useppa island cruise

• Beach & Shelling Cruise

Cabbage Key Cruise

Useppa island cruise.

• Boca Grande on Gasparilla Island
• Tarpon Lodge on Pine Island

Dolphin and Wildlife Cruises

Sunset cruises, private charters.

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• (239) 472-5300

FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED SINCE 1986

WHY CHOOSE CAPTIVA CRUISES

Embark from Captiva Island, Florida to a nearby island destination, relax watching the sunset or follow a pod of dolphins at play. Whatever cruise you choose, you’ll enjoy a beautiful adventure and take home memories that will last a lifetime. With over 30 years of experience navigating Southwest Florida waters and barrier islands, our accommodating team makes your time with us comfortable, safe and fun!

Cabbage Key • Useppa • Boca Grande • Tarpon Lodge Dolphin & Wildlife Cruises • Sunset Cruises • Private Charters for Special Events

Click the video below to preview the fun!

Choose your adventure.

Explore paradise in comfort with Captiva Cruises! Choose from experiences like dolphin and wildlife cruises as well as sunset cruises and island destination cruises to Cabbage Key, Useppa Island, Boca Grande and more! Select one of the cruise options below to book your cruise adventure today!

Satisfy your curiosity

“Great ride, lots of dolphins. Kids love it!”

Neil , Facebook Reviewer

CRUISE WITH CAPTIVA CRUISES

Exclusive private island club community

The ultimate cheeseburger in paradise

Boca Grande Cruise SEASONAL

A picturesque and quaint seaside village

Tarpon Lodge Cruise SEASONAL

An island immersed in luxury

Cayo Costa State Park Cruises

Nature, shelling and 9 miles of unspoiled island beaches

Half Day Cruise

Full Day Cruise

Adventure is on the horizon

“Excellent way to spend an afternoon or sunset.”

Darren , Google Local Guide Reviewer

Family reunions, corporate outings, weddings and more

MOMENTS IN THE SUN

A few glowing reviews from our most satisfied guests.

“This is was one of the finest boat tours we’ve ever taken. It was a great value and our tour guide Captain George was over the top, it is one of Captiva’s best attractions.”

“We had a great trip to Cayo Costa to shell! Our captain and crew were very knowledgeable and fun! Icing on the cake was seeing dolphins! Highly recommend this company!”

“Took the sunset cruise departing from south seas plantation – crew was awesome. Great tour and history. Ensured kids had easy viewing to dolphins and other wildlife. Highly recommend!”

“Nice cruise. The staff is very accommodating, polite and knowledgeable. The Cayo Costa Beach was gorgeous, and the trip was the perfect amount of time.”

MAKING WAVES ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Are you planning a vacation or staycation? Do you like to indulge in daydreaming about sunset escapes and wonderful days on the water? If so, follow us on social media for a preview of the fun adventures and views we experience every day! When you join us for a trip, be sure to tag your photos and videos with @CaptivaCruises and #CaptivaCruises .

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Credit Card Notice: Our online booking service is currently unable to process American Express cards. If you would like to book with an American Express , please call our office 239-472-5300 .

USEPPA ISLAND

Welcome to FortMyersBoatTour.com . We specialize in boat tours, sunset cruises, dolphin tours, and lunch cruises in the Sanibel , Captiva , Cabbage Key , Pine Island , or Fort Myers area. You are sure to have a one of a kind experience when you choose Sunset Cruises to plan your next trip on the water. Look at the list below to get an idea of what we can do for you. Give us a call or email us to plan your own special trip!

Useppa is a truly private Island Club dedicated to the pure art of relaxation and recreation of our members, owners and guests. Useppa Island is situated within the famous tropical isles of the Southwest coast of Florida. We are only a fifteen minute boat ride from the rigors of the mainland while the world seems a million miles away.

24+ Years of Passion and Experience – Private Water Taxi and Custom Charter Services

Useppa Island Cruises

Explore Islands with Emmy Girl Charters

A Private Paradise

Useppa Island is a hidden treasure, an exclusive private paradise where history and beauty converge. As you step onto the island, you’ll be transported to a world where Old Florida charm and elegance still flourish. Take a leisurely stroll along the famed pink path, surrounded by historic Old Florida homes and vibrant blooming orchids. Don’t miss the chance to capture a moment beside the magnificent tropical Banyan tree, engage in a life-sized game of chess, or try your hand at croquet on one of the few courts in the area.

