seadream cruises 2023

• SeaDream Yacht Club

SeaDream I Cruises 2024, 2025 - Ship, Itineraries, Prices, Sailing Dates, Amenities

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SeaDream I Salling Calendar

SeaDream I Destinations

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SeaDream I Highlights

• Pamper yourself with one of SeaDream’s Spa treatments, or choose a guilt-free cuisine experience
• Treat yourself with full-service salon with experienced beauty stylist onboard
• Indulge in a Signature SeaDream experience with gourmet 5-star dining
• Complete your workout with a relaxing session in the Sauna & Steam room and enjoy the rest of your day
• You may also work out indoors without sacrificing the ocean views at Fitness Center on Deck 4

SeaDream I Quick Facts

Year Built:

Year Refurbished:

Year Entered Present Fleet:

Previous Name:

Seabourn Goddess I

Country of Registry:

The Bahamas

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Officers' Nationality:

International

Cruise/Hotel Staff Nationality:

Multinational

Total Rooms (all categories):

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Last Refurbished:

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About SeaDream Yacht Club

SeaDream Yacht Club 2024 and 2025 cruise itineraries are designed to call upon the most intimate ports, harbors, and yachting playgrounds that larger vessels cannot reach. Providing unprecedented levels of luxury and service for guests to experience that each specially selected port of call has to offer.

SeaDream Yacht Club operates two intimate mega-yachts that offer an ultra-luxury, highly personalized cruise experience. With a nearly 1:1 crew to guest ratio, SeaDream provides exemplary 5-star service to create a private yacht-style vacation for only 56 couples at a time. Destinations include the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Europe and Transatlantic as well as smaller, exclusive ports and harbors inaccessible to larger ships as well as new destinations. This allows for overnight stays in destinations like Monte Carlo and St. Barts to experience the glamorous nightlife.

SeaDream Ships and Guest Capacity:

The SeaDream I and SeaDream II twin mega-yachts each accommodate just 56 couples in yacht-like staterooms. With only 112 guests total on the intimate vessels, the atmosphere is relaxed and social among travelers from around the world. Guests can expect to return from shore to find their names newly learned by the 95-person crew. Both feature a marina stocked with water toys, a 30-course golf simulator, a pool and whirlpool, mountain bikes for guest use, and Balinese dream beds across the deck spaces, exemplifying SeaDream's casual luxury. Providing guests with an immersive experience to explore by day and night.

Itineraries and Destinations:

SeaDream travels to marquee yachting playgrounds in the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and Asia. Popular itineraries range from 7-15 days to destinations like the Greek Isles, French Riviera, Iceland, Norway, Thailand, and China. The small size allows access to exclusive yacht harbors and rivers like the Guadalquivir in Spain. Expect an overnight stay late into the evening at glamorous destinations. Caribbean season ports include North Sound, the British Virgin Islands yachting paradise of North Sound on Virgin Gorda island, is a highlight port for SeaDream Caribbean itineraries. The glamorous French isle of St. Barths is renowned as a celebrity hotspot and a premier yachting destination, two notions exemplified by the chic port and capital town of Gustavia. As the island nation’s vibrant capital city and largest seaport, Bridgetown makes for both an exciting embarkation point as well as an enjoyable port of call for SeaDream Caribbean voyages. Situated on the laidback island of St. John, part of the US Virgin Islands, Cruz Bay charms SeaDream guests with its quaint West Indies architecture, crystalline waters, and postcard-worthy sunsets over the bay. As the first Spanish settlement in Puerto Rico, historic Old San Juan transports SeaDream guests back in time even as they dock in the bustling modern cruise port.

Onboard Experience: The ambiance is described as "casually elegant" during days filled with watersports, mountain biking, golfing, hiking, shopping, sightseeing, and water-based activities arranged by the attentive crew. Guests relax over food and drinks at the al fresco Topside Restaurant and Piano Bar. There are no strict dress codes or assigned seats. Enjoy a Thai massage, stargaze on the deck, borrow a Yamaha WaveRunner, and dine at your leisure.

Cost and Inclusions:

Fares start around $3,699 per person for a 7-night sailing, including meals, alcohol, gratuities, watersports equipment, WiFi, and port charges. Many sailings feature special guest lecturers and experts relevant to the region. Depending on the voyage, some also include private concerts, golf outings, and more. Yachting Land Adventures will provide fascinating opportunities for epicureans, history enthusiasts, and adventurers alike.

Signature Service and Hospitality

SeaDream's award-winning service rivals any 5-star boutique hotel or private yacht. From welcome cocktails with the Captain to bartenders who remember your name and favorite drink, SeaDream's 95-person crew pampers guests with quietly flawless, anticipatory service. With a relaxed luxury ambiance and country club casual dress code, SeaDream feels welcoming while still refined.

Exceptional Cuisine and Dining

Guests can indulge in exceptionally prepared gourmet cuisine across multiple elegant venues, including outdoor dining, course-by-course fine dining, casual grilling, and more. Menus change daily and incorporate fresh local ingredients. Signature dishes, healthy raw options, and customized offerings ensure guests' preferences are exceeded. Also included are gratuities, premium beverages, and signature onboard amenities.

Spacious Accommodations

The SeaDream I and II feature four categories of richly furnished staterooms and suites with marble bathrooms and either a porthole or ocean view. A guest capacity of just 56 couples ensures intimacy unmatched by traditional cruising. Many staterooms open onto deck space, ideal for Balinese dream bed lounging. Fifty-four of these cabins are Yacht Club Staterooms of 195 square feet, while another sixteen of the cabins are convertible to 8 Commodore Club Staterooms of 390 square feet. There is also the Admiral Suite and the Owner's Suite of 315-400 square feet.

Balinese Dream Bed Experience

SeaDream's signature open-air Balinese dream beds dotted across the yachts let travelers nap, sunbathe, or stargaze in cushioned comfort. They exemplify SeaDream's casual luxury philosophy with cozy linens and ocean views. The beds can even be made up for sleeping under the stars on the open deck.

Destination-Focused Itineraries

SeaDream travels to yachting playgrounds and smaller ports inaccessible to larger ships. Popular 7-15-day voyages sail the Mediterranean, Europe, and the Caribbean, with plenty of late stays in marquee destinations. Over 35 inclusive shore excursions guided by activity managers allow intimate exploration at each stop.

Indulge Your Senses on a SeaDream Wine Voyage

Led by expert Wine Director Martin Arentz, SeaDream’s specialized wine cruises take connoisseurs and novice tasters alike on a journey into the heart of Europe’s renowned wine regions, including Italy, Spain, France, and Greece. Both onshore and onboard, every element spotlights the grape through exclusive tastings, wine pairings, vineyard tours, food and wine-focused land excursions, and so much more. With only 112 guests who share an appreciation for fine vintages, SeaDream wine cruises cultivate an intimate, enriching, and tantalizing environment for discovering and connecting over exceptional pours and vintages. Formal presentations and guests wine tasting allow for varied levels of immersion across voyages.

Signature Onboard Amenities

While onboard, guests enjoy a saltwater pool, al fresco dining venues, open bar, piano lounge, library, golf simulator, water marina stocked with toys, and the only Thai-certified spa at sea. Daily wellness activities include sunrise yoga sessions. The yachts host cocktail hours, stargazing events, big-screen movies under the stars, and local entertainment.

Expect this same incredible kind of pampering on all SeaDream Yacht Club cruise itineraries for 2024 voyages and 2025.

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SeaDream Yacht Club 2023 Cruises

Seadream ships.

• CruiseMapper
• SeaDream Yacht Club

Former names: Seabourn Goddess I, Sea Goddess I

Cruise line SeaDream Yacht Club

• St Thomas Island USVI (Charlotte Amalie, US Virgin Islands)
• Piraeus-Athens (Greece)
• San Juan (Puerto Rico)
• Philipsburg St Maarten (Netherlands Antilles)
• Civitavecchia-Rome (Italy)

SeaDream I current position

SeaDream I current location is at West Mediterranean (coordinates 41.48279 N / 12.15664 E) cruising en route to Civitavecchia-Rome. The AIS position was reported 5 minutes ago.

Current itinerary of SeaDream I

SeaDream I current cruise is 7 days, one-way from Valletta to Civitavecchia-Rome . The itinerary starts on 11 Aug, 2024 and ends on 18 Aug, 2024 .

Specifications of SeaDream I

•   Itineraries
•   Review
•   Wiki

SeaDream I Itineraries

Seadream i review, review of seadream i.

The 1984-built SeaDream 1 yacht was constructed by STX Finland (Petter Yran & Bjorn Storbraaten, Helsinki Finland ). Previously, the cruise ship was operated by Cunard Line as "Sea Goddess I". The vessel is in SeaDream Yacht Club's fleet since 2001. The only fleetmate is the sistership SeaDream 2 (1985), with a newbuild planned for the future - SeaDream Innovation (concept superyacht).

The vessel (IMO number 8203438) is currently Bahamas- flagged (MMSI 308908000) and registered in Nassau .

History - construction and ownership

The 112-passenger ship SeaDream I is indistinguishable from the sistership SeaDream II . She was designed for independent, experienced travelers who dislike large ships with kids running around, and all the dressing up - ties are useless here. Inside SeaDream I, there is a feeling of discreet sophistication. The public rooms are elegant and chic, with potpourri and flowers everywhere.

Decks and Cabins

The superyacht SeaDream 2 has a total of 56 staterooms (all are Suites, in 4 grades) and max passenger capacity 112 (plus 100 staff-crew. Most are the Yacht Club Staterooms (54 total, sized 195 ft2 / 18 m2), of which 16x can be converted/connected into Commodore Suites (8 total, sized 390 ft2 / 36 m2).

