Steeped in tradition but driven by a vibrant modern spirit, Ukraine is rapidly forging a new identity within today's Europe. This venerable country is rich in history, monuments, churches and museums, but is also infused with a new energy as its economy expands, spreading the excitement of change. Cruise the Dnieper River through the heart of Ukraine aboard the MS Dneiper Princess as you admire the cultural cities and beautiful countryside. Explore the magnificent capital of Kiev, learn about Cossack history in Zaporizhia, journey to Crimea, enjoy Odessa on the Black Sea and experience Bucharest in neighboring Romania. Second in size of all European countries only to Russia, Ukraine is located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. Discover the storied heritage of this fascinating land!
Exclusive Highlights
- Explore the wonders of Ukraine aboard the exclusively chartered MS Dnieper Princess.
- Explore Kiev and the fascinating Caves Monastery.
- Remember the victims of the World War II Babi Yar massacre during a visit to two memorials.
- See a Cossack Horse Show and learn about Cossack culture in Zaporizhia.
- Visit the small fishing villages of the Dnieper Delta.
- In the Crimea, discover seaside Sevastopol; Bakhchisarai, the city that inspired poet Alexander Pushkin; and the regal Black Sea resort of Yalta.
- Delight in a musical performance at the Odessa Opera and Ballet Theater.
- Admire stunning architecture in the Romanian capital of Bucharest.
- Enjoy a customized educational program featuring a Bates professor, local experts and historians.
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Itinerary
Day One:
Depart your gateway city for Kiev, Ukraine.
Day Two:
Upon arrival in Kiev, transfer to MS Dneiper Princess and attend a festive Captain's Welcome Reception and Dinner aboard the ship.
Day Three:
A panoramic city tour of Kiev begins atop Vladimir Hill, where Prince Vladimir supervised the baptizing of all Kievans after he established Christianity as the state religion of Kiev Rus in 988. Explore the Caves Monastery, a vast complex of caves and tunnels overlooking the Dnieper River Valley. This evening, enjoy a private performance of the Ukranian National Choir.
Day Four:
See authentic regional houses in the open-air Museum of Ukranian Folk Architecture, Rural Life and Folk Art in Pirogovo. Later, visit a memorial to the Jewish victims of the September 1941 massacre in Babi Yar. Also stop at the memorial honoring the Soviet victims of Nazi-occupied Kiev.
Day Five:
Enjoy a full-day celebration of Ukraine's traditions. On board dance and music performances combine with menus of local specialties to provide an immersion into the Ukrainian culture.
Day Six:
In Zaphorizhia, learn the story of the Cossacks, warrior horsemen who once dominated Ukraine. Visit the Cossack Glory Museum and attend an exciting Cossack Horsemanship Show..
Day Seven:
Explore Kherson in the Tavria region. Travel on a smaller boat to the delta. Visit a traditional fishing village and meet local residents in their homes.
Day Eight:
After a tour of Sevastopol, travel a scenic route to Bakhchisarai. Its palace was the seat of the Giray Dynasty of the Crimean Khanate. Attend a concert by the Black Sea Naval Fleet Ensemble.
Day Nine:
The Crimean Resort town of Yalta is referred to as the Nice of the Black Sea. Visit Livadia Palace, the former summer residence of Russia's Romanov family and stately setting for the Yalta Conference.
Day Ten:
Experience the historic sites of Odessa, the Pearl of the Black Sea. Admire magnificent works of art at the Museum of Fine Art and see the grand Potemkin Steps and Shevchenko Park, which overlooks the Black Sea. THe park has many monuments, including those for fallen soldiers as well as sailors lost at sea. Attend a performance of ballet or opera at the Odessa Theater of Opera and Ballet.
Day Eleven:
Today, sail across the Black Sea and arrive in Tulcea, Romania, in the early afternoon. Enjoy a day at leisure as you cruise the scenic coastline of the Black Sea.
Day Twelve:
Disembark the ship and transfer by motorcoach to the Athenee Palace Hilton Bucharest. Discover the treasures of Bucharest on your own. This evening, enjoy a festive Romanian dinner and folkloric show.
Day Thirteen:
A panoramic tour of Bucharest showcases the city's many romantic squares and eclectic mix of architectural styles. Visit Palace of the Parliament, the world's second-largest office building. Tonight, gather for a Farewell Reception.
Day Fourteen:
Transfer to the airport for the return flight to your gateway city.
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