NORTH POLE The Ultimate Arctic Adventure The Trip Overview
Your icebreaker, 50 Years of Victory, will take you to a part of the world more commonly EXPEDITION IN BRIEF associated with fairy tales and folklore—the North Pole. Stand at the top of the world at 90°N Few have ever reached 90°N—the ultimate travel goal that has stirred the hearts and Experience one of the most powerful minds of explorers and adventurers alike. Departing from Murmansk, Russia, your nuclear icebreakers in the world, journey to the extreme north will be just as exciting as standing at the very top of the 50 Years of Victory world. Imagine being aboard the most powerful nuclear icebreaker on the planet as it Enjoy helicopter sightseeing above the Arctic Ocean crushes through thick, multiyear pack ice. Possibly view polar bears, Achieving the absolute zenith of polar exploration, you’ll celebrate with a champagne walrus and other arctic wildlife toast, pose for the ultimate photo op and, if conditions permit, soar high above the Take advantage of optional tethered flight by hot air balloon Earth on an optional hot air balloon ride. Take in even more spectacular sights from (weather permitting) a thrilling helicopter tour over the icy Arctic Ocean. Then, swinging by Franz Josef Cruise in a Zodiac Land on the way home, visit amazing historical sites, always on the lookout for Visit Franz Josef Land historical the astonishing wildlife that call this fragile place home. As one of only 250 people sites, wildlife and wildflowers privileged to voyage to the top of the world each year, you’ll be surrounded by dramatic, endless icescapes and the courage of those who came before you. ship’s helicopter for a thrilling aerial view Itinerary over the ship and the expansive Arctic Arctic Ocean Ocean. You can expect variable sailing GREENLAND conditions this far north. The crossing North Pole °N DAY 1 | HELSINKI, FINLAND from Murmansk to the North Pole can Your adventure begins with a one- take us anywhere from four to six days, night stay in Helsinki, Finland’s capital. Greenland Sea depending on the ice conditions. This Svalbard means you’ll have plenty of time to get Franz DAY 2 | EMBARKATION DAY Josef IN MURMANSK, RUSSIA to know your shipmates and be treated Barents Sea Land From Helsinki, you’ll join your to lectures and discussions by your fellow passengers on the charter flight to Expedition Team while looking out for Murmansk, Russia, where you’ll embark birdlife. There are also many wonderful Murmansk on your voyage to the North Pole and amenities on board, such as the ship’s lap get acquainted with 50 Years of Victory, pool or basketball court. Helsinki ARCTIC the world’s largest and most powerful CIRCLE DAY 7 | 90°N RUSSIA icebreaker. The anticipation reaches a climax as THE NORTH POLE DAYS 3 TO 6 | NORTHBOUND you arrive at the North Pole! Many The Ultimate Arctic Adventure IN THE ARCTIC OCEAN travelers find themselves overcome with Flight to and from Murmansk Being on board Victory and feeling the emotion, while others are in a festive On the 50 Years of Victory icebreaker as it crushes through the arctic and celebratory mood. Take photos, call pack ice is an experience you’ll never your family, wave a flag—just be sure you forget. Just as memorable is boarding the enjoy your moment at the top! Later, everyone will celebrate with a ill-fated arctic expeditions. You may also Helsinki, Finland, to enjoy one final toast and a barbecue on the ice. If the have the chance, if conditions allow, to night with your newfound friends. opportunity allows, you have the option explore remote seabird colonies while DAY 14 | HELSINKI, FINLAND of taking a polar plunge into the icy Zodiac cruising beneath towering cliffs, After breakfast, your official Quark waters around the North Pole. We’ll or enjoy another breathtaking aerial Expeditions® journey comes to an also attempt to launch passengers high sightseeing tour aboard the Victory end. We do encourage you to spend above the Pole in our hot air balloon to helicopter. time exploring Helsinki, and its commemorate this great moment (this is surrounding areas. highly weather dependent). DAYS 11 AND 12 | SOUTHBOUND AT SEA DAY 8 | SOUTHBOUND IN Enjoy your time on deck or reminisce THE ARCTIC OCEAN with your shipmates and new friends IMPORTANT REMINDER On our return voyage, you can sit back as you cross the Arctic Ocean back to Embracing the unexpected is part and relax. As you head farther south, Murmansk. Expedition staff will be on of the legacy—and excitement—of you may get lucky and spot polar bears hand to answer any remaining questions expedition travel. When traveling hunting for seals. and point out wildlife during the return in extremely remote regions, your DAYS 9 AND 10 | FRANZ JOSEF LAND journey. expedition staff must allow the AND THE ARCTIC OCEAN sea, the ice and the weather to DAY 13 | DISEMBARKATION guide route and itinerary details. This group of 191 islands forms the most IN MURMANSK northerly archipelago in Eurasia and This itinerary is a tentative outline Returning to Russia’s most northerly of what you’ll experience on this lies entirely within the Arctic Circle. city, you’ll have time to bid farewell to voyage; please be aware that no Here, you’ll explore Cape Flora and 50 Years of Victory. You’ll be transferred specific itinerary can be guaranteed. discover historic remains from three to the airport for your charter flight to Adventure Options
