability to accommodate up to 10 guests, multiple amenities, and Michael Jordan’s personal touches, Michael Jordan’s fishing yacht is a true reflection of the basketball legend’s taste and style.

The experts at Marine Diesel Specialists are extensively trained so they know their way around a yacht. We provide a variety of services that meet all sea vessel needs in order to keep your yacht in excellent working order. You can schedule your MAN marine engine maintenance and repairs with our marine diesel mechanics in Fort Lauderdale and Punta Gorda. Contact us to learn more about available parts, supplies, as well as our marine diesel services. 

Additional Reading: 

Yacht Cleaning Tips

Yachting in the Caribbean – What You Need to Know  

1 – Superyacht Fan – m/y Catch 23 – Viking – 2018 – Michael Jordan

Our Marine Diesel Specialists offer a variety of products and services to provide marine diesel solutions in Fort Lauderdale and Punta Gorda. Our authorized MAN Engine dealers can offer expert maintenance, repair, and survey services, as well as complete engine, transmission, and generator overhauls. If you are seeking top-quality marine diesel solutions, products, or services, don’t wait to contact our Marine Diesel Specialists and Gulf Coast Diesel Service.

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Watch CBS News

Michael Jordan's 80-Foot Yacht Spotted In Ocean City, Maryland

August 1, 2019 / 2:12 PM EDT / CBS Baltimore

OCEAN CITY, Md. (WJZ) -- Michael Jordan's 80-foot yacht was spotted in Ocean City, Maryland ahead of the White Marlin Open.

Jordan's Viking yacht called the "Catch 23" has spotted in Ocean City's Sunset Marina.

Tony Devereaux posted photos on social media of the yacht.

His boat has been registered for the tournament, according to WBOC TV , but no one seems to know if Jordan is fishing himself.

Jordan is known as a former NBA player who played for the Chicago Bulls and Washington Wizards. He played 15 seasons and won six NBA titles -- all with the Bulls. He also played for Major League Baseball.

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July 11, 2022

Michael Jordan docks boat in Atlantic City for fishing tournament

Last year, at jimmy johnson's quest for the ring, the nba legend caught a 70-pound white marlin.

Michael Jordan is at the Jersey Shore this week to compete for the second consecutive year in Jimmy Johnson's Quest for the Ring fishing tournament, where he made an impressive catch during last year's inaugural event in Atlantic City.

The NBA Hall of Famer, six-time champion and owner of the Charlotte Hornets, has docked his 80-foot Viking yacht, Catch 23, at the Frank S. Farley State Marina for this week's event. 

Michael Jordan is in Atlantic City to do a some fishing aboard Catch 23, his little 80 foot Viking. https://t.co/JKjjVsSkmo pic.twitter.com/vROJUc2yRv — Jitney Guy (@JitneyGuy) July 11, 2022

The tournament is put on by NFL analyst and Super Bowl-winning head coach Jimmy Johnson, who expanded the event from its annual springtime location in Florida.

MORE NEWS:  New Discovery Channel fishing show shot completely in New Jersey

Last year, Johnson shouted out Jordan and his Catch 23 team for racking up the most releases during the weeklong event.

Michael Jordan @jumpman23 and his team on Catch 23 had the most releases in jjfishweek Atlantic City 12 white Marlin & 1 Blue Marlin pic.twitter.com/MfHI4V11Qi — Jimmy Johnson (@JimmyJohnson) July 17, 2021

During the Florida tournament in 2020, Jordan's team caught a 442.3-pound blue marlin.

MJ's 'Catch 23' in with a 442.3 pound blue marlin at Big Rock. "I’d love to be back with a little bit bigger fish," Jordan said in the post-catch interview. pic.twitter.com/51hQTbF1KG — Ross Martin (@RossMartin_IC) June 9, 2020

The competition in Atlantic City runs until July 16 and has a $1 million purse, with daily events and meals at the Golden Nugget and Hard Rock Hotel & Casino.

During last year's event, Jordan was spotted dining at Steve & Cookies by the Bay in Margate.

Thanks to my reader for sending me this. >> Basketball legend Michael Jordan leaving Steve & Cookies By The Bay in Margate, NJ. Supposedly he’s in town for the Jimmy Johnson A.C. Championship Fishing Week. Thanks 😊 🎥Steve Schoeffler pic.twitter.com/w49cTR50nq — PhillyChitChat (@HughE_Dillon) July 14, 2021

Outside of basketball, Jordan is mostly known for his obsession with golf, but his ruthless competitive streak knows no bounds. In recent years, he's become increasingly involved in fishing and speed racing, where he became the first Black majority owner of a NASCAR team , joining forces with Denny Hamlin and Bubba Wallace. 

It remains to be seen whether Jordan ventures out in New Jersey during this year's tournament, but we'll update the story with photos if he's spotted at another hotspot in the region.

Michael Tanenbaum PhillyVoice Staff

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Michael Jordan’s Catch 23 Sportfish Yacht

Michael Jordan, aside from being a legend on the basketball court, is also an avid sport fisherman. To that end, he owns the Catch 23 sport fishing yacht, a Viking 80 model, which he’s been known to take out frequently over the years to relax on the water. Let’s take a closer look at the yacht and some of the features Jordan gets to enjoy while he’s on board. 

How Big is Catch 23?

Although it’s rumored that Jordan also owns the massive 230 foot yacht known as Joy (though it’s just a rumor) his fishing boat Catch 23 is much smaller, though still incredibly large by most people’s standards. This fishing yacht clocks in at 84 feet. That means it’s the same size as Shaq’s yacht , though they are different models. There’s room on board for 8 guests in total and it can be managed by a crew of two.

How Fast is the Motor Yacht Catch 23?

The Catch 23 is a powerhouse on the water for a boat of its size. It uses a pair of tier 3 MTU Series 2000 V16 M96L engines that offer up a top speed of 40 knots and a cruising speed of 30 knots. The vessel has a range of about 500 nautical miles. It’s usually docked in Jupiter, Florida but Jordan has taken it all around the US for sport fishing tournaments in the years since he’s owned it, usually up and down the east coast.

How Much Did Catch 23 Boat Cost?

Word is that Air Jordan dropped $8 million on Catch 23 back in 2018. With an estimated net worth of around $1.7 billion it’s certainly nothing he can’t afford. Which is good because the annual cost of running Catch 23 in terms of fuel, crew and general upkeep has been pegged at around $800,000.

Based on some accounts, Jordan actually significantly overpaid for his yacht but there are some reasons for that. First, the custom wrap around the boat set him back a good deal as it’s a big job. The other factor was just an issue with boat availability and the market at the time of his purchase. Boat prices were higher than usual at the time. Because of that, some sources have estimated he may have paid upwards of $2 million more than someone else might have for a nearly identical boat at another time. That said, for a 2023 model the $8 million price tag wouldn’t be unusual at all.

What’s it Like on Board Yacht Catch 23?

Because Catch 23 is a Viking 80 you can actually get on board and take tours of identical models since Jordan isn’t likely to let you come take a look at his personal yacht. His own yacht does have custom touches and, most notably, the exterior wrap has been custom designed for him and matches his private jet. Both are designed after the Air Jordan 3 sneakers.

Jordan has actually entered sport fishing tournaments with Catch 23 so it’s definitely set up for fishing and not just for show. Interestingly, the yacht has entered fishing tournaments in the past with Jordan’s crew but not Jordan himself. For instance, at the 2022 MidAtlantic Tournament, the Catch 23 crew pulled in a 73 lb White Marlin but Jordan was not on board at the time. The marlin ended up being a first place finisher. In 2020, Jordan was there himself when they pulled in a 442.3 lb Blue Marlin, though it wasn’t big enough for a win.

At the Big Rock Tournament in 2021, Jordan hauled in a 25-lb dolphinfish or Mahi Mahi on his own.

Despite being a vessel meant for function more so than luxury relaxation, Jordan still made sure his boat was comfortable. The interior decor features white leather and marble as well as hardwood surfaces. Guests can relax across a series of couches, bar stools and even booth seating when they hit the salon and galley on the main deck. 

The enclosed flybridge is massive compared to what you’d expect to find on a flybridge with seating for plenty of guests so no one needs to be separated or even downstairs rather than up by the helm if there’s a worry about the party being split up. Of course, if Jordan is keeping a crew on deck rather than operating the vessel himself then this is less of a concern. 

