Astoria Grande Cruises from Sochi: 2025 Itineraries
- Ozkan Hazar
- Mar 26
- 7 min read
Updated: Apr 1

While most Russian travelers in 2025 continue searching for flights to Turkey and the UAE, savvy tourists are choosing a fundamentally different vacation format—cruises on the Astoria Grande departing from Sochi's seaport. This travel format transforms the journey itself into a key part of the vacation, rather than just a means of reaching your destination.
In a world where every inch of popular tourist destinations has been photographed and posted on social media thousands of times, a cruise itinerary offers a unique perspective—the opportunity to see iconic cities of the Black Sea and Mediterranean coastlines from an unusual angle, from the sea. In 2025, Astoria Grande has transformed from simply a cruise ship into a floating territory of Russia, where familiar service standards apply, but beyond the deck every day brings a new country, a new culture, and new impressions.
About the Astoria Grande Cruise Liner
The Astoria Grande liner was acquired to serve Russian tourists and offers cruises across the Black Sea and Mediterranean. The vessel is operated by Miray Cruises—a Turkish leader in the cruise tourism industry.
The "Astoria Grande" is a comfortable eleven-deck cruise liner that conducts international sea cruises departing from the Russian port of Sochi across the Black Sea. In April 2021, the liner underwent complete modernization and received all necessary documentation to ensure safe cruise passenger transportation. In 2021, Astoria Grande's shipowners conducted extensive work on the vessel to bring it up to the best global standards in the cruise industry.
On board, you'll find a variety of cabins—from cozy interior rooms to spacious suites with balconies and panoramic windows. Regardless of the category chosen, each cabin is equipped with everything necessary for a comfortable sea voyage. The official booking website for 2025 offers photos and detailed descriptions of the vessel.
Cabin Types and Pricing
Astoria Grande offers the following accommodation categories:
Interior cabins from 115,000 ₽
Cabins with portholes from 147,000 ₽
Cabins with windows from 147,000 ₽
Cabins with balconies from 306,000 ₽
Early booking discounts of up to 30% allow for significant savings on your journey and the opportunity to select a cabin in your preferred category.
Astoria Grande Cruises from Sochi: Ports of Call During the Cruise
Each Astoria Grande cruise is a carefully planned itinerary, combining sea travel with visits to historic cities in Turkey, Greece, and other countries in the region. The liner follows the picturesque coastlines of the Black Sea and Mediterranean, making stops at the most interesting ports.
Sochi, Russia
Sochi Seaport is the starting and ending point of the cruise. The modern sea terminal provides comfortable embarkation and disembarkation. Gold category guests have access to the VIP Astoria Lounge at the Sochi Marine Station, while Platinum category guests receive complimentary parking at the Sochi Seaport parking lot for the duration of the cruise.
Istanbul, Turkey
Turkey's largest city and the only one in the world located on two continents. During your stay, you can visit the famous Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, the Grand Bazaar, and enjoy the unique atmosphere of a city where East and West intertwine. The cruise terminal is located in the central part of the city, making independent walks convenient.
Kusadasi, Turkey
A popular resort town on the Aegean Sea coast. From here, excursions are organized to the ancient city of Ephesus—one of the largest archaeological complexes in the world. In Kusadasi itself, you can visit the fortress on Pigeon Island, stroll along the promenade, and enjoy local cuisine in numerous restaurants.
Rhodes, Greece
One of the most beautiful Greek islands with a rich history. The Old Town of Rhodes is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Here you'll see medieval streets, the Palace of the Grand Masters, ancient city walls, and the famous harbor where the Colossus of Rhodes—one of the seven wonders of the ancient world—once stood.
Mykonos, Greece
A famous island in the Aegean Sea, known for its snow-white buildings with blue doors and windows, windmills, and vibrant nightlife. Mykonos offers beautiful beaches, charming taverns, and the opportunity to visit the archaeological reserve on the neighboring island of Delos.
Mytilini (Lesbos), Greece
The main city of Lesbos Island, rich in historical monuments. Here you can see an impressive medieval castle, visit archaeological and Byzantine museums, walk along picturesque streets, and try the famous Lesbos ouzo—anise vodka.
Crete near Mount Athos, Greece
A unique opportunity to see the legendary Mount Athos and visit one of the largest Greek islands. Crete is known for its historical monuments, including the Knossos Palace, as well as beautiful beaches and traditional villages.
Canakkale, Turkey
A city located on the shore of the Dardanelles strait. Historically significant as the site of the Trojan War and World War I battles at Gallipoli. Tourists can visit the archaeological excavations of ancient Troy, an open-air museum, and the famous replica of the Trojan Horse.
Amasra, Turkey
A small but very picturesque port on the Black Sea. The city is known for its well-preserved Byzantine-period fortress, narrow streets of the old town, and beautiful beaches. In Amasra, you can also visit the historic district of Safranbolu, included in the UNESCO heritage list.
Samsun, Turkey
A major Black Sea port and industrial center of Turkey. The city played an important role in the history of the Turkish Republic—it was here that Mustafa Kemal Atatürk began the war of independence. In Samsun, you can visit numerous museums, parks, and the promenade with a beautiful view of the Black Sea.
