Are Cruise Lines Still Going to Russia Find Out Now

Most major cruise lines have suspended sailings to Russia due to ongoing geopolitical tensions and international sanctions, with few exceptions for niche or repositioning voyages. Travelers should verify itineraries directly with cruise operators, as policies remain fluid and subject to sudden changes based on global developments.

Key Takeaways

• Most major cruise lines have suspended Russian ports due to ongoing geopolitical risks and sanctions.
• Check your itinerary carefully—some Baltic cruises may still pass near but not dock in Russia.
• Alternative destinations are replacing Russian stops, like Tallinn or Stockholm, for similar cultural experiences.
• Travel insurance is critical—verify coverage for last-minute itinerary changes or cancellations.
• Smaller expedition cruises may still operate in remote areas; research operators thoroughly before booking.
• Monitor official advisories from governments and cruise lines for real-time updates on port access.

Why the Russia Cruise Question Matters More Than Ever

Imagine this: you’re sipping a cocktail on the deck of a luxury cruise ship, the Baltic Sea shimmering under the midnight sun, and your itinerary lists St. Petersburg as the next stop. The city’s golden domes, imperial palaces, and world-famous Hermitage Museum await. But then you pause—*are cruise lines still going to Russia?* That’s the question on the minds of countless travelers in 2024.

The answer isn’t as simple as a yes or no. The world has changed dramatically since 2022, and the cruise industry has had to pivot fast. For years, Russia—especially St. Petersburg—was a crown jewel of Baltic and Northern Europe itineraries. But with geopolitical tensions, shifting regulations, and traveler concerns, the landscape has transformed. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or planning your first voyage, understanding the current status of Russia as a cruise destination is crucial. In this post, we’ll break down what’s happening, which lines are still sailing (or not), and what you need to know before booking your next trip.

The State of Cruise Travel to Russia in 2024

Let’s start with the big picture: most major cruise lines have suspended or canceled sailings to Russia. This isn’t just a temporary pause—it’s a fundamental shift in how the industry views this region. But why?

Geopolitical Tensions and Sanctions

Since early 2022, international sanctions have targeted Russia across multiple sectors, including tourism, finance, and transportation. While cruise ships themselves aren’t banned from docking, many ports—especially in St. Petersburg—have become inaccessible due to:

• Visa restrictions: Many Western cruise passengers (U.S., EU, UK) now face complex or denied visa processes for Russian ports.
• Port access limitations: Russian authorities have restricted entry for vessels from countries imposing sanctions, even if the ship is flagged elsewhere.
• Insurance and liability concerns: Major insurers have pulled coverage for ships operating in Russian waters due to heightened risk.

For example, in 2023, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) canceled all 2023–2024 Baltic itineraries that included Russia, citing “operational and geopolitical challenges.” Similarly, Princess Cruises and Holland America Line removed Russia from their European offerings.

Shifting Itineraries: The New Baltic Norm

Rather than risk delays, fines, or diplomatic incidents, cruise lines have redesigned entire routes. The classic 10-day “Baltic Capitals” cruise used to include stops in Stockholm, Helsinki, Tallinn, St. Petersburg, and Copenhagen. Now, it might look like:

• Stockholm → Helsinki → Tallinn → Riga (Latvia) → Gdansk (Poland) → Copenhagen
• Or: Stockholm → Tallinn → Riga → Klaipėda (Lithuania) → Warnemünde (Germany) → Copenhagen

This shift isn’t just about safety—it’s also about perception. Travelers want to feel secure, and cruise companies don’t want to be seen as supporting a sanctioned regime. As one travel agent told me: “I’ve had clients say, ‘I’d rather skip Russia than risk my passport getting flagged.’”

