Rostov-on-Don, at one time a Greek colony, later a Turkish settlement, and finally the capital of the Don Cossacks, is your gateway for this one-of-a-kind cruise to a world of exotic history, beautiful traditions and breathtaking scenery. From the ancient capital of the Tartars, you'll travel along the Don River, a vital artery in Russian history since the days of Peter the Great. Stop in Volgograd, formerly Stalingrad, and view the site of one of the greatest battles of WWII. Discover exotic Kazan, present capital of the Tartar Republic, and stop in ancient Nizhni 11gorod, the former home of political exiles.

Russia - off the beaten track

See another side of Russia with its pastoral landscapes, vast lakes, remote forested islands, and tiny houses. The Golden Ring Cities - Kostroma, Uglich and Yaroslavl - provide perfect examples of life in the country, as well as illustrate grand Russian architecture, old churches made of white stone, and gorgeous monasteries. Your final stop is Moscow, the emotional and cultural heart of Russia. Explore many of its world-famous landmarks: the familiar onion-domed St. Basil's Cathedral, Red Square, the Kremlin and the Armory Museum.

Land of the Cossacks is the perfect cruise for those who wish to venture farther into Russia and its southern borders.

Who will enjoy this cruise: Those thirsting to understand this incredible world power from its very beginnings - cities and towns that were once Turkish, Mongol, and Tartar encampments and strongholds. Visit Stalin's bunker and Lenin's house, as well as sites of military battles and testaments to the vast political changes over the centuries.

Note: Cruising in Russia is a wonderful experience and while the MS Litvinov is a friendly, Russian-style ship that offers comfortable amenities, it doesn't have all the same amenities as a Uniworld company-owned ship.

Cruise Highlights include: