We chose this cruise because we wanted to see Russia and the Ocean cruise visits are restricted by virtue of being visa free - this means that you are 'herded' in organised groups; counted off and counted on. Vikings cruise from St Petersburg to Moscow was with Visa and meant that you had free time to visit as you pleased.

The ships, Ingvar was ours, are larger than Vikings normal European river fleet. Wider and longer, giving an Ocean cruise feel. Beneficial because the lakes in Northern Russia are like seas.

Vikings standards of cleanlines, service and cuisine are very high and the overall quality of the cruise was superb. Individual requirements for breakfast, lunch and dinner were catered for with the standard of presentation of dinner really good. Complimentary wine and beer served at lunch and dinner. The red wine was ok, but only just. You could, as we did on one occasion, select a different wine at extra cost. Sparkling wine was always available, which pleased my wife. Read more