The ship has no cabins with step-out balconies. The largest accommodations are the Owner Suite (445 ft2 / 41 m2) and Admiral Suite (375 ft2 / 35 m2).

Each stateroom features a marble bathroom (Bulgari bath amenities, plush cotton bathrobes, magnifying mirror, massage shower units), spacious living room, smart UHDTV, CD/DVD system, USB charging ports, Internet outlets, iPod stations, personalized stationeries. Refrigerators and mini-bars are stocked with soft drinks, beers, bottled spring water (all beverages are complimentary).

The boat has 6 decks , of which 5 are passenger-accessible and 3 with cabins.

Shipboard dining options - Food and Drinks

A delightful feature of SeaDream cruises in warm areas is the beach barbecue "caviar in the surf" (land BBQ dining experience). Another benefit is the drinks onboard, which except connoisseur wines and premium brands, are all free. All meals in the Dining Room are open seating, all the time. Breakfast is typically served at the ship's Topside Restaurant. Guests can choose from a small array of fruits, bread, cereals and yogurt at a mini-buffet. Hot dishes are ordered from a menu. Lunch is also served at the Topside, while dinner locales vary.

Shipboard entertainment options - Fun and Sport

SeaDream entertainment options include a Piano Bar, Main Lounge, Boutique, Promenade (on Deck 5), Spa, Gym, Beauty Salon, first-run movies, aft-sundeck's swimming pool and Jacuzzi/whirlpool. The main gathering places for passengers are the lounge, as well as the delightful library and living room. Have a night at the piano bar (also serves as a Karaoke Bar), or stay at the small casino with 5x slot machines and 2x blackjack tables. Complimentary to all tourists are provided snorkeling gear, kayaks, wakeboards, stand-up paddleboards, sailboats, jet skis, Hobie Cats (sailing catamarans), a banana boat, a floating island and a trampoline, as well as electric mountain bikes.

Both SeaDream yachts feature "Top of the Yacht" bars (added during the drydocks in 2001), along with the 8x alcoves set to the starboard and port sides of the Funnel/smokestack (equipped with padded two-person loungers). At the front part of the Sundeck, there are large hammocks, more sunloungers and 2x Jacuzzies (added during the drydock in 2022), as well as a Golf Simulator (with 30+ golf course choices) that doubles as Cinema/Theater.

The superyacht has 1 elevator (midship, interconnecting all decks but 1-CrewDeck and 6-Sundeck) and Infirmary/Medical Facility (hospital and pharmacy, served by a resident physician).

Itineraries

Traditionally for SeaDream yachts, SeaDream 1 itinerary program is based on Mediterranean voyages (homeporting in Civitavecchia-Rome , Venice , Piraeus-Athens , Istanbul Turkey ), as well as Caribbean voyages (mainly 7-days in length) with homeporting in Bridgetown Barbados .

The cruise ship is also open for private charters with custom-designed itineraries.

Following the Coronavirus crisis, both SeaDream yachts restarted operations in July 2021 (Europe/Mediterranean deployment). The Caribbean operations were restarted in November 2021, with SeaDream 2 from San Juan Puerto Rico (Nov 20) and SeaDream 1 from Bridgetown Barbados (Nov 26).

Photos of SeaDream I

SeaDream I ship related cruise news

SeaDream Yacht Club unveils exclusive Spring 2027 Caribbean Voyages

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SeaDream Yacht Club announces 2025-2026 Grand Voyage Collection

SeaDream Yacht Club, renowned for its two ultra-luxury megayachts, has announced its 2025 and 2026 Grand Voyage Collection. These extended voyages...

SeaDream Yacht Club achieves milestone in sustainability with shore power installation

With the installation of advanced shore power technology, both SeaDream yachts can now shut off their engines and reduce emissions to zero in ports...

SeaDream Yacht Club unveils Caribbean cruises 2026 autumn

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SeaDream Yacht Club expands Greek Isles itineraries with a 14-night B2B cruise

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SeaDream Yacht Club upgrades entire fleet with shore power connectivity

SeaDream Yacht Club is embarking on a fleet-wide enhancement by incorporating shore power connectivity. The integration of shoreside electricity...

SeaDream Yacht Club unveils 2026 Mediterranean voyages with new ports and longer (14-day...

SeaDream Yacht Club has unveiled its 2026 Mediterranean voyages, featuring 7 new ports of call and the introduction of the first-ever 14-day in-depth...

SeaDream Yacht Club launches 2026 Caribbean collection

SeaDream Yacht Club has unveiled its 2026 Caribbean collection, consisting of 33 distinct itineraries available on both SeaDream 1 and SeaDream...

SeaDream Yacht Club introduces Holiday 2025 Caribbean voyages

SeaDream Yacht Club has announced its 2025 holiday Caribbean season, offering travelers the opportunity to explore secluded destinations and visit...

SeaDream Cruises launches 2025 Caribbean, Mediterranean, Scandinavia/Northern Europe itineraries

SeaDream Yacht Club announced the opening of 2025 Caribbean, Mediterranean, Scandinavia & Northern Europe cruises on its newly renovated, 56...

•   show more news

Other SeaDream Yacht Club cruise ships

• SeaDream II

SeaDream I Wiki

SeaDream 1 cruise ship is the line's first of all 2 (for now) top luxury all-inclusive cruise yachts. Her sister in the fleet is the yacht Sea Dream 2 . The ship was built in 1984 and chartered to Sea Goddess Cruises (as "Sea Goddess I" between 1984-1998), as "Seabourn Goddess I" (to Cunard and Seabourn , between 1999-2001) and operated under its current name by the shipowner since 2001.

SeaDream 1 cruises in the Mediterranean (visiting islands and ports in Italy, Greece, Turkey, France / French Riviera , Spain, also the Black Sea) and in the Caribbean (during winter). Transatlantic cruise deals are offered seasonally on the yacht's the Atlantic Ocean repositioning crossings. Some of the itineraries can be combined into back-to-back cruise deals (longer, discount-priced voyages). While generally departures and call port times are pre-set, the Captain can modify the yacht's cruise schedule and adjust those times (even seaports) along the route - if that would please his guests. Also, while most Caribbean cruise ships depart from ports of call in late-afternoon, SeaDream 1 is often departing in late-evening - just to give its affluent guests the chance to enjoy the local restaurants or the nightlife. Many cruise itineraries additionally feature scheduled overnight stays in ports.

The yacht's passenger capacity is only 112 guests, making it perfect for cruise ship charters, that usually serve corporate business meetings, "rich family" reunions, celebrities' anniversaries at sea, etc. On such deals, the cruise itinerary route for the yacht's charter is determined by the booking party.

SeaDream 1 refurbishments review

In 2022 (January and May), SeaDream conducted a USD 10 million (EUR 8,8M) drydock refurbishment project for both yachts at Navalrocha Ship Repair Lisbon (Portugal).

Works included full-scale renovations of all staterooms (new furniture, hardware, textiles, wardrobes, electrical upgrades / USB charging ports, Wi-Fi, fingerprint sensor lights, 55-inch smart HDTVs), all outside deck spaces (premium teakwood flooring, premium mahogany Balinese beds and sun loungers, Loro Piana upholstery and cushions, Frette towels, TUUCI parasols and hammocks), upgraded cabin amenities (woven lines, silk pajamas, silver ice buckets, GioBagnara Miramar trays).

Forward on Deck 6 (Sundeck's sunbathing area) were installed 2x new Jacuzzies and 2x new rain showers.

The aft-located/stern Marina Platform was also upgraded.

Cruise Routes (Interactive Map)

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Russian River Cruises

• Find your cruise
• Moscow — St. Petersburg
• Moscow — Astrakhan
• Astrakhan — St. Petersburg
• St. Petersburg
• Cruise Highlights
• News & Travel Tips

Russia is again welcoming travelers!

• A negative PCR test is all that's needed to enter Russia
• Regular flights are now operating to / from Russia
• Visas can be issues quickly (Volga Dream provides your invitation)
• All Volga Dream personnel and guides are fully vacinated
• Bookings are transferable without penalty for 12 months
• Volga Dream arranges PCR-tests if needed for your outbound flight

Check our COVID-19 Policy page to learn more.

Lorem Ipsum

Luxurious river cruises in russia.

Explore authentic Russian cities. Enjoy premium service and engaging activities as you sail the Volga River.

2022 Cruise Season

Join our signature small group journeys and cruise in luxury along the Russian Volga river!

The Russian Odyssey

An extended 'South to North' view of Russia from Astrakhan to St. Petersburg through Moscow.

Explore Moscow, St. Petersburg and Russia’s Golden Ring in greater depth. Stay at gorgeous Four Seasons hotels. Enjoy special access to iconic cultural sites.

Lower Volga

Treat yourself to an unforgettable experience cruising the Volga river from Moscow to Astrakhan. The tour includes 2 nights in Moscow.

Find Your Cruise

Select destination Moscow — St. Petersburg Moscow — Astrakhan Astrakhan — St. Petersburg

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A Volga river cruise is more than a geographical voyage; it’s also a journey through Russia’s rich and captivating history. No other experience takes you so completely to another place and time. The Volga is Europe’s longest and largest river; it meanders through the stories of Ivan the Terrible and his rise to power, the two historic ‘Greats’ Peter and Catherine, and then on into today. It’s a unique opportunity to see modern Russia in the context of its intriguing history, ably assisted by friendly and professional academics and tour guides. A Volga Dream Russian river tour promises to leave you with an unforgettable afterglow of fond memories.

