Franz Josef Land is a place shrouded in mystery and grace. Being rarely visited, the serene archipelago has untamed wildlife and gripping scenery that is just waiting to be explored.
We have many options: we may explore the Arctic plains by foot or explore further using our Zodiacs cruising the shorelines. Besides the unique wildlife and scenery, Franz Josef Land is also home to many remnants of the brave polar explorers and whalers of the past.
This is an exclusive place of history, beauty, and charm.
Highlights
Sail through the Barents Sea and encounter marine animals
Discover the world’s northernmost Orthodox church
Enjoy stunning hikes and see huge glaciers
Explore the heart of the archipelago for great wildlife encounters
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
Embark MV Villa in the afternoon and meet your expedition team and crew at the dock. After you are settled in your cabin, we will conduct the mandatory safety briefing before your adventure begins with sailing for Murmansk.
As we sail northeast towards the archipelago crossing the Barents Sea we hope to encounter marine mammals and sea birds. Many hours will be spent on deck. Lectures and briefings will be held on board by Liv and your expedition team.
With 192 islands located in the Arctic Ocean, Barents Sea and the Kara Sea we might start our exploration of Franz Josef Land archipelago by sailing pass Alexandra land, where the Nagurskaya station is based and the world’s northernmost Orthodox church is placed. As we travel further, we head for the heart of the archipelago our chances for finding great wildlife encounters increase now.
We leave the Islands of Franz Josef Land behind us to set course for Novaya Zemlya. We’ll spend time on deck searching for wildlife and you will have time to go through your images or just relax on board.
The island separates the Barents Sea from the Kara sea and is home to Lemmings, Arctic fox, seals, walrus, and occasionally polar bears. A rich bird life abounds in summer. Novaya Zemlya has been known since at least medieval times, though it was not explored until the 18th and 19th centuries. We aim to explore by foot and by Zodiacs. The island offers stunning hikes, huge glaciers and history from the early explorers.
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Arnesen
79.6ft2. 2 Bed (bunk beds) with sink in cabin
Andree
94.7ft2. 2 Bed (bunk beds) with sink in cabin
Shackleton
78.5ft2. 2 Bed (bunk beds) with sink in cabin
Boyd
80.7ft2. 2 Bed (bunk beds) with sink in cabin
Amundsen
Nansen
129.2ft2 + 53.8ft2 Bathroom: 17.2ft2. 4 beds in two rooms (bunk beds+ 2 single beds), Sofa and private shower & toilet
The trip was terrific with great planning on your part. Most of the adventures were not mainstream and somewhat off the beaten path which made it especially enjoyable!! We felt taken care of and you all were readily available to respond to questions and issues. I would highly recommend your company and friends have already expressed interest based on our pictures and excitement.
