The North Pole
Three Departures
Start: Helsinki, Finland
Finish: Helsinki, Finland
Day 1
Helsinki, Finland
Just six degrees south of the Arctic Circle is a sophisticated city with nightlife, green spaces and a breathtaking harbor - Helsinki, Finland. We encourage you to arrive early to explore the city, before you settle down for the night in the centrally located hotel, which is included in the price of your expedition.
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. 50 Years of Victory is a massive ship. 2008 is the ship's maiden season to the North Pole. Tugboats and high tide assist the ship to leave dock. A Russian march is played as the ship heads out to sea, fitting pomp for one of the most powerful ships afloat.
Day 3-7
Northbound on the Arctic Ocean
We'll keep you busy as the ship forges north to the goal of this expedition - the top of the world. Our polar historian 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 onboard helicopters for an aerial view of 50 Years of Victory breaking ice.
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. (The seventh day should you choose the shorter voyage.)
Day 9-11
Southbound - the Arctic Ocean
As 50 Years of Victory 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 helicopters 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. Birders, pack your binoculars. Franz Josef Land is home to numerous colonies of seabirds.
Day 13-14
Barents Sea
The recap sessions, education program, Polar Arts activities and Film Festival continue.
Day 15
Disembarkation - 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, where you will spend the night.
Day 16
Helsinki
You'll be free to transfer to the airport on your own after breakfast at the hotel.