AAAS Travels
ACS & Sigma Xi Expeditions
Land of the CZARS
BETCHART EXPEDITIONS Inc.
17050 Montebello Road, Cupertino, CA 95014-5435
FIRST CLASS
Join us on the Voyage in the
Land of the CZARS
August 23–September 3, 2011
Costs & Conditions
Expedition Fee: From $3,495 per person
twin share for 12 days, plus group air fare of
approximately $1200 + tax per person from
New York to Moscow and St. Petersburg,
with return from Moscow to New York.
Lower deck cabins have portholes; all other
cabins have large panoramic windows.
Lower Deck ...........................$3,495
Main Deck..............................$3,695
Upper Deck ...........................$3,995
Junior Suite Boat Deck............$4,595
Boat/Sun Deck .......................$4,995
Single Supplement .................$795
What to Expect: This expedition is
planned for the travel enthusiast who
would enjoy exploring the fascinating sights
in St. Petersburg, on the river cruise, and
in Moscow, and learning about Russia’s
unique history and cultural heritage.
The expedition is led by an historian and
scholar who will be joined by Russian
guides on shore excursions. There will
be a special lecture program by Dr. Patrick
Hatcher for our group, as well as Russian
language lessons, music and folk dances
and other entertainment on board ship.
Accommodations and travel are on board
the M/V Litvinov, an excellent five-deck
river cruising vessel which accommodates
250 passengers. Excursions will be by
motorcoach, with exploration on foot
of kremlins, museums, historic sites,
churches, and natural or scenic areas
(optional excursions are available for an
added fee). Please be prepared to actively
explore the Hermitage and other museums
and sites on foot. Daytime temperatures
will be in the 70’s to 80’s with the possibility
of some light rain. This expedition will be a
tremendous experience for travelers with
an appetite for adventure and discovery.
Expedition Fee Includes: Land transport
and accommodations twin share in cabin
category of your preference on board M/V
Litvinov; group airport transfers; all meals,
activities, and group excursions on board
ship; group entrance fees; baggage handling;
leadership, administration.
Expedition Fee Does Not Include:
International air fare (quoted separately);
Russian visa; optional excursions available
to purchase; independent transfers; tips on
board ship, alcoholic beverages, laundry,
phone calls, bottled water, snacks, passport,
personal insurance; or foreign airport
departure taxes.
M/V Litvinov: The ship was built in 1991
in Germany, specifically for river cruising
and was completely refurbished to a high
standard for Americans in 2001. All cabins
on Main, Upper, and Boat Deck are outside
with large panoramic windows. All lower
deck cabins are outside with portholes.
The ship provides two restaurants, 3 bars,
souvenir shop, beauty salon, and sauna.
A conference room, laundry, and medical
services are also available. There is no
elevator on board. All cabins have air
conditioning/heating; private en suite
shower and toilet, mini-refrigerator,
and a roomy wardrobe. The voltage
is 220. The ship is 129 m long and
16.7 m wide.
Air Fare: Is based on a group fare from
New York’s JFK International Airport to
Moscow and St. Petersburg, with return
from Moscow as of February 15, 2011. All
bookings and ticketing from the JFK group
gateway will be handled by Taunya at
Betchart Expeditions Inc, (800) 252-4910. AIR
FARES ARE SUBJECT TO FUEL SURCHARGES
AND CHANGE until ticketed.
Reservations, Deposits and
Payments: Please mail the completed
reservation form with a deposit of $1000
per person to:
Czars Voyage 2011
Betchart Expeditions Inc.
17050 Montebello Road
Cupertino, CA 95014-5435
Final payment is due June 23, 2011.
Cancellations & Refunds: The initial
deposit is refundable up to 60 days before
departure less a handling fee of $250 per
person. There is no refund for any
cancellation after the 60-day period unless
your space can be resold; then only a $100
per person handling fee applies. Travel
Insurance will be offered and is
recommended. No refunds are made for
unused services.
Questions?
Please call Taunya DeYoung,
Betchart Expeditions Inc.
