tom cat catamaran manuel antonio

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Guanacaste, Los Sueños, Jaco, Manuel Antonio for Charter (15)

Catamaran Charter Testimonials

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" Do not hesitate to book this tour, especially on your first trip to Costa Rica. It’s so much fun and the guys of the crew are absolutely awesome, they made the experience 100x better for me. I got a little sea sick and they were so understanding and helpful, I was so very embarrassed lol. Thank you for your hospitality. After I felt better, we arrived to something I consider magical considering I don’t live very close to anything like that. The views were breathtaking, and the bar tender was on it! Sooo So much fun. The lunch they provided and snacks were A+++..." Nahely, Texas

" We had absolutely amazing time! It was very easy to book the trip. They actually picked us up from our hotel. What a wonderful crew- everyone on a catamaran was so friendly and just did everything to male this trip unforgettable for us. The food was outstanding, the drinks as well. We were able to see the dolphins and then we were able to swim in a ocean, and use the slides -it was so much fun! The whole crew was very attentive, they also were following all the safety precautions. We took our 4 and 8 years old kids. So it's definitely kids friendly, they had a ..." Masha T, Toronto

" This felt like a luxury! Everything was very clean, and the staff very friendly. We never had an empty drink, the lunch and other food they provided was very delicious. The view was breathtaking. We went snorkeling, got to jump off the top of the boat, and even went down the slides. We had so much fun!! We also met some of the nicest people. To top it off, the photographer got really good pictures of us and only charged us $15 which we found very affordable..." Llewellyn, Washington

" This was not my first time on the boat. It was probably my 15th time. This was a special event. I chartered a private cruise for 40 of my closest family and friends in town for my wedding. This was the BEST DAY ON THE Water I have ever had!! The staff was absolutely incredible. They were so attentive and made the day extra special. It was incredibly windy that day. We were nervous about being on the water. But this boat is so big that we did not even feel the the waves. And they hit 6 feet!! Smaller boats would not be able to do this The snorkeling, lunch and sail..." Amanda F, Alaska

" We were picked up from the beach at coco on time and by an experienced, welcoming crew on time. Sailed up north to a beautiful beach that has snorkeling, lounging and a cave that has wave action through from the other side of the land spit. Just a magical place. The crew was very clear about what our itinerary would be and what to expect. Lunch after beach as we sailed south was prepared on board. Nothing real fancy but was very tasty and all on board cleaned their plates with many (11 guests, 4 crew) going back for seconds. Then we sailed south to RIU where we were..." Joe Camel, California

Plan your Charter

Each event and celebration is unique and deserves to be celebrated. No matter how many guests you decided to invite, we will ensure that your charter in Costa Rica is absolutely perfect

We specialize in Catamaran Charters in Costa Rica and planning your event is our specialty. At The King Catamaran, our team has 20 years of experience managing Catamaran Charters and Catamaran Rentals in every area of Costa Rica. - Randall Duran

Costa Rica Boat Tours

Welcome to The King Catamaran, your premier choice for Costa Rica Catamaran Charters and Boat Tours , conveniently located at Los Suenos. With 25 years of experience in Catamaran Charters and Tours across every area of Costa Rica, planning your event is our specialty. Our Costa Rica Catamaran Charters provide unparalleled privacy, exclusivity, and come with experienced and safe crews. Our Catamarans are fully insured and equipped with great amenities, making us the top option for groups looking to indulge in cruising, catering, entertainment, and water sports under the glorious sun. The diverse selection of Catamaran Charters we offer ensures there's a perfect fit for your needs, and rest assured that all our Costa Rica Catamaran Charters are all-inclusive. Whether you are vacationing in Manuel Antonio, Jaco, Guanacaste, Tamarindo, Playas del Coco, Playa Grande, or any other resort in Costa Rica, you have access to our top-notch event planning services. From dream weddings and LGBT weddings to birthday celebrations and corporate events, we make each occasion unique and unforgettable. For the Best Catamaran Tours , we have fishing, snorkeling, paddle-boarding, and access to secluded beaches, along with many more exciting activities. Our Costa Rica Catamaran Tours come with the same benefits of privacy, exclusivity, experienced crews, and safe insured boats and catamarans, all brimming with fantastic amenities. Embark on the best all-inclusive catamaran charters in Costa Rica with The King Catamaran. Many of our packages include fishing, snorkeling, water activities, an open bar, visits to secluded beaches, and exploration of beautiful hidden destinations. Enjoy a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and luxury on our unforgettable

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Manuel Antonio Catamaran

• Destinations
• Manuel Antonio
• Things to do

The Manuel Antonio Catamaran Tour is available in both Morning and Afternoon-Sunset tour full of beautiful views and marine exploration along the stunning pacific waters of Manuel Antonio.

