Departure dates 2009: Jun 14, Jun 27, Jul 9
Tour Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrive Helsinki, Finland. Just six degrees south of the Arctic Circle is Helsinki, Finland. We encourage you to arrive early to explore the city, before you settle down for the night in the centrally located hotel.
Day 2: Embarkation Day. We will fly you from Helsinki to Murmansk, Russia, the home port of the Russian nuclear icebreaker fleet. En route to Murmansk you will cross the Arctic Circle. Tugboats and high tide assist the ship to leave dock.
Days 3-7: Traveling North on the Arctic Ocean. As we head north, polar historians will recount tales of the hubris and foolhardiness of those who sought to claim the title "First to Reach the North Pole." Our marine biologist, in an illustrated presentation, will explain the part the Arctic Ocean plays in our ecosystem.
The ornithologist will accompany you topside to identify birds on the wing. The Expedition Leader may deploy the on board helicopters for an aerial view of ship breaking ice. Our artist-in-residence will lead interactive workshops that encourage you to create your own polar masterpiece. Or you can attend the 90N Wildlife Film Festival!
Day 8: North Pole. The Expedition Leader in consultation with the Captain will consult charts and weather reports, adjusting the daily program to take advantage of local conditions. If they are at their optimum, you should reach the North Pole some time on the eighth day of the expedition.
Days 9-11: Southbound - the Arctic Ocean. As the ship sails south, the members of the Expedition Team prepare you for shore landings in Franz Josef Land. Their presentations cover the wildlife, geology and history of the archipelago.
Day 12: Franz Josef Land. As long as visibility is sufficient the helicopter will transfer you to one of the flat-topped islands that comprise the archipelago. The most northerly islands in Eurasia are located between 80 and 81 degrees North. Franz Josef Land is home to numerous colonies of seabirds.
Days 13-14: Barents Sea. The recap sessions, education program, Polar Arts activities and Film Festival continue.
Day 15: Disembarkation in Murmansk. The Captain times his entrance into Murmansk harbor to coincide with high tide. Once the ship is safely moored, you will be transferred to the airport for the flight to Helsinki to spend the night.
Day 16: Helsinki. Transfer to the airport after breakfast at the hotel.
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Price Includes:
- Flights - Helsinki - Murmansk - Helsinki.
- Hotel for the first and fifth nights.
Note: Prices are based on a 3% cash discount.
Also see tour packages in:
Arctic
Arctic
Boating and Sailing
Email it to a friend:
Click here to email this vacation to a friend
|