The massive master stateroom is full beam and features a king size bed. The VIP staterooms also feature king size beds while the crew quarters have a double berth and en suite bathrooms. 

Because Viking Yachts makes these boats custom for the owners it’s hard to say exactly what features Jordan might have included in his own interior, but similar models have even had full laundry rooms on board.

Out on the cockpit below the mezzanine there’s room to mount a fighting chair though it doesn’t look like Jordan makes use of this feature. There’s a lighted livewell with a window and tons of storage all around.  The vessel also features hydraulic bow thruster and dual freshwater pumps as well as Veem S class propellers among many other top of the line technical features.

The bow of Catch 23 is quite large and on many Viking 80s you’ll see a tender boat mounted here as it has room for a 17-foot dinghy or even two jet skis. It looks like Jordan hasn’t taken advantage of this and just keeps the bow clean and clear at all times.

The Bottom Line

Catch 23 is Michael Jordan’s custom designed Viking 80 sportfish yacht. He purchased the yacht in 2018 for $8 million and since that time has entered it in numerous sport fishing tournaments. The yacht itself has room for 10 and features a large master suit plus several VIP staterooms and crew quarters.

Because this is a sportfish vessel it’s not as decked out with luxury features as many superyachts might be. However, it does feature a lot of space and amenities to make any fishing trip a top of the line one. 

My grandfather first took me fishing when I was too young to actually hold up a rod on my own. As an avid camper, hiker, and nature enthusiast I'm always looking for a new adventure.

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Michael Jordan's Humble Spirits Reminisced by Marcus Jordan as Billionaire Father Enjoys Recent $64,594.09 Pay Day in Miami

And it seems the legend's son Marcus Jordan is also nothing but hyped up for his father's boat crew victory at the event as he shared some old snippets of his father enjoying fishing on his Instagram story. Michael Jordan could be seen posing with a fish in his hand and he is all smiles on his luxury yacht.

The pictures on Marcus' story were posted on the Instagram account of Trophy Room Store which is a retail boutique store founded by the legend's son himself. It might be surprising for people that after having a net worth of $3.2 billion, the NBA legend is still out there and participates in fishing competitions regularly. Well, MJ's recent win at the White Marlin Open came with a nice bonus of $64,594.09 prize.

"I would have never thought I would get on a boat and go fishing, but the combination of patience and trying to catch a fish, trying to be patient. It's not gonna happen. You can't make it happen. You just got to be ready when it does happen," said Jordan earlier. The one who started dazzling the court right from the beginning of his career, however, had to grind for his recent victory. Let's talk about that.

Michael Jordan's team finally made waves at the White Marlin Open

In the 51st edition of the world's largest billfish tournament, Michael Jordan and his crew finally made their mark. Competing in the Dolphin category, they secured a coveted spot on the leaderboard with their 84-foot, custom-built luxury Viking Yacht, worth a cool $8 million. What made it even more tough was the unpredictable weather that added an extra day to the competition. Nevertheless, Jordan's Catch 23 came out victorious .

It wasn't an easy journey as there have been several attempts made in the past as well. Jordan and his Catch 23 team first dove into the White Marlin Open back in 2019. Fast forward to 2021, and they started making waves. One of their anglers, Trey McMillan, reeled in a 23.5-pound Mahi, earning the team a cool $20,000. This early success hinted at the bigger wins to come.

At last year's 50th White Marlin Open, John Ols, a Montgomery County resident from Laytonsville, made history. He reeled in a massive 640.5-pound blue marlin, earning a world-record payout of $6.2 million. But this time it was the legend's turn, as their persistence paid off, proving once again that Jordan knows how to win, whether on the court or at sea.

Stay tuned for more such updates. Join us for the exciting second episode of the "Dual Threat Show." Our host, BG12, sits down with Georgia Bulldogs star and Mountain West All-Freshman Team Selection, Asia Avinger.

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Russian River Cruise – Waterways of the Tsars

Updated December 14, 2017

// By Margherita

Back to Russia! Did you follow our Russian river cruise in August and September? We travelled between Moscow and St Petersburg on the Waterways of the Tsars Viking River Cruise – here’s what we got up to!

We both share a deep connection with Russia. I was named after the heroine of Master and Margarita , one of the best Russian books of the 20th century. Nick is actually of Russian ancestry – his maternal great-grandparents were from St Petersburg, and spent the best part of 50 years wandering around Europe escaping wars and revolutions, before settling in Australia .

Russia has been at the top of our travel dreams for several years , but somehow something always came up whenever we made plans to visit. Once we couldn’t get a visa on time. Another time we couldn’t get time off. Winter is too cold, summer is too hot.

This year, Russia was one of our travel resolutions . Our desire was for the trip to be special – something different from what we’d done so far. We wanted a higher level of comfort, help with visa arrangements, and a trip that would help us understand the country we longed to visit for so many years . The Waterways of the Tsars river cruise with Viking ticked all boxes, so we made arrangements for a departure from Moscow in late August.

Things to Know Before a Russian River Cruise with Viking

When we announced our friends we would be travelling on a Russian river cruise , some of them were really surprised. A CRUISE? You guys are such hardcore independent travellers! What are you doing ON A CRUISE with all those OLD PEOPLE? True, the average age on a Viking river cruise might be a fair bit higher than 35 – but really, who is to say we wouldn’t enjoy the experience?

This awesome post by One Modern Couple  really nails the point – a Viking river cruise is an experience that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. In their words ‘River cruises are cultural, experiential, educational and scenic. Enjoy the ride, take in the surroundings, learn about the countries you are visiting – from history to local life, food to language – and experience the destinations in a thoughtful way.’ 

Whether you’re 30, 60 or 90, it doesn’t really matter.

Secondly,  who’s to say that travelling in a group is not ‘real’ travel? We have always been (and continue to be) lovers of independent travel, but sometimes you just can’t beat the insights given to you by a local guide . Viking River Cruises offer plenty of guided tours included in the cruise price, all led by experienced local guides.

Meals were always excellent – breakfast and lunch included a combination of buffet and à la carte specialties, while dinner was always à la carte. Every day we were given the choice to sample some Russian specialties, like beef stroganoff, borsch, pelmeni, solyanka and lots of delicious desserts.

Another great plus of a Russian river cruise with Viking is that during sailing time lots of cultural activities are on offer – things like cooking demonstrations, Russian language lessons and lectures about Russian history and culture, led by the local tour escorts who were with us for the whole duration of the trip. On top of that, every day we received a briefing detailing the following day’s activities, optional excursions and that night’s menu.

Whenever we passed points of interest on the boat, such as Mother Volga statue or the sunken Kalyazin Cathedral, we were always called out on the loudspeaker to make sure we wouldn’t miss them. There was no pressure to join in any of the activities – we could spend the whole day chilling on the deck or on our veranda, looking at the beautiful colourful churches built on the riverbank, surrounded by nothing but nature.

Waterways of the Tsars – the Itinerary

The Waterways of the Tsars cruise is 13 days long, starting either in Moscow or in St. Petersburg . Most Russian river cruises had always been described to me as ‘Volga Cruises’ – in fact, our boat cruised along a variety of waterways, including the Moscow Canal, the Volga-Baltic Waterway, the Rybinsk Reservoir, Lake Onega and Ladoga (the two largest lakes in Europe) and the Neva River (the shortest in Europe!)

Here’s a map to give you an idea of the route.

Days 1-4 Moscow

Three days were barely enough to get an idea of how amazing Moscow is. Our days were packed from morning to night with tours and activities – from visiting Moscow must visits like Red Square, the Kremlin, the Moscow Metro and the Arbat, to quirky locations like the Museum of Cosmonautics , located in one of Moscow’s best districts for Communist architecture (one of our passions!)

Even though our itinerary was packed full, we managed to spend half a day touring Moscow independently , visiting some of the sights mentioned in The Master and Margarita – Patriarch’s Ponds, both Bulgakov Museums and Sparrow Hill. Let’s just say that we need to get back to Moscow soon to explore more! Meanwhile, here’s our things to do in Moscow for first timers article, detailing our Moscow visit with Viking.

Day 5 Uglich

After setting sail from Moscow, our first stop was Uglich , a cute town on the Volga River, famous for its pretty churches and for being the location of one of the darkest chapters in Russian history .

After the death of Ivan the Terrible, his youngest son and heir to the throne Dmitry was exiled to Uglich, where he was murdered at the age of 10. Suspicion fell on the tsar’s chief advisor, but Dmitry’s cause of death (i.e. throat slitting) was ruled to be an accident. This episode started a period of political unsettlement, that ended with the start of the Romanov dynasty.

