cruise whitsundays ferry timetable hamilton island

Packages & Specials

• Overnight Sailing

Bareboat Charters

• Airlie Beach Accommodation

Island Resorts

Visitor information.

• 更多详情-艾尔利海滩中文网
• Live StreetCam
• Merchandise

Get In Touch

Phone: (+61) 7 4813 9003 Email: [email protected]

ATAS Accredited Travel Agency Licence Holder No: A12711

• All Packages & Specials
• Backpacker & Student
• All Day Trips
• Whitehave Beach
• Whitehaven Beach
• Great Barrier Reef
• Sunset Cruises
• Island Camping Transfers
• Quick Trips
• Small Groups
• Snorkelling
• Speed Tours
• Senior Friendly
• View All Trips
• Backpacker / Budget
• Couples / Romantic
• Sports / Ex-Racers
• Traditional
• Private Charters
• All Accommodation
• Backpackers
• Bed & Breakfasts
• All Island Accommodation
• Daydream Island
• Hamilton Island
• Hayman Island
• Palm Bay Long Island
• How To Get Here

Overnight Sailing Tours

• Day Trip Tours
• Island Resort Accommodation
• Local Weather Guide
• Local Bus TimeTable
• Island Resort TimeTable
• All Charter Boats
• Sailing Monohulls
• Sailing Catamarans
• Power Boats

Whitsunday Island Resort Ferry Time Table | Hamilton Island Airport Timetable

All Packages & Specials Backpacker Couples

All Day Trips Whitehaven Beach Sailing Great Barrier Reef Flights Resorts Diving Fishing Jetski Golf Mainland Sunset Cruises Whitsunday Island Camping Transfers Activities Quick Trips Small Groups Snorkelling Speed Tours Romance Senior Friendly

All Sailing Tours Backpacker / Budget Quick Trips Couples / Romantic Sports & Ex-Racers Traditional Dive Multihull / Catamarans Great Barrier Reef Resorts Private Charters Family Friendly

All Charter Boats Sailing Monohulls Sailing Catamarans Powerboats

Airlie Beach Accomodation

All Accomodation Apartments Backpackers Bed & Breakfast Hotels Motels Resorts

All Island Accomodation Daydream Island Hamilton Island Hayman Island Palm Bay Long Island

How to Get Here Whitehaven Beach Great Barrier Reef Overnight Sailing Tours Day Trip Tours Bareboat Charters Airlie Beach Accommodation Island Resort Accommodation Local Weather Guide Local Bus Timetable Island Resort Timetable Live Street Cam

About us Contact Details Email us

Cruise Whitsundays Whitehaven Beach Half Day

• Cruise Whitsundays Whitehaven Beach Chill and Grill
• Explore’s Half Day Hill Inlet at Whitehaven Beach
• Explore’s Sail & Snorkel Whitehaven & Chalkies Beach
• Freedom Charters
• Hamilton Island Air Best of Both Worlds by Helicopter
• Hamilton Island Air Whitehaven Beach Getaway
• Hamilton Island Air Whitehaven Photo Scenic Flight by Helicopter
• HI Watersports Reef Ryder Dash
• HI Watersports Reef Ryder Whitsunday Explorer
• HI Watersports Reef Ryder Two in One
• Hamilton Island Air Heart Reef & Whitehaven Express Scenic Flight by Aeroplane
• Hamilton Island Air Heart Reef & Whitehaven Scenic Flight by Helicopter
• Hamilton Island Air Heart Reef & Whitehaven Stopover by Helicopter
• Hamilton Island Air Whitsunday Islands and Whitehaven Express
• Ricochet Full Day and Sunset
• Ricochet Luxury Sailing Catamaran Private Charter
• Ricochet Part Day

It appears you are using a version of Internet Explorer that is no longer supported by Microsoft. We cannot guarantee our site will operate as expected. We recommend downloading Microsoft Edge or another modern browser for the best experience.

Swim, stroll or simply laze on the beach Whitehaven Beach Half Day Cruise

Cruise to Whitehaven Beach in air-conditioned comfort, and spend your time soaking up the beauty of the Whitsunday Islands.

No visit to the Whitsundays would be complete without a visit to the pristine and world-famous Whitehaven Beach.

Why you’ll love the Whitehaven Beach Cruise:

• Travel in style. Cruise to Whitehaven Beach in air-conditioned comfort, on board a Cruise Whitsundays ferry style catamaran.
• Explore Southern Whitehaven Beach. See for yourself what makes this beach such a pure and pristine natural wonder.
• Beach activities. Simply relax on the beach, take a swim, or get involved in some fun, family-friendly beach activities.
• Visit the lookout. If you’re feeling particularly energetic, you can take a walk to Solway Lookout, which offers some of the best views out over the islands.

Details at a glance

• Cruise to the magnificent Whitehaven Beach on board an air-conditioned catamaran ,
• Spend up to two hours swimming or exploring the surrounds.
• Stinger suit included.
• Complimentary morning or afternoon tea and coffee is also provided.
• Afternoon departure
• 12.40pm - check in Hamilton Island Marina dock A1
• 1.00pm - board vessel
• 1.10pm - depart for Whitehaven Beach
• 1.50pm - arrive Whitehaven Beach
• 4.15pm - depart Whitehaven Beach
• 5.00pm - arrive Hamilton Island Marina

We highly recommend to pre-request your tours to avoid disappointment. Please click on the above button to submit your tour request.

Snorkel or dive

Great Barrier Reef

Explore some of the most pristine and secluded sections of the Great Barrier Reef with this unforgettable and exclusive day trip from Hamilton Island.

24 Nov 2016

Babymoon in Paradise at Hamilton Island

Anne Stroud

Live from #HamiltonIsland

Follow us on

The Lovers Passport

Home » Blog » The Best of the Whitsundays: Hamilton Island Guide

The Best of the Whitsundays: Hamilton Island Guide

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. Please see our Disclosure Policy  for details.