Exceptions and Niche Operators

Not every line has pulled out. A few smaller, niche cruise companies—especially those with Russian or Eastern European ownership—still offer sailings to St. Petersburg. For instance:

• Silversea Cruises: Offers select “Russia-focused” voyages, but only for passengers with pre-approved Russian visas. These sailings are rare and often require advance planning.
• Ponant: The French luxury line occasionally includes St. Petersburg in its “Arctic & Baltic” itineraries, but only if geopolitical conditions allow. Even then, they emphasize “cultural diplomacy” and work closely with local authorities.
• Russian domestic lines: Companies like Infoflot and Peter the Great Cruises still operate internal river and coastal routes, but they don’t accept foreign passengers without special arrangements.

Even these exceptions come with caveats. As one Ponant representative explained: “We monitor the situation daily. If the situation escalates, we’ll reroute—even mid-voyage.”

Which Cruise Lines Have Officially Pulled Out?

Let’s get specific. Here’s a breakdown of the major players and their current stance on Russia as a cruise destination.

Major Lines That Have Canceled Russia Itineraries

• Carnival Corporation Brands (Carnival, Princess, Holland America, Costa, P&O UK):
  • All 2023–2025 Baltic and Northern Europe cruises exclude Russia.
  • Replaced St. Petersburg with stops in Riga, Gdansk, or Tallinn.
  • No plans to return before 2026, per company statements.
• Royal Caribbean International:
  • Canceled all Russia stops through 2025.
  • Added new ports like Visby (Sweden) and Bornholm (Denmark).
  • CEO Jason Liberty: “We’re committed to guest safety and compliance.”
• Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL):
  • No Russia in 2024 itineraries.
  • Offering “Baltic Heritage” cruises focused on Nordic capitals and the Baltics.
  • Added overnight stays in Tallinn and Riga to compensate for lost time in St. Petersburg.
• MSC Cruises:
  • Still offers some Baltic cruises with St. Petersburg, but only for EU citizens with Russian visas.
  • Non-EU passengers (e.g., U.S., Canada, Australia) are not allowed to disembark in Russia.
  • MSC warns: “Entry is subject to Russian government approval.”

Lines That Never Went to Russia (And Why That’s Smart)

Some lines never included Russia in their itineraries—and now they’re being praised for it. For example:

• Viking Ocean Cruises: Focuses on Scandinavia, the British Isles, and the Mediterranean. Their Baltic routes skip Russia entirely, favoring Copenhagen, Oslo, and Stockholm.
• Oceania Cruises: Offers “Northern Europe” voyages that stop in Berlin (via Warnemünde), Tallinn, and Helsinki—but never St. Petersburg. Their 2024 brochure calls it “a safer, more stable experience.”

This strategic avoidance isn’t just about politics—it’s also about brand image. These lines cater to luxury travelers who value predictability and low risk.

The Case of MSC: A Gray Area

MSC Cruises is the most notable exception. While they still list St. Petersburg on select sailings, the reality is more nuanced. Here’s what you need to know:

• Only EU citizens can apply for a Russian visa through MSC.
• Visa processing takes 6–8 weeks and costs $200–$300 extra.
• If your visa is denied, you cannot go ashore in St. Petersburg—even if the ship docks.
• MSC offers a “shore excursion credit” as compensation, but it’s not refundable.

One traveler shared: “I spent $250 on a visa, got denied, and had to sit on the ship all day. Never again.”

What Happens If a Cruise Line Still Sails to Russia?

So, what’s it like to actually cruise to Russia in 2024? Let’s look at the real-world experience—both the challenges and the rare rewards.

Visa and Entry Requirements

For the few lines that still go, visa rules are strict and unpredictable. Here’s the process:

1. Apply early: You’ll need to submit your passport, photos, and a detailed itinerary 8–12 weeks in advance.
2. Use a visa service: Most lines partner with agencies like CIBT or VisaHQ. Expect fees of $150–$300.
3. Attend an in-person interview: Required for U.S. and some EU citizens at Russian consulates.
4. Wait for approval: Processing can take 4–8 weeks. No guarantees.

And even if you get the visa, Russian border agents have final say. One couple told me: “We had the visa, but at passport control, they asked why we were visiting. When we said ‘cruise,’ they denied us entry. No explanation.”

