Vladivostok Cruises, Russia

Thanks to pressure since the beginning of the 20th century from the Trans-Siberian Railway, the mythical railway between Vladivostok and the Russian capital, the city developed far beyond its original center which was at the southern end of the Muravyov-Amursky peninsula. Today, the impressive Zolotoy Bridge with its elegant white beams overhangs Zolotoy Rog Bay, the natural bay that welcomes most passing ships. Vladivostok has now expanded into the hills overlooking the sea and encompasses everything that can be seen from the lookout above it at Eagle's Nest Hill where a modern monument is dedicated to Saints Cyril and Methodius.

The old city, still containing some buildings from the early 20th century, is organized around a grid with a central square that hosts a statue to the Soviet hero and a white skyscraper which is the headquarters of the Primorsky Krai. Heading up Okeanskij Prospekt from the port, you will reach the immaculate Pokrovsky Cathedral with its colorful blue and gold onion domes and a small park opening up behind it.

An MSC Cruise Excursion will take you to Amursky Zaliv Gulf where you will find the Vladivostok Fortress Museum, the Scientific Museum and Sport Harbor set up for children's leisure. To the south of the square, not far from the giant pillars of Zolotoy Bridge, a submarine from the 1930s was beached and transformed into a museum. Another excursion is dedicated to transportation enthusiasts who can board the Trans-Siberian Railway and visit the Antique Automobile Museum, filled with unique vehicles.