We spent an afternoon around Uglich , starting with a home visit of a local family where we had the chance to try homemade grain vodka (the best we’ve had in Russia) and a variety of pickled vegetables, tea and cakes. Then, we toured the Kremlin – the word ‘kremlin’ actually means fortified city, and several Russian cities have one. Moscow’s Kremlin just happens to be the best known!

Day 6 Yaroslavl

The following morning we reached Yaroslavl , a much larger city compared to Uglich. It looked like the perfect Russian city – large enough not to get bored (there was even a cat cafe!) but small enough not to get frustrated with the traffic and crowds found in Moscow or St. Petersburg.

Our Yaroslavl visit was centred around four points of interest . The centre of Yaroslavl is located on the Strelka, a promontory formed at the confluence of the Volga and Kotorosl rivers. Our first stop was the covered market , where we tasted some local products, and then we headed to the Church of Elijah the Prophet , where we had a guided tour (and played with some cute cats). Afterwards, we visited the Governor’s Mansion , now an art gallery. We were welcomed by some beautiful ladies in period costumes, and treated to a music concert. Our final stop was the Yaroslavl Kremlin , where we admired the façade of the Dormition Cathedral, destroyed by the Bolsheviks and rebuilt and reopened in 2010 in time for Yaroslavl’s millennium celebrations.

Before heading back to the ship, we stopped at the lookout over the Millennium of Yaroslavl Park at the end of the Strelka – the flowerbed right in the centre displays a bear (Yaroslavl’s coat of arms) and the city’s age – 1006 at the time of our visit. Looking good!

Day 7 Kuzino

Kuzino is a small village in in the middle of nowhere – we visited on a chilly and rainy morning, to visit the stunning Kirillo-Belozersky Monastery , the largest in Europe. The Monastery is surrounded by walls and located on the shores of Severskoye Lake, with waters so pure that boat traffic is prohibited.

Kirillo-Belozersky was founded at the end of the 14th century, and had its heyday between the 15th and 17th century, when Russia’s tsars and noblemen (including Ivan the Terrible!) paid frequent visits and showered the monks with icons and precious gifts. Luckily the Bolsheviks spared the monastery from destruction, turning it into a museum instead. The day we visited was the feast of the Assumption and the churches were crowded with locals, but we had a lovely guided tour of the museum and time to appreciate its beautiful icons.

Day 8 Kizhi (Sailing)

Whenever travelling, you always need a plan B. Autumn was well on its way by the time we reached the northernmost section of our cruise, and we were held at a lock for the best part of one night due to thick fog . This meant we had to sail the whole day and miss out on Kizhi , a tiny island on the northern side of Onega Lake, famous for its spectacular wooden churches.

We were all disappointed when boat staff made the announcement – personally, Kizhi was one of the stops I was looking forward to the most, after reading about it on the Guardian and knowing that the site is very difficult to visit without a river cruise. However, we didn’t mind too much because we were both suffering the consequences of the previous night’s vodka tasting , organised by Frank, the hotel manager who also happened to be a real vodka connoisseur!

Viking staff were really amazing at keeping us busy during the sailing day with activities like guided tours to the wheelhouse, the room where the captain and sailors pilot the ship.

Day 9 Mandrogy

The last stop before reaching St. Petersburg was Mandrogy , a village on the banks of the Svir River, built in 1996 as a replica of a village destroyed during WW2. A Russian businessman had the idea of ‘rebuilding’ Mandrogy to provide a stop to river cruise passengers before reaching St. Petersburg. So, the village is not actually ‘real’ – it’s more of an open air museum. Cute little painted houses were built around a little forest, with people in traditional dress showcasing traditional crafts and selling souvenirs.

Those in search of souvenirs loved Mandrogy – the quality of matrioshka dolls, icons and other handicrafts was far higher than anywhere else we had been. We are not into souvenirs, but if there was a place to get something, Mandrogy would be it. The village was pretty, but it felt a bit fake for us – kind of like a tourist amusement park. Which in a way, it is.

However, we did enjoy Mandrogy for two reasons – the first was the chance to attend matrioshka painting workshop  where we decorated our own matrioshka dolls. That’s the best kind of souvenir in my opinion! The second was the delicious piroshki place where we had some delicious buttery pastries filled with green onion and egg. Just ask Viking staff and they’ll point you the way to the piroshki place!

Days 10-13 St. Petersburg

After 6 days spent cruising, covering a distance of 1800 kilometers, we made it to Saint Petersburg . We had three gorgeous sunny days, and the city dazzled us with its beauty and artistic wealth – after all, it’s UNESCO-listed ! There’s no way I can convey everything we saw and did in three days in just a couple of paragraphs, so watch this space – a St. Petersburg article is coming soon!

There are several St. Petersburg experiences already included by Viking in the tour price – a visit to the Hermitage Museum, a ballet performance, a visit to Catherine Palace in the village of Pushkin and a St. Petersburg city tour, either on foot or by bus. On top of that, we also joined some optional tours – a river cruise, a morning tour to amazing Peterhof Palace and my very own favourite, a Cossack performance!

Things to Know Before Travelling to Russia

• Make sure you sort out your Russian Visa on time . Viking Cruises helps with an invitation letter that you can use to apply for your own Russian visa at your closest consulate – the process is pretty straightforward, provided you are applying in your own country, and takes approximately 2-3 weeks.
• You can also ask Viking to sort out your Russian visa for an additional charge . This is especially convenient if you live in the US or if your hometown doesn’t have a Russian consulate.
• River cruises of Russia only run between April and October, when the waterways are not frozen. The weather can be change dramatically between Moscow and Saint Petersburg , the latter usually being much colder than the former. Make sure you check the weather reports before packing!
• English isn’t widely spoken around Russia , not even in the main cities. If you’re planning to spend some time travelling independently, learning a bit of Russian is a VERY good idea. The Russian language classes we had on board came in very handy!
• Russia’s currency is the rouble , which fluctuates quite a bit. Larger cities are full of moneychangers, and some souvenir shops (like those in Mandrogy) also accept euro and USD.

We would like to thank Viking Cruises for having welcomed us aboard the Waterways of the Tsars cruise.

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2 thoughts on “Russian River Cruise – Waterways of the Tsars”

Truly amazing place & photography! I loved the view of church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, looks awesome. I enjoyed reading. Thanks for sharing your experience.

Thank you for reading! It was a fab trip!

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Linda On The Run

Travel, Lifestyle, And Fitness For Those Over 60

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Viking Russian River Cruise: The Ultimate 13 Day Guide

September 24, 2019 //  by  Linda Malys Yore

Does the idea of a Russian river cruise intrigue you? Are you thinking of taking a Russia river cruise and looking for first-hand information from someone who already has? Well, look no further because I sailed Viking River Cruise’s impressive 13-day Waterways of the Tsars river cruise and I readily admit it was the ultimate trip of a lifetime. 

From the moment we began working with the Viking liaison in the comfort of our home until boarding our international flight home in Moscow, Viking made every step of the way, every decision as easy as possible for us. Here I will share with you just how simple and effortless it was to book and plan for a Viking river cruise,  and how unbelievably extraordinary the cruise was.

Viking Russian River Cruise: The Planning Stage

My daughter Victoria from Follow Me Away accompanied me on the Waterways of the Tsars Russia river cruise. As soon as we selected our cruise we were assigned a Viking consultant who handled everything. She was our “go to” person when we had questions or concerns.

We created a personalized online account at MyVikingJourney.com . There we could see the specific tours, excursions, and decisions we had to make for our trip. Thirteen days was a long trip and there were many options to consider. At MyVikingJourney.com everything was accessible online at one convenient location. There was a question and answer section that had tons of information right at our fingertips that saved us a lot of time and angst. We were sailing on the Viking Ingvar.

After we decided on our specific Russian river cruise and dates, we needed flights to Russia . Be sure to check with your travel agent or Viking directly about packages which include airfare, or discounted airfare. Amenities like this may change frequently. Our Viking rep, Cathy, took care of booking our flights and they were very reasonably priced.

Traveling to Russia involved obtaining a Russian visa . It was a very easy process and Viking River Cruises has specific detailed information on how to fill out the paperwork correctly and where to send everything. Our passports and documents were sent to Generations Visa in Washington DC, the company Viking works directly with. (Russia does not do online visa applications yet.)

