Book a last-minute Russia cruise and save

updated 5:16 p.m. ET May 15, 2009

Book by: May 28, 2009
Travel by: June 27, 2009

The deal
Viking River Cruises is slashing prices on its spring itineraries up to 50 percent off brochure rates. There are 11 discounted itineraries in Europe and China to choose from, but one cruise in particular — the Waterways of the Czars- has witnessed a massive price reduction totaling $1,803.

This 13-day voyage from St. Petersburg to Moscow is now available from just $1,996 thanks to this last-minute 2-for-1 offer.

Typically, cruises don’t spend much time in the embarkation port, however the Viking Pakhomov will remain docked in St. Petersburg for four days, giving passengers plenty of time to tour the city.

From there, the ship coasts through Neva River, and Lake Ladoga (Europe’s largest lake) before sailing the Svir River to the small community of Mandrogy. After a visit here, the next stop is the island village of Kizhi.

Continuing along the Volga-Baltic Waterway, passengers will then arrive in Goritzy, where they will take a guided walk through this historical area, before heading on to the ancient town of Yaroslavl.

After cruising overnight, the Pakhomov arrives in Uglich, where cruisers will visit the Church of St. Dmitry on the Blood, on the site where Ivan the Terrible’s son Dmitry was mysteriously killed.

It’s A Snap! See the latest entries See the amazing images sent by msnbc.com readers and submit your own for next week!

The final port of call is Moscow, and three full days are dedicated to exploring this famous city. Several sailing dates are available from May 22 through June 22 at this discounted rate.

Reverse voyages are also available from Moscow to St. Petersburg.  In order to utilize this great savings offer, you must book by May 28.

The dollars
This cruise includes daily shore excursions, ten guided tours, all meals, and port charges.

The catch
Airfare is not included.

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