On-the-Ground Experience

For those who make it ashore, St. Petersburg is still breathtaking. The Hermitage Museum, Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, and Peterhof Palace remain world-class attractions. But the vibe has changed:

• Fewer tourists: Western visitors are rare. You’ll mostly see Russian and Chinese tourists.
• Higher prices: Ruble inflation has made goods and services more expensive for foreigners.
• Language barriers: English signage is limited. Translation apps are essential.
• Security presence: You’ll see more police and surveillance, especially near government buildings.

One cruiser described it: “It felt like stepping into a different world. Beautiful, but tense. I kept checking my phone to make sure my passport photos were still there.”

Mid-Voyage Cancellations

Even if you’re onboard a ship that plans to stop in Russia, the port can be canceled at the last minute. In 2023, several cruises were rerouted to Tallinn or Helsinki due to “unforeseen port restrictions.”

• Compensation varies: Some lines offer onboard credits; others give partial refunds.
• No guarantees: Cruise contracts usually state that “itineraries are subject to change without notice.”

Tip: Never book pre-paid shore excursions in Russia. If the port is canceled, you’ll likely lose that money.

Alternatives to Russia: New Baltic Itineraries to Love

Good news: the Baltic and Northern Europe region is still rich with incredible destinations. Cruise lines have gotten creative—and the results are impressive.

Top Replacement Ports

• Tallinn, Estonia:
  • Medieval Old Town (UNESCO site).
  • Easy access to digital culture and tech hubs.
  • Frequent overnight stays on cruises.
• Riga, Latvia:
  • Art Nouveau architecture.
  • Lively markets and craft beer scene.
  • Less crowded than St. Petersburg.
• Gdansk, Poland:
  • Historic shipyard (Solidarity movement birthplace).
  • Beautiful Baltic coastline.
  • Great for day trips to Malbork Castle.
• Helsinki, Finland:
  • Design district and sauna culture.
  • Easy ferry to Tallinn or Stockholm.
  • Frequent cruise stops.

New Itineraries Worth Trying

Many lines now offer “Baltic Heritage” or “Nordic Capitals” cruises that focus on these alternatives. For example:

• Holland America’s “Baltic Treasures”: 12-day cruise from Copenhagen → Tallinn → Riga → Gdansk → Warnemünde → Stockholm → Oslo.
• NCL’s “Northern Europe Explorer”: 14 days with stops in Helsinki, Tallinn, Riga, and Visby (Gotland, Sweden).
• Viking’s “Nordic Adventure”: 15 days from Bergen → Copenhagen → Stockholm → Helsinki → Tallinn → St. Petersburg (wait—no, they skip it) → Oslo.

These cruises often include overnight stays, giving you more time to explore. And the best part? No visa headaches.

Shore Excursions That Shine

With more time in new ports, cruise lines are offering better excursions:

• Tallinn’s Old Town walking tour (2–3 hours, includes St. Olaf’s Church and Town Hall).
• Riga’s Art Nouveau district (guided tour of Jugendstil buildings).
• Gdansk’s Solidarity Museum (deep dive into Poland’s labor movement).
• Helsinki’s Suomenlinna Fortress (ferry ride + guided tour).

One cruiser said: “I thought I’d miss St. Petersburg, but Riga’s architecture blew me away. And the locals were so friendly.”

Future Outlook: Will Cruise Lines Return to Russia?

So, when—if ever—will Russia be back on the cruise map?

Industry Predictions

Most experts agree: not anytime soon. Here’s why:

• Sanctions are likely to remain: The U.S. and EU have no plans to lift restrictions before 2025.
• Insurance won’t return: Major underwriters like Lloyd’s of London have no timeline for restoring coverage.
• Consumer demand is low: A 2023 Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) survey found that 78% of travelers would avoid Russia due to safety and political concerns.

Even if sanctions ease, rebuilding trust will take years. As one cruise CEO put it: “It’s not just about ports opening. It’s about passengers feeling safe.”