Next decisions were about selecting excursions while on our Russia river cruise. At every city along the Waterways of the Tsars, there were included tours offered free of charge. Optional tours are also offered, and there is an additional fee for them.  I signed us up for all the included tours and several optional ones. 

On Viking Cruise’s website, most day’s explanations included videos of the areas we were scheduled to visit. They really helped a lot in the planning process and to heighten the anticipation.

We decided to purchase the Silver Spirits Package for our Russian river cruise with Viking. Victoria loved mocktails, and I could not resist the Russian vodka! However, Viking Cruises is generous with house wine, beer, and soda, which are all complimentary during lunch and dinner, beginning at the daily cocktail hour.

At long last, the day had arrived for us to begin our travels to Russia!

Days 1-4: Waterways of the Tsars, St Petersburg

After passing through customs and immigration at the St Petersburg airport, and retrieving our bags, we were warmly greeted by Viking staff members. Once we exited the secure area of baggage claim, Slava and Philip in their bright red Viking shirts were there to meet us. 

We were taken by Viking coach to our home away from home for the next 13 days, the Viking Ingvar docked on the River Neva. Named after Grand Prince Ingvar, born in 875AD, the Ingvar has 5 decks. There is one main restaurant, two bars, a library, and a sun deck. You will also find an onboard boutique selling all things Russian, along with Viking merchandise. With a crew of about 114, our sailing was at full capacity with 200 passengers. 

The Viking Ingvar docked in St Petersburg waiting to welcome us aboard.

Once we arrived we were warmly greeted b Viking Ingvar staff and the program director Sasha Danilov.  After settling into our verandah room with a balcony, we headed down to the main dining room for dinner. 

Dining as a vegetarian and vegan duo can be challenging sometimes. But not with Viking. Immediately head chef Joachim Moeller came to meet us and discuss our dietary restrictions. From that moment on, Victoria and I knew we would not have to worry about our meals! If you have dietary restrictions, they are carefully addressed on Viking cruises with the culinary staff. 

We met with Chef Joachim on our first evening on board the Ingvar to discuss our dietary restrictions: one vegetarian and one vegan.

St. Petersburg Russia is an ornate and lavish city built on the Gulf of Finland by Peter the Great. He toured Europe extensively for architectural insight and the Russian Baroque influences are evident to this day. The city is opulent and elegant. St Petersburg is often called “The Venice of the North” due to the abundance of canals that connect the many islands that are the city.

During our four days in St Petersburg, we learned about the history and soul of the city. Strolling through the Hermitage , (second largest art museum in the world, surpassed only by the Louvre), witnessing an authentic Russian ballet and taking a walking tour of St Petersburg , our days and nights were as busy or as relaxed as we desired. 

Walking through the Church of Our Savior on Spilt Blood and learning of its history and its multicolored brilliant mosaics covering the entire inside was definitely a highlight of St Petersburg. The tour of the Faberge Museum was unbelievable and we ended our time in the city by touring St Petersburg from the Water . We rode along the canals and under iconic bridges in a comfortable barge-like boat. Sailing past ornate palaces and historical Peter and Paul Fortress and Cathedral was amazing and a unique way to explore.

Our time in St. Petersburg was at an end and the Viking Ingvar set sail. 

The Church of the Savior on Spilt Blood in St Petersburg. As sumptuous on the outside as it was on the inside.

Life Onboard The Viking Ingvar During Our Russia River Cruise

What I especially enjoyed about this specific Viking Russian river cruise itinerary was there was a nice mix of shore excursions and sailing days. When sailing, there was always a full schedule we could participate in. Or not if we so chose. 

There was a cocktail party every evening before dinner in the Sky Bar that included live music. Sasha, the program director, hosted a daily port talk about the next day’s excursions and events. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner were scheduled according to the itinerary. After dinner, there was live music and dancing in the Sky Bar.

We are ending an evening onboard the Ingvar with cocktails and friends in the Sky Bar. Sasha joined us as well.

The onboard guides hosted a series of Russian history lessons which were extremely enlightening and informative. At the end of the trip, they hosted a question and answer session about Russia where no question was off-limits. 

These lectures and talks were streamed live into our staterooms rooms, which was very convenient so we did not have to miss out on any activity.

Day 5: Waterways of the Tsars, Mandrogy

Viking Ingvar arrived in Mandrogy after lunch. This charming Russian village is more of an open-air living history museum that visually keeps the traditions of the Russian inhabitants of the area alive.

We meandered around at our leisure and saw brightly colored houses. My favorite, of course, was the Vodka Museum . There is a literal wall of vodka. Here one learns of the history of Russian vodka and is fortunate to sample a few of the 2,800 bottles in stock.

The lovely 18th century recreated village is dotted with craftsmen/women crafting their wares, and selling them as well. Lovely authentic Russian souvenirs were for sale. 

We were able to paint our own Matryoshka (nesting) dolls and learned the history of them. Others indulged in the banya ritual, the traditional Russian sauna. There were several of us who decided at the last minute we wanted to try the Russian banya, but we were too late as this optional excursion had sold out. Be forewarned: if you do not sign up for your excursions early enough, you run the risk of being disappointed as we were when they sell out. 

Mandrogy, a lovely open-air historical and crafts village on the Svir River

Mandrogy was a great place to purchase authentic Russian souvenirs directly from the artisan!

The Food And Where To Find It On The Viking Ingvar

Breakfast:  Breakfast could be found in three locations during my Russian river cruise aboard the Viking Ingvar. The coffee stations , located outside the main dining room, had coffee and pastries every morning. Self-serve coffee of every variety was available 24/7, as well as my favorite, hot chocolate. Some sort of pastry, or regional cookie (with an explanation of its history) was also always accessible there.

There was a continental breakfast every morning at the Panorama Bar with beverages and breakfast items. And a full breakfast buffet was served every morning in the Restaurant . Hot dishes cooked to order were available as well.

Lunch:  A lighter buffet lunch was served in the Panorama Bar and the main Restaurant served a generous buffet and dishes to order every afternoon. We had lunch in the Restaurant every afternoon. Chef Joaquim was around serving at the buffet and explaining the regional dishes to all passengers. 

Dinner : Dinner began every evening at 7:00 PM most every evening in the elegant Restaurant . There were always several dishes that were available every night of our Russia river cruise. However, the culinary staff made a great effort to serve historical and regional dishes every evening that originated in the area we visited that day.

Continental breakfast was available every morning in the Panorama Bar.

Day 6: Viking Russian River Cruise, Kizhi Island

The Ingvar docked at Kizhi Island on the shores of Lake Onega. I was very excited to begin the Kizi Island Walking Tour because I wanted to see the huge wooden church that was built in 1714 without a single nail.  

Kizi Island is famous because it is an open-air Museum of Architecture . Wooden barns, farmhouses, bell towers, and banyas and even windmills were relocated there to preserve them and their history. The island is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

We toured a period farmhouse and the inside of the Russian Orthodox Chruch of Intercession . The scenic beauty of Kizhi Island was absolutely stunning and a perfect backdrop for the Russian architectural lesson it provided!

Wooden Transfiguration Church alongside The Church of the Intersession on Kizhi Island located on Lake Onega

Entertainment Onboard The Viking Ingvar

There was always something to do or nothing at all to do. The choice was absolutely up to each passenger during our Viking Russia river cruise how busy they wanted to be. 

Each evening during turndown service, our cabin steward left us a copy of the Viking Daily . It was the ship’s daily newsletter that contained everything we needed to know to be in the know and organized for the next day’s events. 

On sailing days, there were Russian language lessons, Russian history lessons, and cooking/baking demonstrations. There was a sommelier led wine tasting, and a vodka tasting event led by our cruise director, Sasha that led to much hilarity. One of my favorite onboard events was the galley tour!

Every evening after dinner there was live music and dancing in the Sky Bar with Eduardo and Sonia. Several evening, Sasha led games which were a great way for us to get to know our staff and fellow passengers.

Victoria with Sasha, the Viking Ingvar Program Director, at the vodka tasting event. There is a secret, you know, how to down vodka shots and not get drunk!

Victoria, along with other passengers,  is dancing while Sasha leads us during a music trivia game.

Day 7: Viking Russia River Cruise, Kuzino

The tiny port town of Kuzino holds the entrance to the amazing Kirillo-Belozersky Monastery , one one of the largest Orthodox monasteries in northern Russia. From the ship, we boarded a comfortable coach and headed to the monastery.

