Set sail aboard the L'Austral and discover the most secret regions of the Russian Far North, at the gates of Murmansk, in the heart of the Solovetsky Islands, a natural reserve listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the edge of the Arctic Circle, between vast glaciers and the craggy cliffs of vertiginous fjords, the Norwegian Far North gives you access to the Kola Peninsula and the shores of the White Sea in Arctic Russia on this unforgettable Arctic expedition cruise.
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
Tromsø is a city of the Norwegian far North, a former whale-fishing capital surrounded by still unspoiled nature and home to a rich architectural heritage steeped in history. Today nicknamed the Paris of the North, Tromsø is a young and vibrant city that has successfully preserved its authentic charm, surrounded by the snowy peaks that form the decor of this boreal region also known as “The Gateway to the Far North.” Do not miss the most beautiful example of contemporary scandinavian architecture: the Arctic Cathedral, built like a lighthouse, facing the old city. This religious structure has remarkably bold lines, evoking a great white ship. Its architecture symbolizes the power of Pack Ice in the arctic seas and includes a very original glass mosaic. Group charter flight from Paris to Tromso and arrival transfers are included in cruise fare.
Day 2: North Cape Islands
Set sail towards the mythical North Cape, with its polar landscapes and unspoilt, virgin nature. Located on the island of Magerøy, the North Cape is the most Northerly point of Continental Europe, lying some 307 m above the Arctic Ocean. When you sail aboard L’Austral and pass the 71st parallel, the sight of this strip of land, battered by the waves and wind, is breathtaking. The Sami (also known as Lapps) already considered the “Nordkapp” as a unique site. From May to July when the clouds cover the Ocean with a thick celestial cloak, when the midnight sun is at its lowest on the horizon, it is one of the most magical places on Earth. It is impossible to travel any further North on the European Continent; you are at the end of the world.
Day 3: Murmansk, Russia
Port details pending.
Day 4: At Sea
Today sail along the Kanin Peninsula Morzhovets of Russia.
Day 5: Pomor Town / Zeleyni Cape, Russia
Port details pending.
Day 6: Ludi Islands, Russia
Port details pending.
Day 7-8: Solovetsky Archipelago, Russia
Nestled in North-Western Russia in Onega Bay, the Solovetsky Islands are a protected nature reserve dating back more than 4,000 years, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1992. The source of some of the finest ancient legends, the Solovetsky Islands reveal a horizon of captivating beauty and clarity. When the mist rises above the White Sea, the silver domes of the Solovki Monastery sparkle in the pale daylight, competing for prominence with the fortified towers. Built in the 16th century by monks, this medieval structure is surrounded by high walls, reminiscent of the imposing silhouette of the Kremlin in Moscow. The Northern lights put on a fantastic show when the white nights of June surround the citadel with a thousand lights, the Summer sun shining through, bathing the massive monastery fortress in gold: a perfect show...but also a diabolical sight, as this was the most beautiful and most terrible of stalin’s gulags.
Day 9: Arkhangelsk, Russia
Port details pending.
Day 10: Kola Peninsula, Russia
Port details pending.
Day 11: Sem Islands, Russia
Sailing in the Barents Sea.
Day 12: Kirkenes, Norway
Disembark this morning for your continued journey home. A group charter flight to Paris and airport transfers are included in your cruise fare.
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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Superior Stateroom
8 cabins, 226 sq ft, located on Le Champollion Deck. A/C, king or twin beds, seating area and private bath.
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Deluxe Stateroom
28 cabins, 200 sq ft with private balcony. A/C, king or twin beds, seating area, private bath.
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Prestige Stateroom - Deck 4
200 sq ft with 43 sq ft private balcony. A/C, king or twin beds, seating area, private bath.
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Prestige Stateroom - Deck 5
200 sq ft with 43 sq ft private balcony. A/C, king or twin beds, seating area, private bath.
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Prestige Stateroom - Deck 6
200 sq ft with 43 sq ft private balcony. A/C, king or twin beds, seating area, private bath.
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Deluxe Suite
3 suites, 290 sq ft with 54 sq ft private balcony, located on the Le France Deck. A/C, king or twin beds, seating area, desk, minibar, private bath.
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Prestige Suite - Deck 5
398 sq ft with 86 sq ft private balcony. A/C, king or twin beds, communicating cabins available. Separate living area, private bath.
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Prestige Suite - Deck 6
398 sq ft with 86 sq ft private balcony. A/C, king or twin beds, communicating cabins available. Separate living area, private bath.
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Owners Suite
484 sq ft with 97 sq ft private balcony. A/C, king or twin beds, communicating cabins available. Separate living, dining areas, private bath with large tub and shower, minibar, 2 flat screen TVs, DVD, CD, and IPOD, Video on demand, Satellite phone
Notes
Please note:
Fares are based on double occupancy and are capacity controlled. Rates may increase at any time as the ship sells out and subject to change without notice.
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 | 175 reviews
TrustScore 4.8 of 5
Based on 175 reviews on
7 hours ago
The response from Adventure Life to my first inquiry was prompt and promising. I worked with Jamie Broeckel, Trip Planner, via text, email, and phone calls- always extremely responsive and thorough with information and explaining the process to arrange a private tour for me to Malaysia Borneo. Within about week, the booking was complete and I made decisions because of Jamie's great customer service , friendly manner, and overall competence on behalf of the company's travel expertise. Now I have an itinerary, additional Trip Planner Assistants, several links for vital information for traveling to Maylasia, etc. Still many details for Sept. trip, but now the heavy lifting is done and I can enjoy the rest of the anticipation and research!! Thanks Jamie- you are amazing!!!!
Susan Campo
2 days ago
The trip was not only memorable for the amount of animals we saw but also for the people and accommodations at the two camps where we stayed. Our first guide, BK, was a wealth of information about the animals, landscape and down to the plants and what they were used for. Everyday out was a learning experience with him. All the people at the camps were gracious and the food was excellent.
Our second camp in the Okavanga was just as good as the first as far as the staff, accommodations, food and animals. After our experience at the first camp we amazed that the high quality remained the same. Our guide, G, made sure we were able to enjoy every experience including a rush through the bush to witness a cheetah and an ensuing hunt that he heard over his radio.
In both camps there were enough guides out that if they saw something the other guides were informed which helped in seeing as much as possible. It was also nice that the concessions were large enough that we did not have vehicles following each other throughout the day.
Normally there is always something in a trip of this length that we think could be improved upon but this is the rare case where we cannot think of anything. From the time we left the States to when we returned it was one of the most hassle free vacations we took.
Perhaps emphasizing the use of the laundry facilities at the camps would be useful because of the luggage restrictions would be the only thing I can think of as an improvement to future clients.
Kenneth Dropek
3 days ago
Mary was so pleasant and professional. She made sure all of our questions were answered.