Possible Scenarios

1. 2025–2026: Limited return:
   • Small luxury lines (e.g., Silversea, Seabourn) test the waters.
   • Only for EU citizens with visas.
   • High prices and low capacity.
2. 2027–2028: Gradual reintegration:
   • Major lines add Russia as an optional stop.
   • Visa process streamlined.
   • More overnight stays to offset risk.
3. 2029+: Full return:
   • Only if geopolitical tensions significantly de-escalate.
   • Insurance and port access fully restored.
   • Consumer confidence rebuilt.

What Travelers Can Do Now

• Check itineraries carefully: Use cruise line websites or apps to verify port stops.
• Read the fine print: Look for clauses about “itinerary changes due to government actions.”
• Consider alternatives: The Baltic region has so much to offer—don’t let Russia be a dealbreaker.
• Talk to a travel agent: They have up-to-date info and can help navigate visa rules.

Final Thoughts: Navigating the New Cruise Landscape

So, are cruise lines still going to Russia? The short answer: not really—and not for the foreseeable future. The era of easy, carefree Baltic cruises with a stop in St. Petersburg is, for now, a memory.

But here’s the silver lining: the cruise industry has adapted brilliantly. By shifting focus to Estonia, Latvia, Poland, and other vibrant Baltic destinations, lines have created new, exciting itineraries that rival—and in some ways surpass—the old Russia-centric routes. You’ll still get stunning architecture, rich history, and unforgettable shore excursions. You just might discover a new favorite city in the process.

As for Russia? It’s not gone forever. The Hermitage, the Neva River, the White Nights—they’re still there, waiting. But for now, the smart move is to embrace the new normal. Cruise smarter, explore deeper, and keep an eye on the horizon. Because when the world changes, the best travelers adapt.

And who knows? In a few years, we might all be sipping champagne in St. Petersburg again. Until then, the Baltic has never looked better.

Data Snapshot: Cruise Lines and Russia (2024)

Cruise Line	Russia in 2024 Itineraries?	Visa Required?	Notes
Carnival (Princess, HAL, etc.)	No	N/A	No plans to return before 2026
Royal Caribbean	No	N/A	Replaced with Gdansk, Tallinn
Norwegian Cruise Line	No	N/A	Overnight stays in Riga, Tallinn
MSC Cruises	Yes (limited)	Yes (EU only)	Non-EU passengers cannot disembark
Silversea	Yes (rare)	Yes	Pre-approved visas only
Ponant	Yes (select sailings)	Yes	Subject to last-minute changes
Viking	No	N/A	Never included Russia

Frequently Asked Questions

Are cruise lines still going to Russia in 2024?

Most major cruise lines have suspended or canceled itineraries to Russia due to ongoing geopolitical tensions and travel advisories. A few niche operators may still offer limited Baltic routes, but mainstream options like Royal Caribbean and Carnival have removed Russian ports from their schedules.

Why have cruise lines stopped visiting Russia?

International sanctions, safety concerns, and logistical disruptions caused by the Russia-Ukraine conflict have led cruise lines to avoid the region. Additionally, many countries have issued travel warnings for Russia, prompting companies to prioritize passenger security.

Are there any cruise lines still going to Russia despite the risks?

Some small luxury or expedition-focused cruise lines may offer alternative Baltic Sea itineraries that include Russia, but these are rare and often require special permits. Always verify current itineraries and consult government travel advisories before booking.

Can I book a cruise to St. Petersburg, Russia, now?

As of 2024, St. Petersburg is no longer a standard port for major cruise lines due to suspended operations. Travelers seeking this destination should consider overland tours or flights, as most cruise lines have rerouted Baltic cruises to safer European ports.

Will cruise lines resume Russia visits in the future?

The return of cruise lines to Russia depends on geopolitical stability and eased sanctions. While some companies have left the door open for future itineraries, no official resumption dates have been announced by major operators.

What are the best cruise line alternatives to visiting Russia?

Many cruise lines now focus on Scandinavia, the British Isles, or Eastern Europe as safer Baltic Sea alternatives. Look for itineraries featuring Copenhagen, Stockholm, Tallinn, or Gdansk for a similar cultural experience without the risks associated with Russian ports.