Boat trips in St. Petersburg. Main rivers and impressions from the past
Boat and yacht excursions offer an opportunity to immerse yourself in the history of Saint Petersburg's water traditions. Petersburg, situated on the banks of numerous waterways, has inspired writers and artists since its very creation. In this article, you will learn about the history of water excursions from Peter the Great's era to our time, about the main rivers of Petersburg's center, and about those creators whose poems and paintings were created under the impression of the amazing water element permeated with the spirit of the city.
"Pushkin. Tyutchev. Nekrasov. Blok. Akhmatova. Mandelstam...
These are all pseudonyms. The author is Petersburg"
— a quote from the book "Procherk" by Lidia Chukovskaya.
These are all pseudonyms. The author is Petersburg"
— a quote from the book "Procherk" by Lidia Chukovskaya.
History of trips along rivers and canals
Saint Petersburg, founded in 1703, quickly gained a reputation as Russia's "maritime capital." Peter the Great, paying attention to the images of European metropolises, sought to create a city in which water arteries—rivers and canals—would play a significant role in the lives of its inhabitants.
During Peter the Great's reign, the first vessels began to appear in the city's waterways—these were small boats and galleys that were used for moving along the canals and for holding celebrations. Peter the Great himself actively built ships and showcased the latest achievements in shipbuilding at spectacular water events.
During Peter the Great's reign, the first vessels began to appear in the city's waterways—these were small boats and galleys that were used for moving along the canals and for holding celebrations. Peter the Great himself actively built ships and showcased the latest achievements in shipbuilding at spectacular water events.
With the arrival of Catherine the Great, the culture of water recreation took on a luxurious character. During this time, vessels specially designed for members of the royal family and nobility appeared. Festive days were filled with vibrant events on the water, including fireworks, musical performances, and theatrical shows.
In the nineteenth century, thanks to technological progress, most people gained the opportunity to enjoy river excursions. On rivers such as the Neva, steamships intended for regular passenger transportation began to operate. Routes connecting the center with its remote corners opened up. In the early twentieth century, yachts and boats gained the status of symbols of the upper class. But after the October Revolution of 1917, most vessels became state-owned. In the 1930s and 1950s, boat trips became accessible to the general public.
From 1960 to 1980, regular routes along the city's rivers and canals were organized. Excursions took place on board the motorships, introducing passengers to the historical events and cultural heritage of Saint Petersburg.
In the nineteenth century, thanks to technological progress, most people gained the opportunity to enjoy river excursions. On rivers such as the Neva, steamships intended for regular passenger transportation began to operate. Routes connecting the center with its remote corners opened up. In the early twentieth century, yachts and boats gained the status of symbols of the upper class. But after the October Revolution of 1917, most vessels became state-owned. In the 1930s and 1950s, boat trips became accessible to the general public.
From 1960 to 1980, regular routes along the city's rivers and canals were organized. Excursions took place on board the motorships, introducing passengers to the historical events and cultural heritage of Saint Petersburg.
Today, trips along rivers and canals remain a popular way to explore the city. Many locals and tourists choose them for recreation.
Excursions along the city's rivers and canals can be made even more interesting by choosing yacht tours. This expands the opportunities for discovery several times over, as yachts pass close to buildings where architectural details can be seen.
Excursions along the city's rivers and canals can be made even more interesting by choosing yacht tours. This expands the opportunities for discovery several times over, as yachts pass close to buildings where architectural details can be seen.
River and canal voyage
In just 2 hours, you'll see the Northern capital from a new perspective. We'll sail through historic canals among ancient quarters, then emerge onto the Neva River, where famous views of the Peter and Paul Fortress, Winter Palace, and other city symbols will unfold before you. Ideal for first-time visitors to St. Petersburg or for those who want to fall in love with its beauty all over again.
Learn more
The most important events and facts about this city are immediately revealed. Tourists have the opportunity to see the city from a different perspective. Cafes and restaurants are often located on the embankments. Guests can stop for lunch and enjoy the views. Trips along the rivers and canals of Saint Petersburg offer not only the opportunity to enjoy the picturesque views of the city but also to discover fascinating pages of its history.