We will navigate our way around the various islands and along the beautiful Pacific Coastline. Gliding along the blue waters in search of playful dolphins we will pass along jagged rock formations and towering cliffs that host numerous varieties of nesting marine birds. Snacks and refreshments are included in the trip.

After gliding along the coast and bays we will stop in a protected bay where the waters are calm and the reefs are healthy. Be sure to bring your bathing suit — you will have about 30 minutes to swim and snorkel at a popular dive site. Keep a look out for tropical fish and colorful coral while the crew prepares a delicious meal that includes local produce, tropical fruits, and fresh bocas — skewers of meat and fish. The tour also comes with a variety of refreshments.

Most visitors take this tour aboard the Tom Cat, which can take groups of up to 150. It has comfortable seating and provides a smooth ride. Typically you and your group will join a larger group for the tour.

Note: From May 1st to November 30th - for safety reasons - this tour is only operated in the morning because in the afternoon the rain could be very strong.

What to Bring

Comfortable fresh clothes, sunglasses with strap, bathing suit, waterproof camera, sandals, sunscreen, soft-soled shoes or sandals and towel.

What's included

Bilingual guide, snacks, lunch and beverages, round trip transportation from hotels in Manuel Antonio.

Transportation

Many of our tours and activities offer transportation pick up & drop off options from several locations and destinations. Options vary by tour, see “BOOKING REQUEST” for full details.

Traveler Comments

Good lively tour. The food on the boat, fish kebabs, were amazing! Good to see the sunset too. Slightly disappointed not to see any sea life but appreciate that this is not guaranteed.

We are old but the boat trip was a lot more fun tha we expected.

More Comments

Similar things to do

We invite all our friends and visitors to enjoy an outstanding naturalist tour with amazing views of the Manuel Antonio National Park on board our catamaran. Enjoy great company and recreational fun during this half-day excursion Choose between our morning and afternoon tour.

The Bahia Aventuras Combo Tour combines elements of some of the most popular tours - whale/dolphin watching and snorkeling - into one rip-roaring, exciting day of adventure.

A challenging half-day journey along the coastline of Manuel Antonio, this ocean kayaking adventure takes you past islands and inlets for incredible views and bird watching.

More things to do →

Don't see what you're looking for?

• Catamaran Tour
• Mangrove Tour
• Mangrove Night tour
• ATV Manuel Antonio
• Manuel Antonio Zipline
• Manuel Antonio National Park
• Nauyaca waterfalls
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• TERMS & CONDITIONS

Catamaran Tour in Manuel Antonio

The pioneers of catamaran tour in the area since 1989

T he company organizes transportation to pick you up at you hotel or Airbnb and take you to the Marina Pez Vela in Quepos where the fun begins! Your guide of the day will escort you to the 82 feel long and 34 feet wide boat and give you a brief explanation about the tour and safety instructions on board. From here you take off from the marina and start looking for dolphins and other wildlife. You sail along the beautiful coast of Quepos bay and the Manuel Antonio National Park and your guides will tell you about the history of the area, the wildlife and anything there is to know about Manuel Antonio National Park. The boat has a shaded, second floor where you can enjoy the beautiful view with a nice, cold drink in your hand! The boat is equipped with nets in front for those who likes to chill and sunbathe.

All ages are welcome onboard!

Price $80 + sales tax 13%

Infant ages (5 and under) $30 + sales tax 13%

This tour has a minimum of 12 people to operate. If the 12 people minimum is not met the tour will be rescheduled.

