Sunday May 15 - Goritsy, Russia

DAY 7, Sunday - Monastery of St. Cyril
Arrive in Goritsy, an old Russian town of rich historical and cultural heritage. Today, visit the Monastery of St. Cyril, one of Russia's largest monasteries. Established in 1397 on the bank of Lake Siverskoye, the monastery of St. Cyril was once home to the largest monastery church in Northern Russia, the Assumption cathedral, which still stands today. The monastery's fortifying walls, which measure 2400-feet-long and 22 feet thick, are an impressive sight, home to several towers including the Chasuble, the Vologda, and the Tent-like. Sail this afternoon for the island of Kizhi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Vodka & Blini Tasting Party (PM)

Enjoy an on board party sampling some traditional Russian food and drink. You will have the opportunity to taste five different kinds of Vodka while enjoying some traditional music and Blinis, Russian crepes served with caviar, pickled vegetables and other savory foods.

Overnight: Cruise

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The morning was spent at leisure until we arrived at Goritsy at 1:00. We then met dockside for a short ten minute transfer o the Kirillo-Belozersky Monastery, a well-preserved fortress-like 14th century monastery sitting on the White Lake where it is said if you wash your face in it twice you will become younger.

We left Goritsy at 4pm and headed to the vodka tasting on board at 4:15. The Neva bar was very nicely set up and there were five types of vodka set out for each guest. There was also herring, bread, pickles and cole slaw.

The guides then gave a small history of vodka and taught us some Russian toasts. "May you love your wife and your girlfriend and may they never meet". There was some traditional dancing with an accordion supplying the music. This was very enjoyable, however, they rushed through it and we went done in an hour. This seems to be a problem with most activities they feel you are done in an hour.

Dinner