If you’re looking for a tropical getaway, Hamilton Island in the Whitsundays is the perfect destination. This beautiful Island is located in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, one of the most beautiful natural wonders in the world. With its breathtaking natural beauty, crystal clear waters, and abundance of outdoor activities, it’s no wonder why so many people flock to Hamilton Island each year.

In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at how to spend one week on Hamilton Island and make the most of your time there. From the best things to see and do, to where to stay and dine, we’ve got you covered with everything you need to know about visiting Hamilton Island.

Where is Hamilton Island?

Hamilton Island is a popular tourist destination located in the heart of the Whitsunday Islands, off the coast of Queensland, Australia. The island covers an area of approximately 5 square kilometers and is home to a variety of resorts, restaurants, and recreational activities.

It’s the most populated and accessible island in the Whitsundays, which is made up of 74 island in the area.

How to Get to Hamilton Island

Here are a few ways to get to Hamilton Island, depending on where you’re traveling from:

• Fly : Hamilton Island has its airport, the Great Barrier Reef Airport, which is serviced by direct flights from major Australian cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Cairns. Some of the airlines that operate direct flights to Hamilton Island include Jetstar, Virgin Australia, and Qantas. We flew from Sydney to Hamilton Island directly and it’s a quick 2 hour flight.
• Ferry : You can also get to Hamilton Island by taking a ferry from Airlie Beach on the mainland. There are several ferry services that operate between Airlie Beach and Hamilton Island, mainly including Cruise Whitsundays. To see the ferry schedule, click here .
• Private Boat: If you have access to a private boat, you can sail to Hamilton Island and moor your boat at the marina.

Best Time to Visit the Whitsundays

Peak Season

The Whitsunday Islands, including Hamilton Island, have a warm and tropical climate year-round, making it a popular destination for visitors at any time of the year. However, there are some variations in weather patterns and tourist traffic that may impact your experience depending on when you plan to visit.

The peak season in the Whitsundays generally runs from June to August , when the weather is cooler and drier, and there are school holidays in Australia. This is Australia’s winter and dry season. Typically, this time period sees the highest influx of tourists, and prices for accommodation and tours may be higher.

The shoulder seasons of April to May and September to November are good times to visit if you want to avoid the crowds and high prices while still enjoying warm temperatures and comfortable weather. These seasons offer a good balance between dry weather, fewer crowds, and slightly lower prices.

Alternatively, the summer months from December to February are the wettest and hottest time of the year, with increased humidity and occasional rainfall. However, this season can be a good option for those looking for a budget-friendly trip, as prices for accommodation and tours may be lower.

Keep in mind, the summer months typically come with cyclones and Irukandji Jellyfish . These are small and transparent jellyfish that can be present in the waters of the Whitsunday Islands. You’ll have to wear a stinger suit during these months to protect yourself against there stings – as they can put you in the hospital.

Overall, the best time to visit the Whitsundays depends on your personal preferences and priorities. For those looking for good weather and fewer crowds, the shoulder seasons of April to May and September to November may be the ideal times to visit. However, if you don’t mind the heat or occasional rain, visiting in the summer months could save you some money while still enjoying the beautiful tropical scenery.

Getting Around & Transportation

Hamilton Island is a car-free island, which means there are no private cars on the island. Visitors can get around the island by walking, cycling, or using the island’s shuttle service.

• Walking : Many of the island’s attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance, so walking is a popular way to get around the island. We walked almost every
• Cycling : You can rent a bicycle from one of the island’s rental shops and explore the island’s roads and trails. Cycling is an excellent way to see the island at your own pace.
• Shuttle Service : The island offers a complimentary shuttle service that operates between the resort areas, the marina, and the airport. The shuttle runs on a regular schedule, so it’s a convenient way to get around the island. There’s a green shuttle that strictly runs between the resort area and Front Street. The blue shuttle , on the other hand, gets you all over the island.
• Golf Cart : Visitors can also rent a golf cart to get around the island. Golf carts are a fun way to explore the island and provide more flexibility than the shuttle service. However, they are a little pricey and do need to typically be reserved in advance due to limited availability.

Regardless of how you choose to get around, Hamilton Island is a relatively small island, and it’s easy to navigate your way around the island.

How Long to Stay in the Whitsundays

The length of time you should spend on Hamilton Island really depends on what you want to do and see while you’re there. If you’re just looking to relax on the beach and enjoy the island’s laid-back vibe, then a few days may be enough. However, if you want to explore the Whitsunday Islands and take part in outdoor activities such as snorkeling, sailing, or hiking, then you may want to spend at least a week on the island.

We stayed for 7 days and thought that was the perfect amount of time to squeeze in every adventure in the area that we wanted to do on top of getting scuba certified over the course of 3 days.

In general, we would recommend spending at least three to four days on Hamilton Island to get a good feel for the island and take part in some of the activities it has to offer. If you have the time and budget, spending a week or more on the island would allow you to see and do more, and really soak up the island’s natural beauty and relaxed vibe.

Accommodation Options on Hamilton Island

Hamilton Island offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from luxury resorts to holiday homes and apartments. The most popular resorts on the island are the Reef View Hotel, the Beach Club, and the Qualia Resort, all of which offer stunning ocean views and world-class amenities. The most popular AirBnB options are located in the Whitsunday Apartments and are typically more affordable than staying in a hotel on the island.

We opted to stay in AirBnB and had a great experience that felt more like the local experience. We linked it here if you wanted to check if it was available during your intended stay.

Dining & Shopping on Hamilton Island

There are several dining options available on the island, including gourmet restaurants and casual cafes, serving a variety of cuisines. Keep in mind, dining out on the island is pretty expensive and you’ll have to make reservations in advance at most restaurants. Our favorite restaurant on the island was Coca Chu. Other popular restaurants include Bommie and Manta Ray.