What to bring

O n this catamaran tour there is a great chance to see dolphins, different kinds of marine birds and during the migration of the humpback whales you might be lucky to spot a mamma with her baby cruising around the coastline of the Manuel Antonio beaches. However, we do like to remind our guests that during this tour we are the visitors in their natural habitat and therefore nothing is guaranteed. The crew has many years of experience and knows exactly where to look for them which is why there is a great chance you will see the dolphins. A fter hopefully seeing dolphins and experiencing the beautiful nature around the Manuel Antonio National Park, the boat heads back towards Quepos bay but makes a stop in Biezans bay for you to enjoy some fun water activities. T he crew will be ready to help you at all times during the tour and to serve you delicious drinks. Different juices of local fruit (mixed with alcohol if you wish) or water to make sure to keep you hydrated in the Costa Rican heat.

T he atmosphere on board is fun and cheerful. The boat has two waterslides, you will be equipped with snorkeling gear to go and swim among beautiful, colorful fish and for those who loves a good adrenaline kick, it is possible to jump off the second floor of the boat. After the water activities a meal will be served. NB: if you have any allergies or other food restrictions do not hesitate to contact us and we will take care of your needs. A fter enjoying playful time in the water and a delicious meal the boat will slowly be heading back to the marina. Here your transportation will be waiting to take you back to your accommodations. This tour is fun, family friendly and full of pura vida! Book now to experience this stunning boat trip in Manuel Antonio – where the lushes rainforest meets the beautiful deep blue ocean.  

Sailing along the coast of Quepos and Manuel Antonio National Park

Morning tour.

As in the afternoon tour, the snorkels during the summer are magnificent due to the low tides, clear waters and sunny days the boat is also perfect at any time of the day for those who are looking for a tan or for those who want to jump from the roof or use the slides.

Afternoon tour

The afternoon tour is very popular for its incredible sunsets and snorkeling, thanks to sunlight and clear waters, this is possible during the summer between December and May after those months sunsets are not guaranteed daily so it can rain during the afternoon.

Food and drinks on the catamaran

This meal typically consists of fish kebab, a cold salad of pasta accompanied by delicious fresh local fruit (pineapple and watermelon). The menu is the same as for the morning and afternoon tour. If you have any allergies or other food restrictions do not hesitate to contact us and we will take care of your needs.

The catamaran crew & safety on board

The crew on board is very friendly and super pura vida. The company prides in excellent customer service and the guides are in charge of providing a high quality service on board. The entire crew has the adequate background to work on the high seas certified by the National Institute of Learning INA. The entire deck crew is bilingual, which means that passengers will have full service in both Spanish and English.

The safety on board is extremely important for the crew, and they are all well prepared. This tour is all about creating an amazing experience for you in a safe setting, which is why it is important for you to pay attention during the safety instructions and at all times follow instructions from your guide. The boat has enough lifejackets for all the passengers and more to spare.

Snorkeling and water activities in Biesanz Bay

Heading back to Marina Pez Vela we make a stop at the stunning surroundings of Biesanz Bay. Here the lushes rainforest meets the deep, blue ocean creating an amazing atmosphere for your water activities. During low tide you are able to spot the top of a volcanic rock providing home to hundreds of colorful fish swimming around minding their daily business and not even paying attention to the snorkeling guests around them. After exploring the marine life beneath the surface it is time to have fun! The boat is equipped with two waterslides and for the daredevils it is possible to jump from the second floor.

Experiences during the Catamaran tour around Manuel Antonio National Park

The following images have been shared directly by the company operating this tour. However, we like to remind our guests that it is simply not possible to make any promises or guarantees regarding wildlife, since we are in their natural habitat and not a zoo. Depending on the circumstances it is very possible to spot dolphins in this area and during the migration of the humpback whales they frequently cruise these waters, as well. Even with little animal activity this tour takes place in one if the most beautiful settings in Costa Rica and it is definitely recommendable.

The islands of Manuel Antonio were formed millions of years ago as a result of seismic activity. Today they are home of a hundred of seabirds, that you will see from the catamaran.

What to expect when doing the catamaran tour

Between the coast of Manuel Antonio and Quepos, dolphin sightings are very common. Along with dolphins, marine birds and turtles it is possible to see humpback whales migration from the south when they are in breeding season in the months of July to mid-September. And the northern migration from December to March.