Moscow to St. Petersburg River Cruise

Moscow and St. Petersburg are Russia’s best-known cities, but the towns of Russia’s historic Golden Ring are delightful too. The luxurious Volga Dream offers a unique opportunity to visit these Russian gems by sailing gently along the Volga River on an unforgettable cruising experience. In small, exclusive groups you’ll enjoy preferential access to some of Russia’s most significant cultural sites.

Moscow to Astrakhan River Cruise

Your River Cruise on the luxurious MS Volga Dream takes you from Moscow along Russia’s grand Volga River to the legend that is Volgograd (formerly Stalingrad) and Astrakhan on the Caspian Sea. Along the way, you’ll discover the treasures of Yaroslavl, the oldest city on the Volga, medieval Nizhniy Novgorod and beautiful Kazan, the ancient Tatar capital. We plan our tour carefully to combine the very best of Moscow with a world-class Volga River cruise.

Discover Russia with MS Volga Dream - Click-through map

We love hearing from guests about their time in Russia and one comment often hear is how surprised people are by the Russian capital. We can’t say for certain what people expected but we do know that it’s always far removed from what they imagined! It’s been called a modern metropolis, a cosmopolitan city, an historic gem, an architectural treasure and a cultural powerhouse, among other descriptions. Majestic Moscow has always surprised our guests and left them with lasting and fond memories.

Russia’s famous Golden Ring is an archipelago of historic towns surrounding Moscow. Uglich is one of the oldest and was founded under Igor, the last Varangian prince. It once resisted the Mongol invasion and its ancient walls saw the grisly murder of young Dmitri, son of Ivan the Terrible. The impressive Church of St. Dmitri on the Blood, with its classic onion domes and blood red walls, is a fine example of classic Russian architecture. The tour ends with an enchanting choral concert.

This, the oldest city on the Volga River, and now a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts a wealth of ancient orthodox treasures. The impressive Transfiguration of the Savior, adorned with murals depicting St. John’s apocalyptic visions can be seen in the Spassky Monastery. The Church of St. Elijah the Prophet is decorated with an awe-inspiring selection of rich frescoes. For a real taste of pre-revolutionary Russia, visitors are entertained by a costumed reception at the Governor’s House.

Close to the shores of White Lake once were the ‘tsar’s fishing grounds’. It lies in a place so serene that ancient monks chose to build no fewer than three holy sites here, including the Ferapontov Monastery. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, its chapels boast magnificent frescoes by Dionysius, one of Russia’s most renowned icon painters. The Kirillo-Belozersky Monastery was a refuge for many nobles during tumultuous times and later a fortress that successfully repelled invading armies.

The Karelia region is a vast and naturally beautiful wilderness that spreads all the way from St. Petersburg to the Arctic Circle. The glorious island village of Kizhi consists almost entirely of the traditionally styled wooden buildings of ‘Old Russia’. Among them is the famous Transfiguration Church built in 1714. Remarkably, and in testament to the craftsmen of the time, not a single nail was used in its construction! Kizhi is one of the favorite stops on the river cruise to St. Petersburg.

A typical rural hamlet brought to life by warm and welcoming villagers. Volga Dream guests are invited into local homes to enjoy classic Russian fare, tea with jam and ‘pirozhki’ (pies). Enthusiastic hosts share Russian traditions and the appeal of village life while proudly showing off their scrupulously kept homes and kitchen gardens. The tour continues with a brief bus ride to see a unique World War II memorial and then, for a real glimpse of Russian life, a visit to a local primary school.

Nizhny Novgorod

This was once a wealthy city thanks to its proximity to rich eastern trading routes. During the Soviet era, the city was closed to outsiders because of its military importance. It’s also where many political prisoners were sent to live out their days in exile. The 16th-century Kremlin ramparts offer spectacular views and the city is known for its elaborately decorated churches. For Volga Dream cruise guests, the highlight of the day is an evening folk concert performed by local children.

Sailing along the Volga river, the riverbank gradually ceases to be dominated by Orthodox churches. Instead, beautiful mosques appear as the river crosses into Tatarstan where the first stop is scenic Kazan, the region’s capital. Inside the white walls of the citadel, the famous Kul Sharif mosque and the old Cathedral of Peter and Paul stand side-by-side symbolizing the two faiths’ long and peaceful coexistence in the region. A concert of traditional Tatar music ends the Volga Dream tour in Kazan.

Passing the Zhigulevskie Mountains offers wonderful views from the sundeck before touring the city. One of the key attractions is the fascinating Space Museum, which offers a revealing glimpse of how the Soviet Union pursued its ambitious journey to the cosmos. The town is also noted for its beautiful esplanade, perfect for a relaxed stroll beside the Volga river. This in turn leads to the Samara State Art Museum. Founded in 1897, it is home to a collection of more than 16,000 works of art.

This city is best known for its close associations with cosmonaut, Yuri Gagarin. The Russian hero who achieved worldwide fame as the first man in space lived and studied here. Saratov used to be home to a large German community, a heritage that can still be seen in the local architecture. The Volga Dream tour visits the Radishchev State Art Museum, the first picture gallery in Russia outside Moscow and St. Petersburg.

Originally called Tsaritsyn, the city was renamed Stalingrad from 1925 to 1961 in honor of the USSR’s leader. During World War II, the city’s residents put up a heroic defense, repelling an advancing Nazi invasion. The battle for Stalingrad has gone down in history as a pivotal moment in the bloody conflict on the eastern front. The most ferocious and deadly fighting took place on Mamayev Hill, where an imposing memorial now stands close to the excellent Battle of Stalingrad Panorama Museum.

Saint Petersburg

If Moscow surprises, then St Petersburg delights. Peter the Great founded the city to showcase Russia’s newfound enlightenment. He wanted to show the modern world a cultured and advanced society. In short, he built the city to impress and in that he succeeded splendidly! The striking buildings were designed by some of the finest architects Europe had to offer and even now, the ‘Venice of the North’ never fails to enchant with its spectacular buildings and impressive canal network. It is a city of true grandeur.

Cocktails with the Captain

Commanding any ship is a complex role that calls for a long list of skills. Captains know their vessels inside out as well as well as the routes they sail and when things don’t go to plan, they have to make instant decisions. Above all though, the most important part of the job, underpinning everything they do, is to keep the ship and everyone aboard safe. The Captain’s cocktail party is a great and a wonderful opportunity for passengers and crew to get acquainted as the gets underway.

Matryoshka doll painting

There is nothing more typically Russian than a Matryoshka. It embodies the fact that there’s always something deeper to be found in every aspect of Russian life. Learning the traditional designs and techniques used to decorate these iconic dolls offers a pleasant diversion and some cathartic creativity!

Superb Service & Dining

Our restaurant serves the highest standard of international cuisine, freshly made by our Cordon Bleu Chef. Choose either a sumptuous buffet or set menu for lunch while dinner is always four or five courses with full service. High praise for the exquisite quality of meals is yet another constantly recurring feature in feedback from our guests.

Meet the Professor

From the Mongol hordes to Soviet times, Russia’s history is, like all of Europe’s, a complex web of political intrigue, war and peace, trade and treaties, as well as heroes and villains. Academics devote whole lifetimes to studying Russia’s long past and one of them presents a series of lectures shedding light on everything from Gorbachev to Chekhov, Khrushchev to Ivan the Terrible and of course, contemporary Russia. Our Professor is on board throughout the river cruise for informal conversation.

Beginner’s Russian

The Russian language can be rather beautiful and poetic and we know that many seasoned travelers enjoy trying their hand at different languages. Our onboard teachers provide an introduction to the riches of Russian, so guests can try out a few useful words and phrases on real Russians during the exciting river tours from Moscow to St. Petersburg or from Moscow to Volgograd!

Russian tea tasting

The drink we tend to associate with Russia is vodka, but tea, in fact, is the much more universal beverage of choice throughout the country. Guests will get acquainted with the Russian tea etiquette, a fundamental component of the country's social culture, and enjoy the traditional tea ceremony while cruising from St. Petersburg to Moscow or taking a Grand Volga river tour.

Russian Dinner & Vodka Tasting

All our dining is international but for Russian Dining night, the Chef includes a selection of traditional Russian dishes: Chicken Kiev, Kulebyaka and no Russian table is complete without Borsch. To add to the ‘Taste of Russia’ optional Russian dress, or at least a touch of Russian style, is provided along with enthusiastic help from our staff!

Russian Cooking Class

A plate of pelmeni might not look like much to the untrained eye, but it forms the heart of Russian cuisine and culture. Basically, it's a type of dumpling: small portions of meat and onion wrapped in a thin sheet of unleavened dough and boiled, a little like ravioli. Guests can join a Russian cooking class onboard the MS Volga Dream to learn how to cook this delicious Russian dish.

Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninov Piano Recital

Some of the greatest classical music ever written comes from Russia. It’s hard to imagine a more fitting stage for a virtuoso solo recital by our resident concert pianist than the mighty Volga or a better backdrop than the heart of Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninov’s own serene homeland.

Russian River Cruise Aboard Volga Dream

Moscow to St. Petersburg

Why Volga Dream

Family Owned & Operated

MS Volga Dream is Russia’s only family-owned river cruise ship. She can accommodate up to 100 guests, far fewer than most other cruise ships on the river making for a uniquely friendly and intimate atmosphere aboard.

Five-Star Central Hotels

We at Volga Dream are completely convinced that, our guests should stay in great 5-star hotels in Moscow and St. Petersburg within comfortable walking distance of all the major attractions, theaters and restaurants, rather than having to waste time in traffic.

Luxurious Accommodation

The MS Volga Dream is the most intimate and elegant 5-star cruise vessel in Russia. She boasts 56 cabins, all river facing, ranging from comfortable Standard Cabins to spacious Junior Suites and the luxurious forward facing Owner's Suite.

