Island excursions: Ship Island Excursions | Ferry Services and Cruises from Gulfport, MS
Ship Island Excursions | Ferry Services and Cruises from Gulfport, MS
Gulf Islands National Seashore
Ship Island Excursions
Experience the Best Beaches in Mississippi
Ship Island Excursions
Tour Fort Massachusetts
Ship Island Excursions
Experience the Best Beaches in Mississippi
Ship Island Excursions
Arriving at Ship Island
Welcome aboard the Ship Island Ferry
Ship Island Excursions and the Skrmetta Family are celebrating 96 years of transporting visitors to the Mississippi Islands.
Relaxation, recreation, and history-these are the gifts offered to you on Ship Island. Here in the Gulf of Mexico, about 11 miles off Mississippi’s Coast, are some of the last undeveloped barrier islands in America. Part of Gulf Islands National Seashore and protected by the U.S. Park Service, these exquisite sand islands offer visitors the first high-quality, natural beaches for swimming, birding and shelling east of New Orleans.
A cruise to Ship Island is an affordable, family-friendly adventure and one of the most popular outdoor attractions on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Passengers are sure to spot dolphins while crossing the Mississippi Sound on the 1-hour boat ride. You’ll discover what locals and visitors have enjoyed for generations, the Coast’s finest beaches. The passenger ferries depart from the Gulfport Yacht Harbor in Jones Park (intersection of Hwy. 90 and Hwy. 49). Boats operate typically mid-March through October.
The island is also home to Fort Massachusetts, a beautifully preserved, brick structure used during the Civil War. Seasonal fort tours are offered by the National Park Service. A section of beach with lifeguards is available in summer. Food service is offered on the boats and on the island. Umbrella and beach chair rentals are also available.
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22 Miles Round-Trip Cruise
Ship island is part of Gulf Island National Seashore and one of four Mississippi barrier islands. You’ll depart the Gulfport Yacht Harbor for a truly fun getaway. Our vessels provide two spacious open air decks, perfect for viewing marine life. In addition to the cruise, passengers will have access to Mississippi’s best beaches for swimming and shelling. Swim in emerald green waters, snorkel, hike, and explore. Visitors can relax under a beach umbrella or sit under one of two large picnic pavilions. Ship Island is a national park, protected and preserved for future generations to enjoy in their natural unspoiled state.
Book your cruise and experience the Coast’s favorite water-borne attraction: An excursion to Ship island and Fort Massachusetts. Family owned and operated by the Skrmetta family since 1926.
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All Cruises Depart from Gulfport Harbor
A 5-Star Barrier Island Beach Experience
Weekend Getaway
“What a great place to visit. We took the trip out from Biloxi on Captain Pete the Crew on the Boat was great. Once out on the Island it was awesome to see the old Fort and the Island was great. Snack bar with clean restrooms a great day away from everything. We will definitely do it again when we are down there.”
– tsnow5390, TripAdvisor
Worth the Trip
“Was worth every penny to take the boat out to Ship Island… On the way out and trip back we saw dolphins! The boat was fully shaded and crew was very nice. Ship Island itself is beautiful, water is clear all around it and you will see all kinds of wildlife. The water was much better for swimming than the mainland. Whole experience was amazing, one of the best beaches I have been to. Wanted to go back the next day!”
– Ben K., TripAdvisor
Forced R&R
“We went here because there wasn’t anything to do but swim, walk on the beach, or sunbathe. We walked on the beach, then took the fort tour, which was interesting. We had a blast. The best news was that the concession stand had reasonably priced food and drinks, and you can rent umbrellas and chairs so you don’t need to drag it with you.”
– Donna S., TripAdvisor
Day Trip to Ship Island
“We purchased tickets online one day before our trip. It was simple and user friendly. We arrived early for the 9:00am departure. Thankfully we did, they had to use two boats for the 9:00 departure. We were able to get onto that first boat, which ensured us an umbrella and chair rental. The day was beautiful, water was clear…it was a wonderful family day trip.”
– pldavidson74, TripAdvisor
Best Day Trip in MS
“This is a terrific day-trip! Bring an ice chest, rest chairs and an umbrella and get ready for a great beach adventure. I love going to Ship Island and have been doing it for many years now. It’s a bargain and it is a treat to spend the day there! Go! Do it! Love it!”