The rivers and canals of Saint Petersburg are important elements of the urban environment that have always been connected with the fate of the city and its inhabitants. By exploring them, one can not only feel the spirit of the time but also gain a deeper understanding of how these waterways have shaped the appearance of St. Petersburg over the centuries.
The rivers and canals of Saint Petersburg are important elements of the urban environment that have always been connected with the fate of the city and its inhabitants. By exploring them, one can not only feel the spirit of the time but also gain a deeper understanding of how these waterways have shaped the appearance of St. Petersburg over the centuries.
Rivers of Saint Petersburg
Neva
The Neva is the main river of Saint Petersburg. It connects Lake Ladoga with the Gulf of Finland. The main tributaries of the Neva are: on the left—Mga, Tosna, Izhora, Slavyanka, Murzinka, and on the right—Okhta, Chernaya Rechka. The name of the Neva River comes from the word "neva," which in Finno-Ugric languages means "water" or "river." For the ancient Finno-Ugric tribes that inhabited these lands, the Neva River was the most important waterway and source of existence.
The Neva flows through the center of Saint Petersburg. Its wide banks are dotted with architectural monuments such as the Winter Palace and the Peter and Paul Fortress. The summer white nights create a special atmosphere when the Neva is illuminated by magical lights, and the drawbridges become a symbol of romance and beauty.
The Neva flows through the center of Saint Petersburg. Its wide banks are dotted with architectural monuments such as the Winter Palace and the Peter and Paul Fortress. The summer white nights create a special atmosphere when the Neva is illuminated by magical lights, and the drawbridges become a symbol of romance and beauty.
The Neva washes the shores with such buildings as St. Isaac's Cathedral, the State Hermitage, and the Winter Palace. The Moika and Fontanka rivers add charm, creating picturesque views and peaceful corners for walks.
Artists and writers often described the picturesque views of the Neva. They depicted its majestic waters on canvases. In their works, the river becomes a symbol of freedom and inspiration. Here you can see how the city comes alive in their works, conveying the atmosphere of the Northern capital.
Anna Akhmatova, one of the most significant poetesses of the 20th century, was born and spent most of her life in Petersburg. For her, these waterways were not just part of the urban landscape but also important symbols reflecting mood, inner state, and feelings.
Akhmatova skillfully uses images of water to convey her feelings toward other people and life in general. The ancient city, its canals, and waters appear in her poetry as a place of love and consolation.
"Like a mirror that day the Neva lay,
Heated to red by the sunset,
And it all stood wide open —
The enormous gateway — spring."
April 1962
Artists and writers often described the picturesque views of the Neva. They depicted its majestic waters on canvases. In their works, the river becomes a symbol of freedom and inspiration. Here you can see how the city comes alive in their works, conveying the atmosphere of the Northern capital.
Anna Akhmatova, one of the most significant poetesses of the 20th century, was born and spent most of her life in Petersburg. For her, these waterways were not just part of the urban landscape but also important symbols reflecting mood, inner state, and feelings.
Akhmatova skillfully uses images of water to convey her feelings toward other people and life in general. The ancient city, its canals, and waters appear in her poetry as a place of love and consolation.
"Like a mirror that day the Neva lay,
Heated to red by the sunset,
And it all stood wide open —
The enormous gateway — spring."
April 1962
The painting "Neva" by Ivan Konstantinovich Aivazovsky, created in 1851, is one of the striking examples of the artist's mastery, who became famous for his seascapes. The canvas depicts the Neva River with its majestic waves, which reflect the atmosphere and mood of the day, giving the composition dynamism and depth.
In the center of the painting, one can see the wide expanse of water, with a light ripple hinting at the gentle breath of the wind. Sunbeams break through the clouds, creating an effect of soft and warm lighting, as well as highlighting the interplay of light and shadow on the river's surface.
Aivazovsky masterfully conveys not only the beauty of nature but also its changeability. The measured dark waters of the Neva appear not just as a background but as a living space, full of movement and life. The depiction of the Neva evokes nostalgia and a sense of connection with nature in the viewer, which is why Aivazovsky's work remains relevant and beloved.
In the center of the painting, one can see the wide expanse of water, with a light ripple hinting at the gentle breath of the wind. Sunbeams break through the clouds, creating an effect of soft and warm lighting, as well as highlighting the interplay of light and shadow on the river's surface.