Trabzon, Turkey
A historic port city in northeastern Turkey. Located here is the Sumela Monastery—an ancient Greek Orthodox monastery built on a steep cliff. The city is known for its historic buildings, museums, and local cuisine.
Sinop, Turkey
One of the most picturesque ports of the Black Sea, known for its natural harbor. Sinop is the birthplace of the philosopher Diogenes; here you can visit the archaeological museum, ancient fortress, and enjoy beautiful beaches. The city is famous for its fish restaurants and welcoming atmosphere.
Batumi, Georgia
A modern and dynamically developing resort city on the Black Sea coast. Batumi attracts tourists with its unusual modern architecture, combined with historic quarters, botanical garden, extensive promenade, and casinos. From here, excursions are organized to the picturesque mountainous regions of Adjara.
Themed Cruises on the Astoria Grande
In addition to regular voyages, Astoria Grande offers a variety of themed cruises that make the sea journey even more interesting and fulfilling. The Astoria Grande vessel, schedule for 2025, prices, and navigation details are available on the official website.
"Besprintsypnye Chteniya" (Unprincipled Readings)
A unique event aboard the luxurious Astoria Grande liner, where the legendary "Unprincipled Readings" project embarks on a sea journey through the picturesque ports of the Black Sea. You'll enjoy live performances of favorite stories by author Alexander Tsypkin, while brilliant actress Victoria Isakova presents lyrical and comedic tales.
Cruise dates: April 26 - May 3, 2025 Itinerary: Sochi → Istanbul → Amasra → Samsun → Trabzon → Sochi Price for two: from 256,200 rubles
The price includes:
7 nights in a comfortable cabin
Four meals a day (buffet with non-alcoholic beverages)
All events of the "Unprincipled Readings" project
Access to the liner's infrastructure (swimming pool, fitness center, jacuzzi)
Evening show programs
Entertainment activities for adults and children
Medical insurance
Other Themed Cruises
Throughout the year, various themed voyages are conducted on Astoria Grande:
Gastronomic cruises with masterclasses from renowned chefs
Music cruises with live concerts by popular performers
Wellness cruises with health programs and yoga
Educational cruises with lectures and masterclasses
Holiday cruises for New Year, May holidays, Russia Day
Family cruises with expanded children's programs
Features of Vacationing on Astoria Grande
Russian-speaking Service
One of the main advantages of Astoria Grande cruises is the fully Russian-speaking service. On board, you are served by Russian-speaking staff, and all information materials, menus, and entertainment programs are presented in Russian.
Dining and Restaurants
The liner features international cuisine restaurants with diverse menus. Four meals a day buffet-style with non-alcoholic beverages are included in the cruise price.
Onboard Entertainment
During the cruise, tourists can enjoy daily entertainment programs:
Evening show programs
White Party—one of the most atmospheric and memorable parties aboard Astoria Grande
Live music
Animation for children and adults
Masterclasses and lectures
Dress Code
There are no special requirements for attire. The cruise company recommends having four types of clothing during the journey:
Casual clothes comfortable for relaxing on board
Practical clothing and footwear for excursions
Elegant attire for evening events and dinner at the restaurant
White clothing for the White Party
Beach attire is not welcome during evening events
What's Included in the Cruise Price
The cruise price includes:
Accommodation in your chosen cabin category
Four meals a day (buffet with non-alcoholic beverages)
Daily entertainment programs
Access to the liner's infrastructure (pools, jacuzzi, fitness center)
Service charge (gratuities) for onboard service
Additional charges:
Alcoholic beverages
Excursions at ports of call
Spa treatments
Laundry services
Transfers to/from the port (except for Platinum category guests)
Benefits of Early Booking
When booking an Astoria Grande cruise early, you receive:
Discount of up to 30% off the standard price
Opportunity to choose the best cabins in your desired category
Possibility of installment payments
Best price guarantee
Practical Tips for Travelers
How to Get to Sochi Seaport
Sochi Seaport is conveniently located in the central part of the city. You can reach it by:
Public transport (buses, minibuses)
Taxi
Platinum level guests are provided with individual transfers from Sochi Airport to the Seaport
What to Bring on a Cruise
Documents (passport, tickets, medical insurance)
Casual clothes for relaxing on board
Comfortable shoes for excursions
Elegant attire for evening events
White clothing for the White Party
Swimming accessories
Sun protection products
Basic medications (although there is a medical facility on board)
Internet and Communication on Board
Paid Wi-Fi is available on the Astoria Grande liner. Also, roaming from Russian mobile operators works in many ports of call.
Conclusion
Cruises on the Astoria Grande liner from Sochi offer a unique opportunity to combine comfortable relaxation with an enriching journey across the Black and Mediterranean Seas. As the company's motto states: "Sea, the sound of waves, sun—always a flawless idea for a vacation." Russian-speaking service, diverse itineraries, themed cruises, and high-quality service make this choice attractive for those who value quality and meaningful vacations.
Cruises from Sochi to Turkey on the Astoria Grande liner became a real hit last season and continue to delight travelers in 2024 and 2025. You can purchase a sea cruise on the Astoria Grande liner at prices starting from 26,000 rubles on our website.
For detailed information about cabin types, current cruise schedules, and special offers, use the "Select Cruise" button—it will take you to the booking page where you can choose the optimal accommodation option and travel dates. Purchase Astoria Grande cruises at the best price for 2025 now!
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