Recommendations for going on catamaran tour in Manual Antonio

For this tour we recommend that you bring swimsuit, light clothing, towels, a hat and sunblock to protect your skin. The boat has plenty of shaded areas, but the Costa Rican sun is super strong and it only amplifies when on the water. If your skin is not used to this, you need to really be protective of it. The construction of a catamaran makes the sailing much smoother than going on a regular sailboat. In case you do struggle with seasickness it is recommended that you take a motion sickness pill before, but our experience is that most people do not feel any discomfort on a regular day.

If you would like to purchase pictures taken by a professional and really talented photographer or tip your guides, we recommend that you bring cash. Either dollars or the local currency – colones. Other than that you only have to bring your adventurous spirits and a lot of Pura Vida! The rest will be taken care of.

Be respectful of your surroundings – people, animals and environment.

Call local+(506) 86989966 

Catamaran tour, manuel antonio,  toll free 1(888) 9872384, +(506)86989966,   [email protected], book now by sms email or call, ocean king catamaran  before $92  now only $84 per person tom cat catamaran  before $85  now  only $75 per person ask for  family specials  , pregunte por  las promociones para ticos , consulta de promociones por whatsapp .

Through our system of advance reservations, we will be delighted to work with our travelers in order to coordinate your trip and to estimate its Price, while satisfying your special requests, such as private tours, cultural shows, , picnics at the river, Costa Rican cuisine lessons and even photography services.

If you are about to arrive in Costa Rica, we would love to give you the opportunity to taste some of the fresh fruits and vegetables you have never tried before. Besides, in order to free you from any stress sources, you will enjoy the splash of a waterfall gently hitting your neck, you will be able to ask the local about some of their artisan football tips and you will walk on secret beaches only locals know about and go surfing at.

Within the tourism industry, personalized attention is often lost with the passing of time. That is why here at Catamaran Tour Manuel Antonio   we pride ourselves in having put together a selected and committed group of tourism professionals, in order to always maintain the quality of our services. These are mostly small companies run by their owners and serviced by a team of highly efficient and ethical staff, who also take great pride on their work and who are eager to increase their already prestigious reputation through the ongoing satisfaction of their customers’ needs.

Catamaran Tour Manuel Antonio   helps you, individually, family or group wise, to find the right adventure and opportunity for relaxation. We can also organize your honey moon or wedding anniversary trip, so you can be sure of making the most of your vacation.

Catamaran Tour Manuel Antonio  was created to satisfy your actual tourism services need by providing you with optimum quality in Exchange for you your time and Money. We set ourselves to overcome your highest expectations, either for a one-day tour you book with us or for a more personalized few days package.

We hope to be able to serve you in the very near future 

Catamaran Tours Manuerl Antonio is owned by Costa Rica Unique Tours that is in charge of promoting, marketing, reserving and informing all its clients during the reservation process, you can visit our main site to contact us or any questions you may have.

                                                                        www.costaricauniquetours.com

             Why traveling with US ?

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Solo 30 mil pp y promociones familiares.

Tel+(506) 85039150

Toll free us/can 18889872384.

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Have the time of your life in truly magical place !

MOST POPULAR TOURS ALL YEAR!

CATAMARAN MAGIC KING

All Inclusive

BOOK NOW PAY ON THE DAY OF THE TOUR

RESERVATION IN ADVANCE IS REQUIRED

NO DEPOSITS IN ADVANCE  OR CREDIT CARD INFORMATION

 BOOK BY WHATSAPP SMS CALL OR EMAIL

Price Person C ONTACT FOR DETAILS

FREE HOTEL PICK UP - DROP OFF

From  Quepos and Manuel Antonio 

Tour Times: 8:30 am or 1:30 pm 

      Please Note:  Pick-up time will set earlier than Departure time and it will be 

      set depending on Hotel and or House where the participant is staying at .

Total time on the catamaran is 3 hours and 30 minutes

INCLUDES: snacks, Capitan crew 4 alcoholic drinks cocktail style or beer per person, unlimited natural drinks, snorkeling  tour and Lunch Free Hotel Pick Up-Drop Off From

Quepos and Manuel Antonio  

WHAT TO BRING: Sunglasses, swimsuit, waterproof camera, sandals and beach towel.