This island is not just about its natural allure; it’s a place where history comes to life. Enjoy a delightful lunch at the historic Collier Inn, where every meal is a journey through time. Immerse yourself in Florida’s rich past by exploring the Useppa Museum, where captivating stories unfold. Please note that Useppa Island is an exclusive, members-only paradise, but Captain Emmy invites you to join her as a guest.

Things To Do and Local Attractions

Collier Inn (Lunch or Dinner)

Pink Promenade

Banyan Tree

Wedding Destination

Frequently asked questions.

Useppa is a private island membership only. Emmy Girl Charters is one of the few charter companies that can bring guests to explore this one of a kind island.

They have the historical Collier Inn and other house vacation rentals. However you have to have a membership to stay on the exclusive Useppa Island.

Useppa is another inhabited bayside island off the Intercoastal Waterway so you can arrive by private boat, helicopter, or the Useppa Launch.

No Useppa is situated in Pine Island Sound, they have a man made beach on the east side of the island.

You can reach Useppa Island conveniently by utilizing Emmy Girl Charters' private charters and water taxi services.

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Explore the islands of Southwest Florida, engage with nature and wildlife, and immerse yourself in unforgettable experiences. Reach out to us for bookings and embark on a journey of a lifetime.

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16501 Stringfellow Rd. Bokeelia, FL 33922

239-462-4073, [email protected].

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Useppa Island Historical Society

Visiting the museum.

The Museum is open daily from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm

Located on an island accessible only by water, the Barbara Sumwalt Museum can be reached in several ways.

You may arrive via the private tour boat operated by Captiva Cruises departing from Captiva Island, FL. This relaxing and delightful voyage provides a narrated cruise through the waters of Pine Island Sound and takes about an hour to arrive on Useppa. Visitors aboard the Captiva Cruise boat may dine on the island and will still have plenty of time to visit the museum. Please visit   CaptivaCruises.com   for more information.

You may also come to the museum by private water taxi, your vessel, or aboard the   Useppa Island Club   launch, which departs from the north end of Pine Island, FL. Since Useppa is a private island, arrangements must be made in advance to visit the island, and visitors may not dine on the island unless arrangements have been made with Useppa Island Club. Please contact the Museum Director at   [email protected]   or at 239-283-9600, or call Useppa Island Club at 239-283-1061 to help you plan your visit.

Museum Hours:

Museum Admittance:

There is a $5 admission charge for adults. Eighteen and younger are admitted free.

Group Visits:

We would love to have your group come visit the museum. Groups of 15 or more   must call   in advance to arrange a visit. Group tours can be scheduled for any day of the week.

For the benefit of our members and visitors, and to enhance your visit, group tours are generally scheduled during the hours when the museum is not open to the general public.

If your group would like to visit during the winter or spring season, we recommend you call well in advance to ensure your group will be able to visit on the desired day.

 You can arrange a group visit by contacting the Museum Director at   [email protected]   or 239-283-9600.

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Captiva to Useppa Island - Captiva Cruises

• United States    
• Florida (FL)    
• Southwest Gulf Coast    
• Captiva Island    
• Captiva Island - Things to Do    
• Captiva Cruises

Once again captiva cruises did an awesome job of informing us about area, a lovely ride seeing... read more

We thoroughly enjoyed our cruise to Cabbage Key on a Wednesday. It was a nice break from the usual... read more

Captiva to Useppa Island

Captiva Cruises resides on the northern tip of Captiva Island within the beautiful South Seas Island Resort. It offers a variety of daily cruises to the "keys" or small islands off the West Coast of Florida near Fort Myers. This cruise departed at 10 AM and returned by 3 PM. The boat serves beverages and snacks, has an air conditioned lower deck and is 50% covered on the upper deck. I recommend to wear casual clothes, comfortable walking shoes and bring a hat, sun screen and a camera. The cruise we took was to the private island of Useppa. We stopped briefly at Cabbage Key for passengers to depart to do some shelling and eat at the famous Restaurant/Inn which inspired Jimmy Buffet's song "Cheeseburger in Paradise". We also saw some playful ottors jump into docked boats scavenging for treats. On to Useppa, a private island bought in the 1920's by a publishing magnate Barron Collier, where he built a large home to accomodate his family and friend's( Edison, Rockefeller and Dupont) to go tarpon fishing. Currently. the "Collier Inn" serves as the clubhouse for the island and is where we had a delighful lunch with fresh fish featured on the menu.There are a handful of beautiful homes plus a marina, store and tavern. Also featured is a museum where for a small fee of $5 you get to see Useppa's history. A fact, I discovered was this was the island that the plans and training of personnel occured for the Bay of Pigs Invasion in the 1960's. On the return trip we stopped to pick up our passengers from Cabbage Key and then had the company of dolphins swimming and jumping in the wake of our boat. A delightful day! I highly recommend this trip exploring the West Coast Keys of Florida.