Hamilton Island also has a small commercial centre known as Front Street, which offers a range of more casual dining, boutique shops, and souvenir stores. There is also a marina where visitors can hire boats or book a tour to explore the Great Barrier Reef and nearby islands.

Front Street is also home to Hamilton Island’s only supermarket. We opted to shop here most days to keep our costs of food down and rather, cook at our AirBnB. Make sure to bring your own reusable bags, or you can purchase them here as well.

WiFi & The Hamilton Island App

The island itself has its own WiFi network. However, you have to be staying in one of the hotels or resorts to get codes to access it. Since we stayed in an AirBnB, we only had access to our host’s private network. So keep that in mind that it varies based on your accommodation that you select! We always recommend getting an E-Sim Card if your mobile carrier is expensive abroad.

Additionally, you’ll want to download the Hamilton Island App before you arrive on the island. This is the best way to make dinner reservations, figure out things to do, and check the shuttle schedules in real time.

Best Things to Do Near Hamilton Island

Head out to the great barrier reef.

The Great Barrier Reef is one of the world’s most famous natural attractions and is located right off the coast of Hamilton Island. Visitors can take a day trip to explore the reef, which includes activities like snorkeling, diving, and scenic flights. The Great Barrier Reef in the Whitsundays is known for its clear turquoise waters and stunning healthy reefs. The reefs are made up of a variety of coral types, including hard and soft corals, as well as colorful fish, rays, turtles, and other marine life.

There are several reef tours that depart from Hamilton Island and offer a range of tour options. Check out either Explore or Cruise Whitsundays to book a half day or full day trip. We’d highly recommend going with the full day tour to do the reef justice if you have time; however, if you’re limited on time the half day tour is still a great option.

We decided to get our PADI Open Water Certification while we were visiting Hamilton Island. For the weekend of our training, we were able to dive 4 times out on Little Blacks Reef and Baits Reef. This was truly a bucket list experience of ours and we’d highly recommend to anyone thinking of doing their scuba training to do it with Explore on Hamilton Island .

Another popular destination along the Great Barrier Reef nearby is the Heart Reef, which is a naturally occurring coral formation in the shape of a heart. This unique and stunning reef can be viewed from the air on a scenic flight or helicopter tour. We had the best experience doing the Whitehaven Beach and Heart Reef Flyover Flight with Hamilton Island Air.

Visit Hill Inlet

Hill Inlet is a breathtaking natural attraction located on the northern end of Whitsunday Island. The inlet is accessible via boat and is a popular spot for sightseeing and photography. It is famous for its swirling sands, which create a stunning visual effect as they shift with the tide.

Visitors can take a guided tour to explore the inlet and learn about its geology and history. The tour includes a walk to the Hill Inlet Lookout, which provides a panoramic view of the swirling sands and the surrounding islands.

Make sure to visit all 3 lookouts first before heading down to the stunning beach as this area provides the best photo opportunities. In our opinion, the last two lookouts were the best. Undoubtedly, it might be busy, but everyone takes photos fairly quickly. We spent about 1 hour hiking through the forest and on the boardwalks.

Pro Tip: We highly recommend visiting this area during a morning tour rather than an afternoon tour! We went with Explore Hamilton Island’s morning tour and practically had the lookouts all to ourselves. However, when we were leaving, there were hundreds of people coming up for the afternoon.

Whitehaven Beach

Whitehaven Beach is a world-renowned beach located on Whitsunday Island, accessible from Hamilton Island via a day trip or private yacht charter. This 7-kilometer-long stretch of white sand is fringed by crystal-clear turquoise waters and is known for its stunning views and postcard-perfect scenery. In fact, the sand here is so famous that it’s actually illegal to take with you in any way.

The beach is accessible via boat and is a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing in the sun. If you opt to do the Helicopter landing tour on Whitehaven Beach, you’ll get private access to the beach. Additionally, you’ll get treated to a bottle of champagne and a full picnic setup on the beautiful oasis.

Hike Passage Peak for Sunrise

The Passage Peak hike on Hamilton Island is one of the island’s most popular hiking trails and provides spectacular views of the surrounding Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef. The hike is approximately 2.4 kilometers long and takes about 2 hours to complete, depending on your pace.

The Passage Peak trail starts at the top of Resort Drive and follows a series of well-maintained gravel paths, boardwalks, and staircases. As you ascend, you’ll pass through lush vegetation and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding islands and ocean. Of course, there are several rest stops along the way where you can catch your breath and take in the beautiful scenery.

The trail becomes steeper as you near the summit, and you’ll need to scramble up some rocky sections. Nevertheless, the views from the top are well worth the effort. From the summit, you can see the vast expanse of the Coral Sea and the stunning turquoise waters of the Whitsunday Islands. Generally on clear days, you can even see as far as the mainland.

The Passage Peak hike is rated as a moderate to challenging hike due to its steep incline and rocky terrain. However, the trail is well-maintained and has plenty of resting spots along the way. Hikers should wear comfortable and sturdy shoes and to bring plenty of water and sunscreen.

Catseye Beach

Hamilton Island is known for its beautiful beaches. Catseye is located right in the heart of the resorts area of the island and is surrounded by stunning blue water. You can rent paddle boards, kayaks, and mini catamarans on the beach to get out on the water as well. Although Catseye Beach is the most popular beach on the island, there are many other beaches to explore as well.

Visit One Tree Hill for Sunset

One Tree Hill is a popular sunset spot on Hamilton Island, with panoramic views of the Whitsunday Islands and the Coral Sea. There’s a bar at the top of the hill, which makes it an excellent spot to enjoy a drink while watching the sunset. Furthermore, make sure to get there early to secure a spot as it gets pretty busy.

Ready to visit the Whitsundays?

