The Russian cruise liner Astoria Grande is once again planning to visit Batumi, reports the Georgian service of Radio Liberty, despite the Maritime Transport Agency of Georgia officially stating that there is no confirmed application for the vessel to enter the port.
In 2023, two of the liner’s visits to Batumi were met with mass protests. Back then, passengers—some of whom openly supported Kremlin policies and the war against Georgia—were greeted with jeers, shouting, and demonstrations at the port. Following those events, the vessel stopped calling at Georgia.
Now, the cruise company is once again selling tours that include a stop in Batumi. According to its official website, the liner is scheduled to depart Sochi on May 26, 2026, visit Trabzon, and then spend over 24 hours in Batumi on May 28–29. The tour is advertised under the slogan “Beloved Turkey and Hospitable Batumi,” promising tourists excursions, Russian-speaking guides, onboard entertainment, and “memorable experiences.” Cabin prices start at approximately 304,000 rubles.
By the end of 2026, the company plans to run about ten more cruises with stops in Batumi, including a “Sochi–Batumi–Sochi” itinerary titled “Beloved Georgia.”
Meanwhile, the Maritime Agency of Georgia states that the information regarding the vessel’s arrival is unconfirmed, calling such reports “emotionally manipulative” and aimed at creating public tension.
Radio Liberty, meanwhile, reports that Russia is concurrently discussing plans to launch cruises from occupied Ukrainian Mariupol, with a potential route extending to Batumi.