Ready for a little adventure beyond your into different experience levels to allow ship? Each Quark Expeditions® voyage passengers of a variety of fitness and offers a variety of fun recreational activities experience levels to participate. to enhance your polar experience. LECTURES Included Activities Daily chats with on-board experts— our guides, scientists and other special HELICOPTER TOUR guests—let passengers rub shoulders On-board helicopters offer thrilling aerial with historians, botanists, ornithologists, sightseeing opportunities high above your zoologists, geologists and more. ship and the expansive ocean waters. POLAR PLUNGE HIKING This rite of passage, experienced just Led by experienced staff, exploring on once per expedition, sees you safely foot is the best way to appreciate the jumping into icy ocean waters under the landscape and shorelines of Franz Josef watchful eye of our staff—and just about Land. Normally hiking groups are split out every single camera lens on board! ZODIAC CRUISING Zodiacs are the workhorses of polar expeditions, safely transporting guests to remote shorelines and shallow inlets— places the ships can’t reach. Hopping in and out of them is super-easy.
PHOTOGRAPHY Documenting your voyage so you can take the memories home is both rewarding and constructive. Plus, it is next to impossible to take a bad picture of the Polar Regions.
OTHER EQUIPMENT ON BOARD Walking poles are provided at each landing for your convenience. This equipment is available at no cost. Paid Activities HOT AIR BALLOONING If reaching the North Pole isn’t a big enough thrill, be one of only a few people in the world to soar above the sea ice in a hot air balloon, with a sweeping 360-degree view of all points south. Rising as high as 98 feet (30 meters), you’ll experience a bird’s-eye view of the ship and arctic ice—something you’ll remember forever. Exclusive to Quark Expeditions®, this option brings you a whole new perspective of the North Pole!
*This option can only be booked during your voyage and is highly weather dependent. of the daily program Inclusions • All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program *MANDATORY TRANSFER PACKAGE INCLUDES • Emergency evacuation insurance to • One night’s pre- and a maximum benefit of $500,000USD YOUR NORTH POLE per person post-expedition hotel EXPEDITION INCLUDES accommodation in Helsinki with • Russian invitation letter for visa •Waterproof expedition boots on breakfast application provided after final payment loan for shore landings • Round-trip flights from Helsinki • Official Quark Expeditions® parka to Murmansk to keep THIS EXPEDITION EXCLUDES • Transfers to and from the ship • Shipboard accommodation with • Mandatory transfer package* • Transfers between the airport daily housekeeping • International airfare and hotel in Helsinki • All meals, snacks, soft drinks and juices •Passport and visa expenses PACKAGE COST: $1,995 on board •Government arrival and departure •Beer and wine with dinner taxes not mentioned above • Coffee, tea and cocoa available around • Baggage, cancellation, interruption and the clock medical travel insurance—strongly • Gratuities for hotel and expedition staff recommended • Hair dryer and bathrobe in every cabin •Transfer from hotel to airport on final day • All shore landings per the daily program • Excess-baggage fees on international flights • Leadership throughout the voyage by our experienced Expedition Team • Additional overnight accommodations • All Zodiac transfers and cruising per the •Helicopter flying time in excess daily program of that offered for the group • Formal and informal presentations by • Meals ashore unless otherwise specified our Expedition Team and special guests • Laundry, bar, beverage and other personal as scheduled charges unless specified • All luggage handling aboard the ship • Phone and Internet charges • Group helicopter flightseeing as part •Hot air ballooning at the North Pole Dates & Rates
Dates Days Start/End Twin Mini Suite Suite Victory Arktika NORTH POLE: THE ULTIMATE ARCTIC ADVENTURE | 50 YEARS OF VICTORY
JUN 12 – JUN 25, 2019 14 Helsinki $29,995 $32,795 $40,995 $44,095 $45,095 $495
JUN 23 – JUL 6, 2019 14 Helsinki $29,995 $32,795 $40,995 $44,095 $45,095 $495
*Mandatory transfer package available for $1,995. All rates per person in USD.