Hamilton Island and the Whitsunday Islands are truly some of the most beautiful places in the world. With their stunning natural beauty, crystal clear waters, and abundance of outdoor activities, they are a must-visit destination for any adventure traveler. Whether you’re looking to snorkel on the Great Barrier Reef, hike through the rainforest, or simply relax on the beach, Hamilton Island and the rest of the Whitsundays offer something for everyone.

Plan your itinerary ahead of time, and make sure to book tours and activities in advance to avoid disappointment. With its stunning scenery and endless opportunities for adventure, Hamilton Island is the perfect destination for your next tropical getaway.

You may also enjoy:

Best Waterfalls Guide for Washington State (Updated)

All You Need to Know About Bora Bora, Tahiti Vacations

Is Cancun Safe to Travel to in 2024? Stats, Warnings, & Advice

You may also like

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

Cruise Whitsundays

Join Cruise Whitsundays on your next tropical escape to experience stunning, unforgettable seamless days under the Whitsunday sun. With packages to suit everyone, from families to couples, and young travellers to grey nomads, guests are bound to find their island bliss with plenty of luxury options. Sleep under the stars out in the Great Barrier Reef, enjoy a sunset antipasto as you cruise from island to island or discover the silica sands of Whitehaven Beach! Adventure, comfort and Whitsunday magic are all at your fingertips with these stunning Cruise Whitsunday packages… it’s time to make some memories!

See the Outer Great Barrier Reef on an action-packed full day trip!

• Spend a day on a pontoon on the Great Barrier Reef!
• Snorkelling and scuba diving available
• One of the few day trips to visit the Outer Great Barrier Reef
• See marine life up close in our underwater observatory
• Great for the whole family!
• Introductory and certified divers welcome - recommended to book in advance

This is the new Reefsleep which everyone is talking about! A spectacular and unique overnight tour where you sleep on the Outer Great Barrier Reef!

• Sleep under the stars on the Outer Great Barrier Reef on a unique, modern pontoon!
• Snorkel and scuba dive to rub shoulders with vibrant corals and marine life
• Experience the sunrise, sunset and starlight out on the Great Barrier Reef
• The only tour of its kind in the Whitsundays, offering both luxurious and adventurous itineraries!
• Beer, wine and soft drinks included
• Introductory and certified divers welcome - booking in advance recommended

Immerse yourself in this exclusive experience in the Whitsundays, as you sleep overnight and underwater in Australia’s first underwater accommodation on the Great Barrier Reef.

• Travel to Hardy Reef by a scenic cruise through the Whitsundays
• Luxury private king or private twin suites
• Floor-to-ceiling glass walls in your private Reefsuite
• Professional, delectable catering fully included

See all the highlights of the Whitsundays including the famous Hamilton Island!

• Spend 2 hours at Whitehaven Beach where you can explore
• Relax on Hamilton Island for the afternoon, with full use of the pool and beach areas
• Have fun at Marina Tavern on Hamilton Island
• Combine a relaxing morning on the beach with an afternoon on a resort island!

Enjoy the freedom to explore all the wonders and highlights of this amazing resort island, all on your own time! 

• Perfect for those who enjoy holidaying at their own pace
• Cruise through the stunning Whitsunday Islands
• Feast on a full lunch menu at Marina Tavern
• Enjoy 9 luscious island bush-walking routes
• Visit the wonderful shops, galleries and restaurants!

Short on time in paradise? Our half day afternoon cruise will tickle your fancy! Sit back and relax as Cruise Whitsundays takes you on a journey to the dazzling white sands of Whitehaven Beach!

• Relax on one of the world's best beaches!
• Enjoy a half day cruise, leaving you plenty of time to explore
• Cruise through the nearby islands, enjoying some of the most peaceful and remote locations in the area!
• Unwind and relax on the white sandy shores, and swim in the cool blue water
• Simply the best way to see Whitehaven Beach if you're short on time

Short on time but still want to soak up the best of the Whitsundays? Cruise Whitsundays will take you on a whirlwind adventure to the dazzling shores of Whitehaven Beach. Jump on board!

• Relax at one of the world's best beaches!
• Cruise around the nearby islands and soak up peaceful and remote locations
• Unwind on white sandy shores and paddle in the cool blue water
• Explore with the confidence that you’re experiencing the best of Whitehaven Beach

Visit two iconic locations in one day!

• Venture to both Whitsunday Island and Daydream Island on the same day
• Spend 2 hours on the famous Whitehaven Beach where you can explore and relax
• Marvel at the beauty of the soft silica sands and clear, cool water
• Check out the Living Reef on Daydream Island and swim in the resort pool

*Please note, this tour is no longer operating. Alternatively, check out the  CW: Daydream Island Escape and  CW: Whitehaven Beach Chill & Grill from Airlie Beach tours to get your ultimate Whitsundays fix!

Visit two island destinations and make the most of your day in the Whitsundays!

• Ideal tour if you're short on time but want to do a bit of exploring
• Visit two of the most famous islands in the region - Hamilton Island and Daydream Island
• Enjoy a picturesque cruise in between the island, enjoy the sights along the way
• Explore two island resorts and enjoy all they have to offer

*Please note, this tour is no longer operating. Alternatively, check out the CW: Hamilton Island Freestyle and CW: Daydream Island Escape tours to get your island fix!

WE ARE READY TO HELP YOU

• Our experts are Based in Airlie Beach
• We can build packages to save you $$$
• Whitsundays biggest boat cooperative

Quick Enquiry

Whitsundays guide.

LATEST REVIEWS

Whitsundays news.

Sailing Whitsundays acknowledges the Ngaro, Gia and Juru people as the Traditional Owners of the lands and seas in which we operate. We pay our respects to Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all First Nations peoples.

404 Not found

Moscow Boat Tour

• Page active

Description

See all the gems of historical and cultural center of the capital in short time and without traffic jams or tiresome walking.

Depending on the itinerary and duration of the Moscow River boat trip, the tour can be 3 or 5 hours.

