Expedition Itinerary - North Pole

New for 2012

In 2012 - 2 departures [June 25 to July 8; July 6 - July 19] The crossing from Murmansk to the Pole will be one day shorter. When we reach the top of the world, you can ascend in a hot air balloon. The optional activity is limited to 50 people, and must be booked when you book the ultimate Arctic expedition. Drinks are on the house in 2012.

North Pole Interactive Map
Barents Sea - The fisheries of the area, in particular cod, are of great importance for both Norway and Russia.
Murmansk, Russia - The home port of the Russian nuclear-icebreaker fleet.
North Pole - Every thing is south from 90N.
Franz Josef Land - Home to polar bear and walrus.
Barents Sea Murmansk, Russia North Pole Franz Josef Land
  1. The expedition begins in the Finnish capital, Helsinki.

    Day 1 - Helsinki, Finland

    Your adventure begins with a one-night stay in magical Helsinki, Finland's capital.

  2. Sailing from Murmansk into the midnight sun.

    Day 2 - Embarkation Day

    From Helsinki, take our charter flight to Murmansk, Russia, where you'll join 50 Years of Victory, the world's largest and most powerful icebreaker.

  3. Landing a helicopter while the ship is moving takes skill.

    Day 3-7 - The Arctic Ocean

    Watching Victory crush through the Arctic ice pack is a sight you'll never forget. Be sure to take one of the included helicopter flights for a thrilling aerial view of Victory's progress.

    Sailing conditions on the Arctic Ocean are changeable, so the crossing from Murmansk to the North Pole can take anywhere from 5 to 8 days. Most of our guests enjoy the heightened sense of adventure that comes with this unpredictability. In 2008, Victory made the fastest recorded crossing between these two points: 4.5 days!

  4. A GPS confirms you have reached the top of the world.

    Day 8 - 90 North

    Each traveler experiences this moment in his or her own way. Some hold special signs. Others wave their national flags. Still others stand on this mystical spot, holding a talisman brought thousands of miles for this one purpose. Later, everyone enjoys a champagne toast and a BBQ on the ice. How will YOU celebrate?

  5. A polar bear on the hunt in Franz Josef Land.

    Day 9 - Southbound

    As Victory makes her way back through the churning pack ice, you may spot polar bears on the hunt with Ivory gulls following close behind - eager to dine on leftovers.

  6. Eerie and uninhabited, Franz Josef Land is haunting.

    Day 10-12 - Franz Josef Land and the Arctic Ocean

    This group of 191 islands forms the most northerly archipelago in Eurasia, and lies entirely within the Arctic Circle. Here you'll explore Cape Flora, and discover historic remains from three ill-fated Arctic expeditions. When conditions permit, Zodiac trips beneath towering cliffs will explore remote seabird rookeries.  Onboard helicopters again provide aerial sightseeing, and transfer you to otherwise inaccessible landing sites.

  7. Fine dining is part of the North Pole experience.

    Day 13 - Disembarkation in Murmansk, Russia

    Your port of disembarkation is Murmansk, Russia's most northerly city. After you leave the ship, we'll transfer you to the airport, where you'll board your flight to Helsinki, Finland.

  8. The architecture of Helsinki was influenced by Finnish legends.

    Day 14 - Helsinki, Finland

    After breakfast at your centrally located hotel, you are free to leave for home or extend your stay. Helsinki, Tallinn (capital of Estonia) and St. Petersburg (the "Venice of the North") are all fascinating cities, just waiting to be explored. Our Polar Travel Advisors are happy to help you arrange your extended stay.

Extend your stay

You may like to extend your stay

  • Helsinki, Finland to St. Petersburg, RussiaUSD$2995

    Price Per Person (Twin Occupancy)

    Luxurious high speed train adventure to romantic St. Petersburg, Russia, the Venice of the North.

    Complete details

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