As we walked to our busses though, we passed through a mini-market of sorts. Many locals had set up and were selling their wares. It was a great place to barter as it seemed everyone had the same kind of Russian souvenirs for sale.

Founded in 1397 by two monks, the Kirillo-Belozersky Monastery is located on the picturesque shores of Lake Silverskoye. The entire monastery complex is surrounded by white walls and towers for protection.

From the outside, it is rather deceiving, because inside the monastery is quite large. There are at least eleven preserved churches, with impressive exterior frescoes. The icons were remarkable as well. Today the monastery is a museum, but there are a few Russian Orthodox monks who live there. 

After some free time to meander around, we boarded our Viking coaches and headed to visit a school in Kuzio.  It was enlightening, revealing and thought-provoking. We toured a school, interacted with students and were entertained. We learned about the Russian education system. It was certainly NOT what I expected. It was much more!

Kirillo-Belozersky Monastery on the shores of Lake Siverskoye.

Scenic Cruising Onboard The Viking Ingvar

Our cruising days were far from the hustle and bustle of the larger towns.  But they were filled with as much history as the open-air museums and small villages we visited along our way. Each waterway, lake, river or reservoir had a history that helped shaped the Russia of today.

Just over 40 miles, we departed St Petersburg on the Neva River, one of the deepest and shortest in Europe. Once out of town we passed sumptuous summertime villas used by the wealthy,  along with wildlife and calm waters. Soon we entered Lake Ladoga , the largest lake in Europe at a whopping 7,000 square miles. It is not very deep and it freezes during the cold Russian winters.

Imagine ending your Russian river cruise evenings with a sunset like this!

The Svir River connects Lake Ladoga and Lake Onega. Here we passed small villages with cute houses. There are many sawmills and stacks of logs from the Karelian forests. Once sailing on Lake Onega , we learned it is the second-largest European river, covering an area of 4,000 square miles. Over 50 Russian rivers empty into Lake Onega making their way into the Svir River.

The Volga River , “Mother Volga,” is the national river of Russia. At a commanding 2,300 miles long, she is the longest river in Europe and the main waterway in western Russia. There is a lot of boat traffic on the Volga because it carries two-thirds of Russia river freight. On our journey, the Viking Ingvar passed through sixteen Volga River  “locks” leveling out the river’s height permitting us to progress. 

Finally, as we approached Moscow, we sailed the seventy-nine-mile man-made waterway called the Moscow Canal . Where the Moscow Canal meets the Volga River there is an eighty-foot statue of Vladimir Lenin.

Much commerce takes place along all of Russia’s waterways. We viewed wildlife, quaint villages, locks, dams and reservoirs. We were blessed with absolutely perfect weather and the ability to meander outside on the decks to gaze as the small towns passed by and learn first hand some of the histories of Russia’s scenic waterways.

Viking Rusia River Cruise sunset!

Day 8: Viking Russian River Cruise, Yaroslavl

We arrived at Yaroslavl after lunch, around 3 PM. Over 600,000 people call Yaroslavl home and we headed out on our walking tour: Yaroslavl Up Close .  

One of the eight Golden Ring cities, Yaroslavl is a very significant and beautiful city along the Volga River. Yaroslavl is an extremely important shipping port along the river.

We stopped into the iconic and stunning Church of St Elija and strolled the city. There are over 70 churches in Yaroslavl, with almost half of them in use today. Another stunning church we visited was the Assumption Russian Orthodox Church. The gleaming gold onion domes on the outside and the amazing frescoes inside were all magnificent.

Stunning Russian Orthodox Church of the Assumption in Yaroslavl , Russia, on the River Volga

Tech Amenities Onboard The Viking Ingvar

Yes, there is FREE wifi during the Russian river cruise aboard the Ingvar. You will receive the login information once you board. Most of us want to post pictures on social media or be in some kind of contact with our family and friends back home. 

Now the bandwidth varied, and sometimes the connectivity and speed were less than what we were used to at home. No big problem though, because we stopped at so many villages and towns along the way that had stronger wifi reception. With a little planning, much of our online work was done when we were docked in port. That’s when the balcony came in very handy!

If you wanted to check your email but did not bring along a laptop, or did not wish to use your phone, there was a computer station onboard. There were two computers with printers we were able to use at any time.

There were both American and European outlets in the Ingvar’s staterooms. Victoria and I brought along some European converters because we had a lot of devices to charge and did not wish to ‘take turns.’ If you don’t plan to bring along lots of electronic devices, you will be fine with the outlets.

There is a computer station onboard for passengers.

Day 9: Viking Russia River Cruise, Uglich, Russia

A dreary rainy day did not sabotage our morning in Uglich. The second of Russia’s Golden Ring cities we explored on our Waterways of the Tsars  Russian River Cruise, Uglich was such a quaint town along the water.

We began with a walking tour and headed to the Kremlin of Uglich. It was merely a ten-minute stroll from the Ingvar. We began by visiting the Russian Orthodox Cathedral of Our Saviour’s Transfiguration. 

Every small village or town, and every large city had the loveliest and most ornate Russian Orthodox churches and cathedrals. All have interesting histories and tragedies. Uglich holds the end of a dynasty as one of its tragedies. 

Young Dimitri was only 8 years old when he died. Murdered or accidental we will not know. We do know that his death, this son of Ivan the Terrible, ended a dynasty, sparked civil unrest, and gave rise to the Romanov dynasty. 

Next, we toured the beautiful Church of St Dimitry on the Blood . It was built in the 1690s on the spot where young Dimitry’s body was found. Through frescoes inside the church, the story of Dimitry along with Bible stories are seen. Dimitry’s grave is also inside, and it is very small (because he was a child when he died.)

A visit to a local family followed where we were transported by Viking coaches. There we shared a light meal, a cup of tea and toasted with vodka shots! We had free time to shop for souvenirs along the way back to our ship if we so desired. 

Beautiful Uglich, Russia looking towards the Russian Orthodox Saint Dimitry on the Blood Cathedral.

Viking Russia River Cruise: Staterooms 

102 outside staterooms make up the Viking Ingvar. Sizes range from the two 400 square foot Suites to the 160 square feet Deluxe staterooms. Most staterooms feature floor to ceiling sliding glass doors that lead out onto a large verandah. Some categories have a large picture window (4 feet X 3 feet) that opens instead.

There is a twenty-six inch flat screened TV in each room that offers live news shows, along with a variety of ship information, like positioning and live streaming of any lectures and demonstrations happening in the Sky bar. 

All rooms are furnished with both 110/220 volt outlets, a telephone, safe, hairdryer, and air conditioning. We used our safe every day. I kept my passport and credit cards in there whenever I was not using them. 

Our verandah stateroom onboard the Viking Ingvar during our Russia river cruise.

Cushy fluffy white spa-like robes and slippers are available upon request. All rooms receive servicing twice daily, when bottled water is replenished and the Viking Daily newsletter is delivered. 

Victoria and I thought there was plenty of storage space for all of our belongings for the two of us on a 13-day cruise. With our luggage easily stored under our beds, there was ample space to walk around. 

We used our desk to house our laptops and camera equipment.

Our spacious verandah. We spent many a morning or afternoon, depending on our itinerary, outside relaxing and watching the countryside sail by.

We leisurely sailed and enjoyed the stunning views from the ship all morning. At 1:30 PM we arrived in Moscow, one of the world’s most iconic and fascinating cities. Over twelve million people live in Moscow. It is Russia’s political and cultural epicenter.

Three days was a great amount of time to explore Russia, yet not enough time at all! There were unbelievable included tours to participate in, and exquisite optional tours that offered privileged access to some of Russia’s most beloved locations.

Moscow is famous for its legendary ornate underground subway stations . Victoria and I elected to take an included walking tour of Moscow , where we visited several of the iconic and elaborate stations. 

One of the elegant subway stations we visited in Moscow on our Viking walking tour.

We also attended a special concert of Russian music and dance that was extraordinary. Tours of the Cosmonaut Museum, the Jewish Museum, and the sumptuous Treasures of the Kremlin Armoury were offered. 

I was most interested in touring Red Square and the Kremlin. Household words to me growing up during the rise and fall of Russian communism, I was very excited to experience them. And of course, seeing the world-famous and iconic St Basil’s Cathedral.  