Hot-Air Ballooning version 19-12-2018
North Pole Top of the World
07 Jul - 19 Jul 2019
13 days
Embarkation: Murmansk (Russia)
Disembarkation: Murmansk (Russia)
I/b 50 Years of Victory
Activities:
Poseidon Expeditions 1 version 19-12-2018
Itinerary
Day 1: Murmansk, Russia
Welcome to the city of Murmansk on Russia’s Kola Peninsula, starting point of our adventure. Upon your arrival at the airport we provide a transfer to your hotel, which has been arranged by us and is included in the price of the voyage. Murmansk is easy to reach by regular flights with stopovers in Moscow or Saint Petersburg. You may wish to extend your stop in Moscow. Here is our suggestions on pre-post trip options in Moscow.
Day 2: Embarkation in Murmansk
Today we provide a group transfer to the port where we welcome you aboard the nuclear-powered icebreaker 50 Let Pobedy. Explore the ship and get orientated as we slip our moorings and sail north out of Kola Bay.
Day 3-6: The Voyage North
Nowhere can it be more truly said that “getting there is half the fun”. As we cruise northward through the Barents Sea there is always the possibility of seeing whales. Meanwhile, you have the opportunity to learn about the unique icebreaking capabilities of the ship. You are also treated to a tour of the engine room.
As we make our way across the ice cap, you witness firsthand the ship’s awesome power as massive ice blocks give way under the enormous bulk of the spoon-shaped bow. The sensation of being on deck at this time is surreal and unforgettable.
Poseidon Expeditions 2 version 19-12-2018
We also take advantage of 24-hour daylight to offer helicopter flightseeing tours. From the air you can observe the ship crushing a path through the ice. You also have a unique vantage point from which to witness the stunning beauty of this vast polar icescape.
Day 7: North Pole
Welcome to the geographic North Pole! After carefully navigating to 90 degrees North, we ceremoniously drop the anchor on a sturdy stretch of ice and disembark onto the frozen sea.
Now is the time to experiencing the long- anticipated thrill of standing at the top of the world. Join hands with your fellow passengers and literally walk around the world during our special International Round Dance. You are also treated to a barbeque meal on the ice. You may even have the chance to take a plunge into the icy water!
After our memorable time at the North Pole we turn around and head south. But the adventure is not over yet. The High Arctic archipelago of Franz Josef Land is still to come!
Day 8-10: Exploration of Franz Josef Land
The Franz Josef Land archipelago, part of the Russian Arctic National Park since 2012, is a nature sanctuary. Polar bears and other quintessential High Arctic wildlife—such as walruses and some rare whale species—can be spotted anytime, anywhere in and around Franz Josef Land. Scree slopes and cliffs around the islands host enormous nesting colonies of migratory seabirds such as guillemots, dovekies, and ivory gulls. We take advantage of 24-hour daylight to exploit every opportunity for wildlife viewing and excursions via Zodiac and helicopter.
Franz Josef Land is home to some interesting geological features, such as the mysterious stone spheres on Champ Island. Collectors of geographical extremes may take note that Cape Fligely on Rudolf Island is the northernmost point of land in the Eastern Hemisphere.
Franz Josef Land also offers visitors the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of famous polar explorers at well-preserved historical sites. The journals of explorers such as Julius von Payer, Benjamin Leigh Smith, Frederick George Jackson, and Fridtjof Nansen come alive at Cape Norway, Cape Flora, Eira Harbour, and Cape Tegetthoff. Memorials, monuments, crosses, and the remains of dwellings are testimony to
Poseidon Expeditions 3 version 19-12-2018
incredible historical events that are further illuminated by our expert lecturers.