Telephone: (800) 252 4910
or
(408) 252 4910
Fax:
(408) 252 1444
Email: [email protected]
On the web:
www.betchartexpeditions.com
St. Petersburg to Moscow!
August 23–September 3, 2011
Dear Travelers:
Join us on this 13­day expedition to discover
the Land of the Czars—Russia!
Led by an outstanding scholar, Dr. Patrick
Hatcher, this is an exceptional opportunity to
discover the rich heritage of Russia, the warmth
of the Russian people, historic cathedrals and
kremlins, and the scenic countryside along the
voyage route, from St. Petersburg to Moscow.
Russia’s successes in the arts, architecture,
and collecting some of the world’s finest art can
be seen in two of her finest cities—Moscow and
St. Petersburg. Her religious heritage and
historic monasteries, which were important
fortresses in past centuries, can be seen today
in kremlins along our voyage route in Uglich,
Yaroslavl, and Goritzy.
During this expedition, we will explore
St. Petersburg, the city of Peter the Great, and
Moscow, which has recently celebrated its 860th
anniversary. We will enjoy a 10­night voyage on
the M.S. Litvinov through rivers, canals and lakes
from St. Petersburg to Moscow. The ship will also
serve as our floating hotel.
Dr. Patrick Hatcher, a historian and scholar,
and popular leader of our last Land of the Czars
voyage, will provide lectures and briefings during
the trip for an extremely informative, insightful
look at Russia, as we explore its magnificent cities,
villages, and countryside.
The Czars itinerary includes:
● St. Petersburg­­ Explore this charming city
and one of the largest museums in the world—
the Hermitage—with over three million objects
in three major buildings. See the Peter and
Paul Fortress and enjoy strolling along the
Neva River, lined by major museums and
the Hermitage.
● The Voyage of the Czars, St. Petersburg
to Moscow -- For seven days, traverse the
rivers, canals, and lakes of Russia between
St. Petersburg and Moscow, traveling along
the Neva River into Lakes Ladoga and Onega
and to Moscow.
● Explore three of the oldest cities in Russia,
Uglich, Yaroslavl, and Kostroma. Learn
about the Russian countryside and village life
as you travel, including the village of Goritzy.
● Traverse the two great lakes of northwestern
Russia, Lakes Onega and Ladoga, and visit
the historic island museum on Kizhi Island,
a charming collection of historic homes and
churches, amidst tranquil pristine scenery.
● Moscow—Discover Moscow, including the
famous Kremlin, with its frescoed Archangel
Cathedral, Armory Museum, political offices,
and historic buildings. Walk through Red
Square with St. Basil’s Cathedral, and Lenin
Mausoleum.
There is really nothing like seeing St. Petersburg
and Moscow, and we hope you will take advantage
of this opportunity to travel with other AAAS,
Sigma Xi, and ACS members!
Best regards,
Margaret M. Betchart, President
Betchart Expeditions Inc.
For AAAS, Sigma Xi & ACS
Itinerary
Land of the CZARS!
Days 1/2
New York to
St. Petersburg
Depart New York’s JFK International
Airport today, arriving in Moscow on
Day 2, with a flight connection to St.
Petersburg. Transfer to your river
cruise ship, M/V Litvinov (10 nights).
Welcome dinner and introductions.
Day 5 Voyage of the Czars—
Mandrogy & Svirstroy
This morning, we will enjoy our
cruise lecture program, Russian
lessons or other activities on board
ship. We will cross Lake Ladoga, one
of the two immense lakes which we
will travel through. At midday, we
will stop at a nature preserve in
Mandrogy at a scenic location.
We will then continue our cruise to
Lake Onega.