– MargiePJ, TripAdvisor
Join Us for a Day on a Quiet Barrier Island
Leave the stress of the mainland behind. Board our ferry and cross the beautiful Mississippi Sound, approximately 11 miles out to where the offshore islands meet the emerald green waters of the Gulf of Mexico. As the ferry docks on the north shore of Ship Island, passengers will notice fish and other sea life in the clear water next to the boat. Visitors can tour a beautifully persevered Civil War fort, followed by an opportunity to explore miles of enchanting beach, perfect for swimming, shelling and birding. A snack bar, picnic pavilions, restrooms, and other visitor amenities are provided.
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FAQs & Trip Planning
Ship Island Round Trip Ferry Services
Quick Details
Location: Our boat dock is located in the Harbor at Jones Park, Gulfport, MS (Intersection of Hwy. 49 and Hwy. 90) We are located next to the Lighthouse. Parking is Free!
- Click HERE to view in Google Maps
Round-Trip Ferry Route:
- Gulfport Harbor to Ship Island, Ft Massachusetts (10.7 miles) Approx. 1 Hour Cruise
- NOTICE: Fort Massachusetts will be intermittently closed do to flooding in the Fort. Interpretative talks will be conducted at the Fort entrance 15 minutes after the boat arrives.
Ferry Operation Seasons:
- Spring: March 18th – May 12th
- Summer: May 13th – August 13th
- Fall: August 16th – October 29th
Ferry Departure Times:
- Spring: Depart Gulfport 9am – Depart Ship Island 2:30pm Wednesday – Friday / Depart Gulfport 9am and 12pm – Depart Ship Island 2:30pm or 5pm Saturday & Sunday
- Summer: Depart Gulfport 9am and 12pm – Depart Ship Island 2:30pm or 5pm (7) Days a Week
- Fall: Depart Gulfport 9am – Depart Ship Island 2:30pm Wednesday – Friday / Depart Gulfport 9am and 12pm – Depart Ship Island 2:30pm or 5pm Saturday & Sunday
2 Chairs and Umbrella: $25 (Reserve on Island Only)
Walk-up Ticket Prices at Boat Dock:
- Adult: $44
- Child (ages 3-12) $38
- Senior (65 & older): $42
- Military (Active with ID) $42
- Infants: $0 (Caution – Prepare for extreme heat – Not recommended for infants)
Online Ticket Prices:
(Strongly Recommend you Buy Online as we do sell out on Weekends)
- Adult: $41
- Child (ages 3-12) $35
- Senior (65 & older): $39
- Military (Active with ID) $39
- Infants: $0 (Caution – Prepare for extreme heat – Not recommended for infants)
(Minimum of 30 required to sail in the Spring & Fall Weekdays)
Ship Island Family Package: (Weekdays in the Summer)
SAVE $5 ON AN ONLINE ADULT AND CHILD TICKET WITH THIS OFFER:
- Family package requires you buy a minimum of 4 tickets up to a maximum of 10 tickets. Family Package prices are Adult $36 / Children (ages 3-12) $30. No Military or Senior rate available.
- Family package is only available Online and is not available at the Ticket Office.
- Family package includes (2) chairs and and (1) umbrella on Ship Island for the rental price of $25. This fee is added to you’re tickets automatically when you check out. You may purchase additional umbrella sets on the Island.
- Family package is only available on Weekdays in the Summer. No Weekends or Holidays.
- Family package subject to space available on the boats. We recommend you buy your tickets early.
- Please remember to travel light. See Luggage Policy on the Website.
Turn Around Cruise (Saturday & Sunday) 3:15pm
- We are now offering a Turn Around Cruise to Ship Island on Saturday & Sunday. You depart at 3:30pm from Gulfport to pick up passengers at Ship Island. No time on the island. You will arrive back in Gulfport at 6pm. Expect to see plenty of wildlife. Snack bar is available. No ice chest allowed.
- Adults $27 / Children (ages 3-12) $19
- Subject to availability….Call 228-864-1014 after 9am to make sure the trip is still available. Weather conditions may affect the ferry schedule.
Book Turn Around Cruise Now
View our Online Ticket Policy Here
CARRY-ON POLICY
Passengers are allowed small carry-on items. Boat storage space is limited. Coolers (42 quart or less) and backpacks are permitted, but subject to search. No glass containers. Wagons and pop-up tents prohibited. See Carry On Policy below:
View our Carry On Policy Here
View NPS Service Dog Policy
View Snack Bar Menu Here
A message about Island Shade
Ship Island is approximately 7 miles long an offers beautiful, high quality natural beaches for hiking and swimming. The treeless island offers visitors minimal shade. Prepare for the sun, especially in summer. A Ship Island sunburn is legendary. The National Park Service provides a large covered picnic pavilion and restroom facility with drinking water on both the north and south side of the island. A snack bar, along with beach umbrella and chair rentals are available on the South Beach. Additional shade and protection from storms are also available inside Fort Massachusetts.
