In the context of modern realities, travel to Europe for Russian tourists has become more difficult and expensive. The limited number of direct flights, high ticket prices and difficulties with visa processing force us to look for alternative routes. One of these solutions is to travel by ferry – a way that will not only help save money, but also add an element of real adventure to the trip.
Advantages of ferry crossings for Russian tourists
Ferry service between Russia and European countries has existed for a long time, but in the current conditions it is becoming particularly relevant. Let's consider the main advantages of this method of travel.:
- Economic benefit: the cost of a ferry ticket is often lower than a flight with transfers through third countries
- The possibility of transporting a personal car, which will ensure freedom of movement in Europe
- Absence of strict baggage restrictions typical for air travel
- Comfortable accommodation in cabins of different classes depending on the budget
- The opportunity to visit intermediate countries when making a route
- A great option for traveling with a large company or a family with children.
Main ferry routes from Russia to Europe
At the moment, there are several key routes that Russian tourists can use. It is important to note that the relevance of the routes may vary, so before planning a trip, you need to check the information directly from the ferry companies.
Route from Saint Petersburg
St. Petersburg has historically been an important port city and a starting point for ferry trips to Europe. Despite the change of some routes, the following destinations remain:
- Saint Petersburg – Helsinki (Finland): Travel time is about 13-15 hours
- St. Petersburg – Stockholm (Sweden): The journey takes approximately 36-40 hours.
- Saint Petersburg – Tallinn (Estonia): about 13-14 hours on the way
These routes are served by different ferry companies offering different levels of service and price categories. Seasonality also affects the schedule and frequency of flights.
Alternative routes through Kaliningrad
The Kaliningrad Region, as an exclave of Russia, also provides opportunities for ferry crossings.:
- Kaliningrad (Baltiysk) – Gdynia/Gdansk (Poland): travel time about 30 hours
- Kaliningrad – Kiel (Germany): The journey takes approximately 36 hours.
Routes through Kaliningrad can be especially beneficial for residents of the western part of Russia and those who plan to visit Central Europe.
Financial calculations: ferry vs airplane
Let's look at approximate calculations of the cost of travel for a family of two adults and one child on the route St. Petersburg - Helsinki, followed by travel across Europe.
The cost of the ferry trip
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Basic ferry expenses:
- Ferry tickets in the comfort class cabin: ~25 000 – 30 000 rubles in both directions for three people
- Ferry meals (if not included in the price): ~10,000 rubles
- Transportation of the car: ~15 000 – 20 000 rubles in both directions
Total basic ferry costs: ~50 000 – 60 000 rubles.
The cost of traveling by plane
When choosing a flight with transfers:
- Connecting flights: ~60 000 – 90 000 rubles for three people in both directions (depending on the season and transfer route)
- Additional baggage: ~10 000 – 15 000 rubles
- Rent a car in Europe: ~30,000 rubles per week
Total basic airfare costs: ~100 000 – 135 000 rubles.
Savings when choosing a ferry trip range from 40,000 to 75,000 rubles, which is a significant amount when planning a family vacation.
Practical recommendations for ferry travel
Before going on a ferry trip, there are several important points to consider::
Documents and formalities
- Visa requirements: despite the change in the travel method, Russian citizens still need to apply for a Schengen or national visa.
- International driving license: if you plan to travel with a car
- Insurance: be sure to take out medical insurance covering the entire period of stay.
- Cabin reservations: Book your cabin in advance, especially if you are traveling during high season
Route planning
When using a ferry, it is important to plan your future route in Europe correctly.:
- Take ferry travel time into account when planning city visits.
- Book your accommodation in advance, especially in popular tourist destinations
- Calculate the fuel consumption if you travel by car
- Learn the rules of the road in the countries you plan to visit
Conclusion
Traveling by ferry from Russia to Europe is not only a way to save money, but also an opportunity to gain new experiences, enjoy a sea voyage and see many countries in one trip. For Russian tourists looking for alternative routes to Europe, ferry crossings are an excellent option combining comfort, economy and freedom of movement. With proper planning, such a trip can become no less exciting than a traditional flight, and at the same time much more profitable from a financial point of view.
Do not forget that the situation with international traffic may change, so before planning a trip, it is recommended to consult with travel agencies and check the latest information on the official websites of ferry companies. Careful preparation and awareness are the key to a successful and economical ferry trip to Europe.
