Win An Unforgettable Cruise Along the Waterways of Russia

Cruise Ship on the Volga River

As the V&A celebrates 500 years of cultural exchange between Britain and Russia, we’re giving you the chance to follow in the footsteps of the Tsars on a once-in-a-lifetime holiday.

One lucky winner and their guest will experience the best of Russia during an unforgettable journey along its fabled waterways, courtesy of Viking River Cruises. From the iconic landmarks of Moscow's Red Square and the Hermitage in St. Petersburg, to quaint riverside villages and ancient towns, you will explore the beauty and mystery of this unique country. Viking River Cruises is the world’s leading river cruise line, with a fantastic selection of holidays across Europe, Russia and Asia. Sailing on a deluxe, state-of-the-art river ship, you will enjoy a comfortable and stylish stateroom with ever-changing views, delicious on board food and wine, and daily excursions to inspiring destinations.

St Petersburg ChurchThe winner and two runners up will also enjoy a year’s Membership of the V&A. Membership entitles you to visit all V&A exhibitions free of charge with up to four family children. It also includes exclusive Members-only previews of major new exhibitions and galleries; the V&A Magazine, delivered direct to your door; an exciting programme of events; use of the V&A Members’ Room; and a monthly e-newsletter, packed with updates and offers.

One runner up will also win a taste of true Russian hospitality with a delicious dinner for two at Mari Vanna. Situated in the heart of London’s Knightsbridge, this award-winning restaurant transports diners into an archetypal Russian home, laden with extraordinary attention to detail, to provide an exquisite and authentic culinary experience.

First Prize includes:

  • Viking River Cruises LogoScheduled economy class flights from the UK to Russia
  • ‘Waterways of the Tsars’ river cruise for two people with Viking River Cruises
  • 13 days on board with river-view stateroom
  • All delicious meals including lunch and dinner on board with complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks
  • 11 guided tours including visits to 5 UNESCO sites, plus an enriching Culture Curriculum programme
  • A year’s Membership of the V&A

Interior of the Mari Vanna RestaurantFirst Runner’s Up Prize includes:

  • Dinner for 2 at Mari Vanna, London, to a total value of £100
  • A year’s Membership of the V&A

Second Runner’s Up Prize includes:

  • A year’s Membership of the V&A

Further information about Viking River Cruises

Further information about Mari Vanna

Further information about V&A Membership

To enter simply answer the question below and fill in your details.

Terms and conditions: 

By entering the competition, entrants will be deemed to have accepted and agreed to be bound by these terms and conditions.

  • The closing date is 14 July 2013.
  • Winners will be notified by the V&A by 28 July 2013.
  • Winners will be the first three valid and correct entries drawn. The Judge’s decision is final.
  • The competition is open to residents of the UK and Northern Ireland (excluding employees of the V&A, Viking River Cruises, Mari Vanna and their affiliates, agents and any person professionally connected with the competition).
  • Applicants must be aged 18 or over.
  • Only one entry per person is permitted.
  • The holiday must be taken between 1 January 2014 and 31 December 2014 and is subject to availability. Validity of the prize cannot be extended.
  • The holiday prize is based on two people sharing a stateroom. Stateroom grade is at the discretion of Viking River Cruises.
  • The First Prize Winner and their companion are responsible for paying single supplements should they require separate rooms.
  • Russian Visa is included in the First Prize, but is subject to terms and conditions.
  • The First Prize Winner and their companion will be responsible for supplying valid passports and, where necessary, for obtaining appropriate vaccinations and inoculations.
  • Travel insurance and gratuities are not included in the First Prize.  It is strongly recommended that travellers take out adequate travel insurance.
  • Viking River Cruises cannot be held responsible for unforeseen cancellations of flights.
  • The First Prize Winner and their companion are responsible for their own transportation to and from a London airport. The First Runner Up and their companion are responsible for their own transportation to and from Mari Vanna.
  • Viking reserves the right to substitute an alternative cruise of a similar value due to any unforeseen circumstances.
  • Winners and their companions are liable for any tax liability accruing as a result of winning this competition.
  • Any other expenses incurred during the period of the prizes will be the responsibility of the winners and their companions.
  • Any person suspected of cheating, acting dishonestly or fraudulently in the opinion of the Promoter will be excluded from the competition.
  • No purchase necessary.
  • No cash alternative will be offered and prizes are non-transferable.
  • Prize is non-refundable and non-exchangeable.
  • No correspondence will be entered into.
  • Promoter: Victoria and Albert Museum [V&A South Kensington, Cromwell Road, LondonSW7 2RL]. Prize Providers: Viking River Cruises UK Limited [Nelsons House, 83 Wimbledon Park Side, London SW19 5LP]; Mari Vanna [Wellington Court, 116 Knightsbridge, London SW1X 7PJ]

Images (top to bottom): 'Waterways of the Tsars' River Cruise, Open Air Museum, Kizhi, courtesy of Viking River Cruises; The Church of the Saviour on Spilled Blood, St. Petersburg, courtesy of Viking River Cruises; Mari Vanna, London, courtesy of Mari Vanna.