Highlights of the tour

• St Basil’s Cathedral;
• Stalin skyscraper on Kotelnicheskaya (Tinkers) embankment;
• The Kremlin;
• “House on the Embankment” Stalin skyscraper;
• Monument to Peter I;
• The Central House of Artists;
• Christ the Savior Cathedral;
• Gorky Park;
• Moscow State University;
• Russian Academy of Sciences;
• Luzhniki stadium;
• Novodevichy Monastery;
• Kiev railway station;
• Europe Square;
• Moscow City Hall;
• Government House;
• Expocentre Exhibition Complex;
• and other famous sights.

You will learn about the different epochs of the city from the foundation in 1147 till Soviet times of 20 th  century.

Moscow River

Moskva river has the form of a snake and is the main waterway of Moscow, consisting of a cascade of reservoirs. Within the city, Moskva river is 80 km long, 120 m - 200 m wide and up to 14 m deep. The narrowest part of the river is the Kremlin area in the city center, and the most extensive is around the Luzhniki Stadium in the south. 

Bridges in Moscow

Undoubtedly, bridges and embankments are among the most scenic spots and main attractions of Moscow. Plus, they are so romantic.

• Bolshoy Kamenny Bridge –  Great Stone Bridge –  is the main bridge of Moscow . The first stone bridge was constructed here in the 17th century.
• Patriarshy Bridge  is one of the youngest pedestrian bridges, built in 2004. The bridge connects the iconic Christ the Saviour Cathedral with funky Bersenevskaya embankment, extremely popular place among locals for its trendy art galleries, cafes and panoramic views. Patriarshy Bridge used to be a shooting location for ex-Russian President Dmitry Medvedev's New Year speech to the nation.
• Borodinsky Bridge,  erected in honor of the 100th anniversary of the glorious victory in the Battle of Borodino (which every Russian kid knows about), a fierce legendary battle during the Russo-French war of 1812.
• Bagration Bridge  one of the  pedestrian bridges with most picturesque views of the Moskva River with its numerous upper-level observation platforms. The bridge was erected to celebrate the 850th anniversary of Moscow city in 1997.
• Krymsky Bridge  used to be in Top 5 Europe’s longest bridges some 100 years ago. The bridge got its name after the ancient Krymsky ford which Crimean Tartars used to invade Moscow in the 16 th  century.

Embankments of Moscow

Moscow river boats 37 embankments, the most popular being Kremlevskaya, Sofiyskaya, Pushkinskaya, Vorobyovskaya and Kolomenskaya.

You can get the most spectacular views of the Kremlin from  Kremlevskaya and Sofiyskaya embankments.

• Pushkinkaya embankment  is the most romantic in Moscow. It meanders along Gorky Park and Neskuchnyi garden and is rich for all kinds of entertainment as well as cozy nooks, including Olivkovy beach, the famous Zeleny theater as well as a pier for river cruisers.
• Vorobyevskaya embankment  is part of Sparrow Hills nature reserve. This place opens a beautiful panorama of the river and city from the observation deck and is considered to be the place for taking serious decisions in life.
• Embankment in Kolomenskoye  Museum-Reserve has a special charm due to its peculiar geographical relief. The boat trip around Kolomenskoye would be the most peaceful in your life.
• Taras Shevchenko embankment  is popular among photographers for its modern Moscow City skyscrapers. Highly recommended for your night boat trip.
• Embankments of Moscow are the pride of the capital. A distinctive feature of each of the promenades is its architecture and beautiful views. In addition, almost all the embankments of Moscow have a rich history and a lot of notable buildings.

Different epochs

Taking a walk along the Moskva River by boat, you will witness the architecture of Moscow from different eras and styles. Archaeological studies indicate that already in the XI century there stood a fortified settlement on Borovitsky hill, which is now called the Kremlin. Little fortress could not accommodate all the residents of the rapidly growing city, and the Grand Duke ordered the construction of a new Kremlin, larger than the former.

Boat trip around Kolomenskoe Park

Moscow river boat trip starts from the pier Klenovy (Maple) Boulevard and provides reat views of Nicholas Perervinsky monastery.

Nicholas Perervinsky monastery was founded at the time of the Battle of Kulikov (1380). The monastery, got its name from the surrounding area – “Pererva”, which can be translated like “tear off” and because of the location –  here it abruptly changed its course, turning to Kolomna, standing on the opposite bank.

Nowadays Kolomenskoye is State Art, Historical, Architectural and Natural Landscape Museum-Reserve, which doors are open to everyone who wants to get in touch with the ancient history of Russia.

Take a break from the big city hustle in the shady parks and gardens of the Kolomenskoe Museum-Reserve. Don’t miss a wonderful Church of the Ascension and Tsar Alexey’s Palace in Kolomenskoye!

Monasteries and temples

• Novospassky Monastery
• Founded in the 13th century on the site where now is located the Danilovsky monastery. After a few decades, in 1330, Ivan Kalita moved the monastery onto the Borovitskii hill of the Kremlin. However, in the 15th century, Spassky Monastery again moved, this time to a more spacious place on Krasnoholmskaya waterfront.
• Church of St. Nicholas in Zayaitskom
• Erected in the middle of the XVIII century in baroque style. The building survived after the 1812 fire, but the utensils were destoyed. Parishioners collected donations and restored the temple on their own. In Soviet times, it was closed and re-opened only in 1992.
• Cathedral of Christ the Savior
• The church was originally erected in honor of the victory over Napoleon and was being under construction for long 44 years. Notoriously demolished in 1937 to be a giant swimming pool under open sky. The current building was constructed in 1990s. It is the tallest and one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world.
• The temple was built in 1679-82, during the reign of Tsar Fedor Alekseevich, in late Muscovite Baroque style and can be characterized as bonfire temple. Each gable is a symbol of a heavenly fire.
• Novodevichy Convent
• The most famous concent and monastery in Moscow, presumably founded in 1524. Novodevichy’s status has always been high among other monasteries, it was in this monastery where the women of the royal blood, the wives of Tsars and local rulers of Moscow were kept in prison as nuns.
• St. Andrew’s church  (male acts as Compound Patriarch of Moscow)
• St. Andrew’s church stands right on the slopes of the Sparrow Hills, on the way down to the Moskva River, on the territory of the Nature Reserve “Sparrow Hills”. The monastery is small in size but is very cozy. It’s situated in a quiet courtyard surrounded by temples, fruit trees and flowers.