Russian Cultural Experience

Explore Russia's past with the help of professional tour guides. Our on-board program includes fascinating talks on Russian history and politics, Russian language lessons, a festival of Russian cuisine (including vodka tasting!), and much more.

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Our on board restaurant serves international cuisine to the highest standard, all freshly made by our Cordon Bleu Chef. For Russian Dining night, he prepares a selection of traditional Russian dishes: Chicken Kiev, Kulebyaka and Borsch.

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All our service crew members are native Russians who are fluent in English and handpicked by the Owner. Proudly, the Volga Dream is famous for her hard working and very hospitable personnel who take care of every aspect of your life aboard.

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Best transatlantic cruises for 2024 and 2025, plus tips and what to expect

A transatlantic cruise ranks high on many travelers' bucket lists, especially those who love the camaraderie and adventure of a voyage by ship. Today's roughly 4,000-nautical-mile transatlantic crossing is more akin to the preaviation "Grand Tour" wealthy Americans once enjoyed than the immigration journeys many of our European ancestors made from the 17th to early 20th centuries.

Leisurely and luxurious, a one-way sailing offers fine dining, wellness-oriented pampering, enlightening lectures, glamorous nightlife and plenty of time to relax. Transatlantic cruises are also a solution for travelers who prefer not to fly and a tempting option for cruise lovers seeking a longer itinerary at an affordable price.

Is a transatlantic cruise right for everyone? Not necessarily, especially for anyone prone to moderate to severe sea sickness. However, for those who love sea days — and many cruisers do — a crossing can offer an uninterrupted "floating resort" experience; plus, it provides the added bonus of delivering you to Europe or returning you home without a cramped transatlantic flight.

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Here's everything you need to know about cruising the Atlantic — plus a selection of the best transatlantic cruises you can book in 2024 and 2025.

Which cruise lines offer transatlantic crossings?

While Cunard is most famous for its weekly crossings between Southampton, England, and New York City — which sail from April to December on its ocean liner Queen Mary 2 — pretty much every major cruise line offers transatlantic crossings.

These generally occur in the spring (late March to early May) and fall (September to November). In the spring, ships are repositioned from the Caribbean to Europe, and in the fall, vessels sail from Europe to the U.S. to begin Canada-New England and Caribbean itineraries.

Also known as repositioning cruises , these sailings are usually longer than a traditional crossing and often include several port calls beyond the city of embarkation and disembarkation.

Even better, cruise fares for these itineraries are typically one-third to one-half the price of a cruise of the same length that visits a new port daily. This makes them a great deal for travelers looking to settle into shipboard life rather than just sightsee.

These types of transatlantic/repositioning itineraries are offered by Azamara, Carnival, Celebrity, Disney, Holland America, MSC, Norwegian, Oceania, Regent, Royal Caribbean, Princess, Seabourn, SeaDream Yacht Club, Silversea, Star Clippers, Windstar, Viking and Virgin.

When is the best time of year for transatlantic cruises?

The best time to take a transatlantic cruise depends on what you're looking for: great weather, smooth seas, the best price or specific ports of call.

Generally speaking, May, June and July are recommended for warmer weather and gentler seas — before the Atlantic hurricane season peaks in August, September and October — although storms can arise any time of the year.

March, April and November — while not ideal due to cooler temperatures that can limit on-deck and poolside enjoyment — are a good option and a terrific value. This is especially true if the ship's route is a southerly one between Florida and the Mediterranean rather than between northern Europe and New York.

As noted above, the best prices are generally in spring and fall for repositioning cruises. These itineraries might also visit several appealing ports in the Mediterranean or Caribbean as well as call on the Azores, Madeira, Canary Islands, Iceland or Bermuda in the Atlantic.

Related: Why I was wrong about transatlantic cruises

How long does the crossing take?

It varies. The classic nonstop transatlantic itinerary aboard Queen Mary 2 is a seven-night voyage between New York and Southampton (and vice versa). On the other hand, transatlantic repositioning cruises generally range in length from 11 to 21 nights, with an average of 14 nights (seven or eight of them typically sea days).

Will the seas be rough?

It's up to Mother Nature. At times, the Atlantic can be smooth sailing, even in spring and fall. Yet unpredictable wind and water current patterns can create rough seas seemingly out of nowhere any time of year.

Captains can generally maneuver around storms — and try to do so whenever possible for the comfort of all onboard. Additionally, modern cruise ships are equipped with stabilizers that reduce a ship's rolling motion due to wind or waves.

However, if you're even slightly prone to seasickness, don't throw caution to the wind. You'll be better off on a larger ship (pick a midship cabin on a lower deck); also, be sure to pack medication, patches, bands or whatever works best for you. While it might seem counterintuitive, having a window or balcony actually helps offset seasickness since it offers fresh air and a horizon view. If you're concerned, opt for an ocean-view or balcony cabin over an inside one.

Which side of the ship is best for a transatlantic crossing?

It honestly doesn't make much difference whether you book a cabin on the port (left) or starboard (right) side of the ship since most daytime views will be of the ocean. However, if you're departing from a Mediterranean port, say Rome or Barcelona, for a southerly crossing, book a starboard cabin; this might offer a view of the Rock of Gibraltar if your ship transits between the Mediterranean and the Atlantic during daylight hours. For a U.S.-to-Europe eastward crossing, you'd want the opposite — a port-side cabin.

Similarly, if your crossing takes you from northern Europe on a northerly route to the U.S., and you want to be among the first to spot land (perhaps Greenland or Newfoundland), book a starboard cabin. If you are cruising into New York Harbor just before dawn and want to see the Statue of Liberty from your cabin, book on the port side.

More important for an Atlantic crossing location-wise is your cabin's deck number and whether the cabin is situated forward, midship or aft. Generally, the ship's movement through rough seas will feel less severe if your cabin is midship and on one of the lower or middle decks versus the top-most decks.

Related: The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship

Which ports do transatlantic cruises visit?

Where you embark and disembark will determine your route and the ports you potentially call on. Ships repositioning to or from the Baltic Sea and the British Isles generally take a northerly route. Vessels sailing from the Mediterranean cross on a more southerly route, especially if they are repositioning to or from a winter home port in Florida.

On a northerly crossing, you can expect to embark in a port such as Copenhagen; Rotterdam, Netherlands; Southampton or New York. Depending on the length of the cruise, expect to call on ports in Ireland (Dublin or Cork), Iceland (Reykjavik), Greenland (Qaqortoq or Nuuk), Atlantic Canada (St. John's in Newfoundland, or Sydney or Halifax in Nova Scotia) and Bermuda (King's Wharf).

On a southerly crossing between Barcelona or Rome in the Mediterranean and Miami or Fort Lauderdale, typical ports of call include Madeira; Grand Canary or Tenerife in the Canary Islands; Ponta Delgada in the Azores; and one or two islands in the Caribbean, such as St. Maarten or Puerto Rico.

Is it better to book an eastbound or westbound cruise?

Which direction you book really depends on whether you're aboard for the experience or you're using the crossing as a substitute for a flight to reach the other side of the ocean. Below are a few factors to keep in mind.

Aside from Queen Mary 2 crossings, westbound transatlantic repositioning cruises (from Europe to the U.S.) take place in the fall during the Atlantic hurricane season; some are also scheduled for mid-to-late November when storm formation has generally diminished. Eastbound cruises (from the U.S. to Europe) happen in spring, a season also often known for periods of gray skies and rain.

When considering westbound versus eastbound crossings, factor in the time change. While a transatlantic cruise is a terrific way to avoid the jet lag caused by flying across multiple time zones in a single day, you will be subject to almost daily reminders to reset your clock.

On westbound cruises, you'll have to set your clock back at night, thus gaining an extra hour of sleep on most days. On eastbound cruises, you'll set it ahead an hour and lose an hour of leisure time or sleep.

Another factor to keep in mind is that unless you plan to return home on another transatlantic cruise, you'll also need to book a one-way flight. Before committing to a specific eastbound or westbound itinerary, always check your flight options. One-way tickets are sometimes more expensive than round-trip fares.

Best transatlantic cruises for 2024 and 2025

There are dozens of opportunities to cross the Atlantic by cruise ship, but here are some of the best itineraries available in the next two years.

Cunard's Queen Mary 2

• Transatlantic crossings: September through December 2024 and 2025

There's nothing quite like it. Cunard 's weekly transatlantic crossing between New York and Southampton aboard the 2,691-passenger Queen Mary 2 celebrates the grand age of ocean liners with a level of pomp and ceremony that appeals to Cunard loyalists, bucket-listers and memory-making couples or families celebrating a milestone anniversary or birthday.

These eight-night eastbound and six-night westbound voyages are all about the sea. There are interludes of culinary enjoyment and evening entertainment designed for travelers who appreciate formality and glamor.

A typical day might include time in the library perusing the largest book collection at sea, getting an illuminating astronomy lesson in the onboard planetarium and enjoying traditional afternoon tea.

The evening lineup generally starts with a multicourse dinner (same table and same waiter nightly) followed by a Broadway-inspired show, an abridged Shakespeare play or even a magic act. The ship is also famous for its Gala Evenings, capped off with Champagne sipping and dancing to a live orchestra. Yes, pack those ballgowns and tuxes.

Cruise fares start at $1,818 per person for an inside cabin and $2,238 per person for a balcony room.

