Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
Arrive in Helsinki, the cozy Finnish capital. Upon your arrival and subsequent transfer to your hotel, you will be greeted by your ship's representative in the lobby of your hotel.
Day 2: Helsinki-Murmansk Flight / Embark
After a group transfer from your hotel, board a chartered plane for the short two-hour flight to Murmansk. There you will board the 50 Years of Victory, one of the most powerful icebreakers in the world. After settling in, depart Murmansk and start your journey north via Kola Bay.
Day 3: Barents Sea
While continuing your journey north across the Barents Sea, you will be introduced to the safety instructions which have been put into place to ensure you complete protection. These instructions pertain to both life aboard the 50 Years of Victory as well as during your expedition in the higher Arctic altitudes. You will likewise have the opportunity to become familiar with the ship and learn all about its unique icebreaking capabilities and how ice fields are negotiated. One of the highlights of the day will be a tour of the engine room - amazing! All this and more are on the day's agenda.
Day 4-6: Voyage to the North Pole
As exciting as reaching the North Pole will be, the three days voyage there will leave you feeling no less so. Adrenaline and awe await you as you go up on deck and witness first-hand the sheer power of your ship as it battles its way through the mighty icefields that separate you from your arrival at the top of the world. No less inspiring will be the views and panoramas of the astonishing arctic landscape.
Off-deck adventure also awaits you on your way north. Time, weather and/or ice conditions permitting, you will experience breath-taking helicopter rides over the icebreaker as it plows its way through the ice. For those wishing to take some time away from their new-found sea legs, a walk on the ice pack will do the trick.
Day 7: The North Pole
Seven is more than just a lucky number; it's the day you can expect to reach the North Pole. With heart-pounding anticipation, the Victory will be slowly maneuvered into position at exactly 90 degrees North. Welcome to the Geographical North Pole.
But this is just the start of your adventure. Disembarking from the ship, you will experience the once-in-a-lifetime thrill of standing on top of the world. To celebrate this victory, you will join hands with the other passengers while everyone literally walks around the world during a special International Round Dance.
Topping off this day will be a North Pole barbeque and, for the more daring and adventurous, a plunge into the Arctic Ocean.
Day 8-10: Islands and Archipelagos of the Russian Arctic
During the many years your ship has been operating in the Arctic, your crew has gained a truly unique experience exploring the many arctic islands in this region, one of the most remote in the world. It is truly their pleasure to share it and their love for these vast lands with you.
Given favorable weather and ice conditions, exploration of the Franz Josef Land Archipelago is in the offering. It can be described as consisting of about 190 islands, most of which are more reminiscent of moon craters thus accounting for its more common name the "Moon Archipelago." It is home to polar bears, walruses and many species of arctic birds, and also is the location of Champ Island with its mysterious round boulders found no where else in the earth. Enjoy the unique and possibly never-to-be-had again opportunity to explore this vast landscape and photograph its natural beauty.
Day 11-13: Barents Sea / Helsinki
During the three day journey back to Murmansk, you will have ample opportunity to relive your arctic adventure sharing your favorite memories or all that has befallen you while on this voyage. And if you didn't do so before, take some time out to enjoy the facilities and amenities that have been provided for your onboard comfort - a game of volleyball, a visit to the gym, a dip in the pool and a sauna followed by a massage. Or simply relax in the ship's lounge, library or bar.
After disembarking in Murmansk, you will be returned to Helsinki where you will spend a last evening in the Finnish capital.
Day 14: Return Home
Following breakfast, you will depart for the airport and your journey home.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
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Standard Twin
Averaging 151 sq ft. One lower berth, one sofa bed, private facilities with a shower, TV, DVD player, and opening windows.
Bed size - 78in x 32in
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Mini Suite
Averaging 237 sq ft. Sitting area with sofa bed, separated sleeping area, private bathroom with shower, TV, DVD player, refrigerator, and opening windows.
Bed size – 78in x 32in to 35in
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Junior Suite
Averaging 258 sq ft. Sitting area with sofa bed, sleeping bed separated from the sitting area, private bathroom with a shower, TV, DVD player, refrigerator, and opening windows.
Bed size - 78in x 39in
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Grand Suite
Averaging 280 sq ft. Sitting area with sofa bed, sleeping bed separated from the sitting area, private bathroom with a shower, TV, DVD player, refrigerator, and opening windows.
Bed size - 78in x 39in
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Victory Suite
Averaging 301 sq ft. Large bedroom and sitting room, sofa bed in sitting room, private bathroom with a bathtub, refrigerator, TV,DVD player, and opening windows.
Bed size – 78in x 48in
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Arktika Suite
Averaging 355 sq ft. Very spacious bedroom and sitting room, sofa bed in sitting room, private facilities with a bathtub, refrigerator, TV.
Bed size – 78in x 32in to 39in
Notes
Travel Insurance
All passengers are covered by a medical travel insurance policy to the value of 100,000 EURO which includes medical emergency evacuation and reparation for the cruise portion of the tour only. Additional insurance is strongly recommended.
Solo Travelers
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.
Initial deposit is 25%, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 100 days prior to departure by bank transfer, check or credit card. All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and maximum of $20,000 charge
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.
Gale Cantor
TrustScore 4.8 | 185 reviews
TrustScore 4.8 of 5
Based on 185 reviews on
5 hours ago
Hannah and Nur got the gist of what we wanted our trip to be. They got us in hotels that were located centrally to historic tours. Tours and excursions that were significant, enriching and enjoyable. We had drivers that were on time/reliable. We got from location to location with ease. I would never have been able to plan this myself. I would not have known enough to ask for what we needed. This was above and beyond what I expected. Well done!
Kelly Mattingly
1 day ago
This is at least the fifth trip we have booked with AdventureLife. Jess has always had excellent ideas.
Thomas Brayshaw
2 days ago
Prompt, professional and friendly service!
Jimmie
3 days ago
Easiest trip to plan ever. We received quick answers and Mary was very knowledgeable about different areas of the world that we had questions about.
We have book 2 trips, FABULOUS trip to Antartica which we have already taken and just booked for a future trip to Africa.
Michelle
3 days ago
Planning service is personal. people actually listening to you and using that information constructively to help you plan a great trip. They have extensive travel knowledge and experience in the area they cover. The planning is detailed and comprehensive in meeting your needs. It makes a difference!