We took this tour boat to Cabbage Key. The cruise itself was both enjoyable and educational. The tour guide was well informed and very pleasant. It was a nice boat and when we got to Cabbage Key we had lunch in a beautiful setting. Stayed there a couple of hours and took the same boat back with the same crew. We saw much wild life. Lots of dolphins, manatees, turtles, and many varieties of birds. The weather was great and the sea was calm. All in all it was something we enjoyed and recomend. We will do it again and perhaps visit another island in this wonderful area of Florida. The best part of the whole state. We certainly recomend Captiva Cruises a professionally well run facility.

This was my second trip on Captiva Cruises on their lunch trip to Useppa Island. Overall, it is a very enjoyable way to spend a day. Useppa is a private island and this is the only way the the average person can visit the island without a membership, and invitation or renting a cottage. It is quite a beautiful and remarkable little world hidden away from the rest of Florida. The cottages and tropical landscaping are thoroughly charming. As a passenger on the boat you are welcome to stroll the car-free island and have lunch in the Collier Inn, which was originally the residence of Barron Collier. There is also a history museum on the island that you can visit. Now for the caveat. I have taken this tour twice-once form the Marina on Captiva and this last weekend from the Marina on South Seas Plantation. If you are not staying on South Seas this means that you need to park in the front of the resort and ride the shuttle to the marina--a crowded and hot experience. It does however give you a glimpse of the resort. It also mean that you need to arrive 45 minutes early. My complaint about this is that we were not told that this tour would leave from there until after we made the reservation. Also, on my first trip we were on a small bot holding perhaps 20 passengers. On this trip we were on the Lady Chadwick which holds over 100. On our trip there was a group of 60 senior citizens from a nearby retirement community (who thankfully got off on Cabbage Key for lunch). Had I expected all this it would have been acceptable, however I was expecting to have a more intimate experience. I am not inclined toward group trips of any kind and this made the second trip far less enjoyable. The boat ride is lovely, Useppa is unique and the staff are very nice. I wouldn't say no to go but you should ask questions first so you know what you are getting into.

We enjoyed a 3 hour trip from Captiva Island out to Cayo Costa, a state park island north of Captiva. The boat was clean and spacious and they took us out on the bay and provided some interesting facts about Captiva and North Captiva islands while en route. After 30 minutes, we arrived and disembarked on the beach for 2 hours of shelling, exploring the island or enjoying the sand and water. The time went by quickly, picking up some shells and enjoying the feeling of being in a very remote place. You can imagine that you are all alone on this island and nobody else is around. It would be nice to own your island, but here you can imagine it. We got back on the boat, saw some ospreys in the trees and enjoyed the return trip. There was more commentary on North Captiva island, its Safety Harbor and the grass airstrip for incoming private planes. You can only get to North Captiva by plane or boat. We also some dolphins jumping alongside the boat's wake which was fun to see. Overall, Captiva Cruises does a good job on this half day adventure. They offer other cruises as well if you want a full day, sunset cruise or a private cruise.

Took the day boat trip.Not much info given on the ride and stop on Cabbge Key was ok with the usual bar food. U get trollied to the South Seas Resort then on to the boat . Saw some manatees and a dolphin or two. Bar and snacks offered but the whole thing was not as well done or seemingly as interesting as before when we did this trip and it is not cheap.

Capt George and Capt Eric we're awesome captains. We took the sunset cruise with 4 teenage girls. We seen dolphins up close and had a nice boat ride. The sunset was beautiful, music was great also. Both captains were very informational about the area.

• Getting Here
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A lifestyle not often found in the hustle and bustle of everyday living

With controlled access and accessibility only by boat, Useppa Island Club offers a different lifestyle often not found in the hustle and bustle of everyday living. Owners, members, and their guests can arrive via air, their own boat or yacht, or use the Club Launch from the northern tip of Pine Island for a quick and safe 20 minute boat ride. Private charter service is also available 24 hours a day with reservation using our Water Taxi.