Virgin Voyages' Scarlet Lady

• 16-night Rome to Miami: Nov. 28-Dec. 14, 2024
• 15-night Miami to Casablanca and Barcelona cruises: May 3-18, 2025

Virgin Voyages ' 2,770-passenger Scarlet Lady has an onboard ambience that rivals a youthful beach club. Passengers and crew will keep the party going day and night this fall on a 16-night Rome to Miami transatlantic sailing . The sailing has calls on Barcelona and Malaga in Spain; Funchal on the island of Madeira; and Santa Cruz de Tenerife in the Canary Islands.

Or party in reverse on the ship's 15-night Miami to Casablanca and Barcelona crossing in May 2025. It stops in Grand Canary and Santa Cruz de Tenerife; Casablanca, Morocco; and Barcelona.

The ship's 20 excellent dining venues, cutting-edge entertainment (campy and a bit naughty — think Drag Queen Bingo), an impressive lineup of wellness classes (from yoga at sunrise to On-the-Upswing Bungee Aerobics) and fun activities ('90s Boy Band Dance Class, anyone?) provide plenty of ways to pass the time.

Cruise fares start at $3,326 per cabin (or less than $1,700 per person) for the Rome-to-Miami sailing and $3,976 per cabin (or around $1,988 per person) for the Miami-to-Barcelona sailing.

Disney Cruise Line's Disney Dream and Fantasy

• 13-night eastbound transatlantic cruise: May 4-17, 2025
• 13-night westbound transatlantic cruise: Oct. 20-Nov. 2, 2024 and 2025

Certain Disney fans — namely childless adult couples and empty nesters — love the brand's storytelling and Imagineering but prefer not to share a two-week cruise with hundreds of kids and teens. These 13-night eastbound and westbound crossings from Port Canaveral to Barcelona and from Southampton to Port Canaveral aboard 2,500-passenger Disney Dream or 4,000-passenger Disney Fantasy offer a solution to that dilemma.

Each of these transatlantic cruises occurs when almost everyone ages 5 to 18 is still in school. Yes, some kids will likely be on board, but certainly not in overwhelming numbers.

These crossings feature nine to 11 sea days during which Disney Cruise Line offers all kinds of immersive entertainment, excellent onboard dining and a southerly route in spring that means plenty of pool time. On top of that, each sailing includes a mix of culturally rich ports.

On the eastbound crossing, they are Ponta Delgada and Lisbon, Portugal; and Cadiz, Cartagena and Barcelona, Spain. On the westbound crossing, the ports are Ponta Delgada and the new Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.

Eastbound fares for balcony cabins start at $4,937 for two adults (or just under $2,500 per person). Westbound fares start at $5,360 for an inside cabin (about $2,680 per person).

Related: 5 reasons why Disney cruises aren't just for kids

Holland America's Nieuw Statendam

• 28-night Adriatic Crossing: Stromboli, Andalusia & Azores: Nov. 1-29, 2025

For a shoulder-season meander through the Adriatic and Mediterranean followed by a transatlantic crossing, Holland America 's 28-night Adriatic Crossing: Stromboli, Andalusia & Azores visits 14 ports in eight countries. This makes it a true hybrid of an ocean crossing and a traditional cruise.

The sailing, aboard the 3,665-passenger Nieuw Statendam, departs from Athens and visits ports in Greece, Croatia, Montenegro, Italy, Albania, Spain and Portugal before arriving in Fort Lauderdale. Of the 12 sea days, two include scenic cruising.

The voyage takes place in November, so expect temperatures to be on the cooler side in most ports and during the crossing. It's a good thing, then, that Nieuw Statendam has an indoor pool with a retractable roof. Holland America passengers, mostly older retirees, can also pass the time dining at each of the 10 onboard restaurants and enjoy entertainment that includes live bands at the B.B. King's Blues Club and Rolling Stone Rock Room.

At $3,249 per person for an inside cabin and $4,699 per person for a balcony cabin, fares are a great deal for a four-week sailing.

Celebrity Cruises' Celebrity Ascent and Celebrity Apex

• 13-night Italy and Bermuda transatlantic: Oct. 31-Nov. 13, 2025
• 13-night Bermuda and Portugal transatlantic: March 8-21, 2025

Celebrity Cruises ' Italy and Bermuda transatlantic sailing from Rome to Fort Lauderdale offers 13 nights aboard its newest ship, Celebrity Ascent. The sailing features port calls in Cagliari, Sardinia; Gibraltar; and Bermuda, along with nine sea days.

Accommodating 3,260 passengers, Celebrity Ascent is a megaship designed with adults in mind. On board, you'll find multiple hot tubs but no waterslides, contemporary decor, 32 sophisticated food and beverage venues (including Voyages, Daniel Boulud's restaurant at sea, bookable at extra cost), an indoor solarium pool, a glittering Grand Plaza housing the line's signature Martini Bar, and nightly entertainment ranging from high-tech theater productions to multisensory events in Eden.

Inside cabin fares start at $1,147 per person, and balcony cabin fares at $1,335 per person.

If you prefer to cross the Atlantic in spring 2025, take sister Edge Class ship Celebrity Apex , which carries 2,910 passengers. It will sail a 13-night Bermuda and Portugal transatlantic cruise from Fort Lauderdale to Barcelona with port calls at Bermuda's Royal Naval Dockyard; Ponta Delgada; and Valencia.

Inside cabins for that cruise start at $910 per person, and balcony rooms start at $1,163 per person.

Viking's Viking Mars

• 20-night Atlantic and Mediterranean Horizons: March 27-April 16, 2025

Passengers aboard Viking Mars for its 20-night Atlantic and Mediterranean Horizons sailing from Fort Lauderdale to Rome will meander through the Caribbean to the French-Dutch island of St. Martin/St. Maarten. They will spend six days crossing the Atlantic and call on Madeira and then overnight in Barcelona. Then, they will visit the French ports of Sete and Marseille, followed by Monte Carlo, Monaco, and another overnight in Livorno, Italy (gateway to Florence).

The 930-passenger Viking Mars is an adults-only ship featuring a sleek Scandinavian design. Guests can enjoy elevated (and complimentary) dining in eight venues, as well as daily activities that include lectures by guest speakers and resident historians. ( Viking bills itself as "the thinking person's cruise.")

They will also get unlimited access to the thermal suite at the Liv Nordic Spa, a main pool with a retractable roof (there's also an aft infinity pool and hot tub), and complimentary beer and wine with lunch and dinner.

Deluxe balcony cabins start at $8,698 per person (basic balcony cabins are currently sold out).

Princess Cruises' Sky Princess

• 27-night Moroccan and Iberian Grand Adventure: March 9-April 5, 2025

To snag an excellent deal on an almost month-long journey, check out the 27-night Morocco and Iberian Grand Adventure . It sails from Fort Lauderdale to Southampton aboard the 3,660-passenger Sky Princess. Princess Cruises guests will enjoy a southerly spring crossing that culminates with visits to 10 ports in four countries (Portugal, Morocco, Spain and England) — including Madeira, three Canary Islands and Casablanca.

Sky Princess , which debuted in 2019, is a Royal Class ship featuring three pools, a glittering Italian-style Piazza (home to Alfredo's Pizzeria — some of the best pizza at sea), four specialty dining venues (at an extra cost), poolside Movies Under the Stars and original production shows in the Princess Theater.

Inside cabins start at $2,746 per person, and balcony cabins at $4,126 per person.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Princess Cruises ship

Regent Seven Seas Cruises' Seven Seas Splendor

• 14-night Cape Town to Rio de Janeiro: Jan. 5-19, 2025

If crossing the southern Atlantic Ocean from Africa to South America on a small luxury cruise ship is on your bucket list, consider Regent Seven Seas Cruises ' early 2025 Cape Town to Rio de Janeiro sailing.

While not a bargain by any means, this 14-night itinerary aboard the 750-passenger, all-suite Seven Seas Splendor is all-inclusive. Business-class airfare, transfers, top-notch cuisine, unlimited beverages, gratuities, Wi-Fi and most shore excursions are all included in the fare.

Start by taking in the scenic beauty of Namibia, with a port call in Luderitz, known for its colorful colonial architecture. Another call is Walvis Bay, where the ship will overnight. Here, you'll get a chance to experience the country's dramatic sand dunes and resident flamingos. Then, as you cross the Atlantic, you'll visit the remote island of St. Helena, where Napoleon died in exile, before continuing on to an overnight stay in Rio de Janeiro ahead of disembarkation.

All-inclusive fares start at $12,949 per person for a suite with a balcony.

Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Prima

• 16-night Transatlantic (Italy, France and Spain): Nov. 7-23, 2024

Board in Rome and tour the Mediterranean in the shoulder season before crossing the Atlantic to New York on a November 2024 Norwegian Cruise Line cruise. The Transatlantic (Italy, France and Spain) sailing aboard Norwegian Prima visits Livorno (for Pisa and Florence); Cannes, France; Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca, Alicante, Malaga and Cadiz, Spain; Lisbon, Portugal; and Ponta Delgada. You'll spend six days at sea.

The 3,099-passenger Norwegian Prima , which debuted in 2022, features 14 restaurants (six included and eight specialty options for an added fee) and 19 bars and lounges. It also sports a three-level go-kart racetrack and virtual-reality gaming. Entertainment options include "Summer: The Donna Summer Musical," stand-up comedy at The Improv at Sea and a rock cover band in Syd Norman's Pour House.

Inside cabins start at $1,421 per person, and balcony cabins at $2,101 per person.

Silversea Cruises' Silver Ray

• 25-night Rome to Fort Lauderdale: Nov. 7-Dec. 2, 2025

Plan ahead to score a suite on the 25-night Rome to Fort Lauderdale transatlantic crossing in late 2025 aboard Silversea Cruises ' newest all-suite luxury ship, Silver Ray .