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A Message about the Weather
Our staff constantly monitors the weather. Cruises are sometimes suspended due to unsafe weather and sea conditions. Check the marine forecast for conditions the day of your trip. WLOX.com
WXXV25.com
- Adult
- $41
- Child (3-12)
- $35
- Senior (65+)
- $39
- Military (with ID)
- $39
- Infant (2 & under)
- Free
An affordable, family-friendly adventure from the Gulfport Yacht Harbor
Mississippi’s finest beaches are located on Ship Island. The island is one of four barrier islands approximately 11 miles south of Gulfport. The islands are accessible by boat only. Ship Island Excursions offers the only authorized public ferry service. The boats are located in the Gulfport Yacht Harbor at the intersection of Hwy. 90 and Hwy. 49. In addition to experiencing interesting sights along a route that crosses the Mississippi Sound, you are almost sure to spot Atlantic Bottlenose dolphins during the approximate 1-hour boat ride to the island.
Ship Island offers visitors history, relaxation, and the opportunity to explore miles of quiet, high quality, natural sand beaches for hiking and surf bathing. The unspoiled island is surrounded by deep, emerald green waters not found on the mainland beaches. If you are a beach person you will love Ship island. This protected national seashore island affords visitors the best beaches for swimming, shelling and birding found anywhere along the Northern Gulf Coast. In addition, Civil War era Fort Massachusetts (circa 1858) is part of an extensive history you’ll discover during your visit to Ship Island.
The island offers very little commercial development. However, a national park ranger station and visitor amenities are available near the ferry landing and Fort Massachusetts. A snack bar and covered picnic pavilion is located on the South side of the island. The National Park Service provides a boardwalk that begins in front of the fort and extends one third of a mile across the island to the popular south side. Lifeguards are generally available on the south beach in summer. The National Park Service provides restrooms, freshwater showers, drinking water and covered picnic areas. A snack bar is located at the end of the boardwalk on the Gulf Beach. Fort tours are also provided during the ferry operating season.
Looking for a special event or shoreline cruise instead?
Excursions to Russky Island from Vladivostok
Excursions and tickets
By bus
Two-hour walk around Vladivostok – Tokarevsky Lighthouse, Golden Bridge, Russky Island and Basargin Peninsula.
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Car-walking tour
5-hour private car-walking tour of Vladivostok and Russky Island.
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Automobile and pedestrian
Visiting cards of the Russky Island: steep cliffs, waves crashing against the rocks churning water, and North Korean schooners thrown ashore. nine0003
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Car-pedestrian
Excursion to the main symbols of Vladivostok, which firmly established the status of visiting cards of the city. We will go for a ride on a mountain tram, admiring the panorama of the Golden Horn Bay, we will hurry to about. Russian. We will pass with you through 2 bridges: Russian and Golden.
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Explore Vladivostok in eight hours — Tobizin Cape, seafood lunch and Sapa ride in Trud Bay.
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Automobile and pedestrian
The most beautiful places in Vladivostok in 6 hours are Cape Tobizin, Russky Island, Lazurnaya and Steklyannaya bays.
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Automobile and pedestrian
Let’s go on an unforgettable trip to the Russky Islands, Shkota and Cape Tobizin – the landscape of which will surely impress you.
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Car-pedestrian
Photo session, seafood, Russian Island, St. Seraphim Monastery and much more. Such a varied program awaits you on this excursion. nine0003
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Automobile and pedestrian
Learn the history of the construction of the Vladivostok fortress, take a walk through the forest and a picturesque path along the rocks, have dinner on the seashore.
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Automobile and pedestrian
We visit Russky Island, admire the sea expanses from the 100-meter height of Cape Tobizin, Vyatlin, introduce the history of Russky Island as the southern sector of the city’s defense.
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Vladivostok is not only a city on a 2000 ruble banknote, but also unreal landscapes.
In one day we will visit three of the top locations — Tokarevsky Lighthouse, Tobizin Peninsula, Steklyannaya Bay…
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You will see the main sights of Vladivostok, the very heart of Primorsky Krai.
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Automobile and pedestrian
You will see the bridges, we will drive to the Golden Horn Bay and Russky Island. Let’s get acquainted with the gun semi-caponier and the coastal battery.