And Viking Russia River Cruises did not disappoint. I enjoyed the mixture of tour time and free time to explore Moscow on our own. The Ingvar was docked thirty minutes out of town next to a beautiful green lush city park. It was very conveniently located less than a ten minute walk from a subway station. And then it was a straight shot to the city center of Moscow. 

Moscow did not disappoint either. Not one bit. From walking around Red Square, which was barricaded when we visited due to state horse shows and concerts, to visiting St Basil’s Cathedral, it was so exciting.

St. Basil Cathedral on Red Square in Moscow. YES, it is that brilliant and beautiful in real life!

We spent time in the GUM Department Store (much more like a mall) which was the most ornate and exquisite shopping center I have ever visited in the world, anywhere!  We chose NOT to visit Lenin’s Tomb (and see his corpse) in Red Square.

Our visit inside the Moscow Kremlin walls was unforgettable. Long considered the symbol of Russian power, most people, including me, think of the Kremlin as one building. Actually, it is a walled city. Inside are numerous government buildings and home of the Russian president. Also, we saw unbelievably beautiful palaces, cathedrals, and museums mostly congregated in Cathedral Square.

Kremlin (meaning ‘fortress’) walls adjacent to Red Square in Moscow. The Kremlin is the official residence of the President of the Russian Federation.

Probably one of the most popular optional excursions was Moscow By Night . It was amazing seeing Moscow all lit up and glittering while riding in our coach. Then we transferred to a boat and admired Moscow from the water!

 Viking River Cruise Staff: The Backbone of the trip.

The food could be the absolute best. The excursions could be the most captivating. The staterooms could be the loveliest ever. But none of the experiences we had on our Viking Russian River Cruise Ingvar would have been as special if it were not for the extraordinary staff.

The staff of the Viking Ingvar definitely exemplified what it means to offer unparalleled service. Every single staff member, from the captain himself to the kitchen staff working behind the scenes, put forth extreme effort to make the trip so very special. From the extraordinary cabin steward, the servers during our meals, to the bar staff, there was nothing that they could not do for us. The  

Finally, I must add that I spoke with several members of the staff and crew and one major theme emerged. And that was how much they enjoyed their jobs and were blessed to be working for Viking.  

One of the onboard activities was a Galley tour where we met the unsung heroes of the kitchen!

Reymond made the best cocktails! He instructed me on Russian vodkas.

Read These Next:

How To Pack Lightly For Your Viking Russian River Cruise

Here Are Tips If You Are A Senior And Traveling Solo

7 Tips For Surviving Your Long International Flight

How To Remain Healthy When Traveling

Packing Tips For Your Viking Russian River Cruise

I think that using these useful packing tips will enhance your trip to Russia:

A  concealed travel pouch may be one of the most important items you bring with you to Russia. This unisex RFID blocking concealed travel pouch is  lightweight and comes in several colors. It has lots of organization to give you peace of mind. You can keep your most valuable documents safe and secure next to your body.

If you have a pouch already you may not want to or need to invest in a new one. If it does not come with the RFID protection,  these  RFID  sleeves  would be handy to prevent identity theft. This configuration comes with enough passport and credit card sleeves that the entire family would be protected. They are slim too, so they will easily fit into your current pouch or wallet. 

I was never a fan of  packing cubes  until I tried them out! Now  I am sold .  These Bagail packing cubes   are  the exact ones I use whenever I travel . I cannot believe how much more organized I am now.

Don’t forget to bring along a  universal power adapter to Russia.  This worldwide   power plug  is a great example and will charge your phone at the end of your busy days. And this  world traveler adapter kit   can charge several devices at the same time. This is what you will need when there are several people traveling in your group, or if you bring several electronic devices on your trip that require charging at the same time. 

If you are planning on taking a lot of pictures with your phone you will definitely want to consider an  external charging battery . This  Anker high-speed phone charging battery  is the exact  one I carry with me on all of my trips . It can be used on a variety of phones, not just an iPhone like I have. And wow is it fast! I like that it holds its charging capabilities for several uses so I do not have to worry about it while out and about. And if I forget to recharge it at night, it will still be good to go the next day.

My daughter gifted me this  FugeTek Selfie Stick and Tripod  for my birthday. It has Bloothtooth connectivity so it is very easy to use . It is made of durable aluminum and is very lightweight and easy to carry. I love mine and I think you will enjoy it too!

Hydration is so important. You want to remain hydrated to support your immune system which in turn will be stronger to fight off any germs you will encounter during your travels.  You will want to bring your own  refillable water bottle  with you.  I never leave home on a trip without my  Bobble  filtration bottle.  The 18.5-ounce size is perfect for travel and it will fit nicely in the pocket of a backpack or your purse. Also when filled with water, it is not too heavy to carry. And the Bobble carbon  filter  ensures fresh clean water whenever and wherever you fill the Bobble. You can find  filter replacements here. 

Perhaps you are traveling a long distance and packing space is a premium. Then this  set of collapsible silicone foldable water bottles  would work well for you. Would not take up much space in your suitcase at all. And you will be receiving a set of two.

You will want to bring a  backpack or daypack  with you to store snacks, your water bottle, phone, extra clothes, etc.. This   foldable water-resistant backpack  would be great. It is very affordable and is available in many color options for you to choose from. The fact that it folds down into a zippered pouch will make it easy to pack.

Perhaps you need a more substantial  backpack  for your international travel. This  antitheft backpack   has a charging port, is water-resistant and can comfortably carry up to a 15.6″ laptop. It comes in a range of colors to choose from and it is inexpensive as well. 

You will be walking more than usual on your Viking Russian River Cruise. A sturdy and comfortable pair of walking shoes  is a must-have. These  waterproof all-season shoes  are extremely affordable and yet fashionable.  Mostly everyone is familiar with the Skechers brand, and these   Air Run high fashion sneakers  come in a lot of colors to match your outfits and are still affordable.

You may be visiting Russia in warmer weather, and you may want a pair of sandals  to wear exploring.  I highly recommend these  Vionics adjustable strap orthotic sandals.  I have several pairs of these  exact  Vionic sandals in several colors that I bring with me *everywhere* I travel. They are very comfortable. I also sometimes bring along my  Vionic Tides flip flops.  The toe post is so comfortable which makes wearing these super comfortable. 

Please be advised : on your Viking excursions, I advise you to wear comfortable closed-toe shoes. The excursions can cover a lot of distance. Also, cobblestoned streets can be difficult to negotiate in sandals or flip flops, even if the weather is warm.

Bring a lightweight scarf or shawl . Scarves and shawls are very popular in Europe, And Russia is no exception. Both men and women wear scarves, both decoratively and as a layering piece to keep warm. This cotton   unisex lightweight  scarf is versatile and can be worn in any season. And here’s another option to consider: this  lightweight sunscreen shawl scarf   would do double duty to protect you from the sun in the warmer seasons as well as being a fashion accessory layering piece.

Also, in most Russian churches, women’s heads and shoulders must be covered. So the scarf can be used for that purpose as well.

We all need to  protect our eyes  from the sun’s harmful UVA/UVB rays. These  unisex polarized sunglasses   come in a lot of lens colors and frame designs and are extremely affordable too.

If you are fond of the  aviator-style of sunglasses  these polarized aviators may interest you. I like polarized sunglasses because they remove the glare and help you to see things more clearly. This will be very helpful in Ireland.

If you are in need of  new luggage,  this  expandable soft side spinner luggage  is affordable and comes in lots of colors. If you like hard-sided better, then you may favor this  hard-sided luggage set better. Both sets come with TSA approved zippers locks and 8 wheels per piece. Either will be great for the plane or train or even your car depending on how you plan to travel to Russia. 

Truthfully, before I visited Russia, all I knew was what I learned as a child during the Cold War: communism, KGB, and that the Russian people do not smile much. Viking’s Russia River Cruise did an *exceptional* job of introducing me to Russia as she is today. After spending 13 days with Viking Cruises I feel we were expertly guided to every monument and museum and well-known church in each and every city or village we visited.

We were informed about every part of Russian life and its extraordinary history as a country and introduced to the dazzling opulence of her architecture. Not only DO Russian people smile, but they are also warm and friendly. A surprising number of them spoke English. Viking Cruises’ Waterways of the Tsars 13 day Russian River Cruise was an outstanding and unforgettable experience, one I think you would love as much as I did.

Have you ever traveled to Russia? Were you as surprised and impressed as I was? Please share your experiences in the comment section below!

