Quest For The North Pole

Day 1: Helsinki

In June 2020 your adventure begins with a one-night stay in Helsinki, Finland's capital, included as part of the transfer package. 

In July and August 2020 you will need to be in Murmansk today, where you will be met and transferred to a hotel to meet your expedition team and fellow passengers (the hotel is included, the flight is not, please ask us if you require help booking this element).

Day 2: Embarkation from Murmansk

From Helsinki, you'll join your fellow passengers on the charter flight to Murmansk, Russia.

In Murmansk you'll embark on your voyage to the North Pole and get acquainted with 50 Years of Victory, the world's largest and most powerful icebreaker.

Days 3-6: Northbound in the Arctic Ocean

Being on board Victory and feeling the icebreaker as it crushes through the arctic pack ice is an experience you'll never forget. Just as memorable is boarding the ship's helicopter for a thrilling aerial view over the ship and the expansive Arctic Ocean. You can expect variable sailing conditions this far north. The crossing from Murmansk to the North Pole can take anywhere from four to six days depending on the ice conditions. This means you'll have plenty of time to get to know your shipmates and be treated to lectures and discussions by the Expedition Team while looking out for birdlife. There are also many wonderful amenities on board, such as the ship's lap pool or basketball court.

Day 7: 90 Degrees North

The anticipation reaches a climax as you arrive at the North Pole! Many travellers find themselves overcome with emotion, while others are in a festive and celebratory mood. Take photos, call your family, wave a flag, just be sure you enjoy your moment at the top! Later, everyone will celebrate with a champagne toast and a barbecue on the ice. If the opportunity allows, you have the option of taking a polar plunge into the icy waters around the North Pole.  If weather permits, there'll be attempt to launch passengers high above the Pole in our hot air balloon to commemorate this great moment (this is highly weather dependent).

Day 8: Southbound in the Arctic Ocean

On the return voyage you can sit back and relax. As you head farther south you may get lucky and spot polar bears hunting for seals.

Days 9-10: Franz Josef Land

This group of 191 islands forms the most northerly archipelago in Eurasia and lies entirely within the Arctic Circle. Here, you'll explore Cape Flora and discover historic remains from three ill-fated Arctic expeditions. When conditions permit, the team will launch the Zodiacs and you can cruise beneath towering cliffs to explore remote seabird colonies. The 50 Years of Victory helicopter will provide aerial sightseeing, and the Zodiacs will transfer you to seldom-visited landing sites.

Days 11-12: Southbound at Sea

Enjoy your time on deck or reminisce with your shipmates and new friends as you cross the Arctic Ocean back to Murmansk. Expedition staff will be on hand to answer any remaining questions and point out wildlife during the return journey.

Day 13: Disembarkation at Murmansk

Returning to Russia's most northerly city, it will be time to bid farewell to your ship, 50 Years of Victory.

You'll be transferred to the airport where those travelling in June will board the charter flight to Helsinki, Finland to enjoy one final night with newfound friends.  Travellers in July and August will wave goodbye and start their journey home.

Day 14: Helsinki

After breakfast, your journey comes to an end. You are encouraged to spend some extra time exploring Helsinki, Tallinn (the capital of Estonia) and Saint Petersburg.

NOTE: This itinerary is for guidance only. Each voyage will vary depending on ice and weather conditions, and opportunities to see wildlife. Flexibility is key and all part of the adventure of an expeditionary cruise.