The MAGIC KING is the perfect catamaran for a group up to 25 people max and a minimum of 10 

 This includes transportation from any Hotel In Quepos or Manuel Antonio, snacks, Capitan crew 4 alcoholic drinks cocktail style or beer per person, unlimited natural drinks, snorkeling  tour and Lunch

The Magic has a slide, two trampolines, a climbing Mayan, a Swing Tarzan, a bar, a second floor of the tanning area, shared lockers, two sanitary facilities and a shower.

Lunch  rosemary potatoes, sautéed vegetables, a fish fillet in passion fruit sauce (optional) and chips.

We can pick you up at 8 am , drop off by 1 pm total time on the catamaran 3 hours And 30 minutes,

Important 

You can not brig extra alcohol in the catamaran

The alcoholic drinks provided on the tour will be available after the Snorkling stop 

Let us know about any food allergies 

Let us know how many eat fish or chicken in your group 

Full payment in advance is required we can send you a credit card form contact for more details 

READY TO MAKE A RESERVATION

Reservation in advance is required

Please provide the following information 

1-Full name (one person only) 

2-Hotel, Villa or Airbnb (Quepos or Manuel Antonio area) 

3-Chose your Tour Time Tour Time 8:30 to 12:45 or 1:30 to 5: 45 pm 

If you drive to us, there is no charge for parking 

4-Let us know if you have any fish  allergies 

then we can give you a pick up time and a reservation code 

remember no deposits in advance are required.

For  Faster response Send Us a Whatsapp Message

Explore More Amazing Experiences

Bienvenido al 

The Tom Cat , is a double deck, roofed and shaded 70-foot sailing cat with a seating capacity of 150.

It is available for all types of events—Birthdays, Weddings, Corporate Outings, Receptions, Memorial Services or any other memorable occasion.The Tom Cat is an exceptionally stable and smooth-riding boat, perfect for the customer that wants a bit of comfort during the tour.

• Food and drinks onboard
• Large groups
• Nature Observation
• Next Project

Quepos & Flamingo – Costa Rica

• Reservations
• Planet Dolphin Video
• Sustainable Conservation Projects

QUEPOS: Office: (506) 2777-1647 Whatsapp: (506) 8417-6449 FLAMINGO: Whatsapp: (506) 6028-8250

How to get here

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• Tour description
• Waiver Manuel Antonio
• Testimonials
• Travel to Manuel Antonio
• Manuel Antonio Blog
• Manuel Antonio Sightings
• Nature Photo Gallery
• Tom Cat Photo Gallery
• Spanish Dancer Gallery
• Daily Adventure Gallery
• Weather in Manuel Antonio
• Sand & Sea Combo
• Canopy & Catamaran Eco Adventure
• Full Day Chasing Waterfalls “Off the Beaten Path”
• Eco Chontales Waterfall Experience with Blue Clay
• Full Day Nauyaca Waterfall
• Private Ground Transfer Countrywide
• Rent a Cars in Costa Rica
• Tour Description
• How to get there
• Guanacaste Blog
• Flamingo Information
• Tom Cat II Photo Gallery
• Spanish Dancer

THE 10 BEST Moscow Boat Rides & Cruises

Boat rides & cruises in moscow.

• Boat Rentals
• Scuba & Snorkeling
• Fishing Charters & Tours
• Water Sports
• Stand-Up Paddleboarding
• Surfing, Windsurfing & Kitesurfing
• Kayaking & Canoeing
• Waterskiing & Jetskiing
• Parasailing & Paragliding
• River Rafting & Tubing
• Dolphin & Whale Watching
• Speed Boats Tours
• Submarine Tours
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3rd Transport Ring (TTK)
• District Central (TsAO)
• Garden Ring
• District Northern (SAO)
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Couples
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Adventurous
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Flotilla Radisson Royal