What you get:

• + A friend in Moscow.
• + Private & customized Moscow river cruise.
• + An exciting pastime, not just boring history lessons.
• + An authentic experience of local life.
• + Flexibility: changes can be made at any time to suit individual preferences.
• + Amazing deals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the very best cafes & restaurants. Discounts on weekdays (Mon-Fri).
• + A photo session amongst spectacular Moscow scenery that can be treasured for a lifetime.
• + Good value for souvenirs, taxis, and hotels.
• + Expert advice on what to do, where to go, and how to make the most of your time in Moscow.

Write your review

• Northern Europe & Baltic Sea

Moscow: question for those who have gone from St Petersburg

By Wayfairers , August 22, 2019 in Northern Europe & Baltic Sea

Recommended Posts

I have read many of the threads that discuss whether or not Moscow is worth the expense and long day, especially when there are only 2 days in port.  I realize there are two strong opinions from people with one side saying it is worth it and the other side says stay in St Petersburg. We have decided to go Moscow on day 1 of our visit. 

So, those who have done the long trip to Moscow....did you go with the cruise ship or a private guide?   If a private guide, who and would you recommend them?  Did you take the train both ways or fly one direction?  

Link to comment

Share on other sites.

On 8/22/2019 at 9:28 AM, Wayfairers said: I have read many of the threads that discuss whether or not Moscow is worth the expense and long day, especially when there are only 2 days in port.  I realize there are two strong opinions from people with one side saying it is worth it and the other side says stay in St Petersburg. We have decided to go Moscow on day 1 of our visit.    So, those who have done the long trip to Moscow....did you go with the cruise ship or a private guide?   If a private guide, who and would you recommend them?  Did you take the train both ways or fly one direction?  

Been to Moscow several times. We have used the Sapsan both ways and have also flown both ways - never a combo of the train/plane. We enjoyed the Sapsan more than the flight. We have NOT travelled to Moscow when arriving by cruise ship so have no comment on your particular situation regarding a one day tour with only 2 days in St. Pete.  Good luck - hope the visit meets your expectations.

Thanks for the info.  Good to know you enjoyed the train more than the plane - I would expect we would too as flying is typically more hassle than taking the train.  

We decided to book the trip to Moscow with the cruise ship after learning that if we miss the train or plane we don’t get a refund in addition to missing Moscow.  And, I’ve had friends who’s ship missed the St Petersburg stop due to weather.

Moscow is a great city but I would rather spend all two days in St Petersburg. Some years ago we had almost a week there and still it doesn’t seem enough. We also had one day in Moscow and the journey arranged by the local travel agency was well organized and comfortable. In a view of time restrictions of the journey (we spent almost 8 hours on the train and just 6-7 hours in the city) one day in Moscow still felt a little rushed. Anyway, enjoy planning your trip and hope you have a great time in Russia!

Just make sure the day you are going to Moscow, it is not one of their holidays or even a day before a holiday.

Moscow is an amazing city but it is frustrating when Red Square is closed for parades, etc.... It is hard to determine when they close it but it is definitely closed for their holidays. When it is closed - you can only walk around the exterior of the square and look in.

Thanks!   I will check.  We are in Moscow May 16.  I know May 9 is a holiday. 

AngelDisney

I have 2 days in St. Petersburg and am thinking about this possibility. I think it’s hard to do this with 2 days. The first day will take longer time to go ashore because of the immigration process. The second day is not possible due to the early all abroad time. It seems that it’s only worth doing it if there are 3 days in St. Petersburg especially when a full day of touring in Moscow is preferred. 

1 hour ago, AngelDisney said: I have 2 days in St. Petersburg and am thinking about this possibility. I think it’s hard to do this with 2 days. The first day will take longer time to go ashore because of the immigration process. The second day is not possible due to the early all abroad time. It seems that it’s only worth doing it if there are 3 days in St. Petersburg especially when a full day of touring in Moscow is preferred. 

For 2 days - spend the time in St. Petersburg. There is so much to see there. Save this for a 2nd trip.

When we were in St. Petersburg we were also very interested in visiting Moscow. We were already in Russia why not visit as much places as we could, right? We used Anastasia Travel for our St. Petersburg tour and also asked them to include Moscow. They were very helpful and were very much willing to arrange a day trip to Moscow for us but they suggested we just stay in St. Petersburg since we only had 2 days. They were kind enough to explain that we would just waste time and money if me push through with the Moscow trip. We would spend more time on the train instead of using the time to explore and enjoy the sights. They were actually correct and we ended up enjoying a wonderful 2-day tour in St. Petersburg. I guess we'll have to go back to see Moscow and make sure to stay longer! 

angie7911922

When we went to St Petersburg we had the same dilemma. We decided not to go to Moscow and didn’t regret it one bit. There is so much to see! If you spend the 2 days in St Petersburg you can go and see Peterhof Palace on one of the days. We were on a Princess cruise and like flowslow, we booked our private tours with Katharina from Anastasia Travel.   This way we used our time to the fullest to see as much as possible at our pace with a personal guide. (We are not fond of the big group tours from the cruise lines).

