- July 19 — August 1, 2012. Perhaps nowhere on Mother Earth can the excitement of a new experience be any greater than by taking a voyage into the Arctic or even beyond, by braving the polar ice cap to reach the North Pole. This region is one of the most remote and extreme on the planet, sadly, it is disappearing at an alarming rate. The polar ice cap has been retreating for almost thirty years now and along with it the delicate Arctic habitat that is home to some of the most endangered flora and fauna on Earth. Polar bears, arctic foxes, walruses and seals and snow owls are only a few of the species native to this wild, untamed land. A voyage to the Arctic and the North Pole Expedition is a sense arousing, heart-opening experience that touches the very soul of all who have ever ventured into this unique domain. Tour Itinerary: Day 1: Helsinki. Welcome to Helsinki, the cozy Finnish Capital. Following your arrival in Helsinki and subsequent transfer to your hotel, you will be greeted by our representative in the lobby of your hotel. Day 2: Murmansk. Helsinki-Murmansk flight and embarkation. Following a short tour of Helsinki, you will board a chartered plane for the short two hour flight to Murmansk. There, you will board “50 Years of Victory”, one of the most powerful icebreakers in the world, after which time you will depart Murmansk and start your journey north via Kola Bay. Day 3: The Barents Sea. While continuing your journey north across the Barents Sea, you will be introduced to the safety instructions which have been put in place to ensure your complete protection: while aboard the “50 years of Victory” and during our 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 this day will be a tour of the engine room – amazing! All this and more are on the day’s agenda! Days 4 - 6: 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 our ship as it battles its way through the mighty ice fields 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 breathtaking 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 we expect to reach the North Pole. With heart-pounding anticipation, the “Victory” will be slowly maneuvered into position at exactly 90N. Welcome to the Geographical North Pole. But this is only the start of your adventure. Disembarking from the ship, you will experience the once-in-a-lifetime thrill of standing on the top of the world. To celebrate this victory, you will join hands with the other passengers while everyone literally walks around the world during our special International Round Dance. Topping off the day will be our North Pole barbecue. Optional: For the more daring and adventurous, a plunge into the Arctic Ocean. Days 8 - 11: The Islands and Archipelagos of the Russian Arctic. During the many years that we have been operating in the Russian Arctic, we have gained a truly unique experience exploring the many arctic lands in this region, one of the most remote in the world. It is truly our pleasure to share it and our love for these vast lands with you. Given favorable weather and ice conditions, exploration of the Franz Josef Land Archipelago is in the offering. Days 12 & 13: The Barents Sea. During the three day journey back to Murmansk, you will have ample opportunity to relive your arctic adventure sharing your favorite memories of all that has befallen you while on this voyage. And if you didn’t do so before, then take some time out to really enjoy the facilities and amenities that have been provided for your on-board 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, bar or library. Day 14: Murmansk. After disembarking in Murmansk, you will be returned to Helsinki where you will spend a last evening in the Finnish capital. Price Includes: - 2 nights in a 4-5* hotel in Helsinki, breakfast included - Airfares Helsinki – Murmansk – Helsinki - Voyage aboard the Ship - All shore excursions and activities - Program of lectures - Expedition Team and guest lecturers - Four meals a day (including fresh bakery items every afternoon) - Waterproof boots for the duration of the cruise - Informative pre-departure materials and expedition log with picture album on DVD - Service taxes and port charges throughout the program - Special expedition parka - Personalized medical insurance covering the risks of evacuation and repatriation (in addition to other risks). - Letter of Invitation. Price Excludes: - Travel expenses to and from Helsinki - Transfers to and from your 4-5* hotel in Helsinki before and after the expedition - Passport and visa expenses - State arrival and departure taxes - Meals ashore and supplements in respect of single hotel accommodation - Luggage and cancellation insurance - Excess Luggage charges on international and local flights - Telecommunication services - Tips. Notes: Promotional: Book and deposit before February 1st and get $500 off per double cabin. 
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