Russian visas

[treasure4two]

If we are going on a 3 day tour with a private company(like Denrus), do we need to obtain a Russian visa? I have been told that if we are on private or ship tours, we do not need to get them-only if we are going to be touring/walking around on your own. Thanks!;)

[Susan-M]

Here's a thread from the Northern Europe/Baltics Forum which explains visa requirements for cruise passengers: http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=913731&highlight=visa

[Wineart]

If you book through Denrus, Alla, etc., they will obtain the visas for you. Please note that you must remain with the guide at all times, you cannot use the visas on your own.

[merlot101]

We did a tour last June with Red October. They emailed us with papers that were used to get us off the ship in St P. All was very smooth. They said that they would pick us up at 8, and they were there. We used Azamara and we told the ships people about our tour. They made sure that we were one of the first people off the ship. everything was very smooth. By the way, Azamara was right intown. They had a great place to park since we were a smaller ship.

[treasure4two]

I want to thank you three and all the others that take the time to respond when people like me ask questions. This trip(July 12, 2009) is the first time I heard of or have used CC and I think it is wonderful and you all are also!! Thanks again and Great and Fun Crusies to you all!!;)

[Susan-M]

Hi Ron and Donna Jean,
You're welcome!:) Hope you have a wonderful time on your cruise. I have such great memories of our Baltic cruise. It was our 1st cruise and in 'pre cruise critic days' but we ventured off in all ports (except St. Petersburg) on our own, with the help of guide books. Planning for our future cruises with help from CC has made quite a difference ... but beware, it becomes addictive!:)

[ccpuff04]

If you no problems walking and the ship is docked downtown (not at the industrial port) you are missing a lot by not getting visas. There is so much to see and do . . . get off the ship anytime you want . . . walk to the Hermitage, St. Isaacs, Peter and Paul Fortress. The entire city is within walking distance. Don't get stuck on a tour or think that St. Pete is unsafe . . . we walked the streets after 10PM after a ballet and shopped and wandered without any restrictions in two visits to St. Petersburg. Go for it - you'll be glad you did. Visa applications are online and as long as you plan a couple months in advance, are absolutely no problem getting direct from the Russian consulate close to you. Don't even pay someone to do it for you. They will give you a visa for 30 days, covering the days you will be in port. Don't be intimidated by cruisers who have never done it. Two or three days in St. Pete with a visa is worth every penny!