Akvilon Shipping Company LLC (often shortened to "Akvilon Shipping" or "Aquilon Shipping Co.") is a Russian-based company primarily engaged in the cruise industry through its operation of the MS Astoria Grande. While it functions as a cruise operator, it is not a traditional international cruise line with a large, diverse fleet. Instead, its focus is specifically on serving the Russian domestic and regional cruise market.
Company Overview:
- Headquarters: Moscow, Russia.
- Parent Company: Identified as Akvilon LTD (OOO Akvilon).
- Primary Role: Akvilon Shipping Company LLC is the Russian entity responsible for implementing international cruise shipping projects in the Black Sea. It handles the marketing and promotion of cruises, primarily for the Russian audience. For a period (2021-2022), it was also listed as a bareboat owner of the Astoria Grande.
- Market Focus: Exclusively targets the Russian-speaking market, with cruises consistently departing from Russian homeports.
Fleet:
- MS Astoria Grande: Akvilon Shipping's cruise operations are centered around this single vessel.
- History: Built in 1996 as AIDAcara for AIDA Cruises. It was sold in 2021 and subsequently renamed Astoria Grande.
- Ownership & Management: The registered owner since July 2022 is Goodwin Shipping Ltd. (registered in Seychelles and managed by Camelot Maritime Ship Management Ltd/Turkey). Akvilon Shipping Company LLC operates and markets the cruises in Russia. The ship sails under the Palau flag.
- Capacity: Approximately 1,186 passengers (double occupancy), with a maximum of 1,382 passengers.
- Status (as of July 2025): The Astoria Grande remains in active service, operating cruises. While it was reported as listed for sale in late 2024, its operations continue.
Destinations (Current & Recent Operations):
Akvilon Shipping, via the Astoria Grande, maintains a focused itinerary program primarily from a Russian homeport.
- Russian Homeport: All cruises typically depart from Sochi, Russia.
- Black Sea & Turkish Ports: The main itineraries involve round-trip voyages in the Black Sea, visiting various ports in Turkey such as Istanbul, Amasra, Sinop, Trabzon, and sometimes other ports like Samsun or Çeşme on the Aegean coast.
- New for 2025/2026:
- Expanded offerings to include Greek Islands (e.g., Rhodes, Mykonos, Santorini, Lesbos) from Sochi for 10-night cruises.
- Some itineraries may also include destinations in Egypt (e.g., Alexandria).
- The 2025-2026 season for Astoria Grande is scheduled to run from March 2025 until the end of January 2026, with plans for 42 international maritime journeys.
Onboard Experience & Inclusions:
The onboard experience is distinctly tailored for Russian guests, reflecting their preferences in language, cuisine, and entertainment. The atmosphere is generally lively and welcoming.
- Onboard Language: Predominantly Russian. All announcements, daily programs, menus, and most entertainment are provided in Russian. Crew members are primarily Russian or proficient in Russian.
- Onboard Currency: Russian Ruble (RUB).
- Dining: Full-board dining is included, offering a mix of international and Russian cuisine in buffet and main restaurant settings.
- Entertainment: Features live music, shows, cabaret, themed parties, and various activities designed to appeal to the Russian clientele. A kids' club with animation service is usually available.
- Wellness & Fitness: Includes access to the fitness center and spa facilities (treatments typically extra).
- Standard Inclusions (Base Fare):
- Accommodation in your chosen cabin.
- All meals (full board).
- Basic entertainment program for adults and children.
- Access to general onboard facilities (pools, fitness center, sports courts).
- Port and fuel surcharges.
- Medical insurance (often for Russian citizens, check specifics).
- Kids aged 2-11 in a cabin with 2 adults often only pay port and fuel charges.
- Additional Costs (Not Included in Base Fare):
- Beverages (beyond basic options during meals/self-service stations). Drink packages are usually available for purchase.
- Shore Excursions.
- Wi-Fi access.
- Spa treatments, salon services.
- Gratuities (check specific policy, often suggested).
- Shopping at duty-free galleries.
- Specialty bars and some themed restaurants may incur extra charges.
Akvilon Shipping Company LLC provides a unique cruise experience specifically for the Russian market, offering regional and increasingly expanded international voyages with a distinctly Russian character on the MS Astoria Grande.
Exported from Firebase on 2025-08-02T14:17:19.900Z
