Imperial River Cruises

About Imperial River Cruises

Welcome! World Traveler, Imperial River Cruises (IRC) is essentially the same age as the U.S. river cruise industry itself. It might seem improbable, but river cruises were not common on the American market 25-27 years ago. IRC was established in 1993 and played an important, if not main role, in developing Russia and Ukraine as river cruise destinations for the North American Market. IRC is partnered with Orthodox Cruise Company (OCC), the largest ship operator in Russia. The combined experience of the IRC and OCC founders in the cruise industry totals more than 60 years. Cruise industry veteran, Alexander Bout’s career has been spent with such companies as Black Sea Shipping (vice president), OdessAmerica Cruises, Sea Ways International Group and Imperial River Cruises (president). His partner, Michael Kovalev, has been the owner of Dontourfeet with 12 river cruise ships and the general director of Orthodox Cruise Company for the past 27 years. IRC is a member of reputable industry organi zations, meeting strict operational, safety, and administrative standards. In recent years the cruise line has handled many leisure travelers from North and South America, Australia, New Zealand, Europe, Japan and China. The company’s vast experience also enables it to offer land tours in all price categories, from budget to VIP. We are also known for offering special interest and incentive cruises, catering to music lovers, orchestras, choirs, and other professional (or scholastic) groups or organizations. Our great team of professionals will do everything possible to please you in your unforgettable journeys across Russia and Ukraine. We would love to welcome you aboard each ship and wish you “Bon Voyage!” Sincerely, Alexander Bout and Michael Kovalev,