Into the Ultimate Unknown at the Top of the World

A simple geographic definition of the North Pole-90N-can't possibly capture its mythic appeal. For centuries, explorers ventured from safe harbors into the ultimate unknown at the top of the world, and traveling to the Arctic is still relatively rare in the 21st century. Wildlife here is legendary and large: the polar bear, the world's biggest land predator; the walrus, almost beautiful in its sheer ugliness; and the single-tusked narwhal, inspiration for the mythical unicorn.

We plan landings at Franz Josef Land and 90 degrees north, and our professional expedition team will share with you their enthusiasm and knowledge of Arctic wildlife, geology, and history. And while we sail, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy the 90N Wildlife Film Festival. Our ship, 50 Years of Victory, is the world's largest icebreaker, and one of the most powerful vessels afloat-join her in comfort as she carries on an exciting tradition of polar exploration!

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Activities

Easy ship travel, optional walks and Zodiac rides, sightseeing by helicopter

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

• Sail to the North Pole on 50 Years of Victory-the world's largest and most powerful icebreaker!
• See some of the world's most dramatic wildlife-polar bears, walruses, and a plethora of sea birds-against the beautiful blues and whites of the polar seascape
• Enrich your Arctic experience with our top-notch expedition team, including an Arctic historian, geologist, ornithologist, and marine biologist
• Helicopters provide a rare aerial view of our ship crushing through the Arctic Ocean pack ice
• Hot Air Balloon Ride Option in 2012!

Duration: 14 days Start Location: Helsinki End Location: Helsinki

BRIEF Itinerary

• Day 1 : Helsinki, Finland

  Arrive in Helsinki, Finland-a sophisticated city with nightlife, green spaces, and a breathtaking harbor-located six degrees south of the Arctic Circle.

• Day 2 : Helsinki – Murmansk (Embarkation Day)

  Fly from Helsinki to Murmansk, Russia, the home port of the Russian icebreaker fleet. En route, we cross the Arctic Circle, at 66° 33′ 39″ N.

• Days 3 - 7 : Northbound on the Arctic Ocean

  As the ship sails to the top of the world, enjoy presentations by our polar historian, marine biologist, and ornithologist. We may board a helicopter for an aerial view of the ship breaking ice.

• Day 8 : The North Pole

  Depending on the weather, we should reach the North Pole today!

• Day 9 : Southbound on the Arctic Ocean

  As we sail south, the expedition team prepares us for Franz Josef Land with presentations on its wildlife, geology, and history.

• Days 10 - 12 : Franz Josef Land & the Barents Sea

  Transfer by helicopter to Franz Josef Land (visibility permitting). Birders, pack your binoculars! The archipelago is home to many seabirds.

• Day 13 : Murmansk (Disembark) – Helsinki

  Arrive in Murmansk harbor at high tide, then drive to the airport for the flight to Helsinki, where we spend the night.

• Day 14 : Helsinki – Depart

  Depart for home from Helsinki.

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  50 Years of Victory

  Carrying the highest ice class rating possible, Victory can crush ice up to 3 meters (10 feet) thick, and is the world's largest and most sophisticated nuclear-powered icebreaker.

  • Comfortable, friendly atmosphere: just 128 guests.
  • Icebreaking capabilities to the top of the world where regular ships cannot go
  • 74,000 hp generated by 2 nuclear reactors get you where few have ever been
  • Helicopter for aerial-sightseeing.
  • 4 fully enclosed lifeboats ensure your safety in all conditions
  • Onboard helicopters allow spectacular aerial-sightseeing
  • Fleet of Zodiacs bring you up-close and personal with Arctic wildlife, icebergs and more
  • Every cabin has exterior views and private facilities, for your comfort and enjoyment
  • Onboard gym, two saunas, small swimming pool, and library allow you to relax between shore visits

Properties shown are representative of the accommodations we use on this trip, may not be inclusive of all accommodations we use, and are subject to change.

Expert leadership is the key to an exciting, unforgettable experience. Our trips feature gifted leaders for whom leading trips is a true vocation. Besides showing you wonders you’d never find on your own, they make sure everything runs smoothly and safely without a hitch. They are knowledgeable about all aspects of your trip, and take great pleasure in sharing their insights with you. More than just guides, they positively elevate your experience by being teachers, companions, and the best of friends. You’ll be in good hands with them every step of the way.

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