Day 6
Voyage of the Czars—
Kizhi Island, Lake Onega
We will awaken this morning on
Lake Onega and will spend the morning at the magnificent jewel of Kizhi
Island. Here we will visit the outdoor
Museum of Wooden Architecture,
with wonderful examples of traditional
wooden structures, notably the
18th century Transfiguration Cathedral
whose walls and 22 cupolas were built
with no nails. Next door is the ninedomed Church of the Intercession
built in 1764. The 19th Century
peasant houses are nicely restored
inside. Kizhi Island was once a pagan
ritual site. Today, Lake Onega is popular
with boaters and vacationers.
Day 7
Voyage of the Czars—
Goritzy
Much of the enjoyment of a cruise in
Russia is enjoying the countryside and
small village life. This afternoon we will
visit Goritzy, see its shops and markets
and explore the Kirillov Monastery.
Then continue by ship through rivers
and canals toward Yaroslavl.
Day 8
Voyage of the Czars—
Yaroslavl
Pat Hatcher’s lecture program and
other shipboard activities will continue
this morning as we cruise to Yaroslavl.
In 1010 Prince Yaroslavl took an interest
in a strategic trading post where the
Kotorosi River enters the Volga. Legend
says that the locals responded by setting
a bear on him, which he killed and
then founded the town of Yaroslavl on
the spot. Its coast of arms features the
bear and ax. Due to its excellent location
for trade and commerce, Yaroslavl
prospered in the 13th to 17th centuries as
the Volga’s premiere port. Its merchants
built churches to complete with those
in Moscow. Our city tour today will
include a visit to the churches, with
their bright decoration and
beautifully frescoed interiors.
A highlight in the city is the
Monastery of the
Transfiguration, founded in
the 12th Century, one of
Russia’s richest and best
fortified monasteries by the
1500’s.
Day 9 Voyage of the
Czars—Uglich
Late this morning, we will
be in the Volga River community of Uglich, one of Russia’s
oldest towns. We will visit
the Uglich Kremlin, including
the red Church of St. Dmitryon-the-Blood with its blue
spangled domes which was
built to commemorate Crown
Prince Dmitri, the youngest
The Moscow Kremlin was established
over 800 years ago and was once the
center for the Russian church as well as
state. The Cathedral of the Assumption
is the most outstanding of the Kremlin’s
older buildings, designed by an Italian
master. Here coronations took place
and important government announcements and solemn state ceremonies
were performed.
We will also explore the central
district of Moscow, including Red
Square and see St. Basil’s Cathedral,
with its fanciful domes, erected in 1561.
St. Basil’s is the most photographed
cathedral in Russia and has one of the
most fanciful, enchanting appearances
in the world.
Day 12 Moscow to JFK
After breakfast, disembark and
transfer to the airport for our return
flights to the USA.
Reservations
#1172
Yes! I/We want to join the Land of the Czars Expedition, August 23–
September 3, 2011. Please reserve _____ space(s) on the expedition. As a
deposit, I/we have enclosed a check for $_____________ ($1,000 per person),
payable to Betchart Expeditions Inc. Trust Account.
Name(s) ____________________________________________ Age ______ Sex _____
____________________________________________ Age ______ Sex _____
Address _______________________________________________________________
City _________________________________________ State _____ Zip ___________
Phone: Home (_____) __________________ Work (_____) _____________________
Email Address __________________________________________________________
Membership: ___ AAAS ___ Sigma Xi
___ ACS
___ Planetary Society
Accommodations aboard the M/V Litvinov are per person based on share of cabin
(indicate 1st, 2nd, 3rd choice).
___ Lower Deck ................ $3,495
___ Junior Suite Boat Deck .............$4,595
___ Main Deck .................. $3,695
___ Boat/Sun Deck ........................$4,995
___ Upper Deck................. $3,995
___ Single SupplementDeck ...........$795
Accommodations Preference:
____ Twin
____ Single
____ Twin Share
____ Nonsmoker ____ Smoker
____ with a friend or
____ assign a roommate
Signature: ___________________________________________ Date: ___________
Signature: ___________________________________________ Date: ___________
Mail To: Land of the Czars 2011, Betchart Expeditions Inc.