Tikhaya Bukhta is currently a Russian Arctic National Park ranger station occupying Soviet-era research buildings and was also a major base for polar expeditions. Nearby, the fascinating columnar basalt cliffs of Rubini Rock are home to thousands of nesting seabirds.
Day 11-12: The Voyage South
After our amazing time in Franz Josef Land we cross back south through the bountiful waters of the Barents Sea. Presentations and workshops by our expert staff ensure that these days at sea are not idly spent. You may also take advantage of onboard facilities and amenities such as a polar library, volleyball court, gym, two saunas, warm seawater pool, gift shop, and massage treatments. Seabird viewing and whale sightings can be enjoyed from panoramic open decks as well as exterior stateroom windows.
Day 13: Disembarkation in Murmansk
Our once-in-a-lifetime journey comes to an end. After breakfast we say farewell in Murmansk. We provide you with a transfer to the airport for your flight home.
Poseidon Expeditions 4 version 19-12-2018
Photography Free option The Polar Regions are perhaps the most photogenic on earth, with countless beautiful scenes presenting themselves every day. Endless expanses of ice, beaches crowded with seals or penguins, sunsets over unbroken horizons, starlit skies, and even the majestic northern lights – they all present fantastic photographic opportunities – and in order to make sure that you come home with some spectacular images we offer you the chance to learn and practice your photography alongside an experienced professional. Our expert Photographer will be on hand to answer your questions and give advice, both in the form of on- board lectures and workshops on shore. Explore the key elements of photography in a fun and relaxed setting, with plenty of opportunities for questions and feedback. Learn how to see light in a new way and experiment with the techniques of composition and framing.
Helicopter sightseeing Free option A helicopter aboard the 50 Years of Victory in our North Pole cruises lets our passengers be more than just spectators in this intrepid mission. Time, weather and/or ice conditions permitting, you will experience breathtaking helicopter rides over the icebreaker as it plows its way through the ice. Just imagine how amazing photo ops this adventure provides! The helicopter is also used to land on wild Franz Josef Land islands where we cannot use Zodiacs. So our North Pole passengers are never far from the action. The helicopter landings and rides during the North Pole cruise are included.
Poseidon Expeditions 8 version 19-12-2018
Rates
Standard Mini Junior Grand Victory Arktika Twin Suite Suite Suite Suite Suite $ 29 995 $ 32 795 $ 39 995 $ 40 995 $ 44 095 $ 45 095
Cruise rates are quoted per person and based on passengers sharing a cabin. Single supplement: 1.7 for Standard cabin; 2 for Mini Suite, Junior Suite, Grand Suite, Victory Suite and Arktika Suite. Rates Include: Rates Do Not Include:
1 night pre-cruise hotel accommodation in Airfare to and from your hometown to Murmansk, Russia, with breakfast; Murmansk;
Transfer from airport to the hotel in Murmansk Helicopter flying time in excess of that offered 1 day prior to departure; for the group;
Transfer from hotel to the port in Murmansk Passport and visa expenses (if required); a on embarkation day; Russian visa is required for the trip. The visa must be obtained by the customer and is at his Transfer from the port to the airport or central or her expense. Please, contact your local location in Murmansk upon disembarkation; Russian Consulate to learn more about the Shipboard accommodation with housekeeping; procedure for obtaining a Visa.
Shipboard breakfasts, lunches and dinners; State arrival and departure taxes (if levied);
Coffee, tea and cocoa available around the Meals ashore and supplements in respect of clock; single hotel accommodation (if required);
All shore excursions and activities throughout Excess luggage charges on international and the voyage by helicopter; local flights;
All shore excursions and activities throughout Telecommunication services; laundry, bar and the voyage by zodiacs; beverage charges aboard the vessel;
Shore landings included in daily program; Luggage, cancellation insurance (strongly recommended); Program of lectures and informal discussions by experienced Expedition Team and guest Tips for stewards and other service personnel lecturers; aboard (at your discretion).
Professional Expedition Leadership;
Branded Poseidon Expeditions parka;
Rubber boots for shore landings for the time of the cruise;
Hair dryer and bathrobes in each cabin;
Poseidon Expeditions 9 version 19-12-2018
Informative pre-departure materials;
Digital Voyage Log;
All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program;
All shipboard luggage handling;
Personalized medical insurance covering the risks of evacuation and repatriation. Coverage: 100,000 EUR. Duration: cruise days only. This is only for passengers under 85 years old.
