Take a look at St Petersburg's marvelously dramatic history from a completely different angle—from a boat on the waterways surrounding its numerous squares, monuments and palaces. The exact route of your trip will depend on the boat size and traffic conditions of the waterways. After an hour spent on the water you will disembark your boat near Yusupov Palace, where you will discover the intriguing story of the palace, its owners and the dramatic events that ended the life of the infamous Grigori Rasputin. Yusupov Palace is located on the banks of the Moika River—one of the 57 palaces that were owned by Felix Yusupov, who was almost as wealthy as the Czar himself. A beautiful white marble staircase leads to the private theater of Zenaida Yusupov, which has been carefully preserved in Rococo style. Among the palace's treasures are works of art by Rembrandt and Rubens, French tapestries and porcelain, and Venetian mirrors and woodcarvings. It was here in 1916 that the notorious Grigori Rasputin was assassinated. He was lured to Yusupov's home and fed poison-laced food, which failed to kill him. He was then shot several times, which he also survived, and was later thrown into the Moika River, where he finally drowned. Your tour will take you through the rooms of the palace, and after climbing down the narrow winding staircase you will see the very place where Felix Yusupov, with his accomplices, tried to assassinate Rasputin.

Notes:

Tour involves 70 steps at Yusupov Palace and wheelchairs are not permitted. Expect long lines and crowding at most locations. There is a nominal fee to use your camera and video inside various palaces and museums in St Petersburg. Fees are payable in US dollars to your guide and correct change is required. Current information will be provided on board the ship as prices are subject to change. Tour is available only on select sailings.