17050 Montebello Road, Cupertino, CA 95014-5345
Responsibility: Betchart Expeditions Inc., the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), Sigma Xi, The
Scientific Research Society, and the American Chemical Society (ACS) act only as agents for the passenger with respect to transpor­
tation and hotels, and exercise every care possible. However, we can assume no liability for injury, damage, delay, loss, accident or
irregularity in connection with the services of any airplane, ship, motorcoach, or any other conveyance used in carrying out the
arrangements of the tour. The operation of the ship is solely the responsibility of Gvidon Tours. We cannot accept any responsibility
for losses or additional expenses due to delay or changes in air or other services, sickness, weather, strike, war, quarantine, terrorism,
acts of God, or other causes beyond our control. All such losses or expenses will have to be borne by the passenger, as tour rates
provide for arrangements only for the time stated. We reserve the right to substitute another leader of similar expertise or reserve
the right to cancel any tour prior to departure, in which case the entire payment will be refunded with no further obligation on our
part. The right is also reserved to decline to accept or retain any person as a member of the tour. No refund will be made for the
unused portion of any tour unless arrangements are made in sufficient time to avoid penalties. The price of the program is based
on current tariffs and rates, and is subject to change. Any tariff, exchange rate, or fuel increases will be passed on to participants.
Baggage is carried at the owner’s risk entirely. It is understood that the air ticket when issued shall constitute the sole contract
between the passenger and the airline concerned. The airlines concerned are not to be held responsible for any act, omission, or
event during the time passengers are not on board their plane or conveyance.
©2011 Betchart Expeditions Inc. All rights reserved. Map by April Milne.
CST# 2036304-40
THE SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH SOCIETY
Day 4 The Hermitage
St. Petersburg is a charming city of
magnificent museums, canals, and
bridges, with wonderful views across
the Neva River toward the Hermitage, the
Summer Gardens, and other magnificent
museum buildings. Today, we will visit
the Hermitage, one of the world’s finest
museums. The Hermitage was the
Czar’s Winter Palace and is home to
nearly three million major objects in
six departments: West European Art,
Antique World, Primitive Culture,
Oriental Culture, and Art, the History
of Russia, and Numismatics. We will
explore the city and see its numerous
canals and enjoy the colorful, gilded
domed churches. The shops and street
artists on Nevski Avenue are a treat!
Return to the ship for dinner and our
departure at 8 pm. We will begin our
voyage as we cruise toward Mandrogy.
Days 10/11
Moscow’s
Kremlin &
Red Square
We will arrive
in Moscow on the
afternoon of Day 10,
and will begin to
explore the
splendors of the
Czarist period in
this fascinating city.
We will have an
introductory tour of
the city and Kremlin
visit the next day. Of
special interest on
the city tour will be
seeing the church
of Christ the Savior,
a spectacular golddomed reconstruction of the famous
Cathedral destroyed
during the 1917
revolution and only
rebuilt in the 1990’s.
Optional tours in Moscow may
include the Tretyakov Gallery, which
houses the artistic treasures of Russian
culture. It has the world’s greatest
collection of Russian art and icons.
Farewell dinner in celebration of our
journey this evening!
& SIGMA XI &ACS Expeditions
Day 3 St. Petersburg
We will explore this exquisite city
today. Founded by Peter the Great in
1703, St. Petersburg was a “window” to
Europe for Russia. Its location on the
Baltic Sea gave a foothold to Europe to
continue Peter’s fascination with the
west and its many cultures and scientific
advancements. Today, we will explore
the “Northern Capital,” a lovely city
famous for its palaces and gardens,
including the Winter Palace, the former
residence of the Russian Czar (which is
now part of the Hermitage Museum).
We will have a city tour and also see
the Peter and Paul Fortress, burial site
of the Romanov Czars and royal family,
situated on the Neva River. Accommodations and meals are on board
M/V Litvinov.
son of Ivan the
Terrible, who died
here in 1591. Also on
the kremlin grounds
are the five-domed
Cathedral of the
Transfiguration of
the Savior, and the
15th century Prince’s
Chambers.