Itinerary, landings and all other activities during the cruise depend strongly on ice and weather conditions and are subject to the decisions of the Expedition Leader and the Captain of the vessel. Encounters with any mentioned wildlife cannot be guaranteed.
Poseidon Expeditions 10 version 19-12-2018
North Pole Top of the World
18 Jul - 30 Jul 2019
13 days
Embarkation: Murmansk (Russia)
Disembarkation: Murmansk (Russia)
I/b 50 Years of Victory
Activities:
Poseidon Expeditions 1 version 19-12-2018
Itinerary
Day 1: Murmansk, Russia
Welcome to the city of Murmansk on Russia’s Kola Peninsula, starting point of our adventure. Upon your arrival at the airport we provide a transfer to your hotel, which has been arranged by us and is included in the price of the voyage. Murmansk is easy to reach by regular flights with stopovers in Moscow or Saint Petersburg. You may wish to extend your stop in Moscow. Here is our suggestions on pre-post trip options in Moscow.
Day 2: Embarkation in Murmansk
Today we provide a group transfer to the port where we welcome you aboard the nuclear-powered icebreaker 50 Let Pobedy. Explore the ship and get orientated as we slip our moorings and sail north out of Kola Bay.
Day 3-6: The Voyage North
Nowhere can it be more truly said that “getting there is half the fun”. As we cruise northward through the Barents Sea there is always the possibility of seeing whales. Meanwhile, you have the opportunity to learn about the unique icebreaking capabilities of the ship. You are also treated to a tour of the engine room.
As we make our way across the ice cap, you witness firsthand the ship’s awesome power as massive ice blocks give way under the enormous bulk of the spoon-shaped bow. The sensation of being on deck at this time is surreal and unforgettable.
Poseidon Expeditions 2 version 19-12-2018
We also take advantage of 24-hour daylight to offer helicopter flightseeing tours. From the air you can observe the ship crushing a path through the ice. You also have a unique vantage point from which to witness the stunning beauty of this vast polar icescape.
Day 7: North Pole
Welcome to the geographic North Pole! After carefully navigating to 90 degrees North, we ceremoniously drop the anchor on a sturdy stretch of ice and disembark onto the frozen sea.
Now is the time to experiencing the long- anticipated thrill of standing at the top of the world. Join hands with your fellow passengers and literally walk around the world during our special International Round Dance. You are also treated to a barbeque meal on the ice. You may even have the chance to take a plunge into the icy water!
After our memorable time at the North Pole we turn around and head south. But the adventure is not over yet. The High Arctic archipelago of Franz Josef Land is still to come!
Day 8-10: Exploration of Franz Josef Land
The Franz Josef Land archipelago, part of the Russian Arctic National Park since 2012, is a nature sanctuary. Polar bears and other quintessential High Arctic wildlife—such as walruses and some rare whale species—can be spotted anytime, anywhere in and around Franz Josef Land. Scree slopes and cliffs around the islands host enormous nesting colonies of migratory seabirds such as guillemots, dovekies, and ivory gulls. We take advantage of 24-hour daylight to exploit every opportunity for wildlife viewing and excursions via Zodiac and helicopter.
Franz Josef Land is home to some interesting geological features, such as the mysterious stone spheres on Champ Island. Collectors of geographical extremes may take note that Cape Fligely on Rudolf Island is the northernmost point of land in the Eastern Hemisphere.
Franz Josef Land also offers visitors the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of famous polar explorers at well-preserved historical sites. The journals of explorers such as Julius von Payer, Benjamin Leigh Smith, Frederick George Jackson, and Fridtjof Nansen come alive at Cape Norway, Cape Flora, Eira Harbour, and Cape Tegetthoff. Memorials, monuments, crosses, and the remains of dwellings are testimony to
Poseidon Expeditions 3 version 19-12-2018
incredible historical events that are further illuminated by our expert lecturers.
Tikhaya Bukhta is currently a Russian Arctic National Park ranger station occupying Soviet-era research buildings and was also a major base for polar expeditions. Nearby, the fascinating columnar basalt cliffs of Rubini Rock are home to thousands of nesting seabirds.