Please note: I was provided with a complimentary Viking Russian River cruise for myself and a guest, and a stipend, by Viking Cruises in exchange for this honest review. All opinions are my own.

Linda On the Run  is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, designed to provide a means to earn fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com

Reader Interactions

Kristina Hensley

November 14, 2019 at 6:43 pm

Hi there, I enjoyed your review. It was very detailed and will help us on our cruise. My sister and I will be traveling to Russia in May 2020 with Viking. Just to give us idea, how much cash in Russian ruble did you spend while on your 13 day cruise? I know we can use our credit card in Moscow and St. Petersburg, but I’m guessing not in the small towns. Thank you!

Linda Malys Yore

November 19, 2019 at 8:40 am

You are correct. The major metropolitan cities accept credit cards. The small rural villages do not. Plus you will want to have rubles on hand in case you wish tip the local tour guides. I can not recommend an exact amount of rubles. We used an ATM machine upon arrival at the airport. There are other ATMs along the route as well should you find you require more rubles. Please be advised, the ship you sail on will not not change currency into rubles for you. I am wishing you the absolute best experience ever with Viking as you explore and discover Russia!

December 22, 2019 at 9:47 am

Going next September! Can you tip and purchase small items in more rural locations in USD?

Phyllis Newman

January 23, 2020 at 8:33 am

Great job telling your story & sharing pictures about your Viking Russian River Cruise, very helpful!! We are going in July, I read they frown on sandals being worn in churches, museums & other areas. Croc flip flops probably out the question? How strict? In St. Petersburg, how far are we from the City Centre? Viking proves transportation if you would like to walk around town on your own? Thank you.

January 23, 2020 at 11:24 am

Hi Phyllis. So excited for you? I would not suggest wearing flip flops when touring any European city. Crocs will be ok. Sturdy closed-toe shoes would be ideal. When entering a lot of the churches in Russia your shoulders/head must be covered. I always had a scarf tucked into my purse for such an occasion. In St Pete, the city center is a bit far from the ship. We secured an Uber and it was very reasonable! In Moscow, the Metro is within walking distance. My Viking Russian River Cruise was *extraordinary* and so far surpassed any expectations I had. I wish safe journeys and a spectacular cruise for you as well.

Kathleen Reilly

January 10, 2021 at 3:04 pm

Thank you for providing such a detailed review. Can you please say what month you cruised? We are deciding now between May and July and are unsure of conditions. Thank you!

January 10, 2021 at 6:01 pm

Hello Kathleen. I sailed in mid-September.

January 10, 2021 at 6:32 pm

We actually had our Russian Cruise rebooked for July 2021. I called Viking today for updates due to Visas, hate to put money out for Visas if Cruise is canceled. We heard all positive reviews for the Russian River Cruise in July, weather is beautiful & temps in high 70s during the day, evening 60s. We start in St. Petersburg, so many say how much they like St. Petersburg, if you have extra time spend it there.

January 12, 2021 at 2:42 pm

We started our cruise from St. Petersburg as well. The optional excursions in that magnificent city were spectacular!

January 13, 2021 at 4:19 am

Hi Phyllis, what did Viking say about your July cruise and about obtaining a Visa. My sister and I are scheduled for September 2021 and have the same question. Our May 2020 Viking cruise was cancelled and we had already obtained our Visas, which are no longer good, so yes the additional cost to get new ones. Thank you!

January 15, 2021 at 10:14 am

Viking Rep., told me to contact GenVisa directly to answer my questions. On Monday I called, they told me to allow 8 weeks for processing, cost $632 per couple , for everything including 3 yr Visa. They advised me to get paperwork started, mail it to them, once borders open our applications can be processed quickly, basically we would be ahead. It was worth the call, found them resourceful.

January 10, 2021 at 6:53 pm

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• Russian River Cruises

Viking Truvor

Former names: ms kirov, ms sergey kirov.

Cruise line Viking Cruises (Russian River Cruises)

Viking Truvor last position

Viking Truvor last location was at Baltic Sea (coordinates 59.86023 N / 30.49484 E) cruising en route to KSZ/SOLYANOY PRICHAL. The AIS position was reported 1 month ago.

Specifications of Viking Truvor

•   Review
•   Wiki

Viking Truvor Review

Review of viking truvor.

The Viking Truvor ship cruises on Volga River in Russia, departing from Moscow and St Petersburg . This Viking cruise ship is named after Truvor - a Viking in origin, brother to Sineus and Rurik - the three Varangian princes who founded the dynasty that ruled the Kievan Rus empire. MS Kirov was extensively refitted, refurbished and renamed in 2013.

Cabin grades are 6. The total number of cabins is 102, of which 4 Suite, 67 Balcony, 33 with a non-opening window. Next are listed the ship's staterooms as types (categories), numbers and deck location:

• Suites - JS (x2, deck3), AA (x2, deck2)
• Balcony Staterooms - AX (x35, deck3), BX (x32, deck2)
• Deluxe Riverview Staterooms - CX (x8, deck1), DX (x23, deck1), plus 2x Single rooms
• Staterooms offer as standard amenities hotel-style beds (double or twins / sized 2 x 1,6 m or 2 x 0,8 m), 26-inch flat TV (satellite reception, infotainment system), wardrobe, safe (in the closet), mini-refrigerator, direct-dial phone, radio, en-suite bathroom (WC, shower, washbasin, hairdryer, towels, robes, slippers, bath products), mirrored vanity (writing desk with chair), bedside table, bed lights, 220 V power sockets, central air-conditioning (individually / thermostat-controlled heating and ventilation system), premium bedding, modern LED lighting. Ceiling height is 2,2 m.

Main Dining Room is named Neva Restaurant. The ship has the following facilities:

• Panorama Lounge and Bar (observation)
• Atrium lobby (Reception)
• Bar and Library (2 Internet stations)
• Boutique Shop (Russian gifts and souvenirs)
• walk-around Promenade Deck
• Sun Deck (Wheelhouse, Sky Bar, shaded seating area)
• Medical Room (Infirmary / Doctor's Office)

Viking River Cruises Russia deals are inclusive of Internet (Wi-Fi), laundry, all land tours/excursions, ground transfers, live onboard entertainment and lectures, traditional Russian food and vodka tastings, 24-hour tea/coffee, replenished daily bottled water. To and from the boat (land) transfers and airport meet-and-greet services are included in cruise tour fares only when airfares are purchased through Viking Cruises.

Viking Truvor river cruise prices are per person and based on double occupancy. These are only indicative of Viking cruise rates. They might be different when you book your Viking River Cruises Russia cruise tour deals, influenced by travel agency promotions, special offers and discounts, group travel booking or last-minute deals rates. On some Viking Truvor's Volga cruise tours, the line offers round-trip USA airfare discount deals (on select cabins or itineraries/dates).

River Cruise Itineraries

Follows the list of Viking Truvor river cruise itineraries as themes, officially announced by the Viking Cruises line:

• "WATERWAYS OF THE TSARS" are 12-days luxury Volga river cruises from Saint Petersburg to Moscow, and the reverse from Moscow to Saint Petersburg. There are 11 complimentary land tours/excursions and no hotel packages included in the fares. Feature port activities and tours along the route are:
• St Petersburg excursions (Winter Palace, the Hermitage Museum - one of the world's largest and oldest, with a huge and unique collection of arts and antiquities, jewelries, sculptures, traditional Russian ballet performances, Pushkin district excursion, Catherine Palace - the summer residence of the Russian monarchs/"tsars"), St Petersburg bus tour, optional tour to Peterhof Palace (gardens, fountains), St Petersburg departure in early evening (on day 4)
• Neva River cruise and crossing Lake Ladoga (the largest in Europe, on day 5)
• Svir River cruise to Mandrogy (local Vodka Museum, Russian handmade souvenirs. Optional excursions in Mandrogy are themed "banya" (visiting a traditional Russian bathhouse) and "matryoshka" (traditional Russian wooden doll making)
• Cruising along the Russian “Blue Route” (225 km / 139 ml in length)
• Onega Lake cruise (Europe's second largest)
• Kizhi (local Museum of Architecture /outdoor exposition of traditionally built Russian wooden houses, windmills, churches, most of them built without nails))
• Volga-Baltic waterways cruising (370 km / 230 ml long system of small rivers, canals and 7 locks connecting Volga River with Baltic Sea
• Kuzino (Kirillo-Belozersky Monastery, Assumption Cathedral, local museum)
• Yaroslavl (a local covered market for food and handmade items)
• Moscow Canal cruise (arrival during lunch time, half-day long tour in Moscow visits Bolshoi Theater, Red Square, St Basil Cathedral, GUM Store, Metro. The second day offers full day long parks and monuments tour, with an optional half-day long excursion to Tretyakov Gallery (fine art museum). Third day Moscow touring visits Kremlin and two cathedrals, with optional Kremlin Armory tour.
• Departures from St Petersburg offer optional 2-night Moscow hotel package. On departures from Moscow, the line offers an optional 3-night Helsinki hotel package (Finland).