Itinerary
Land of the CZARS!
Days 1/2
New York to
St. Petersburg
Depart New York’s JFK International
Airport today, arriving in Moscow on
Day 2, with a flight connection to St.
Petersburg. Transfer to your river
cruise ship, M/V Litvinov (10 nights).
Welcome dinner and introductions.
Day 5 Voyage of the Czars—
Mandrogy & Svirstroy
This morning, we will enjoy our
cruise lecture program, Russian
lessons or other activities on board
ship. We will cross Lake Ladoga, one
of the two immense lakes which we
will travel through. At midday, we
will stop at a nature preserve in
Mandrogy at a scenic location.
We will then continue our cruise to
Lake Onega.
Day 6
Voyage of the Czars—
Kizhi Island, Lake Onega
We will awaken this morning on
Lake Onega and will spend the morning at the magnificent jewel of Kizhi
Island. Here we will visit the outdoor
Museum of Wooden Architecture,
with wonderful examples of traditional
wooden structures, notably the
18th century Transfiguration Cathedral
whose walls and 22 cupolas were built
with no nails. Next door is the ninedomed Church of the Intercession
built in 1764. The 19th Century
peasant houses are nicely restored
inside. Kizhi Island was once a pagan
ritual site. Today, Lake Onega is popular
with boaters and vacationers.
Day 7
Voyage of the Czars—
Goritzy
Much of the enjoyment of a cruise in
Russia is enjoying the countryside and
small village life. This afternoon we will
visit Goritzy, see its shops and markets
and explore the Kirillov Monastery.
Then continue by ship through rivers
and canals toward Yaroslavl.
Day 8
Voyage of the Czars—
Yaroslavl
Pat Hatcher’s lecture program and
other shipboard activities will continue
this morning as we cruise to Yaroslavl.
In 1010 Prince Yaroslavl took an interest
in a strategic trading post where the
Kotorosi River enters the Volga. Legend
says that the locals responded by setting
a bear on him, which he killed and
then founded the town of Yaroslavl on
the spot. Its coast of arms features the
bear and ax. Due to its excellent location
for trade and commerce, Yaroslavl
prospered in the 13th to 17th centuries as
the Volga’s premiere port. Its merchants
built churches to complete with those
in Moscow. Our city tour today will
include a visit to the churches, with
their bright decoration and
beautifully frescoed interiors.
A highlight in the city is the
Monastery of the
Transfiguration, founded in
the 12th Century, one of
Russia’s richest and best
fortified monasteries by the
1500’s.
Day 9 Voyage of the
Czars—Uglich
Late this morning, we will
be in the Volga River community of Uglich, one of Russia’s
oldest towns. We will visit
the Uglich Kremlin, including
the red Church of St. Dmitryon-the-Blood with its blue
spangled domes which was
built to commemorate Crown
Prince Dmitri, the youngest
The Moscow Kremlin was established
over 800 years ago and was once the
center for the Russian church as well as
state. The Cathedral of the Assumption
is the most outstanding of the Kremlin’s
older buildings, designed by an Italian
master. Here coronations took place
and important government announcements and solemn state ceremonies
were performed.
We will also explore the central
district of Moscow, including Red
Square and see St. Basil’s Cathedral,
with its fanciful domes, erected in 1561.
St. Basil’s is the most photographed
cathedral in Russia and has one of the
most fanciful, enchanting appearances
in the world.
Day 12 Moscow to JFK
After breakfast, disembark and
transfer to the airport for our return
flights to the USA.
Reservations
#1172
Yes! I/We want to join the Land of the Czars Expedition, August 23–
September 3, 2011. Please reserve _____ space(s) on the expedition. As a
deposit, I/we have enclosed a check for $_____________ ($1,000 per person),
payable to Betchart Expeditions Inc. Trust Account.