Day 11-12: The Voyage South
After our amazing time in Franz Josef Land we cross back south through the bountiful waters of the Barents Sea. Presentations and workshops by our expert staff ensure that these days at sea are not idly spent. You may also take advantage of onboard facilities and amenities such as a polar library, volleyball court, gym, two saunas, warm seawater pool, gift shop, and massage treatments. Seabird viewing and whale sightings can be enjoyed from panoramic open decks as well as exterior stateroom windows.
Day 13: Disembarkation in Murmansk
Our once-in-a-lifetime journey comes to an end. After breakfast we say farewell in Murmansk. We provide you with a transfer to the airport for your flight home.
Poseidon Expeditions 4 version 19-12-2018
Photography Free option The Polar Regions are perhaps the most photogenic on earth, with countless beautiful scenes presenting themselves every day. Endless expanses of ice, beaches crowded with seals or penguins, sunsets over unbroken horizons, starlit skies, and even the majestic northern lights – they all present fantastic photographic opportunities – and in order to make sure that you come home with some spectacular images we offer you the chance to learn and practice your photography alongside an experienced professional. Our expert Photographer will be on hand to answer your questions and give advice, both in the form of on- board lectures and workshops on shore. Explore the key elements of photography in a fun and relaxed setting, with plenty of opportunities for questions and feedback. Learn how to see light in a new way and experiment with the techniques of composition and framing.
Helicopter sightseeing Free option A helicopter aboard the 50 Years of Victory in our North Pole cruises lets our passengers be more than just spectators in this intrepid mission. Time, weather and/or ice conditions permitting, you will experience breathtaking helicopter rides over the icebreaker as it plows its way through the ice. Just imagine how amazing photo ops this adventure provides! The helicopter is also used to land on wild Franz Josef Land islands where we cannot use Zodiacs. So our North Pole passengers are never far from the action. The helicopter landings and rides during the North Pole cruise are included.
Poseidon Expeditions 9 version 19-12-2018
Rates
Standard Mini Junior Grand Victory Arktika Twin Suite Suite Suite Suite Suite $ 29 995 $ 32 795 $ 39 995 $ 40 995 $ 44 095 $ 45 095
Cruise rates are quoted per person and based on passengers sharing a cabin. Single supplement: 1.7 for Standard cabin; 2 for Mini Suite, Junior Suite, Grand Suite, Victory Suite and Arktika Suite. Rates Include: Rates Do Not Include:
1 night pre-cruise hotel accommodation in Airfare to and from your hometown to Murmansk, Russia, with breakfast; Murmansk;
Transfer from airport to the hotel in Murmansk Helicopter flying time in excess of that offered 1 day prior to departure; for the group;
Transfer from hotel to the port in Murmansk Passport and visa expenses (if required); a on embarkation day; Russian visa is required for the trip. The visa must be obtained by the customer and is at his Transfer from the port to the airport or central or her expense. Please, contact your local location in Murmansk upon disembarkation; Russian Consulate to learn more about the Shipboard accommodation with housekeeping; procedure for obtaining a Visa.
Shipboard breakfasts, lunches and dinners; State arrival and departure taxes (if levied);
Coffee, tea and cocoa available around the Meals ashore and supplements in respect of clock; single hotel accommodation (if required);
All shore excursions and activities throughout Excess luggage charges on international and the voyage by helicopter; local flights;
All shore excursions and activities throughout Telecommunication services; laundry, bar and the voyage by zodiacs; beverage charges aboard the vessel;
Shore landings included in daily program; Luggage, cancellation insurance (strongly recommended); Program of lectures and informal discussions by experienced Expedition Team and guest Tips for stewards and other service personnel lecturers; aboard (at your discretion).
Professional Expedition Leadership;
Branded Poseidon Expeditions parka;
Rubber boots for shore landings for the time of the cruise;
Hair dryer and bathrobes in each cabin;
Poseidon Expeditions 10 version 19-12-2018
Informative pre-departure materials;
Digital Voyage Log;
All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program;
All shipboard luggage handling;
Personalized medical insurance covering the risks of evacuation and repatriation. Coverage: 100,000 EUR. Duration: cruise days only. This is only for passengers under 85 years old.