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Car and pedestrian
An excellent opportunity to see all the main architectural and historical monuments of the city, including Tokarevsky Lighthouse, the Golden Bridge and the headquarters of the Pacific Fleet, visit the unusual Russky Island, walk along the embankment and breathe in the fresh salty air as part of a five-hour excursion . nine0003
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Automobile and pedestrian
You will get acquainted with the famous Amur tiger, feed tame roe deer and spotted deer. See Ant Bay, strewn with oyster shells. Walk along the sandy beach in Shamora Bay. Visit the “disappearing wonder” – Glass Bay.
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Car and pedestrian tour
An intense tour in a mini-group with an overview of the famous Tokarevsky lighthouse, the only funicular in the Far East, the Golden Horn Bay, the longest cable-stayed bridge in the world and other popular attractions. nine0003
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Automobile and pedestrian
In one trip we will visit two islands: Russky Island – the largest island of the Empress Eugenia archipelago, and Shkota Island, connected with the first spit, which we will ford.
We will have the opportunity to see the Sea of Japan, the steep capes of the islands and numerous bird colonies…
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Automobile and pedestrian
With us you will hear only the brightest stories and legends of Vladivostok
which will immerse you in the Asian flavor of the city and introduce you to the local street food
with Korean character – pyanse, pigodi, steamed bun with spicy filling…
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Automobile and pedestrian
We will find out how the status of a “free port” influenced the development of the city during its formation, and how this status affects the development of Vladivostok now. Let’s see the sun into the Amur Bay from the most romantic viewing platform and go to “catch” the beautiful evening panoramas from the best angles. ..
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Automobile and pedestrian
The only military architecture fortress preserved in the world. You will get acquainted with this fortress and see many beautiful panoramas. nine0003
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By boat
One-day boat trip near Vladivostok – Russky Island, Seafarm and Verkhovsky Stones.
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Tourist reviews
Alexander K.
Pearls of the city V
We were on an excursion on January 11. The impression is very positive … Dmitry just told about everything wonderfully, interestingly and informatively. And in general, a very pleasant conversationalist … I took them to places where buses simply don’t take them … We took photos for memory ourselves and Dmitry helped with this very well, picked up good angles himself … They didn’t regret the time spent at all … My advice: Order and see for yourself! nine0003
4 days ago
Yuliya R.
Tour 3in1: Cape Tobizin – Russian Island, Steklyannaya and Lazurnaya bays
Thank you very much Alexandra for the tour. A beautiful route, a lot of informative information, learned a lot about the city itself, if you have little time, then Alexandra is for you. Everything took place in a very warm and friendly atmosphere, Sasha has everything for a comfortable and cozy stay: blankets, pillows, wine glasses and, most importantly, a great mood. You don’t even have to take pictures, Alexandra will do everything for you!!! We got great pleasure and a lot of positive emotions from this trip)))
2 months ago
Anna B.
Pearls of the city V
Rich, interesting, informative, dynamic, unusual – this is a trip through the pearls of Vladivostok with a guide Dmitry! If you are looking for a sightseeing tour of the city center, with a lot of historical dates and stories about the creation and development of the city – you are not here. For this, there are tours AROUND THE CITY. With Dmitry you will see Vladivostok and its surroundings from unusual angles, you will learn what a standard guide will not show or tell you. We experienced travelers LOVED it
3 months ago
Evgenia B.
Tour 3in1: Cape Tobizin – Russian Island, Steklyannaya and Lazurnaya bays
We had a wonderful time with Alexaedra. This day was filled not only with beautiful views of nature, but also with a wonderful story of a very good storyteller and interlocutor, and, well, just a beautiful girl, Alexandra. Thanks for the walk. And there were also very valuable and interesting tips)))
3 months ago
Tatyana N.0003
O I liked the Guiding Star tour of Vladivostok very much! Everything is clear, organized and informative. We visited the Tokarevsky lighthouse, on the observation deck near the Russian bridge.
Enjoyed the tour very much!
3 months ago
Tour 3 in 1: Cape Tobizin – Russian Island, Steklyannaya and Lazurnaya bays
I saw all the declared locations and even more. information, all my wishes were taken into account. I got a lot of positive impressions and never regretted choosing an excursion. I definitely recommend it !!! nine0003
3 months ago
Ekaterina L.
