Over this "Top of the World" location, stars never rise or set; instead they move around you with the Earth's rotation. On the way to and from the Pole we will come across walruses', seals and birds' rookeries. Polar bears may be curious enough to approach the icebreaker to examine it up close. Join this spectacular voyage now for the experience of a lifetime!
Day 1. Welcome to Helsinki, the cozy Finnish Capital
Following your arrival in Helsinki and subsequent transfer to your hotel, you will be greeted by a cruise representative in the lobby of your hotel.
Day 2. Helsinki-Murmansk flight and embarkation
After the group transfer from your hotel, you will board a chartered plane for the short two hour flight to Murmansk. There, you will board "50 Years of Victory", one of the most powerful icebreakers in the world, after which time you will depart Murmansk and start your journey north via Kola Bay.
Day 3. The Barents Sea
While continuing your journey north across the Barents Sea, you will be introduced to the safety instructions which have been put in place to ensure your complete protection:
- while aboard the "50 years of Victory",
- during our expedition in the higher arctic altitudes.
You will likewise have the opportunity to become familiar with the ship and learn all about its unique icebreaking capabilities and how ice fields are negotiated. One of the highlights of this day will be a tour of the engine room - amazing! All this and more are on the day's agenda.
Days 4 - 6. Voyage to the North Pole
As exciting as reaching the North Pole will be, the three days voyage there will leave you feeling no less so. Adrenaline and awe await you as you go up on deck and witness first-hand the sheer power of our ship as it battles its way through the mighty ice fields that separate you from your arrival at the top of the world. No less inspiring will be the views and panoramas of the astonishing arctic landscape.
Off-deck adventure also awaits you on your way north. Time, weather and/or ice conditions permitting, you will experience breathtaking helicopter rides over the icebreaker as it plows its way through the ice. For those wishing to take some time away from their new-found sea legs, a walk on the ice pack will do the trick.
Day 7. The North Pole
Seven is more than just a lucky number; it's the day we expect to reach the North Pole. With heart-pounding anticipation, the 'Victory' will be slowly maneuvered into position at exactly 90ºN. Welcome to the Geographical North Pole.
But this is only the start of your adventure. Disembarking from the ship, you will experience the once-in-a-lifetime thrill of standing on the top of the world. To celebrate this victory, you will join hands with the other passengers while everyone literally walks around the world during our special International Round Dance.
Topping off the day will be our North Pole barbecue and, for the more daring and adventurous, a plunge into the Arctic Ocean.
Days 8 - 11. The Islands and Archipelagos of the Russian Arctic
During the many years that we have been operating in the Russian Arctic, we have gained a truly unique experience exploring the many arctic lands in this region, one of the most remote in the world. It is truly our pleasure to share it and our love for these vast lands with you.
Given favorable weather and ice conditions, exploration of the Franz Josef Land Archipelago is in the offering.
The Franz Josef Land Archipelago can be described as
- consisting of about 190 islands most of which are reminiscent of moon craters thus accounting for its more common name the "Moon Archipelago",
- home to polar bears, walruses and many species of arctic birds,
- the location of Champ Island with its mysterious round boulders found no where else on earth, - a unique and possibly never-to-be-had-again opportunity to explore this vast landscape and photograph its natural beauty.
Days 12 - 14. Barents Sea Revisited
During the three day journey back to Murmansk, you will have ample opportunity to relive your arctic adventure sharing your favorite memories of all that has befallen you while on this voyage. And if you didn't do so before, then take some time out to really enjoy the facilities and amenities that have been provided for your onboard comfort - a game of volleyball or table tennis, a visit to the gym, a dip in the pool and a sauna. Or simply relax in the ship's lounge, bar or library. After disembarking in Murmansk, you will be returned to Helsinki where you will spend a last evening in the Finnish capital.
Day 15. Farewell to Helsinki
Following breakfast, you will depart for the airport and your journey home. Mission accomplished!
Please note: this itinerary is a guide only; our exact route and program varies according to weather and ice conditions and is equally dependent upon time and wildlife encounters.