Not only is the price all-inclusive, but the 728-passenger ship will visit 11 ports in five countries. You'll experience Livorno; Monte Carlo, Monaco; Marseille; Valencia, Barcelona (overnight), Palma de Mallorca, Malaga and Cadiz, Spain; and Lisbon and Madeira. Then, you'll cross the Atlantic and spend an overnight in Hamilton, Bermuda, before disembarking in Fort Lauderdale.

Silver Ray is Silversea's second Nova Class ship. It features spacious suites and inviting exterior and interior spaces perfect for late-season Mediterranean cruising and a cool-weather transatlantic crossing. Its culinary-focused S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste) program tempts tastebuds with region- and port-inspired menus, cooking classes and cocktails.

All-inclusive, door-to-door fares — which include economy-class flights, transfers, complimentary beverages and gourmet dining, butler service, gratuities and select shore excursions — start at $13,100 per person for Classic Veranda Suite.

Bottom line

No matter your reason for considering a transatlantic cruise, you're guaranteed to experience the secret magic of sea days, with ample time to relax and unwind. With no land in sight for roughly a week, you can enjoy the ship's amenities without feeling rushed.

Make new friends over coffee or a game of bridge, watch movies in your cabin, learn more about the world during lectures by onboard experts, or treat yourself to rejuvenating massages and facials in the spa.

Even better, per-night rates are typically lower on crossings than on round-trip, port-intensive cruises. So, you can enjoy a longer sailing at a fraction of the usual cost. No matter which transatlantic cruise you deem best for your travel style and interests, it will surely be a memorable bucket-list trip.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

What will the Woodward Dream Cruise of the future look like?

A ug. 16—As electric motors replace gas-powered engines on vehicles, what will the Woodward Dream Cruise look like in 20 to 30 years?

Car experts believe one thing will remain the same: The more rare a vehicle is, the more it will turn heads on Woodward Avenue.

With few exceptions, 2023 is the last year that Stellantis will manufacture and sell gas-powered Dodge Challengers and Chargers.

Eric Stafford, senior editor of Car & Driver magazine, predicts those muscle cars will be ones to watch in as little as five to 10 years.

What else will be a classic?

Car enthusiasts love driving manual transmissions, but they're hard to find on newer models. Anything with that feature will be popular at the cruise of the future, he said.

Similarly, many automakers are phasing out production of V8 engines in favor of smaller, more fuel-efficient ones. So, any vehicle with a V8 will be sought after as well, Stafford said.

What about the dream cruise itself? Will it become a thing of the past?

Experts say no.

"It's still going to be a thing. People will always love their cars," said Matt Anderson, curator of transportation at The Henry Ford in Dearborn, which operates Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation and Greenfield Village.

"As long as there are teenagers, there will be a Dream Cruise," he said, noting that older car enthusiasts often buy the vehicles they couldn't afford as teenagers.

"They'll feel like they're a teenager again" when they get to drive that car, he said.

In the future, the event will feature fewer cars from the 1950s, '60s and '70s and more models from the '90s and 2000s, Anderson said.

The impending changes in the auto industry come with worry for some that the fun of driving will be gone.

Not so, experts say.

"I can hear the grumbling already" about the transition to electric vehicles, said Jerry Cuper, a classic car enthusiast and adjunct faculty member in engineering technology at Lawrence Technological University in Southfield.

"But they are fast as hell," he said.

Cuper has taught at LTU for 46 years; most of his students work in the auto industry after graduation, where they are the "problem solvers" of vehicle production, he said.

A complete changeover to EVs is not imminent, he said, as there are still bugs to work out, especially when it comes to charging stations.

There will always be gas-powered vehicles, experts say.

"I think all those cars from the 1960s and 1970s that were fun to drive, they're not going away," Stafford said.

Experts agree that car enthusiasts are going to miss the throaty sounds that gas-powered muscle cars make, letting everyone know of their presence. But the auto industry has taken care of that, Stafford said.

The new electric Dodge Charger has features added that mimic the noise of a gas-powered model to enhance the driver's experience. Manufacturers are even making some electric models that create external noise so the people on the street can hear it.

Cars of the future could bring another change that isn't as easy to overcome, experts say.

Many enthusiasts derive great pleasure from working on their own vehicles. As they become more advanced, it will be more difficult for a lay person to refurbish, repair and maintain them, experts say.

The car of the future will be more like a computer, said Terry Connolly, chairman of the board at the new Pontiac Transportation Museum and a former General Motors engineer.

"It's a little harder to love your computer," he said.

Originally Published: August 16, 2024 at 8:01 a.m.

(c)2024 The Oakland Press, Sterling Heights, Mich. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

President Volodymyr Zelensky says Ukrainian troops are advancing deeper into Russia's Kursk region as part of a surprise incursion launched nine days ago

He says a military administration is being set up in the settlement of Sudzha

This comes as a UK source confirms to the BBC that British Challenger 2 tanks have been used in Ukraine's incursion into Russia

Meanwhile, Russia's defence minister says he is overseeing plans to "safeguard the border population", including by allocating more forces to the area

Moscow has insisted that it is pushing Ukrainian troops back, and claims to have retaken a settlement in the Kursk region

Live Reporting

Edited by Nathan Williams and Sophie Abdulla

What's happened today? published at 18:50 British Summer Time 15 August 18:50 BST 15 August

• A UK source has confirmed to the BBC that UK-donated Challenger 2 tanks have been used by Ukraine as part of its surprise incursion into Russia. The department reiterated that Ukraine had "a clear right" to use UK-supplied weapons to defend itself
• The policy means anti-tank missiles, artillery, armoured vehicles and other UK-donated weapons could be used during Ukraine's offensive. However, there is an exception for the UK's Storm Shadow missiles
• Meanwhile, President Zelensky says Ukrainian troops continue advancing deeper into Russia’s Kursk region as part of a surprise incursion, claiming "more than 80" settlements there were now under Ukrainian control
• A Ukrainian military administration was being set up in the biggest one of them - Sudzha - Zelensky said
• And in a post on Telegram, the Russian Ministry of Defence says a coordinating council has been set up to deal with military security in Russia’s Belgorod, Bryansk and Kursk regions

Today's live coverage has now closed - read the latest in our main story here .

Russian Ministry of Defence says 'coordinating council' established published at 18:22 British Summer Time 15 August 18:22 BST 15 August

In a post on Telegram, the Russian Ministry of Defence says a coordinating council has been set up to deal with military security in Russia’s Belgorod, Bryansk and Kursk regions, all of which border Ukraine.

The decision was announced by defence minister Andrei Belousov at a special meeting on border security, following Ukraine’s surprise incursion.

“Its purpose is to improve the efficiency of comprehensive support of the groups of forces, solving the tasks of protecting the state border, protection of the territory and population of the regions,” Belousov was quoted as telling the meeting.

In pictures: Evacuations from Russia's Belgorod region published at 18:08 British Summer Time 15 August 18:08 BST 15 August

As we previously reported, a federal level emergency has been declared in Russia's Belgorod region .

Belgorod is next to the Kursk region, where Ukrainian forces crossed into Russia - an incursion that started over a week ago.

On Monday, 11,000 people were evacuated from the Krasnaya Yaruga district, according to the Russian state news agency TASS.

Images show Russian citizens arriving at a railway station to travel to temporary accommodation centres in the Nevinnomyssk, Mineralnye Vody and Shpakovsky municipalities.

Ukrainian residents urged to evacuate eastern town as Russia closes in published at 17:37 British Summer Time 15 August 17:37 BST 15 August

Seven people were killed in August 2023 when the eastern Ukrainian town of Pokrovski was shelled by Russian forces

Back in Ukraine residents, especially families are being urged to leave the Ukrainian-held town of Pokrovsk as Russian forces in the Donetsk region close in.

According to Ukrainian media, the head of the region's Pokrovsk military administration Serhiy Dobryak says the "enemy has almost reached the edge of our community".

Russian forces are "a bit more than 10km from the outskirts of Pokrovsk city", Dobryak says, adding that the "community and city were shelled", with critical private and residential infrastructure targeted.

"People are dying. So I am calling on you not to procrastinate and to evacuate. This particularly concerns families with children and the elderly."

Pokrovsk - about 70km (43 miles) north-west of Russian-held Donetsk city - has been the epicentre of intense fighting for months with Russian forces edging forward since October 2023.

Is Ukraine overplaying its hand? published at 17:15 British Summer Time 15 August 17:15 BST 15 August

With each day that Ukrainian forces remain inside Russia the risk increases that they could, conceivably, find themselves overwhelmed by superior force of numbers.

"The Russian army tends to move slowly," says a senior British defence source, "but once it cranks into gear it presents a sizable force."

Ukraine is critically short of manpower in this war and it certainly can't afford to lose some of its best remaining combat troops who have carried out this incursion so skilfully.

"The moment the Russians start redeploying some of their best troops in size to tackle this incursion, "says another senior British defence source, "that's the moment the Ukrainians need to withdraw back across the border."

Military experts reckon that after some early successes, Ukraine has made a number of costly strategic mistakes in the war.

Sacrificing so many of its best troops in the ultimately failed defence of Bakhmut and Avdievka in easter Ukraine has been a terrible blow.

Some go further, accusing President Zelensky of a disastrous error of judgement in not mobilising more of his country’s young men from the start. "This is a war of survival for Ukraine," said one.

"Delaying conscription is not a luxury it has."