2. Moscow River Boat Tours

3. Sup-Club

4. Akvanavt Diving Centre

5. Diving Center Crocus City Oceanarium

6. CheapRussia Tours

7. Kite School Kiteclass

8. SUP Center

9. Erwin. Reka

11. Easy Russia Tour Guide

12. Lovely Russia Tours

13. Capital River Boat Tours - Moscow Centre

14. Alfa Centr

15. Diving Club Divers

16. Sup Outdoor

17. MORE MOSCOW

19. Soho Sailing Style

20. Diving Center Crocodile

21. Mosparokhodstvo

22. Dive-Project

24. Kosinskiy Children Marine Club

25. Kayak Moscow

26. DIVECLUB CHE

27. FLOW Moscow

28. Moswake

29. Morskiye Volki

30. S-cruises

What travelers are saying

• CheapRussia Tours
• Easy Russia Tour Guide
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• MORE MOSCOW
• Insider Moscow Tours
• Flotilla Radisson Royal
• Moscow River Boat Tours
• Capital River Boat Tours - Moscow Centre
• Diving Center Crocus City Oceanarium

9 Things to See in Moscow's Red Square

 Sir Francis Canker/Getty Images

In most cases, you'll be entering Red Square from the north, passing landmarks such as the Bolshoi Theatre and Duma parliament building as you make your way southward. Although you don't necessarily have to pass through the Voskresensky (or Resurrection in English) Gates in order to gain access to the square these days, they definitely provide a sense of arrival, to say nothing of the way their left arch frame's St. Basil's Cathedral if you look from just the right angle.

An interesting fact is that while a gate of some kind has stood here since the mid-16th century, the one you currently see wasn't built until 1994, having been destroyed in 1931 so that tanks could enter and exit Red Square during military parades.

St. Basil's Cathedral

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson 

Few sights are as iconic not only of Moscow and Red Square but indeed of Russia than St. Basil's Cathedral, whose colorful, onion-shaped domes are a symbol of the country around the world. Officially known as the Cathedral of Vasily the Blessed, this church has stood since 1561, which is quite miraculous when you consider all the turbulent history that has transpired since then.

Among other things, religion was severely prohibited during the Soviet period , which led some to believe that this emblem of the Russian Orthodox church might not withstand the tenure of the USSR. 

An interesting fact is that St. Basil's is the so-called "Kilometer Zero" of Russia; all of Moscow's main roads (which can take you anywhere in Russia) begin at the exits to Red Square. In this way, St. Basil's iconic status also has an extremely tangible element.

The Kremlin

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

When you think of The Kremlin, it's unlikely that positive images enter your mind. The fact that simply saying the word "Kremlin" is too vague a descriptor (most Russian cities have their own Kremlin complexes; you should say "Moscow Kremlin") notwithstanding, this misunderstood place is incredibly beautiful, even if you don't like the policy that comes out of it.

Senate Square

In spite of its name, which refers to the role the building that rises above the square played during Imperial Russia, Senate Square is actually home to Russia's presidential administration, currently helmed by Vladimir Putin. In order to see where Russia's legislature operates from, walk just outside Red Square to the Duma parliament building.

Dormition Cathedral

Dating back to the year 1479, the gold-domed Dormition Cathedral pays homage to an Orthodox religious feast that commemorates the death of the Virgin Mary . As is the case with St. Basil's, it is curious that such a conspicuously religious structure was able to survive through the Soviet period.

Armoury Chamber

Though it takes its name from the fact that it housed Russia's royal arsenal when it was built in the 16th century, the most notable resident of the Kremlin's Armoury Chamber today is the Russian Diamond Fund.

Notable Kremlin Towers

Robert Schrader

The interior of the Moscow Kremlin is more beautiful and inviting than you'd expect, but the walls and towers that rise around it better live up to the intimidation with which the complex is associated. 

Borovitskaya Tower

Named to commemorate the dense forest that once stood atop the mount where it's built, this tower is extremely picturesque. Built in the late 15th century, it's visible from most places in the square, and also as you walk along the Moskva River.

Nikolskaya Tower

Also built in the year 1491, this tower currently suffered destruction at the hands of Napoleon's army in the 19th century. What you see now is the result of an 1816 re-design and renovation, though artillery fire during the Russian Revolution also caused superficial damage to the tower, named to honor St. Nikolas of Mozhaysk , so it's difficult to know which elements of it are original.

