Port Rating:

Our guide was a local 25 year old man who had learned English from watching CNN and through the Internet. He was not very keen on the old Russia and sees th new Russia as an opportunity for his generation to shine.

We visited several churches, including the one housing the burial sites of the czars and families. A majestic ssite which was well maintained. Hermitage needs paint and replacement hinges but agaain houses art which is unequal by any other museum including the Louvre in Paris.

At midday we gathered in a large building for lunch (vodka, champagne, caviar, rice, vegetables and chicken a la something, followed by good quality ice cream.

We returned to the ship by 5.

The following day we also visited other historical sites of significance and Peterhoff, a must see. Lunch was similar to the first day's and included in the price. The first and second day included selected stops for shopping. We returned to the ship by 5 and sailed toward Tallin, Estonia.

Port Rating:

After visiting Old Town and Gdynia wwe proceeded to Sopot, a quaint beach resort with two great 5 star hotels, the Grand and the new Sheraton.

After an extensive day with a quality guide we were back on board by 5.

We witnessed the fjords on the way out as the ship had come into Oslo at 4 in the morning. A site to behold folks and for this 67 year old, a trip of a lifetime with all its Jet lag.