Southwest Florida International Airport

Southwest Florida International Airport is located near Ft. Myers in Lee County, at exit 21 on I-75. It provides easy access to our shore port (Bocilla Marina) on the north tip of Pine Island. With advance notice we will arrange for a car to pick you up at the airport or you may land by helicopter at Useppa.

Pine Island Taxi and Limo Incorporated

Pine Island Taxi and Limo Incorporated is a long established local taxicab service that is located on Pine Island and can promptly provide your transportation needs to the Fort Myers metropolitan community and surrounding area.

239.283.7777

By Land – Bocilla Marina”

Bocilla Marina is Useppa Island Club’s shore port. It can be reached easily in three hours or less from Orlando, Tampa or Miami.

From north on I-75, take exit 161, go west on Jones Loop Road and continue onto Burnt Store Road for approx.18 miles until you reach Pine Island Road (SR 78) and turn right drive for another 5.4 miles to Pine Island to the 4-way stop.

From south on I-75, take exit 136, go west on Colonial Blvd. through Fort Myers and Cape Coral and continue on Veterans Parkway to Pine Island Road (SR 78) for approx.19 miles, turn left and drive for 5.4 miles to Pine Island to the 4-way stop.

At the 4-way stop, turn right onto Stringfellow Road and continue for approx. 8 miles to Bokeelia at the northern end of Pine Island. The road turns to the left and becomes Main Street, a few driveways down you will see Bocilla Island Club on the left. Turn onto the cobblestone drive go left and then right to the gravel road that brings you to the Bocilla Marina store which is the Club Launch departure point. Guests with their own vehicles must check in at the marina store before parking. There is a fee of $8 per day for parking in the marina lot.

To use the Useppa Island Club launch, reservations are required in advance. To make a launch reservation, please call our reception desk at 239.283.1061. The times listed below are when the boat leaves the dock. So plan accordingly to arrive about 15 minutes prior to departure.

8115 Main Street, Bokeelia, FL 33922

Useppa Island Club Marina

The Useppa Entry Channel marker is between Intra-coastal Waterway markers 64 and 65.

We are happy to accommodate boats drafting 10 feet or less at low tide and up to 110 feet in length.

Transportation

The Useppa Club Launch

The Club Launch runs on an extremely tight schedule on a daily basis to and from Bocilla Marina on the northern tip of Pine Island and back to Useppa Island.

Members and guests must make advanced reservations no later than 24 hours ahead and plan on arriving at least 15 minutes before departure time to ensure catching the boat. The cost to ride the Club ferry is $40 per person. These fees are per ride and not round-trip.

To inquire availability of an off-schedule private water-taxi, ask to speak with the Dock-master.

On Island Transportation

Golf carts are the primary mode of transportation while on Useppa. Rental carts are available at the reception center for $100 per day or $20 per hour (8am-5pm).

Members will receive a discounted rate on overnight rentals. Reserve a cart when you make your accommodation reservation to ensure availability.

Reservations

239.283.1061

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Captiva Cruises Tours on Captiva Island

Captiva cruises sightseeing eco-tours.

Captiva Cruises has been transporting passengers to fun and exciting Southwest Florida out-island destinations since 1986. The crew aboard Captiva Cruises’ vessels share their in-depth knowledge and passion for the area while passengers marvel at native Florida wildlife.

They offer a full range of sightseeing cruises, excursions to the upper islands, and naturalist-led wildlife tours, and sunset cruises sure to please the entire family.

Seasonal day trips from Captiva Island include special expeditions to the Tarpon Lodge and Randell Research Center on nearby Pine Island.

Captiva Cruises sightseeing, eco-tours, and Upper Island Cruises depart from McCarthy’s Marina on beautiful Captiva Island, Florida.

Captiva Island Outer Island Cruises and Tours

Cabbage Key is a favorite stop for boaters in search of fresh seafood, a Jimmy Buffet “cheeseburger in paradise,” and Florida’s famous Key Lime pie. Visit Cabbage Key’s website (cabbagekey.com).

Useppa   Island is an exclusive and legendary private island club. Passengers enjoy a casual lunch on the waterfront at the Collier Inn and a visit to the island’s charming history museum. Historic, elegant and charming Useppa is an extraordinary port of call.