Latest updates on Ukraine's Russian incursion published at 16:55 British Summer Time 15 August 16:55 BST 15 August

• President Zelensky says Ukrainian forces have taken full control of the Russian town of Sudzha - and set up a military administration there
• Ukraine's top commander says its troops are 35 km inside Russia's Kursk region, where they control 1,150 sq km of territory , including 82 settlements
• This comes as a source has told the BBC that British tanks have been used during Ukraine's incursion into Russian territory
• Russia defence minister says he is personally overseeing plans to "safeguard" the population on the border , including by sending more troops the region
• The UN's Human Rights Office says it has asked Moscow for access to Russian border areas affected by a cross-border attack by Ukrainian forces

You can read this morning's updates here , including the confirmation from the UK Ministry of Defence that Ukraine can use British weapons on Russian soil - except long-range Storm Shadow missiles.

Ukrainian military administration being set up in Sudzha - Zelensky published at 16:28 British Summer Time 15 August 16:28 BST 15 August

President Volodymyr Zelensky says Ukrainian troops continue advancing deeper into Russia’s Kursk region as part of a surprise incursion launched nine days ago.

In an address , external , he said "a new advancement" has been made and more Russian soldiers have been captured.

He also referred to the figure previously given by his Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrsky and said "more than 80" settlements in Russia's Kursk region were now under Ukrainian control.

A Ukrainian military administration was being set up in the biggest one of them, Sudzha, the Ukrainan president said.

"I thank each of our warriors who are making this possible. Well done!" President Zelensky said.

Gen Syrsky said earlier that the "commandant’s office" would provide help to any remaining local residents.

But in addition to solving logistics and humanitarian issues, setting up a Ukrainian administration in the captured Russian town sends out a message: we're here to stay, at least for now.

In pictures: Aid distributed to people in Kursk published at 16:09 British Summer Time 15 August 16:09 BST 15 August

As we receive more information on humanitarian corridors between Russia and Ukraine , people in the Kursk region in Russia have been receiving humanitarian aid from the Red Cross.

Ukraine 'working with military' on humanitarian corridor towards Sumy published at 15:51 British Summer Time 15 August 15:51 BST 15 August

We reported earlier on Ukrainian plans for a "security zone" in Kursk with humanitarian corridors both towards Russia and Ukraine.

We've since had an update from Ukraine Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk via Telegram, who says Kyiv is working with the military on a possible route for civilians to leave Kursk for Sumy in Ukraine.

As for the other direction - towards Russia - she says this is a possibility, but no official request from Russia has been received so far.

Russian defence minister 'overseeing plans to safeguard border population' published at 15:10 British Summer Time 15 August 15:10 BST 15 August

Sandro Vetsko BBC Monitoring

Russian officials have drawn up a plan for "additional measures" to safeguard the population and infrastructure in areas bordering Ukraine, Defence Minister Andrei Belousov says.

The Russian Defence Ministry published a video on its Telegram channel of Belousov telling a group of senior officers and officials that the measures would involve improving the "management of troops in interaction with... the administration of the Belgorod region, nominating accountable officials and allocating additional forces and means".

Belousov said the objective was ensuring "territorial integrity and protection of the population and infrastructure" in Russia’s border regions, and that the focus of the meeting today was Belgorod.

He said he would be "personally" seeing to it that the plan is implemented. Interfax news agency said the plan would also apply to Kursk and Bryansk regions. All three border Ukraine.

UN asks Russia for access to areas affected by cross-border attack by Ukraine published at 14:46 British Summer Time 15 August 14:46 BST 15 August

The United Nations Human Rights Office says it has asked Moscow for access to Russian border areas affected by a cross-border attack by Ukrainian forces.

A spokesperson for the body told the AFP news agency that the request for "authorities to facilitate access" was sent on Wednesday and includes the "Belgorod, Bryansk, and Kursk regions".

Kyiv says it intends to create "humanitarian corridors" in Kursk for civilian evacuation both towards Russia and Ukraine.

Not clear how many UK tanks being used in offensive published at 14:15 British Summer Time 15 August 14:15 BST 15 August

British ministers and officials have repeatedly stated that it’s up to Ukraine to decide how it uses UK supplied weapons.

But questions about restrictions have heightened with Ukraine’s recent incursion inside Russia.

The Ministry of Defence says there’s been no change in policy, though it’s not giving any detail of what British supplied weapons are being used in this latest offensive.

However, a UK source confirmed to the BBC that British made Challenger tanks were among significant western armour now making up Ukraine's strike force.

It’s not clear how many, but the UK only gave Ukraine 14 of the tanks for last year’s less successful offensive in southern Ukraine, in which one was destroyed.

There is still an exception about the use of UK long range Storm Shadow missiles. Britain has still not given Ukraine permission to strike targets inside Russia, despite Ukrainian pressure.

Ukraine commander says military office set up in occupied territory in Russia published at 13:55 British Summer Time 15 August 13:55 BST 15 August

Ukraine's top commander Oleksandr Syrsky says "a military commandant's office" has been set up in Ukrainian-occupied Russian territory.

In a video posted on social media, he is seen telling a meeting chaired by President Zelensky: "To maintain law and order and meet the immediate needs of the population, a military commandant's office has been created in the territories controlled [by Ukraine]. Maj-General Moskalyov has been appointed to lead it."

Syrsky also says Ukrainian troops are 35 km inside the Kursk region, where they control 1,150 sq km of territory including 82 settlements.

“The situation is under control in general,” he told Zelensky.

What's happened so far today? published at 13:31 British Summer Time 15 August 13:31 BST 15 August

This morning we've been bringing you developments in the Ukraine war following confirmation from the Ministry of Defence that Ukraine can use British weapons on Russian soil - with the exception of long-range Storm Shadow missiles.

The government said this does not represent a change in policy.

Since then a UK source has confirmed to the BBC that Challenger 2 tanks have been used during Ukraine's Russian incursion . The UK had given Ukraine 14 such tanks in last year.

Meanwhile, the Ukraine air force said it downed 29 Russian drones overnight - adding that one person was killed and 13 injured.

According to state news agency TASS a federal-level emergency situation has been declared for the border region Belgorod.

Moscow has said it is pushing Ukrainian troops back, with Russia's defence ministry claiming it has regained control of the settlement of Krupets in the Kursk region.

Tempo of Ukraine forces 'slowing' over the last couple of days - security expert published at 13:19 British Summer Time 15 August 13:19 BST 15 August

We've just heard from former Nato analyst and defence and security expert at the University of Bath, Patrick Bury.

He says the incursion has met initial goals including increasing morale among the Ukrainian army and the nation and "destabilising the regime in the short run".

"[The operation] has shown that Western arms can be used inside Russia and there is no major escalation," he adds.

"That may start to raise questions about what are the next steps."

He continues to say that over the last few days the tempo of the Ukrainian forces has been "slowing".

That could be for two reasons he explains - the Russians are starting to stabilise the line and the second due to logistics - "at some point [the Ukrainians] need to resupply themselves".

At some point, Kyiv will have to decide how much land it wants to hold, or whether it should fall back to more defensive lines further west, he adds.

Russia claims to have recaptured lost territory in Kursk published at 13:02 British Summer Time 15 August 13:02 BST 15 August

Russia's defence ministry claims it has regained control of the settlement of Krupets in the Kursk region.

The border region of Kursk has been the focus of Ukraine's surprise attack into Russia, which began 10 days ago.

In a statement, Russia's Ministry of Defence says the "destruction of the enemy" is complete and "control over the settlement of Krupets has been restored".

This comes as Ukraine claims to be advancing further into border regions as part of its offensive.

Federal-level emergency situation declared for Belgorod published at 12:36 British Summer Time 15 August 12:36 BST 15 August

Let's turn back to the situation on the ground.

Yesterday we reported that Belgorod was the second Russian region to declare a state of emergency. The region borders with Kursk where the Ukrainian incursion began last Tuesday.

State news agency TASS has reported today that a federal-level emergency situation has been declared for the region by the Russian Ministry of Emergency Situations.

It followed the region's governor Vyacheslav Gladkov introducing a regional-level emergency situation. On Wednesday morning he said there had been 23 drone attacks in 24 hours.

We've got more on this here .

Western weapons yes – but not long-range missiles published at 12:17 British Summer Time 15 August 12:17 BST 15 August

A UK RAF Eurofighter Typhoon with Storm Shadow cruise missiles and other weapons

Ukraine’s lightning incursion into Russia has undoubtedly been boosted by the inclusion of Western weaponry.

German Marder and US Stryker armoured fighting vehicles are known to have been used, as well as German-supplied combat engineering equipment.

But the one weapon Ukraine says it really needs in this offensive - Britain’s Storm Shadow missile – it can’t.

Whitehall has given the green light for other kit to be used but not the long-range Storm Shadow inside Russia’s borders, for fear of escalation and how Moscow would respond.

"Storm Shadow is designed to penetrate bunkers or buildings before exploding," says Brig Ben Barry at the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS).

"Targets could include Command & Control nodes, airfield installations, hardened aircraft shelters, ammo bunkers, such as those holding glide bombs, radar and air defence sites."

In other words, all the kind of long-range positions from which Russia has been prosecuting its war against Ukraine and which Kyiv is now looking to take out in order to change the dynamics of this conflict in its favour.

UK confirmed donation of Challenger 2 tanks in 2023 published at 12:05 British Summer Time 15 August 12:05 BST 15 August

It was in January 2023 that then-Prime Minister Rishi Sunak confirmed the UK would send Challenger 2 tanks to Ukraine.

Fourteen of the attack vehicles were donated with Downing Street at the time saying the move showed "the UK's ambition to intensify support".

Sunak said then that the tanks would help Ukrainian forces "push Russian troops back".

President Zelensky thanked the UK and said that the decision to send the tanks "will not only strengthen us on the battlefield, but also send the right signal to other partners".

The UK also trained Ukrainian forces to use them.