Itinerary, landings and all other activities during the cruise depend strongly on ice and weather conditions and are subject to the decisions of the Expedition Leader and the Captain of the vessel. Encounters with any mentioned wildlife cannot be guaranteed.
Poseidon Expeditions 11 version 19-12-2018
North Pole Top of the World
29 Jul - 10 Aug 2019
13 days
Embarkation: Murmansk (Russia)
Disembarkation: Murmansk (Russia)
I/b 50 Years of Victory
Activities:
Poseidon Expeditions 1 version 19-12-2018
Itinerary
Day 1: Murmansk, Russia
Welcome to the city of Murmansk on Russia’s Kola Peninsula, starting point of our adventure. Upon your arrival at the airport we provide a transfer to your hotel, which has been arranged by us and is included in the price of the voyage. Murmansk is easy to reach by regular flights with stopovers in Moscow or Saint Petersburg. You may wish to extend your stop in Moscow. Here is our suggestions on pre-post trip options in Moscow.
Day 2: Embarkation in Murmansk
Today we provide a group transfer to the port where we welcome you aboard the nuclear-powered icebreaker 50 Let Pobedy. Explore the ship and get orientated as we slip our moorings and sail north out of Kola Bay.
Day 3-6: The Voyage North
Nowhere can it be more truly said that “getting there is half the fun”. As we cruise northward through the Barents Sea there is always the possibility of seeing whales. Meanwhile, you have the opportunity to learn about the unique icebreaking capabilities of the ship. You are also treated to a tour of the engine room.
As we make our way across the ice cap, you witness firsthand the ship’s awesome power as massive ice blocks give way under the enormous bulk of the spoon-shaped bow. The sensation of being on deck at this time is surreal and unforgettable.
Poseidon Expeditions 2 version 19-12-2018
We also take advantage of 24-hour daylight to offer helicopter flightseeing tours. From the air you can observe the ship crushing a path through the ice. You also have a unique vantage point from which to witness the stunning beauty of this vast polar icescape.
Day 7: North Pole
Welcome to the geographic North Pole! After carefully navigating to 90 degrees North, we ceremoniously drop the anchor on a sturdy stretch of ice and disembark onto the frozen sea.
Now is the time to experiencing the long- anticipated thrill of standing at the top of the world. Join hands with your fellow passengers and literally walk around the world during our special International Round Dance. You are also treated to a barbeque meal on the ice. You may even have the chance to take a plunge into the icy water!
After our memorable time at the North Pole we turn around and head south. But the adventure is not over yet. The High Arctic archipelago of Franz Josef Land is still to come!
Day 8-10: Exploration of Franz Josef Land
The Franz Josef Land archipelago, part of the Russian Arctic National Park since 2012, is a nature sanctuary. Polar bears and other quintessential High Arctic wildlife—such as walruses and some rare whale species—can be spotted anytime, anywhere in and around Franz Josef Land. Scree slopes and cliffs around the islands host enormous nesting colonies of migratory seabirds such as guillemots, dovekies, and ivory gulls. We take advantage of 24-hour daylight to exploit every opportunity for wildlife viewing and excursions via Zodiac and helicopter.
Franz Josef Land is home to some interesting geological features, such as the mysterious stone spheres on Champ Island. Collectors of geographical extremes may take note that Cape Fligely on Rudolf Island is the northernmost point of land in the Eastern Hemisphere.
Franz Josef Land also offers visitors the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of famous polar explorers at well-preserved historical sites. The journals of explorers such as Julius von Payer, Benjamin Leigh Smith, Frederick George Jackson, and Fridtjof Nansen come alive at Cape Norway, Cape Flora, Eira Harbour, and Cape Tegetthoff. Memorials, monuments, crosses, and the remains of dwellings are testimony to
Poseidon Expeditions 3 version 19-12-2018
incredible historical events that are further illuminated by our expert lecturers.
Tikhaya Bukhta is currently a Russian Arctic National Park ranger station occupying Soviet-era research buildings and was also a major base for polar expeditions. Nearby, the fascinating columnar basalt cliffs of Rubini Rock are home to thousands of nesting seabirds.