Cayo Costa  is a Florida state treasure offering a nine-mile long wilderness preserve with pristine beaches and shelling. Nature lovers adore Cayo Costa State Park. Visit Cayo Costa’s website: www.floridastateparks.org

Gasparilla Island’s Boca Grande is a charming seaside village with cozy restaurants, lovely island boutiques, classic cottages and historic churches. It has long been the winter destination of “high society,” such as the Vanderbilts, DuPonts and Bush’s.

McCarthy’s Marina is located at 11401 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva Island, Florida.

Reservations are REQUIRED for all cruises and may be made online or by phone.

Receive $2.50 off Dolphin & Wildlife, Beach & Lunch, Beach & Shelling, Cabbage Key, Useppa Island, or Sunset Cruise. Valid for adult passengers only. Must mention Must Do at time of reservation.

Business Info

• 11401 Andy Rosse Lane Captiva Island, FL 33924
• 239.360.9375
• www.CaptivaCruises.com

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Moscow Boat Tour

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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

• Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Best of Moscow by high speed train

By shuguley , February 15, 2014 in Regent Seven Seas Cruises

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Sure would appreciate someone who has taken "Best of Moscow by high speed train" from St. Petersburg could please share their impressions of this shore excursion. From the description this sounds like a very long day.

Wondering how the 4 hour train trip was in terms of accommodations, etc. Also what time did you leave the ship and what time at night did you return? Were both legs of the trip on the high speed rail (I read that slower trains also travel the same tracks)?

My wife and I are considering this excursion. We thought that if we are making all the effort to go to Russia then how could we pass up going to Moscow, walking in Red Square, seeing St. Basil, etc.

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If you are considering this on the 2015 June Baltic cruise on Voyager; my suggestion is don't. There is so much to do in St. Petersburg and although a train is one of my favorite ways to travel the time would be far better spent in St. P.

Thanks for the advice. Yes, this would be on the Voyager during the 2015 season but not yet sure exactly which cruise.

We did the Moscow excursion "on a different luxury line", but from your brief description it sounds very much like the same trip, so I will operate on that assumption. It is a VERY long day! We left the ship at 5:30 AM and returned at 12:30 AM. The highspeed train trip is comfortable, and while they call it "Business Class" it does not compare well to the equivalent class on say Rail Europe. When we did it in 2011, we did have highspeed both ways, and the trip back seemed much longer as the adrenaline and excitement had worn off!:D

Moscow itself is not that terribly different from any other big city in the world, but this Cold War kid never thought he would ever stand in Red Square, never mind walk the grounds of The Kremlin, or tour The Kremlin Palace, or see (but not visit) Lenin's Tomb, or visit The Armoury. But he did, and he loved every minute of it! Yes, it is a long day, and you barely scratch a scratch on the surface, but it is worth it. There is a tremendous amount to see in St. Petersburg, but every Baltic cruise goes to St. Petersburg, so you can go back if you choose to. Not every cruiseline offers you the chance to see Moscow.

I have not personally done this tour, but our last time in St Petersburg, the private guide that we hired for a day was leading the regent tour to Moscow on the high speed train the next day. He said it was way better than the previous alternative, which was flying to Moscow and back. He said that you actually got to Moscow faster because you didn't have to deal with airline checkin etc. it did seem like a very long day to me, and there is so much to see and do in st. Petersburg that I didn't consider doing it.

countflorida

We toured to Moscow from St. Petersburg via the hi-speed SAPSAN train last September, from a Baltic cruise on the Oceania Marina. You need to have a two-night, three day port call in St. Petersburg to take this tour because the tour typically leaves the ship around 5:00 - 5:30 AM and doesn't return until after midnight the next day. We didn't take the ship's tour; we made private arrangements with TravelAllRussia for three days of touring, the first and third days in St. Petersburg and the second day the tour to Moscow by train. Our cost for the private tour for three days was about the same as what the ship charged for the excursion to Moscow alone. There are a number of private tour agencies that operate in St. Petersburg and offer the Moscow train tours; we would strongly recommend them over the ship's tours.

All three days had private guides with car and driver. The second day, the driver picked us up at the ship and took us to the train, but we were alone on the train, and met in Moscow by the guide on the station platform. After our tour and dinner, we were brought back to the train and after the return train trip met by the driver and taken back to the ship. Because you are alone on the train you must have your own Russian visas.

If this is your first visit to St. Petersburg, I would agree there is much more to see there. We found Moscow somewhat a disappointment, particularly Red Square. The Kremlin and the cathedral in Red Square were also worth seeing. But the best thing we saw was the Moscow subway! I worked for the Washington Metro system back in the 1980s as it grew from 40 to 80 miles and although I was in the computer area, I learned a lot about the challenges of running a subway system. We used the Moscow system to get across the city from where we had dinner to the train station, and I was amazed at the cleanliness', speed of operation, the short headways maintained, and the courtesy of everyone involved. A very impressive experience!

