The High Arctic is one of the last untamed places on earth and, as such, commands a certain level of preparation, flexibility and respect not encountered elsewhere. Our programs are designed to make the most of your time and experience, with a flexible approach that takes the ‘group’ out of group travel and enables you to enjoy the High Arctic in your own way.
No two voyages are the same. Wildlife, weather and ice conditions often affect the day-to-day itinerary and this adds immense interest to your expedition. In addition, we like to explore new destinations whenever possible. Each day you wake to the promise of new experiences: massive bird colonies, or spectacular panoramas of land, ice and water. We plan itineraries that are busy but we also take time to relax and appreciate our surroundings.
The choice of voyage is personal. The voyage itineraries are tied to the capabilities of the ships.
ICE STRENGTHENED VOYAGES
Our ice-strengthened voyages aboard the Akademik Ioffe and Akademik Sergey Vavilov make the most of the long daylight hours, with several excursions each day, weather permitting. We use our fleet of sturdy, inflatable Zodiac boats to get ashore or to cruise through dramatic fjords fed by glaciers calving massive icebergs with astonishing frequency. We also experience the hospitality of the locals in remote communities in Greenland.
Wildlife is an integral part of many voyages, in particular the three voyages that explore Spitsbergen, where we’re on constant lookout for polar bears, there prolific birdlife and walruses. It’s also not unusual to find numerous humpback whales on our crossing from Greenland to Iceland – just make sure you have your cameras ready to go!
Ice-strengthened Expeditions to the High Arctic
Onboard the Akademik Ioffe and Akademik Sergey Vavilov offer the following voyages;
INTRODUCTION TO SPITSBERGEN - 8 days
We’ll explore the very best sites of northwest Spitsbergen – on foot, by Zodiac and onboard our expedition ship. polar bear and walrus will be high on our list, though never guaranteed.
SPITSBERGEN IN DEPTH - 15 days
Our aim is to circumnavigate Svalbard. Excursions to both the shore and in amongst the ice will maximise access to destinations of the greatest beauty. The extra four nights increase the opportunities to witness the archipelago’s amazing wildlife.
SPITSBERGEN EXPLORER - 11 days
We’ll sail as far north as 80 degrees, aiming to circumnavigate the major islands of the Svalbard archipelago, with wonderful wildlife watching – especially the vast seabird rookeries, as well as polar bears and walrus.
SPITSBERGEN, EAST GREENLAND & ICELAND - 14 days
With more time, we’ll explore the Svalbard archipelago, and then cross to visit east Greenland’s Inuit people and an ancient Thule site. We’ll always be on the lookout for polar bears, walruses and whales, before we finish our journey in the land of fire – Iceland.
ICELAND, GREENLAND & CANADIAN ARCTIC - 18 days
visit Inuit communities, Viking settlements and experience the spectacular wildlife and wilderness areas along the southern coast of Greenland and the east coast of Baffin Island..
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OUR ICEBREAKER EXPEDITIONS
While our ships, the Kapitan Khlebnikov and 50 Years of Victory, have a fleet of Zodiacs for use when travelling through more open areas of water, it’s the helicopters and the simple muscle of the vessels that really make the difference. Brushing sea ice aside is a powerful experience, but smashing a path through fast ice, as on the North Pole voyage, is another thing altogether! Another unique icebreaker experience is flying over remote icy wilderness areas to gain access to wondrous wildlife; the emperors of Snow Hill would have to be the finest example.
All cabins on the Kapitan Khlebnikov and 50 Years of Victory are comfortable and well-appointed, with windows and private facilities. Lounge and bar areas provide comfortable spaces for presentations, socialising and relaxing while taking in the passing view. The food onboard is also certain to impress.
We serve three exemplary meals a day: a generous breakfast buffet, a hearty lunch, and a five-course dinner featuring an appetising international menu.
Our voyages aboard these magnificent icebreakers are absolutely unique. The mix of our exceptionally experienced captains, crew and expedition staff with these incredible vessels, allows us to take you to places so remote they will be seen by just a privileged few.
Two of our voyages follow parts of the Holy Grail in Arctic expedition terms – travelling to the North Pole and a transit through the Northwest Passage. Our icebreakers allow us to unlock secrets that have historically only been unveiled by those willing to endure incredible hardship and risk.
Two other icebreaker voyages explore the remote and wondrous landscapes and wildlife of Ellesmere and Devon Islands, high up in the Canadian Arctic. It’s often only when we take to the air in our helicopters that the true majesty and immensity of the region is truly revealed.
Icebreaker Expeditions to the High Arctic
Onboard the 50 Years of Victory and Kapitan Khlebnikov offer the following voyages;
NORTH POLE - 15 days
Our goal is clear, to reach the top of the world! We’ll take helicopters to view our progress and to help us realise just what it is we’re achieving. On our way back to Murmansk we’ll visit Franz Josef land, home to polar bears, walrus, arctic fox, seals, beluga whales and vast seabird colonies.
NORTHWEST PASSAGE - 19 days
Finding a route through the Northwest Passage challenged explorers through the ages. Over a century after Amundsen’s successful voyage, we are taking our own expedition through this icy corridor.
TANQUARY FJORD - 16 days
Explore the remote and rarely visited landscapes in the high latitudes of the western shore of Ellesmere Island. Landings are planned on Ellesmere Island, Devon island and Tanquary Fjord, with spectacular aerial sightseeing over Axel Heiberg Island and the Belcher Channel.
ELLESMERE ISLAND & GREENLAND - 16 days
Two countries, one midnight sun – this is the Arctic few have visited. We’ll explore Devon and Coburg islands and soar in the ship’s helicopters to watch the icebreaker crush through pack ice. Join us on an end of an era voyage that contrasts countries and cultures in the High Arctic.
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