Note: You can see the CruiseMapper's list of all river cruise ships and riverboats in the "itinerary" section of our  River Cruises  hub. All companies and their fleets are listed there. For other Russia-based ships, you can visit our dedicated to  Russian River Cruises  hub.

Other Viking Cruises cruise ships

• Viking Akun
• Viking Helgi
• Viking Ingvar
• Viking Sineus

Viking Truvor Wiki

Built as Sergey Kirov, Viking Truvor is one of Russia's signature "Project 302" river cruise ships.

Dmitriy Furmanov-class Russian river ships

"Dmitriy Furmanov class" (aka "Project 302") are 4 series of Russian river cruise ships built in GDR (Eastern Germany) for USSR (Soviet Union) in the period 1983-1992. The vessel class name honours the Russian writer Dmitriy Andreyevich Furmanov (1891-1926) who also served as Bolshevik commissar (Red Army officer).

These Russian river cruise ships (a total of 27 units) were all produced by VEB Elbewerft Boizenburg and represent an upgraded (larger) version of Project 301 (Vladimir Ilyich-class) riverboats. These ships were used for passenger (cruise) shipping in Northwestern USSR - on the rivers Volga, Belomorkanal, Lake Onega, Volga–Don Canal, Kama and Amur rivers, as well as on Dnieper River (Ukraine), Black Sea (coastal cruising) and Yangtze River (in China). Following the USSR's collapse (1991), all these boats were acquired by private companies (Russian and foreign).

VIKING RIVER CRUISES 13 Days | Waterways of the Tzars Southbound

ST. PETERSBURG TO MOSCOW D ay 1 | St. Petersburg, Russia. Embark Ship. Arrive in St. Petersburg, “The City of 300 Bridges,” then transfer to your ship. After boarding, you have free time to relax before dinner. (D) Day 2 | St. Petersburg. This morning, proceed to the Winter Palace to visit the legendary Hermitage Museum, where you marvel at the vast collection of art, antiquities, jewelry and sculptures. After a picnic lunch, the rest of the day is at leisure to further explore St. Petersburg. Enjoy an early dinner, followed by an evening performance of traditional Russian ballet or opera. For a unique, privileged access experience, consider booking the Behind the Scenes at the Ballet excursion. For a video preview, click here. Or, spend additional time at the Hermitage, visit the vaults and learn from a Hermitage art expert on the Hermitage Behind Closed Doors excursion. Catch a glimpse here. (These excursions are optional and can be booked in advance, no later than 30 days prior to sailing. Limited space may be available for onboard booking, but cannot be guaranteed. Since these excursions run at the same time, it is not possible to book both.) (B, L, D) Day 3 | St. Petersburg.  Today’s excursion goes to the Pushkin area where you visit Catherine’s Palace, the elegant rococo 18th-century summer residence of the Russian Czars named for Catherine I (widow of Peter the Great). Tour its various halls, including the storied Amber and Agate Rooms, and see the ornate décor throughout. After lunch, embark on a city tour; see noted sights including St. Isaac’s Cathedral, Peter & Paul Fortress and Nevsky Prospekt. Dine aboard and enjoy an optional Russian folkloric performance this evening. (B, L, D) Day 4 | St. Petersburg.  Most of the day is free to see the sights that interest you. Visit one of the many palaces, churches or museums, or take an optional morning tour to Peterhof Palace, with its landscaped gardens, beautiful fountains and French Gothic interiors. In the afternoon, explore more of the city or take an optional tour including Yusupov Palace (where Grigori Rasputin met his dramatic end) and a relaxing canal cruise. Lunch and dinner served aboard; ship departs early evening. (B, L, D) Day 5 | Scenic Waterways. Mandrogy. Spend a relaxing day cruising along Russia’s intricate waterways. Sail on the Neva River, then cross Lake Ladoga, Europe’s largest lake. Cruise the Svir River to Mandrogy where you have some time to explore this museum village. Visit the vodka museum or shop for handmade Russian craft items. For a truly immersive experience, try an optional visit to a banya (traditional Russian bath house). Continue along the Svir’s 139-mile “Blue Route” toward Lake Onega. (B, L, D) Day 6 | Kizhi.  Cruise through the early morning, admiring the tranquil waters of Lake Onega, Europe’s second largest lake. Arrive during breakfast at the island village of Kizhi. Set out on a walking tour through the Open Air Museum of Architecture, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, see a collection of wooden houses, windmills and churches representing ancient Russian architecture, highlighted by the famous three-tiered Preobranzhenskaya (Transfiguration) Church—a fairytale-like structure built in 1714 without a single nail. Depart late morning and cruise through the night. (B, L, D) Day 7 | Kirillo-Belozersky Monastery. Continue cruising along the Volga-Baltic Waterway. This system of rivers and canals, spanning 229 miles and seven locks, links the Volga River with the Baltic Sea. Arrive in Kuzino, a typical Russian village. Take a guided walk through the historic Kirillo-Belozersky Monastery, founded by Saint Cyril in 1397; see several small wooden chapels, the Assumption Cathedral and a museum. Or, see the Monastery and then visit a children’s art school and restoration workshop. Return aboard for an afternoon departure. (B, L, D) Day 8 | Yaroslavl.  Arrive mid-afternoon in Yaroslavl, one of the Golden Ring cities—ancient towns that preserve the memory of Russia’s historical events. Visit the Church of St. Elijah the Prophet, featuring detailed frescoes and icons. Here, you are treated to a stirring à capella choir performance. Then, take a guided stroll through the covered food market. Or, join an excursion to the Governor’s Palace, a living museum of Russian art, history and culture. Shop for handcrafted souvenirs before returning aboard for dinner and evening departure. (B, L, D) Day 9 | Uglich. After breakfast, disembark for a walking tour through the provincial village of Uglich, another Golden Ring city. See the former Kremlin of Uglich and visit the Church of St. Dmitry on the Blood, built on the site where Ivan the Terrible’s son Dmitry was mysteriously killed. Then a local family invites you into their home for tea and friendly conversation. Lunch served aboard; cruise through the night. (B, L, D) Day 10 | Moscow Canal. Moscow.  This morning, cruise along the Moscow Canal, approaching Moscow during lunch. Disembark for a half-day city tour. See the famed Bolshoi Theater and stop at Red Square for a view of the colorful onion domes of St. Basil’s Cathedral. You will also get the chance to explore the famous GUM Department Store and experience the city’s Metro. Enjoy an evening performance of traditional Russian folkloric music followed by a late dinner on board. (B, L, D) Day 11 | Moscow.  Today you have a full day to further explore Moscow’s many buildings, parks and monuments. Or you may choose from two optional experiences—a full-day excursion to Sergiev Posad, a Golden Ring city named for the greatly venerated St. Sergius of Radonezh, to see one of the four most important Russian Orthodox monasteries in Russia; or an engaging optional morning tour to the Military Museum where you visit with Red Army veterans as you explore Russia’s military history. Lunch is served aboard, or included in your full-day excursion. Dine aboard, then relax—or take an optional Moscow by Night tour. (B, L, D) Day 12 | Moscow. After breakfast, travel to the city’s famous red brick enclosure known as the Kremlin. See its many tall towers and elegant palaces, and tour inside one of the brightly colored cathedrals. The afternoon is free to relax and explore—you may wish to spend some time people-watching in Red Square or visit Lenin’s Tomb. Or, you may take an optional afternoon tour to Tretyakov Gallery, the world’s foremost museum of Russian fine art. Return aboard for a farewell dinner. (B, L, D) Day 13 | Moscow. Disembark Ship. After breakfast, disembark and proceed to the airport for your return flight. Or take some extra time in Russia with a 2-night Moscow extension. (B) NOTE: Itinerary is subject to change without notice. For the most up-to-date information, please refer to the itinerary schedule you receive with your final documents.