Spasskaya Tower

Known in English as the "Savior's Tower," this iconic, star-topped tower is perhaps the best-known of all the Kremlin's towers. Built in 1491 like the other two towers on this list, it's certainly the most photographed. As a result of its proximity to St. Basil's, it often makes its way into tourists' pictures.

Mausoleum of Lenin

Just as it's strange to learn how many religious monuments survived through the Soviet period, it's a bit odd to think that Lenin's preserved body still sits in a mausoleum just beneath the walls of the Kremlin on Red Square, given the lack of consensus about the ultimate impact of his Revolution, even in Russia.

It's not guaranteed that you'll be able to see the body (which, believe it or not, seems to be improving with age ) when you go, and if you do you will likely have to wait in line, but even strolling past the outside of the Lenin Mausoleum, flanked by stone-faced guards that almost look like statues, illuminates the gravity of his body still being here.

GUM Shopping Center

You might cringe, at least initially, when you realize that one of the most iconic stops on a tour of Red Square is a department store—until you see said department store, that is. Built in 1893 and known during Soviet times as the State Department Store, GUM  ( Glávnyj Universáľnyj Magazín​ or Main Universal Store in English) hearkens back to the grandeur of the late 19th century, both seen from the outside (especially, when lit up at night) and the interior, which might have you feeling like you're further west in Europe.

A trip inside GUM is a particularly good idea during winter, when frigid temperatures outside will have you savoring the heat, the quality of souvenirs, confections and other goods sold inside notwithstanding. Also, make sure not to confuse GUM with CDM, which sits near the Bolshoi Theatre, even though both are stunning and iconic in their own right.

State Historical Museum

The Russian State Historical Museum is located near Voskresensky Gates, though you should wait until after you've seen the first few attractions of Red Square and the Kremlin to head back there and go inside. To be sure, as you pass by its facade (whose late-19th century grandeur somewhat obscures that fact that it's currently a museum accessible to the public) you might not even think to try and gain entry.

Once inside the museum, you can plan to spend at least a couple of hours, given that artifacts here date back to the very beginning of the Russian state in the ninth century. As is the case with GUM, this will be a particularly alluring prospect if you visit in winter, when Moscow is arguably at its most beautiful, but certainly at its least tolerable. 

Minin-Pozharsky Monument

It's somewhat easy to disregard this monument, which pays homage to the two Russian princes who ended the so-called "Time of Troubles" in the mid-16th century, during which Polish-Lithuanian forces occupied Russia, among other awful things including a famine. That's because the statue currently sits just at the base of St. Basil's Cathedral, which makes it very difficult to photograph or even see without being overwhelmed by that much more famous edifice.

Though the statue originally sat at the very center of Red Square, it came to be an obstacle to the movement of tanks during the Soviet period, much like the Voskresensky Gates. As a result, authorities moved it during that time, and it's stayed where you currently find it ever since.

Kazan Cathedral

Taken by itself, the smokey-pink Kazan Cathedral is an architectural marvel; originally built in the 17th century, the church you find here today, located just north of the GUM department store, dates back only to 1993.

Unfortunately, since it sits not only in the shadow of GUM, but also in the shadow St. Basil's and the Towers of the Kremlin, it's easy to miss entirely if you aren't looking. As a result, you might wait until you've seen just about everything else in Red Square before coming here to take photos, and to appreciate the understated beauty of this oft-overlooked cathedral.

Moskva River

As you head south from St. Basil's Cathedral to exit Red Square, make sure to walk onto Bolshoy Moskvoretskiy Bridge, which crosses the Moskva River. If you look due north, you can get an excellent shot of the church framed, on the left, by the towers of the Kremlin. Directing your gaze a bit to the west allows you to see the skyscrapers of Moscow City as they rise above the Kremlin's walls.

Walking westward along the riverbank is also a worthwhile excursion, for the views it provides of Red Square and the Kremlin, as well as the fact that doing so takes you to other iconic Moscow attractions, including Gorky Park and the Pushkin Museum. The views you enjoy from the river and the bridge are particularly stunning at night, though you should make sure you bring a tripod if you want to get a clear picture, given how strong winds over and near the river can be.

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