We had been to St. Petersburg before, and so had the time to take a day and go to Moscow. Also, I really like trains, and the SAPSAN is a German train set running on Russian rails. Seats are like first class domestic air, spacious but not too plush or comfortable, but with enough room. Not too much recline, and almost 8 hours on the train in two shots is a lot for an old man. They come through and sell drinks, candy, etc. but the sellers don't speak English and no one around us helped, so we had just poor coffee once coming, and brought stuff with us for the trip back. Not too much to see from the train either, particularly on the return when it is night the whole way.

If you decide to go, take a private tour and avoid the overly expensive ship's tour. I'm glad we did it, but wouldn't bother to repeat the tour; we've seen Moscow.

Thanks so much to all of you for the thorough and thought insight. Yhe information you have provided is most helpful.

countflorida: Your detailed post is very helpful. We are not quite ready for a Baltic cruise but should do so within a year. Time enough to do our pre travel research, bookings and visa gathering.:) Thank you!

Emperor Norton

Sure would appreciate someone who has taken "Best of Moscow by high speed train" from St. Petersburg could please share their impressions of this shore excursion. From the description this sounds like a very long day.   Wondering how the 4 hour train trip was in terms of accommodations, etc. Also what time did you leave the ship and what time at night did you return? Were both legs of the trip on the high speed rail (I read that slower trains also travel the same tracks)?   My wife and I are considering this excursion. We thought that if we are making all the effort to go to Russia then how could we pass up going to Moscow, walking in Red Square, seeing St. Basil, etc.

I did this on Seabourn. IMO DONT. Take Aeroflop (er Aeroflot). The train has non folding seats where you are literally knee to knee with your fellow passenger (facing each other). Further they don't believe in air conditioning. It's also the worlds slowed bullet train. I think I would have found more enjoyment wandering around the St. Petersburg and Moscow airports.

Countflorida,

This is a little off topic,, however we had planned a river cruise in Russia but decided we would rather stay on land and have booked about two weeks with Travel-All-Russia using the private guide and driver. I'm curious as to how you found them as a tour company.

The guides they provided were fine. We had a different guide each of the days in St. Petersburg, but both were flexible, pleasant, knowledgeable and spoke English very well, as did the guide in Moscow, incidentally. She was a bit aloof, distant, not too friendly, but otherwise fine. In fact, she was the one who suggested taking the Metro, which unexpectedly became one of the highlights of the Moscow excursion. If I have a complaint with AllTravelRussia, it is with their plan and its execution (more later).

I had requested emphasis on World War II (in Russia, the Great Patriotic War) sites and info. In scheduling us, they weren't careful about dates and a couple of the sites we wanted to see were scheduled on the third day, after we'd been to Moscow. But both sites were closed that day of the week, and that info was readily available, right on web sites describing them. Also, the included meals (lunches in St. Pete, dinner in Moscow) were not what we asked for: light meals with some choices, so we could avoid things we didn't like and choose things we did like. My request was ignored; we were given full Russian meals with a fixed menu, no choice. On the first day, a fish dish was the entre, but I am allergic to fish. Fortunately, I had the e-mail I'd sent with me and showed it to the guide, and she was able to change my entre to chicken, which was very good actually. But we didn't want a 3-4 course lunches or dinner (in Moscow). We had the guide drop the lunch the third day, although we never got any credit or refund. But, particularly in contrast to the ship's tours, the prices were so reasonable we didn't worry too much about it.

The people who were on the ship's tour to Moscow saw us boarding the same train for which they were forced to queue up and wait on the way back, and asked us what we had done. I was candid and open so they were not happy when I explained what we had arranged and particularly what it had cost. Also, when we returned to the ship, we found they had laid on a late supper for those who had gone to Moscow, so up we went and had something. Well, it turns out the late supper was supposed to be just for those on the ship's tour, but we and others on 'independent' tours, there were a dozen or more of us, crashed the party, actually got there first, and they didn't realize it until the larger group arrived and there weren't enough tables/places set. By that time, the 'independents' had all gotten served and were eating; what could they do?