Sea adventure on a boat
Gorgeous excursion!!! Amazing views!! Excellent guide Alexey, thank you so much for the heartfelt tour!! We got great impressions!! Great boat ride!! Thanks Captain Artyom!! Unforgettable divine beauty of the island!! Fairytale forest on the island, mighty cliffs, beautiful coasts! Miracle Sea farm, delicious mussels and scallops!! Very nice unforgettable atmosphere! Great tour! I will definitely come back here! Ekaterina. nine0003
3 months ago
Svetlana Zh. the fact that he drove right to the place where the hotel where I stayed, which is very convenient. I came from the city of Rzhev, Tver region and I don’t know the city at all. From the first minutes, he interested in his story, immersed me in the history of Vladivostok and 4 hours flew by unnoticed. It’s great that Alexander is…
4 months ago
Photos from excursions
The catalog contains excursions to Russky Island from Vladivostok with descriptions, prices and reviews of tourists. The cost of excursions to Russky Island is from 1400 ₽. Read about the sights of Vladivostok, choose the best route, see the schedule for January-February 2023 and buy tickets online with a 5% discount.
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Tours on Olkhon Island – prices 2023
See the schedule for January-February 2023, choose a route around Olkhon and book tickets online. nine0003
Automobile and pedestrian
One day in the north of Olkhon Island — enjoy the beauty of Baikal nature and feel yourself at the edge of the Earth.
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Car-walking tour
6-hour car-walking tour of the southern part of Olkhon Island for a mini-group of up to 9 people.
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Automobile and pedestrian
A one-day trip around Olkhon Island in a mini-group — enjoy the beauty of Baikal nature.
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By car
Cape Khoboy is the northernmost cape of Olkhon Island.
When you stand on a rock at the very edge, and under you there are kilometers of water, it seems that this is the very edge of the Earth that brave sailors and fearless heroes of Russian fairy tales were looking for…
Our path lies there…
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Walking tour
A two-hour walk along the evening Khuzhir with a visit to the main attractions
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Car-pedestrian
One-day individual excursion to the island of Olkhon, with a visit to the capes Saagan-Khushun (Three Brothers), Khoboy and Shunte (Rock of Love).
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Car-pedestrian
One-day individual excursion to the island of Olkhon, with a visit to the capes Saagan-Khushun (Three Brothers), Khoboy and Shunte (Rock of Love).
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Automobile and pedestrian
Olkhon is a real reserve of amazing landscapes and majestic landscapes! nine0003
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On horseback
Horse riding is a unique opportunity to see the world through the eyes of a pioneer. Turks, Buryats and Russian settlers – they all came to the Baikal land in the saddle. You will drive along the shore of Lake Baikal, and you will also be able to ride a horse through the Olkhon steppes.
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On the boat
There are truly a lot of seagulls on Olkhon Island, they nest right on the rocks, if you want to see this unique miracle of nature and feed the birds on the cape, then purchase our excursion! nine0003
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By boat
Picturesque and amazing places are waiting for you on this excursion. Buddhist Stupa of Enlightenment, holy springs, the unique island of Ogoy and dozens of rocky islets of Baikal!
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Automobile and pedestrian
Private three-day tour to Olkhon Island, the land of shamans and legends, which generously presents itself to tourists from all over the world.
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Automobile and pedestrian tour
Private multi-day tour to Olkhon Island, Listvyanka village and Irkutsk city. nine0003
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On a yacht
Baikal is a great place for tourism and fishing. Fish with us on the most beautiful shores of our lake!
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Learn a rich catch on our fishing tour thanks to the wonderful summer climate of Lake Baikal!
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Automobile and pedestrian
A two-day jeep tour around Olkhon Island will give you the opportunity to feel Baikal and see the most famous natural sights of this place. nine0003
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Reviews of tourists
Anastasia M.
We went to Northern Olkhon with Alexander. A sea of impressions! Alexander told a lot of interesting, new and informative for us. And a hot fish soup with omul at -28 degrees – no words at all … We thank our guide and hope to return again to visit other destinations that Alexander told us about. Super! nine0003
about 4 hours ago
Vitaly .
Everything went great! Good weather, great driver, delicious fish soup! We really liked it, I recommend it to everyone!
25 days ago
Elmira F.
Ordered an excursion for a group of 18 people. Everyone liked it very much. Guide Egor from the local and boldly and confidently answered any questions.
5 months ago
Daria B.
Hello! Everything is fine!! We all really liked Leonid! Just a special thank you for it! He is wonderful!) I also really liked the route – in the south there are not as many people as in the north of the island, there was a feeling of unity with nature, more diverse views, I really liked it! The guide told everything, cooked a delicious fish soup! Thanks!))
5 months ago
Ekaterina F.