Day 11-12: The Voyage South
After our amazing time in Franz Josef Land we cross back south through the bountiful waters of the Barents Sea. Presentations and workshops by our expert staff ensure that these days at sea are not idly spent. You may also take advantage of onboard facilities and amenities such as a polar library, volleyball court, gym, two saunas, warm seawater pool, gift shop, and massage treatments. Seabird viewing and whale sightings can be enjoyed from panoramic open decks as well as exterior stateroom windows.
Day 13: Disembarkation in Murmansk
Our once-in-a-lifetime journey comes to an end. After breakfast we say farewell in Murmansk. We provide you with a transfer to the airport for your flight home.
Poseidon Expeditions 4 version 19-12-2018
Photography Free option The Polar Regions are perhaps the most photogenic on earth, with countless beautiful scenes presenting themselves every day. Endless expanses of ice, beaches crowded with seals or penguins, sunsets over unbroken horizons, starlit skies, and even the majestic northern lights – they all present fantastic photographic opportunities – and in order to make sure that you come home with some spectacular images we offer you the chance to learn and practice your photography alongside an experienced professional. Our expert Photographer will be on hand to answer your questions and give advice, both in the form of on- board lectures and workshops on shore. Explore the key elements of photography in a fun and relaxed setting, with plenty of opportunities for questions and feedback. Learn how to see light in a new way and experiment with the techniques of composition and framing.
Helicopter sightseeing Free option A helicopter aboard the 50 Years of Victory in our North Pole cruises lets our passengers be more than just spectators in this intrepid mission. Time, weather and/or ice conditions permitting, you will experience breathtaking helicopter rides over the icebreaker as it plows its way through the ice. Just imagine how amazing photo ops this adventure provides! The helicopter is also used to land on wild Franz Josef Land islands where we cannot use Zodiacs. So our North Pole passengers are never far from the action. The helicopter landings and rides during the North Pole cruise are included.
Poseidon Expeditions 8 version 19-12-2018
Rates
Standard Mini Junior Grand Victory Arktika Twin Suite Suite Suite Suite Suite $ 29 995 $ 32 795 $ 39 995 $ 40 995 $ 44 095 $ 45 095
Cruise rates are quoted per person and based on passengers sharing a cabin. Single supplement: 1.7 for Standard cabin; 2 for Mini Suite, Junior Suite, Grand Suite, Victory Suite and Arktika Suite. Rates Include: Rates Do Not Include:
1 night pre-cruise hotel accommodation in Airfare to and from your hometown to Murmansk, Russia, with breakfast; Murmansk;
Transfer from airport to the hotel in Murmansk Helicopter flying time in excess of that offered 1 day prior to departure; for the group;
Transfer from hotel to the port in Murmansk Passport and visa expenses (if required); a on embarkation day; Russian visa is required for the trip. The visa must be obtained by the customer and is at his Transfer from the port to the airport or central or her expense. Please, contact your local location in Murmansk upon disembarkation; Russian Consulate to learn more about the Shipboard accommodation with housekeeping; procedure for obtaining a Visa.
Shipboard breakfasts, lunches and dinners; State arrival and departure taxes (if levied);
Coffee, tea and cocoa available around the Meals ashore and supplements in respect of clock; single hotel accommodation (if required);
All shore excursions and activities throughout Excess luggage charges on international and the voyage by helicopter; local flights;
All shore excursions and activities throughout Telecommunication services; laundry, bar and the voyage by zodiacs; beverage charges aboard the vessel;
Shore landings included in daily program; Luggage, cancellation insurance (strongly recommended); Program of lectures and informal discussions by experienced Expedition Team and guest Tips for stewards and other service personnel lecturers; aboard (at your discretion).
Professional Expedition Leadership;
Branded Poseidon Expeditions parka;
Rubber boots for shore landings for the time of the cruise;
Hair dryer and bathrobes in each cabin;
Poseidon Expeditions 9 version 19-12-2018
Informative pre-departure materials;
Digital Voyage Log;
All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program;
All shipboard luggage handling;
Personalized medical insurance covering the risks of evacuation and repatriation. Coverage: 100,000 EUR. Duration: cruise days only. This is only for passengers under 85 years old.
Itinerary, landings and all other activities during the cruise depend strongly on ice and weather conditions and are subject to the decisions of the Expedition Leader and the Captain of the vessel. Encounters with any mentioned wildlife cannot be guaranteed.
Poseidon Expeditions 10