9 hours ago, angie7911922 said: When we went to St Petersburg we had the same dilemma. We decided not to go to Moscow and didn’t regret it one bit. There is so much to see! If you spend the 2 days in St Petersburg you can go and see Peterhof Palace on one of the days. We were on a Princess cruise and like flowslow, we booked our private tours with Katharina from Anastasia Travel.   This way we used our time to the fullest to see as much as possible at our pace with a personal guide. (We are not fond of the big group tours from the cruise lines).

We have two days and decided only staying in SPB for both days. We are thinking of forming a private tour with other cruisers on another forum as the CC roll call for that cruise is so quiet. We are looking into Anastasia Travel as well. Very excited to go!

On 9/1/2019 at 8:09 PM, AngelDisney said: We have two days and decided only staying in SPB for both days. We are thinking of forming a private tour with other cruisers on another forum as the CC roll call for that cruise is so quiet. We are looking into Anastasia Travel as well. Very excited to go!

Great idea to form a small group!! Have a fantastic time and I am sure you wont regret that decision!! 

luvtravel88

I'm not sure about customs when coming in on a cruise ship. We were told that if we wanted to leave the ship, we would have to be on a tour, either a ships tour or private tour. I know we had to show our tour tickets at customs to be allowed to go further. We chose Alla tours and they were fantastic. We were docked in St. Petersburg for 3 days and we did go to Moscow on the Capsan train on the 2nd day. It was a VERY long day. We had to meet our group at 6:00am and were on the train at 7:00am. We arrived back at to our cabin at 1:30am the next day. It was a wonderful day and we're so glad we went but if we were in St. Petersburg for only 2 days, I probably wouldn't spend a day in Moscow. It is a 4 hour train ride each way, and if you need to be back to the ship to depart, it may not leave you much time in Moscow. The 8 hours we spent there, wasn't nearly enough. Traffic is horrible and we ended up getting off our bus and taking the subway to Red Square. Those 8 hours allowed us a tour of Red Square, which was phenomenal as well as a quick walk through GUM department store and a ride on the subway with several stops to see the mosaics, sculptures and chandeliers that are in the corridors of the subway stops.

But.....there is so much to see in St. Petersburg , the 2 days we spent there, were a whirl.

Whatever you decide to do, be sure you're in line to get off the ship before the ship arrives in port. We were in line an hour early and there were still about 20 people ahead of us. We found that the cruise ship allowed their tour groups to get off the ship first, so when we got to customs, the lines were outrageous. It took us about an hour in line and we were late starting our tour. I had organized the tour with Alla and had advertised it on our cruise forum here at Cruise Critic. There were 12 of us and we met up on the ship each morning and went through customs together so we all met the tour bus at the same time. That was very helpful!

The lines the first day were the worst and days 2 and 3 went much more quickly. Also, everyone was getting off the ship at the same time on Day 1, but tours met and left at different times on Days 2 and 3.

16 minutes ago, luvtravel88 said: . Whatever you decide to do, be sure you're in line to get off the ship before the ship arrives in port. We were in line an hour early and there were still about 20 people ahead of us. We found that the cruise ship allowed their tour groups to get off the ship first, so when we got to customs, the lines were outrageous. It took us about an hour in line and we were late starting our tour. ! The lines the first day were the worst and days 2 and 3 went much more quickly. Also, everyone was getting off the ship at the same time on Day 1, but tours met and left at different times on Days 2 and 3.

This is one of the reasons that we decided to use the cruise ship to go to Moscow our first day in St Petersburg. 

25 minutes ago, Wayfairers said: This is one of the reasons that we decided to use the cruise ship to go to Moscow our first day in St Petersburg. 

I believe that the ship tours to Moscow go via air, right?

Yes, as others have noted, there is MUCH to see in Saint Petersburg and in spending a week there one will barely scratch the surface - the same is true for Moscow.

It sounds like you want to get a "taste" of both cities - don't allow anyone to "throw water" on your plans as you best know what you want to do. You can always return for an extended visit.  😉

4 hours ago, dogs4fun said: I believe that the ship tours to Moscow go via air, right? Yes, as others have noted, there is MUCH to see in Saint Petersburg and in spending a week there one will barely scratch the surface - the same is true for Moscow. It sounds like you want to get a "taste" of both cities - don't allow anyone to "throw water" on your plans as you best know what you want to do. You can always return for an extended visit.  😉

No, our ship tour is going by train there and back unless I misread something.  You are right...we just want a taste of both cities.  In fact, that is what we get from all cruise port stops - just a taste.  We are never there long enough to the see the area completely.

2 hours ago, Wayfairers said: No, our ship tour is going by train there and back unless I misread something.  

Interesting - I thought that the ship tours flew to Moscow when in port for only 2 days. Hope you will post upon return and let us know how it went.

16 hours ago, dogs4fun said: Interesting - I thought that the ship tours flew to Moscow when in port for only 2 days. Hope you will post upon return and let us know how it went.

Double checked and it says we go to Moscow on the high speed train.   Come back the same way.   From all I’ve read it takes a little longer (ship to Moscow sites) to fly than to take the train.  

I've been thinking about that - and I might be wrong, but it seems to me an SPB-Moscow combo over a 3-day cruise is one of the few remaining cases where obtaining a full-fledged Russian visa actually makes sense (especially for families/groups and especially if one is willing to do some DIY trip planning). 

Just to make sure, though - for those staying on the ship, is there some kind of curfew, or are you able to come and go as you please?

4 minutes ago, napoxoguk said: I've been thinking about that - and I might be wrong, but it seems to me an SPB-Moscow combo over a 3-day cruise is one of the few remaining cases where obtaining a full-fledged Russian visa actually makes sense (especially for families/groups and especially if one is willing to do some DIY trip planning).    Just to make sure, though - for those staying on the ship, is there some kind of curfew, or are you able to come and go as you please?  

If you have a Russian visa there is no curfew - you may come and go as you wish. In fact, if you so choose, you can spend the entire time in the city (staying at a hotel in either Moscow or St. Petersburg) rather than returning to your ship each evening - but ONLY if you have a visa.

