Do I need a visa if I go with a cruise line to St. Petersburg?

Question

Last week I discussed with a friend if it is necessary to get a Russian visa if you travel with a cruise liner to Saint Petersburg in Russia? I think so, but my friend has the opinion that it is not necessary since you're accomondation is not in Russia but on the "international" cruise line. Who is right?

I have to edit my question to clarify something: I'm not asking if I need to care about the visa by myself or if the tour operator does it. I already did that this summer and I know it can be a PITA. I want to know if I need a Visa at all.

Answer 1

Going with a cruise line is an exception to the rule that you need a visa. Basically, Russia uses the visa requirement to control the inflow of visitors. But if you are with a cruise line that has ALREADY submitted to Russian controls, you are effectively "controlled." The cruise line will only organize tours/excursions approved by the Russian government, using guides licensed by it. That, and not the "international accommodation", is the reason for the waiver.

When leaving the ship, you will need to show your passport and have it stamped at the custom house. They will then give you a pass that is valid only for that ONE excursion. Needless to say, you have to come back with the rest of the group, and not go out on your own. If you lose your pass, there is a fine. I believe it's $50. If you stay on board the ship the whole time, none of this applies. Then the "international accommodation" part holds. But if you go on your own (not a ship sponsored tour), then you need a visa.

Answer 2

Actually, this is one exception where an organized "shore excursion" works better than venturing out on your own. In other words, you will be better served taking the tour with the cruise line. The cruise line takes care of the paperwork involving the entry visa.

We disembarked at St. Petersburg with the cruise company and had the visa taken care of, while others in our party who explored on their own, had to submit paperwork and seek visa approval before hand.

Enjoy St. Petersburg. It's truly breathtaking!

Answer 3

You DO NOT need a Russian visa if you book for shore excursions through ANY licensed tour operator (absolutely not necessarily through the cruise line).

Smaller tour operators offer better services and more personal care. You can have a look at the tour operator Tour De Force or any other -

I have been working in the shore excursions industry in St. Petersburg since 2000 and I guarantee the info provided. We provide shore excursions without visa for thousands of customers every year.