A couple from the larger group sat down with us and asked us about our tour, and they were the ones I told about our arrangement and its cost. They turned to others who’d been with them and announced the details, loudly enough so the whole room heard, which started a lot of bitching and complaining. I gathered they weren't very happy with the ship's tour to begin with, and this was the straw that broke the camel's back. We finished up and beat it out of there, but overheard later that one of the excursion staff came to check on something and ran into a real mess. I caught a cold on the trip, which forced me to bed the second day following in Tallinn, so by the time we reappeared we heard about the contretemps' but apparently no one recalled who started it, thankfully.

Because of what happened to us, I would probably not use AllTravelRussia if I were to go again, or if I did, I would be sure to get confirmation of every detail of the tour. They do have good reviews generally, and we were certainly helped by their visa department and liked the guides and drivers. Their weakness, I say now with full 20:20 hindsight, is that once the sales person who plans the tour, sells it to you and collects your money, he (or she) transfers the plan to their Russia office for implementation; there is no follow-up to make sure it gets done right. And that is where our problems arose; we paid for a custom tour but got a standard package with a few destinations switched, and no one checked them out, even to see when they were open the day we were scheduled to go. If you check every detail that’s important to you, it should be OK, but that’s a hell of a way to have to do business, in my opinion.

Thank you for the 20/20 hindsight observation on your Russian tour operator, and better priced than the ship's excursion cost.

Thanks very much for the feedback.

We had the same experience as you so far as price. We originally booked a Viking Cruise but, hearing some things about the river cruises that made us unhappy, looked into other options. T-A-R cost the same or less than a cruise and had us in hotels for 11 days. We opted for the private tour. They have three tour levels, based on hotels. We originally opted for the four star as it did not cost much more than the three star hotels. Finally we decided to throw it all in and upgraded to five star. In Moscow we will be at the newly opened Kempinsky which is two blocks from Red Square. In St. Petersburg it is the Grand Hotel Europe, one of the most vaunted luxury hotels in Russia. Location is important for us as the tours use up only part of the day so being in the center of everything for our independent touring is important. As with many other cities, the less you pay, the farther out of the center of town you are.

We have been working with our salesman in D.C. and he seems to get back to us with the changes we want. He recently returned from Russia so is up on everything. When I asked they said they paid the full TA commission if I wanted so I got my usual TA on board so he is watching our back and giving us that extra level of comfort. He also set up our air, which I know pays him little or nothing, and got us business class for much less than T-A-R wanted for economy, though it took working for a while with a consolidator. He's happy to get his 10 percent on this trip without having booked it. He also took care of the trip insurance. We've been doing a lot of research on the CC sister site Trip Advisor and will write a report there. We will, I guess, become a source of info for CC members after having spent 5 days in Moscow and 6 in SP.

• 4 months later...

scubacruiserx2

Anybody considering a day trip to Moscow from St. Petersburg on the Sapsan may want to look at our travelogue filled with pictures.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1927687

Very informative. Thanks dor sharing. Jeff

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Here's when you need (and don't need) a passport to cruise.

It's the type of sailing – closed-loop or open-loop – that largely determines whether or not you need a passport to cruise.

Do You Need a Passport for a Cruise?

Getty Images

A passport isn't always required for cruising.

To determine whether or not you need a passport to cruise, you first need to figure out if the itinerary is closed-loop or open-loop (also known as open-jaw).

Closed-loop cruise: A closed-loop cruise typically doesn't require a passport since it begins and ends in the same U.S. port (though there are some exceptions to this rule).

Example: Royal Caribbean International 's seven-night Western Caribbean & Perfect Day cruise stops in several countries – the Bahamas, Jamaica, Haiti and Grand Cayman – but the itinerary is considered closed-loop because it starts and ends in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Open-loop cruise: An open-loop cruise begins in one U.S. port and ends in a different U.S. port.

Example: Carnival Cruise Line 's 16-day Panama Canal from Seattle itinerary is not considered closed-loop because it departs from Seattle and completes its journey in New Orleans.

All of the above regulations have been determined by the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative: a plan by the departments of State and Homeland Security that determines which documents are acceptable for proving identity and citizenship when entering the United States.

Where to cruise without a passport

There are several destinations where you can cruise without a passport on a closed-loop sailing. They include the following:

• The Bahamas

When looking at cruises to these locations, be mindful of the home ports. The Bahamas, Mexico, Bermuda, the Caribbean and Canada are all foreign ports, which means they only qualify for the passport exception if they are a stop along your cruise itinerary . If the cruise originates in any of these countries, it is likely you will need a passport.