6 minutes ago, dogs4fun said: If you have a Russian visa there is no curfew - you may come and go as you wish. In fact, if you so choose, you can spend the entire time in the city (staying at a hotel in either Moscow or St. Petersburg) rather than returning to your ship each evening - but ONLY if you have a visa.

That is what my research shows too.  A quick google search showed the tourist visas for US citizens are $160.  I’m willing to pay for a tour rather than get the visa.  We’ve gotten most of the visas that are a pain to get and I’m tired of doing that. 

2 minutes ago, Wayfairers said: I’m willing to pay for a tour rather than get the visa

I understand. Ru visa process can be expensive and time consuming, especially if you live far away from one of the visa centers.

I'm just trying to come up with a reasonably conservative number - what can one realistically expect to pay for a mad 1-day Moscow dash if they go DIY.

For a regular SPB-only itinerary, visa doesn't seem to make sense - not only price-wise, but also from the standpoint of convenience - all the local operators have their itineraries down to a science.

With Moscow, though, it's not so clear-cut.

I found that most of the tour operators will give you a tour but no guarantee that you make it to Moscow because you will miss the train if debarkation is too slow.  I found one tour that offers a 2 day tour with a flight to Moscow day 1 and train back and St Petersburg day 2.   Seriously considered them.   I briefly thought about getting a visa and spending the night in Moscow but never priced everything out. If you look into that I would love to see what you find. Probably not for us though because I want to see some of both cities.  

2 hours ago, napoxoguk said: I understand. Ru visa process can be expensive and time consuming, especially if you live far away from one of the visa centers. I'm just trying to come up with a reasonably conservative number - what can one realistically expect to pay for a mad 1-day Moscow dash if they go DIY.

I have visited Russia multiple times. I received my latest 3 year visa in May and here are the associated costs:

Single/Double/Multiple entry visa, consular fee = $198

Visa Center Processing fee = $50

Total = $248   (this is your total if you apply in person at one of the 4 consulates located in the USA - since I don't live near a Russian consulate, I must use the more costly mail option)

SO ... here is what I actually paid:

Multiple entry visa, consular fee = $198

Visa Center Processing fee by mail = $120

Return shipping/handling fee = $35

Total = $353

Totally worth the fee as I spend multiple weeks in Russia yearly and prefer DIY - personally, I would not consider a visa if it was a one time visit via cruise.

So, for DIY, added to the visa expense, one must add the cost of the sapsan train (or flight), Moscow transportation (metro is great), food & associated entrance fees to the Kremlin (and whatever else one has the time/desire to visit).

FYI: There is a HOHO in both Moscow & St. Petersburg.

Okay, I think the diy budget might be something like ₽20,000 (about $300) per person. This includes:

Train tickets: ₽9000 (5+4); Kremlin+armory: 1700 (1000+700)

Boat ride:600

Meals: 3000 (1500 per casual meal)

Contingencies (Uber ride if needed, etc): 2500. 

It's based on a number of assumptions, so real-life mileage will vary - please let me know if you identify some glaring omissions or errors.

Assumptions:

Done on day 2 of three.

Good weather (lots of outside/walking time)

Earliest Sapsan to Moscow, overnight double decker from Moscow (no hotel stays)

Train tickets purchased at least 30 days in advance, economy for Sapsan and economy plus for the double decker (includes a bottle of water and a piece of gingerbread).

All group members are adults

Done on a day when the Kremlin, Red Sq, and other Moscow attractions are actually open.

Boat ride via watertrams-radisson.ru (the cheapest option with English audio guide)

Sample itinerary:

leave SPB on Sapsan 743a (5:30am), sleep on the train.

Arrive Moscow 9am

DIY Metro tour until 11am

Kremlin excursion (cathedral Sq, DIY) 11:30

Armory excursion (audioguide) 12:30 

Quick lunch (at GUM stolovaya or fast food chains at Manezhnaya sq) : 2 to 3pm.

Walk to Zaryadye boat pier via Alexander's garden, Red Sq, Zaryadye. Boats leave every 30 minutes. Route: Zaryadye- Gorky Park - luzhniki- Ukraina - turnaround - sparrow hills - Gorky Park. Time on board: 2 hrs. 

Gorky Park/muzeon (5:30 to 7:30). 

Head back (metro) towards red sq for evening walk/dinner (tverskaya-kamergersky-b.dmitrovka-metropol-nikolskaya area)

Need to be back at the train station by 10:30 to catch the 006aa train departing at 10:50. 

Back to SPB at 6:47 am.

Please sign in to comment

You will be able to leave a comment after signing in

• Welcome to Cruise Critic
• New Cruisers
• Cruise Lines “A – O”
• Cruise Lines “P – Z”
• River Cruising
• Cruise Critic News & Features
• Digital Photography & Cruise Technology
• Special Interest Cruising
• Cruise Discussion Topics
• UK Cruising
• Australia & New Zealand Cruisers
• Canadian Cruisers
• North American Homeports
• Ports of Call
• Cruise Conversations

Announcements

• New to Cruise Critic? Join our Community!

Write Your Own Amazing Review !

Click this gorgeous photo by member SUPERstar777 to share your review!

Features & News

LauraS · Started 20 hours ago

LauraS · Started 23 hours ago

LauraS · Started Yesterday at 04:19 PM

LauraS · Started Yesterday at 03:29 PM

LauraS · Started Tuesday at 11:57 PM

• Existing user? Sign in OR Create an Account
• Find Your Roll Call
• Meet & Mingle
• Community Help Center
• All Activity
• Member Photo Albums
• Meet & Mingle Photos
• Favorite Cruise Memories
• Cruise Food Photos
• Cruise Ship Photos
• Ports of Call Photos
• Towel Animal Photos
• Amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome Cruise Photos
• Write a Review
• Live Cruise Reports
• Member Cruise Reviews
• Create New...