Aivazovsky masterfully conveys not only the beauty of nature but also its changeability. The measured dark waters of the Neva appear not just as a background but as a living space, full of movement and life. The depiction of the Neva evokes nostalgia and a sense of connection with nature in the viewer, which is why Aivazovsky's work remains relevant and beloved.
Moika
Before the founding of Saint Petersburg, the river we now know as Moika was called Mya. This word comes from the Izhorian "Muya," which means "dirty." According to legend, this is exactly how the river appeared before the first architects of Saint Petersburg—as a narrow and dirty stream originating in a marshy area.
From 1726, the name "Moika" began to be actively used instead of "Mya," which was difficult to pronounce. The Moika River passes close to the Hermitage and Palace Bridge. It was popular among Peter's intelligentsia and artists. The embankments of the river are adorned with architectural monuments, including the famous house of Peter the Great.
Fontanka
Fontanka is another gem of Saint Petersburg. Mikhailovsky Castle, the Summer Garden, various apartment buildings rise against the background of the water surface. Writer Vladimir Nabokov in his poem "Petersburg (I imagine on a Christmas morning...)" uses rivers as a symbol of connection between the past and present, which links childhood memories with present feelings.
"Skating rinks, skating rinks — on the Moika, on the Fontanka,
in Yusupov's silver paradise:
some are learning, arms spread out amusingly,
others describe smooth arcs —
and runners in woolen leggings
chase around in circles, bending over,
holding behind their backs the case for these long
skates of theirs, gleaming like razors,
on the sonorous glossy ice."
"Skating rinks, skating rinks — on the Moika, on the Fontanka,
in Yusupov's silver paradise:
some are learning, arms spread out amusingly,
others describe smooth arcs —
and runners in woolen leggings
chase around in circles, bending over,
holding behind their backs the case for these long
skates of theirs, gleaming like razors,
on the sonorous glossy ice."
Before the founding of Saint Petersburg, the Fontanka River was called Bezymyanny Erik (Nameless Erik). In ancient times, this channel was called a small arm that began in the river and ended in it as well. The name of the river is connected with the fountains of the Summer Garden. Pipes were laid through the Fontanka, through which water from the Ligovsky Canal flowed to the fountains.
Before the founding of Saint Petersburg, the Fontanka River was called Bezymyanny Erik (Nameless Erik). In ancient times, this channel was called a small arm that began in the river and ended in it as well. The name of the river is connected with the fountains of the Summer Garden. Pipes were laid through the Fontanka, through which water from the Ligovsky Canal flowed to the fountains.
Canals of Saint Petersburg
Griboyedov Canal
It was built in 1764-1790. The canal connects the Moika and Neva rivers. It was named in honor of writer Alexander Griboyedov, who lived in one of the houses on the canal embankment. There is a legend that the name of the canal is exclusively connected with the name of engineer Konstantin Griboyedov, who was engaged in its improvement, and not with the name of the playwright who also bore this surname.
Its beauty and harmony became a source of inspiration for many creative minds. It is not surprising that the poet Joseph Brodsky found his muse here.
Its beauty and harmony became a source of inspiration for many creative minds. It is not surprising that the poet Joseph Brodsky found his muse here.
Joseph Brodsky, one of the most outstanding Russian poets of the 20th century, left an indelible mark in literature with his works about the Northern capital. In his poetry, Brodsky often addressed themes of loneliness and isolation, reflecting the atmosphere of a city full of gray, rainy days, as well as its unique architecture and complex spirit.
In the poem "Petersburg Romance" of 1961, Brodsky transforms the city into a kind of character that observes people's actions, their experiences, and dreams. The poet's lines reveal the ambiguous relationship he developed with this place: love, nostalgia, the bitterness of loss.
"Griboyedov canal in the fog,
through two hundred years the water rustles,
having moved a little in the world,
you come here anew."
In the poem "Petersburg Romance" of 1961, Brodsky transforms the city into a kind of character that observes people's actions, their experiences, and dreams. The poet's lines reveal the ambiguous relationship he developed with this place: love, nostalgia, the bitterness of loss.
"Griboyedov canal in the fog,
through two hundred years the water rustles,
having moved a little in the world,
you come here anew."