Name(s) ____________________________________________ Age ______ Sex _____
____________________________________________ Age ______ Sex _____
Address _______________________________________________________________
City _________________________________________ State _____ Zip ___________
Phone: Home (_____) __________________ Work (_____) _____________________
Email Address __________________________________________________________
Membership: ___ AAAS ___ Sigma Xi
___ ACS
___ Planetary Society
Accommodations aboard the M/V Litvinov are per person based on share of cabin
(indicate 1st, 2nd, 3rd choice).
___ Lower Deck ................ $3,495
___ Junior Suite Boat Deck .............$4,595
___ Main Deck .................. $3,695
___ Boat/Sun Deck ........................$4,995
___ Upper Deck................. $3,995
___ Single SupplementDeck ...........$795
Accommodations Preference:
____ Twin
____ Single
____ Twin Share
____ Nonsmoker ____ Smoker
____ with a friend or
____ assign a roommate
Signature: ___________________________________________ Date: ___________
Signature: ___________________________________________ Date: ___________
Mail To: Land of the Czars 2011, Betchart Expeditions Inc.
17050 Montebello Road, Cupertino, CA 95014-5345
Responsibility: Betchart Expeditions Inc., the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), Sigma Xi, The
Scientific Research Society, and the American Chemical Society (ACS) act only as agents for the passenger with respect to transpor­
tation and hotels, and exercise every care possible. However, we can assume no liability for injury, damage, delay, loss, accident or
irregularity in connection with the services of any airplane, ship, motorcoach, or any other conveyance used in carrying out the
arrangements of the tour. The operation of the ship is solely the responsibility of Gvidon Tours. We cannot accept any responsibility
for losses or additional expenses due to delay or changes in air or other services, sickness, weather, strike, war, quarantine, terrorism,
acts of God, or other causes beyond our control. All such losses or expenses will have to be borne by the passenger, as tour rates
provide for arrangements only for the time stated. We reserve the right to substitute another leader of similar expertise or reserve
the right to cancel any tour prior to departure, in which case the entire payment will be refunded with no further obligation on our
part. The right is also reserved to decline to accept or retain any person as a member of the tour. No refund will be made for the
unused portion of any tour unless arrangements are made in sufficient time to avoid penalties. The price of the program is based
on current tariffs and rates, and is subject to change. Any tariff, exchange rate, or fuel increases will be passed on to participants.
Baggage is carried at the owner’s risk entirely. It is understood that the air ticket when issued shall constitute the sole contract
between the passenger and the airline concerned. The airlines concerned are not to be held responsible for any act, omission, or
event during the time passengers are not on board their plane or conveyance.
©2011 Betchart Expeditions Inc. All rights reserved. Map by April Milne.
CST# 2036304-40
THE SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH SOCIETY
Day 4 The Hermitage
St. Petersburg is a charming city of
magnificent museums, canals, and
bridges, with wonderful views across
the Neva River toward the Hermitage, the
Summer Gardens, and other magnificent
museum buildings. Today, we will visit
the Hermitage, one of the world’s finest
museums. The Hermitage was the
Czar’s Winter Palace and is home to
nearly three million major objects in
six departments: West European Art,
Antique World, Primitive Culture,
Oriental Culture, and Art, the History
of Russia, and Numismatics. We will
explore the city and see its numerous
canals and enjoy the colorful, gilded
domed churches. The shops and street
artists on Nevski Avenue are a treat!
Return to the ship for dinner and our
departure at 8 pm. We will begin our
voyage as we cruise toward Mandrogy.
Days 10/11
Moscow’s
Kremlin &
Red Square
We will arrive
in Moscow on the
afternoon of Day 10,
and will begin to
explore the
splendors of the
Czarist period in
this fascinating city.
We will have an
introductory tour of
the city and Kremlin
visit the next day. Of
special interest on
the city tour will be
seeing the church
of Christ the Savior,
a spectacular golddomed reconstruction of the famous
Cathedral destroyed
during the 1917
revolution and only
rebuilt in the 1990’s.
Optional tours in Moscow may
include the Tretyakov Gallery, which
houses the artistic treasures of Russian
culture. It has the world’s greatest
collection of Russian art and icons.