You can read our story from the time here.

What is the Challenger 2? published at 11:51 British Summer Time 15 August 11:51 BST 15 August

Earlier we learnt, via a source, that Challenger 2 tanks are being used inside Russia - we have some further details here on what they look like and their functionality.

The attack vehicle is more than 20 years old - built in the late 1990s.

Ukraine war latest: Safety 'deteriorating' at Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant after drone strike

Zaporizhzhia is the largest nuclear facility in Europe and has been occupied by Russian soldiers since the early stages of its war with Ukraine.

Sunday 18 August 2024 00:45, UK

• Drone strike on Ukrainian nuclear power plant sees safety deteriorate
• Zelenskyy says Ukraine inflicting 'maximum damage' on Russian forces in Kursk
• Kyiv refutes 'insane Russian propaganda' campaign warning of Ukrainian dirty bomb
• Kyiv used Western rockets to destroy Russian bridge, says Moscow
• Putin's forces capture territory in Donetsk - amid Ukrainian strikes on region
• 'We could lose': Russian state TV commentators gloomy over Kursk
• Sean Bell: Humiliated Putin will respond ruthlessly to Ukrainian masterstroke
• Michael Clarke : Pokrovsk in real trouble as Russian troops advance
• Listen to the Daily above and tap here to follow wherever you get your podcasts

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has praised the UK's "true leadership" in its support of Ukraine - but warned "the situation has slowed down recently" as it pushes into Russian territory.

In his nightly video address, he stressed it is "crucial that our partners remove barriers that hinder us from weakening Russian positions in the way this war demands".

He promised to "intensify our diplomatic efforts" amid the Kursk incursion, naming the UK,  US, and France as key targets.

It comes amid speculation Germany is planning to halve its Ukrainian aid budget next year.

Mr Zelenskyy finished his X post by saying: "Throughout this war, we've seen the UK demonstrate true leadership—in arms, politics, and support for Ukrainian society. 

"This has saved thousands of lives, reflecting the strength of the UK."

But he added: "Unfortunately, the situation has slowed down recently. 

"We will discuss how to fix this because long-range capabilities are vital for us. The whole world sees how effective Ukrainians are—how our entire nation defends its independence."

In a Sunday Express interview, Defence Secretary John Healey endorsed Ukraine using British weapons inside Russia - as long as it keeps within international law.

The UK "should be proud" British weapons are being used by Ukraine – including inside Russia, the defence secretary has said.

John Healey told the Sunday Express that he is happy for weapons to be used over the Russian border, providing international law is maintained.

He told the newspaper: "Let me be very clear: under Article 51 of the UN Charter, Ukraine has a clear right of self-defence against Russia's illegal attacks.

"Providing international law is followed, that does not rule out operations inside Russia."

He added: "We should be proud of Britain's support for Ukraine's struggle.

"We should be proud that British-donated equipment, in the hands of brave Ukrainians on the front line, is helping them to defend their country and push back Putin."

Ukrainian troops crossed into the Russian border region of Kursk on 6 August in a bid to divert the Kremlin's military focus away from the frontline in Ukraine.

On Thursday, Ukrainian forces claimed to have seized the town of Sudzha, six miles from the border.

The UK is one of Ukraine's leading military donors, providing lethal and non-lethal weaponry, including tanks, air defence systems, and long-range precision strike missiles.

Safety at Ukraine's occupied Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant is deteriorating after a drone strike on the road surrounding it, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said on Saturday.

Earlier today, the IAEA Support and Assistance Mission to Zaporizhzhia (ISAMZ) team was informed that an explosive carried by a drone detonated just outside the plant's protected area.

A visit by the team found no casualties and no damage to nuclear equipment - but the surrounding road and gates were impacted.

The impact site was close to the essential cooling water sprinkler ponds and about 100m from the Dniprovska power line, the only remaining 750-kilovolt line providing a power supply to the plant, the team said.

IAEA Director General Grossi commented: "Yet again we see an escalation of the nuclear safety and security dangers facing the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant.

"I remain extremely concerned and reiterate my call for maximum restraint from all sides and for strict observance of the five concrete principles established for the protection of the plant."

The ISAMZ team has reported heightened military activity in the area over the past week.

Germany plans to halve its military aid to Ukraine in 2025, according to a parliamentary source.

Chancellor Olaf Scholz is instead planning to use money generated from frozen Russian assets in Germany to support Ukraine's war against Russia, the source told AFP on Saturday.

It is not planning "any additional aid" to the $4.4bn (£3.4bn) already set aside in next year’s budget, the source added.

But Germany's foreign ministry denied the claims on X on Saturday.

"Rumours that Germany stops its support to #Ukraine are wrong," a post read.

"We stand with Ukraine & will support Ukraine as long as it takes.

"Since the beginning of Russia's war of aggression, Germany has supported Ukraine with €34 billion. 

"This year, we will provide military aid north of €7 billion."

Germany is Ukraine's second biggest military donor, providing £6.8bn in aid this year.

The leader of Russia's Chechnya region has appeared in a video threatening to send a Telsa into Ukraine – while praising Elon Musk.

Ramzan Kadyrov, who is known for extravagant publicity stunts, posted the video of himself on Telegram.

It shows him driving a Tesla Cybertruck, seemingly with a machine gun strapped to the roof.

He says he will send the vehicle into the Ukrainian conflict zone, before praising the company's chief executive Elon Musk.

Mr Kadyrov describes Musk as the "strongest genius of modern times", inviting him to Chechnya.

"We... await your future products that will help us finish the special military operation," referring to the Kremlin’s term for the Ukraine war.

Two Italian journalists who angered Moscow with a TV report from Ukrainian-controlled parts of Kursk will return to Italy for their own safety, according to Italian state broadcaster RAI.

Russia's foreign ministry summoned Italy's ambassador yesterday over what it called an "illegal border crossing" by the RAI crew.

The interior ministry was planning to open criminal cases against the two journalists, posted Baza, a Telegram channel close to Russian law enforcement.

"The company decided to make journalist Stefania Battistini and cameraman Simone Traini return temporarily to Italy, solely to ensure personal safety and security," RAI said. 

"Journalism is not a crime. The Moscow authorities' possibility of putting Stefania Battistini and Simone Traini on trial is unacceptable. Reporting is not done with prior authorisations," RAI union Usigrai and Italy's national press union FNSI said in a joint statement. 

A four-person RAI crew, working under Ukrainian military escort, produced the first foreign media report from the war-damaged Russian town of Sudzha last week.

Italy's foreign ministry said its ambassador Cecilia Piccioni had explained to the Russian authorities that RAI and its news teams acted independently and autonomously. 

The two reporters are scheduled to fly back to the northern Italian city of Milan tomorrow.

Security and defence correspondent Deborah Haynes was at the site of a missile strike in Sumy city this morning.

Residents described being awoken by a huge explosion.

One said the blinds across her window saved her from glass shattering as a result of the blast.

Watch more below...

Washington appears to be effectively blocking the UK from permitting Kyiv to fire Storm Shadow missiles inside Russia, The Times reports.

The UK has been waiting for US approval for over a month, a government source said.

The British government wants Ukraine to use the weapons as they wish, but consensus is required between the US, France and another unnamed NATO country.

A government source stressed to The Times that the UK was not blaming the US for any delay.

Britain was the first country to publicly supply Kyiv with long-range cruise missiles.

While it has permitted the use of British tanks and other weapons on Russian soil, restrictions remain on the missiles.

A British source previously said Ukrainian troops are thought to have used British Challenger 2 tanks inside Kursk.

Ukraine's success in Kursk has shown the West it does not need to take an incremental approach to Russia, says Ukrainian MP Oleksiy Goncharenko.

Kyiv's allies need to approve the use of Western weapons to strike deep inside its territory, he said.

He added the incremental style of Western support has only drawn out the war.

"Watch the Russian reaction. For more than one week, for the first time since the Second World War, Russian territory is occupied. And what is the reaction? Just some mumbling from Putin," said Mr Goncharenko.

"I hope that this will help us to convince our allies that Ukraine is capable of big successes and to win this war, so finally our hands will be untied," he said, adding Ukraine needs permission to use the UK's Storm Shadow missiles deep into Russian territory.

"I think this incremental style is very, very bad."

He continued: "Russia only understands one language, the language of force, and Ukraine has shown it now."

Kyiv has dismissed "insane Russian propaganda" alleging that Ukraine plans to carry out nuclear attacks.

Moscow has accused Ukraine - without providing any evidence - of gearing up to attack Kursk nuclear power plant and developing a "dirty bomb"; an explosive used to scatter radioactive waste.

The Russian defence ministry said Ukraine would blame Moscow and that it would respond harshly in the event of such an attack.

The allegations were "dangerous lies" and Ukraine officially denies them, said Ukrainian foreign office spokesperson Heorhii Tykhyi.

"We are witnessing another surge of insane Russian propaganda."

He continued: "Ukraine has neither the intention nor the ability to carry out any such actions. Russia must stop spreading dangerous lies.

"Ukraine has always been and remains a loyal member of the NPT (Non-proliferation treaty).

"We do not have any 'dirty bombs' and do not plan to acquire them."

Vladimir Putin made similar allegations shortly before launching the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Then, in March the same year, Moscow alleged Ukraine was going to use a dirty bomb. Neither claims were borne out.

Russia also alleged a Ukrainian drone dropped an explosive charge on a road outside the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine this morning.

Its Russian management posted an image to Telegram showing several men in IAEA jackets surrounding a dent in the road the width and depth of a pothole.

Both Russia and Ukraine have accused eachother of close calls with drones and rockets at the power plant since Russia occupied it.

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