Since Alaska, Hawaii and New England are all U.S. destinations, any closed-loop routes departing from these locations will not require a passport. However, keep in mind that it can be hard to find closed-loop cruises originating in Hawaii or Alaska.

To find closed-loop itineraries for a Hawaiian voyage or Alaskan cruise , try searching for sailings departing from major cities on the West Coast, like Seattle or Los Angeles . By contrast, quite a few closed-loop cruises leave from New England ports, but they are often marketed as Canadian cruises.

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When you need a passport for closed-loop cruises

Some cruise itineraries include foreign ports that require a passport for disembarkation. This is most commonly an issue for travelers on a closed-loop Caribbean cruise. Barbados , Guadeloupe , Haiti, Martinique , St. Barts , and Trinidad and Tobago all require U.S. citizens to present a valid passport to disembark and enter the country, despite WHTI regulations not requiring a passport for these destinations. Labadee, Royal Caribbean's private island , is an exception and does not require a passport despite its location in Haiti.

If your itinerary includes a country requiring a U.S. passport, your cruise line will require you to have the passport at check-in. Note that your passport must not expire within six months of your arrival in a foreign country or else it won't be considered valid for international travel.

Read: The Easiest Way to Renew Your Passport

Acceptable forms of ID

All travelers – U.S. citizens and foreign nationals alike – must present documents that show identity and citizenship when entering the United States. A U.S. passport can show both. If you don't have one or don't want to bring one, be aware that you may need to present more than one document.

U.S. citizens 16 and older

If you're a U.S. citizen age 16 or older sailing on a closed-loop cruise without your passport, you will need a government-issued photo ID like a driver's license. In addition, you must present a document that proves your U.S. citizenship. These include:

• Passport card
• State-issued enhanced driver's license (EDL)
• Government-issued birth certificate
• Trusted Traveler Program card (NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST)
• American Indian Card (Form I-872) or Enhanced Tribal ID Card

The Trusted Traveler Programs are risk-based programs to facilitate the entry of travelers who have been vetted and preapproved. Most of these programs will provide you with a machine-readable card that allows you to pass through border checkpoints quickly. Keep in mind, some of these IDs are only available to travelers 16 and older.

Read: TSA Precheck vs. Global Entry

U.S. citizens younger than 16

U.S. citizens younger than 16 are only required to present proof of citizenship, such as one of the following documents:

• Original, notarized or certified copy of their government-issued birth certificate
• Consular Report of Birth Abroad issued by U.S. Department of State
• Certificate of Naturalization issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

Read: How to Get a Passport for Kids

Non-U.S. citizens

If you are a lawful permanent resident (or LPR) of the United States, you are required to present a permanent resident card or other valid evidence of permanent residence status.

Non-U.S. citizens, with the exception of Canadians and Mexicans, are not subject to passport exceptions, so a valid passport will need to be provided. Canadian citizens can present a valid passport, Enhanced Driver's License or Trusted Traveler Program card. Mexican citizens must present a passport with a visa or a Border Crossing Card.

Unacceptable forms of ID

While most common forms of identification are accepted, there are a few exceptions. U.S. military identification cards and U.S. Merchant Mariner documents are valid forms of identification, but only when traveling on official orders or in conjunction with official maritime business, so it is unlikely they will be accepted when traveling on a cruise.

Here are some other documents that will not be accepted as proof of citizenship:

• Voter registration cards
• Social Security cards
• Baptismal papers
• Hospital certificates of birth (for anyone older than a newborn)

It is important to note that many of the permitted forms of identification, such as a passport card or EDL, are only accepted at land and sea border crossings. Unforeseen circumstances, such as a medical air evacuation, may cause you to return to the U.S. by air travel. In this case, these documents won't be accepted when you try to reenter at the border crossing.

To avoid extra delays in your return to the U.S. following unforeseen travel complications, the Department of State recommends that everyone taking a cruise from the United States carry a valid passport book in case of emergency.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Erin Vasta has traveled extensively to international destinations, gaining a deep knowledge of travel regulations in the process. Her expertise in this area has saved her family and friends from unnecessary travel delays and ensured stress-free trips through border security in nearly 15 countries. To write this article, Vasta used her international travel experience and research skills.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Passport Holders
• Cruise Packing List: Essentials to Bring
• Safe at Sea: The Best Cruise Insurance

Tags: Travel , Travel Tips

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