Farewell dinner in celebration of our
journey this evening!
& SIGMA XI &ACS Expeditions
Day 3 St. Petersburg
We will explore this exquisite city
today. Founded by Peter the Great in
1703, St. Petersburg was a “window” to
Europe for Russia. Its location on the
Baltic Sea gave a foothold to Europe to
continue Peter’s fascination with the
west and its many cultures and scientific
advancements. Today, we will explore
the “Northern Capital,” a lovely city
famous for its palaces and gardens,
including the Winter Palace, the former
residence of the Russian Czar (which is
now part of the Hermitage Museum).
We will have a city tour and also see
the Peter and Paul Fortress, burial site
of the Romanov Czars and royal family,
situated on the Neva River. Accommodations and meals are on board
M/V Litvinov.
son of Ivan the
Terrible, who died
here in 1591. Also on
the kremlin grounds
are the five-domed
Cathedral of the
Transfiguration of
the Savior, and the
15th century Prince’s
Chambers.
AAAS Travels
ACS & Sigma Xi Expeditions
Land of the CZARS
BETCHART EXPEDITIONS Inc.
17050 Montebello Road, Cupertino, CA 95014-5435
FIRST CLASS
Join us on the Voyage in the
Land of the CZARS
August 23–September 3, 2011
Costs & Conditions
Expedition Fee: From $3,495 per person
twin share for 12 days, plus group air fare of
approximately $1200 + tax per person from
New York to Moscow and St. Petersburg,
with return from Moscow to New York.
Lower deck cabins have portholes; all other
cabins have large panoramic windows.
Lower Deck ...........................$3,495
Main Deck..............................$3,695
Upper Deck ...........................$3,995
Junior Suite Boat Deck............$4,595
Boat/Sun Deck .......................$4,995
Single Supplement .................$795
What to Expect: This expedition is
planned for the travel enthusiast who
would enjoy exploring the fascinating sights
in St. Petersburg, on the river cruise, and
in Moscow, and learning about Russia’s
unique history and cultural heritage.
The expedition is led by an historian and
scholar who will be joined by Russian
guides on shore excursions. There will
be a special lecture program by Dr. Patrick
Hatcher for our group, as well as Russian
language lessons, music and folk dances
and other entertainment on board ship.
Accommodations and travel are on board
the M/V Litvinov, an excellent five-deck
river cruising vessel which accommodates
250 passengers. Excursions will be by
motorcoach, with exploration on foot
of kremlins, museums, historic sites,
churches, and natural or scenic areas
(optional excursions are available for an
added fee). Please be prepared to actively
explore the Hermitage and other museums
and sites on foot. Daytime temperatures
will be in the 70’s to 80’s with the possibility
of some light rain. This expedition will be a
tremendous experience for travelers with
an appetite for adventure and discovery.
Expedition Fee Includes: Land transport
and accommodations twin share in cabin
category of your preference on board M/V
Litvinov; group airport transfers; all meals,
activities, and group excursions on board
ship; group entrance fees; baggage handling;
leadership, administration.
Expedition Fee Does Not Include:
International air fare (quoted separately);
Russian visa; optional excursions available
to purchase; independent transfers; tips on
board ship, alcoholic beverages, laundry,
phone calls, bottled water, snacks, passport,
personal insurance; or foreign airport
departure taxes.
M/V Litvinov: The ship was built in 1991
in Germany, specifically for river cruising
and was completely refurbished to a high
standard for Americans in 2001. All cabins
on Main, Upper, and Boat Deck are outside
with large panoramic windows. All lower
deck cabins are outside with portholes.
The ship provides two restaurants, 3 bars,
souvenir shop, beauty salon, and sauna.
A conference room, laundry, and medical
services are also available. There is no
elevator on board. All cabins have air
conditioning/heating; private en suite
shower and toilet, mini-refrigerator,
and a roomy wardrobe. The voltage
is 220. The ship is 129 m long and
16.7 m wide.