Obvodny Canal
It served as an important transportation artery for shipping and trade. It took eleven years to build and was solemnly opened on October 25, 1833. The name "Obvodny" (Bypass) of the canal in Saint Petersburg is related to its position on the outskirts of the city. The canal served as the boundary of Petersburg, surrounding it from the south. There is also a canal with a similar name in Moscow. The only difference is in the ending. In the capital, it is "Obvodnoy," and in the Cultural capital—"Obvodny."
Over the years, the Obvodny Canal has become much shallower. Currently, its depth does not reach three meters, so only small vessels can pass through it. Nowadays, it is perceived more as an object of historical heritage.
Over the years, the Obvodny Canal has become much shallower. Currently, its depth does not reach three meters, so only small vessels can pass through it. Nowadays, it is perceived more as an object of historical heritage.
Kryukov Canal
One of the oldest in the city. It was created in the 18th century by decree of Peter the Great. The canal was expanded and reduced, its length changed. Initially, it connected the Neva with the Moika and intersected at right angles with the Admiralty Canal. In the 1780s, its channel was extended to the Fontanka River.
The Kryukov Canal was named in 1738 after the contractor Semyon Kryukov. "Thank you, brother Semyon. Out of love for me you did what abroad they do out of love for art. In time, it will be the same in Russia. And I will not forget you and order that canal you dug to be named after you." This phrase is taken from Alexander Sergeyevich Pushkin's poem "The Bronze Horseman."
It depicts a scene where Peter I thanks Semyon, a worker who dug a canal for Saint Petersburg. Pushkin emphasizes in this line the importance of ordinary people's labor in the process of creating great history.
The banks of the canal were lined with granite, six bridges were thrown across it. However, in the 1840s, part of the canal from the Neva to the Admiralty Canal was filled in due to the construction of the Blagoveshchensky Bridge.
The Kryukov Canal was named in 1738 after the contractor Semyon Kryukov. "Thank you, brother Semyon. Out of love for me you did what abroad they do out of love for art. In time, it will be the same in Russia. And I will not forget you and order that canal you dug to be named after you." This phrase is taken from Alexander Sergeyevich Pushkin's poem "The Bronze Horseman."
It depicts a scene where Peter I thanks Semyon, a worker who dug a canal for Saint Petersburg. Pushkin emphasizes in this line the importance of ordinary people's labor in the process of creating great history.
The banks of the canal were lined with granite, six bridges were thrown across it. However, in the 1840s, part of the canal from the Neva to the Admiralty Canal was filled in due to the construction of the Blagoveshchensky Bridge.
The Kryukov Canal is captured in many works by Ivan Sorokin from the series "In Pushkin's Places." After graduating from the lyceum, Pushkin lived nearby and often visited the Kryukov Canal. In the house of merchant Bragin, which stood on the bank of the canal, in 1818-1819, the poet Vasily Zhukovsky lived. On Saturdays, poets and writers gathered at his place, and Pushkin read chapters from "Ruslan and Ludmila."
Conclusion
Walks along the rivers give special impressions. Watching the flow of water, one can think like a poet, composing lines. The nature and architecture of the city create a perfect harmony. Each walk leaves a mark in the heart, inspires creativity, and brings new emotions.
Throughout the centuries, Petersburg has remained a symbol of art and culture. Writers described the state of streets, sunsets, and water. Rivers and canals became an integral part of their narratives. Walks inspired the creation of new masterpieces. These famous landscapes remain relevant to this day.
Without losing connection with the cultural heritage, modern Petersburg continues to attract travelers, making everyone look into themselves. The secrets of Petersburg await their discoverers, inviting reflection, dialogue, and, of course, the creation of arts that will live long after their authors.
Throughout the centuries, Petersburg has remained a symbol of art and culture. Writers described the state of streets, sunsets, and water. Rivers and canals became an integral part of their narratives. Walks inspired the creation of new masterpieces. These famous landscapes remain relevant to this day.
Without losing connection with the cultural heritage, modern Petersburg continues to attract travelers, making everyone look into themselves. The secrets of Petersburg await their discoverers, inviting reflection, dialogue, and, of course, the creation of arts that will live long after their authors.
Natalia Zvereva
- author of the article
A man in love with texts and travel. Each text is a little adventure, which I invite you to join with me.