Air Fare: Is based on a group fare from
New York’s JFK International Airport to
Moscow and St. Petersburg, with return
from Moscow as of February 15, 2011. All
bookings and ticketing from the JFK group
gateway will be handled by Taunya at
Betchart Expeditions Inc, (800) 252-4910. AIR
FARES ARE SUBJECT TO FUEL SURCHARGES
AND CHANGE until ticketed.
Reservations, Deposits and
Payments: Please mail the completed
reservation form with a deposit of $1000
per person to:
Czars Voyage 2011
Betchart Expeditions Inc.
17050 Montebello Road
Cupertino, CA 95014-5435
Final payment is due June 23, 2011.
Cancellations & Refunds: The initial
deposit is refundable up to 60 days before
departure less a handling fee of $250 per
person. There is no refund for any
cancellation after the 60-day period unless
your space can be resold; then only a $100
per person handling fee applies. Travel
Insurance will be offered and is
recommended. No refunds are made for
unused services.
Questions?
Please call Taunya DeYoung,
Betchart Expeditions Inc.
Telephone: (800) 252 4910
or
(408) 252 4910
Fax:
(408) 252 1444
Email: [email protected]
On the web:
www.betchartexpeditions.com
St. Petersburg to Moscow!
August 23–September 3, 2011
Dear Travelers:
Join us on this 13­day expedition to discover
the Land of the Czars—Russia!
Led by an outstanding scholar, Dr. Patrick
Hatcher, this is an exceptional opportunity to
discover the rich heritage of Russia, the warmth
of the Russian people, historic cathedrals and
kremlins, and the scenic countryside along the
voyage route, from St. Petersburg to Moscow.
Russia’s successes in the arts, architecture,
and collecting some of the world’s finest art can
be seen in two of her finest cities—Moscow and
St. Petersburg. Her religious heritage and
historic monasteries, which were important
fortresses in past centuries, can be seen today
in kremlins along our voyage route in Uglich,
Yaroslavl, and Goritzy.
During this expedition, we will explore
St. Petersburg, the city of Peter the Great, and
Moscow, which has recently celebrated its 860th
anniversary. We will enjoy a 10­night voyage on
the M.S. Litvinov through rivers, canals and lakes
from St. Petersburg to Moscow. The ship will also
serve as our floating hotel.
Dr. Patrick Hatcher, a historian and scholar,
and popular leader of our last Land of the Czars
voyage, will provide lectures and briefings during
the trip for an extremely informative, insightful
look at Russia, as we explore its magnificent cities,
villages, and countryside.
The Czars itinerary includes:
● St. Petersburg­­ Explore this charming city
and one of the largest museums in the world—
the Hermitage—with over three million objects
in three major buildings. See the Peter and
Paul Fortress and enjoy strolling along the
Neva River, lined by major museums and
the Hermitage.
● The Voyage of the Czars, St. Petersburg
to Moscow -- For seven days, traverse the
rivers, canals, and lakes of Russia between
St. Petersburg and Moscow, traveling along
the Neva River into Lakes Ladoga and Onega
and to Moscow.
● Explore three of the oldest cities in Russia,
Uglich, Yaroslavl, and Kostroma. Learn
about the Russian countryside and village life
as you travel, including the village of Goritzy.
● Traverse the two great lakes of northwestern
Russia, Lakes Onega and Ladoga, and visit
the historic island museum on Kizhi Island,
a charming collection of historic homes and
churches, amidst tranquil pristine scenery.
● Moscow—Discover Moscow, including the
famous Kremlin, with its frescoed Archangel
Cathedral, Armory Museum, political offices,
and historic buildings. Walk through Red
Square with St. Basil’s Cathedral, and Lenin
Mausoleum.
There is really nothing like seeing St. Petersburg
and Moscow, and we hope you will take advantage
of this opportunity to travel with other AAAS,
Sigma Xi, and ACS members!
Best regards,
Margaret M. Betchart, President
Betchart Expeditions Inc.
For AAAS, Sigma Xi & ACS