North Pole Arctic Expedition Cruise
14 Days
from
$25,985 $23,995 pp. Book now for June 19th or 30th and get FREE Return Air Helsinki to Murmansk + FREE Walking tour in Helsinki*
Highlights:
Arctic
(Arctic Ocean)
,
Finland
(Helsinki)
Trip Start/End:
Arctic
/
Helsinki
Trip Schedule:
Departs on
19-Jun-2013, 30-Jun-2013, 14-Jul-2013, 25-Jul-2013, 19-Jun-2014, 30-Jun-2014, 14-Jul-2014, 25-Jul-2014
Take part in a unique opportunity to travel to North Pole. Start your trip in Helsinki and explore the city with your private guide before you start your expedition. Then navigate through largely unexplored territory in the Northern Hemisphere aboard the powerful ’50 Years of Victory’ icebreaker as it plows through enormous sheets of thick ice on route to the exact geographical coordinates of the North Pole. You will have a fascinating opportunity to see the famed Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights, a spectacular sky filled with ribbons of electric colour never to be forgotten. Experience the Polar Regions in the company of professional crew members who will impart their knowledge of the vast polar wilderness during their lectures and in the frequent informal discussions and chats that spontaneously take place both on and below deck. Fine dining deep in the Arctic may sound unlikely – yet you will find it aboard the icebreaker! Enjoy an eclectic menu created by a professional Chef and a wide range of wines and spirits to compliment.
Available Cruise Departure Dates:
2013: June 19, June 30, July 14, July 25
2014: June 19, June 30, July 14, July 25
Overview
| Day | Activities | Hotel |
- Day 1
- Helsinki
| - Transfer - Private - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
- Expedition Briefing
- Private - Old City Walking Tour (4 hrs) - Guide
- Lunch (not included)
- Dinner (not included)
| Hilton Helsinki Airport Hotel |
- Day 2
- Helsinki - Murmansk - Arctic Ocean
| - Airport - Coach/Driver
- Air - Helsinki - Murmansk [1.5 hrs] - Economy
- Lunch (included)
- Dinner (included)
- Welcome on the Icebraker Ship
| Icebreaker "50 Years of Victory"
[Twin Standard (Shared)] (B,L,D)
|
- Day 3
- Barents Sea - Arctic Ocean
| - The Barents Sea
- Lunch (included)
- Dinner (included)
| Icebreaker "50 Years of Victory"
[Twin Standard (Shared)] (B,L,D)
|
- Day 4
- Barents Sea - Arctic Ocean
| - Voyage to the North Pole
- Lunch (included)
- Dinner (included)
| Icebreaker "50 Years of Victory"
[Twin Standard (Shared)] (B,L,D)
|
- Day 5
- Barents Sea - Arctic Ocean
| - On the way to the North Pole
- Lunch (included)
- Dinner (included)
| Icebreaker "50 Years of Victory"
[Twin Standard (Shared)] (B,L,D)
|
- Day 6
- Arctic Ocean
| - On the way to North Pole
- Lunch (included)
- Dinner (included)
| Icebreaker "50 Years of Victory"
[Twin Standard (Shared)] (B,L,D)
|
- Day 7
- North Pole - Arctic Ocean
| - The North Pole
- Lunch (included)
- Dinner (included)
| Icebreaker "50 Years of Victory"
[Twin Standard (Shared)] (B,L,D)
|
- Day 8
- Franz Joseph Archipelago - Arctic Ocean
| - Franz Josef Land Expedition
- Lunch (included)
- Dinner (not included)
| Icebreaker "50 Years of Victory"
[Twin Standard (Shared)] (B,L,D)
|
- Day 9
- Arctic Ocean
| - The Islands and Archipelagos of Russian Arctic
- Lunch (included)
- Dinner (included)
| Icebreaker "50 Years of Victory"
[Twin Standard (Shared)] (B,L,D)
|
- Day 10
- Arctic Ocean
| - The Arctic Islands
- Lunch (included)
- Dinner (included)
| Icebreaker "50 Years of Victory"
[Twin Standard (Shared)] (B,L,D)
|
- Day 11
- Barents Sea - Arctic Ocean
| - Barents Sea Revisited
- Lunch (included)
- Dinner (included)
| Icebreaker "50 Years of Victory"
[Twin Standard (Shared)] (B,L,D)
|
- Day 12
- Arctic Ocean
| - At Sea
- Lunch (included)
- Dinner (included)
| Icebreaker "50 Years of Victory"
[Twin Standard (Shared)] (B,L,D)
|
- Day 13
- Murmansk - Helsinki
| - Disembarkation
- Air - Murmansk - Helsinki [1.5 hrs] - Economy
- Lunch (not included)
- Dinner (not included)
| Radisson Blu Plaza or Similar
[Twin Standard (Shared)]
|
- Day 14
- Helsinki
| - Transfer - Private - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
| Depart (Int`l Airport)
|
| B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, 1/2d = Half Day, Al = All Inclusive |
Trip Itinerary
Sibelius Monument
Expedition at 90°N
Day 1: Helsinki
Airport transfer with a private vehicle and driver.
Today you'll be met by our expedition representative in the lobby of your hotel and discuss more details in regards to your expedition cruise to the North Pole.
Explore Helsinki with English speaking Guide. Discover the historical city center and view Sibelius Monument, the Senate Square, the Olympic Stadium, and the famous Finlandia Hall by Alvar Alto in the diplomatic district, as well as the open air market among other sights. Entrance fees are not included in the tour cost.
Accommodation: Hilton Helsinki Airport Hotel Hilton Helsinki Airport Hotel, located just three minutes' walk from the main terminal, this contemporary hotel combines excellent service and a stylish interior with comfortable amenities. Rejuvenate after a long journey with a workout in the fully equipped fitness room, or take advantage of the traditional Finnish sauna. Catch up with friends by the open fire as you sip on a classic vodka cocktail in Bar Gui. Restaurant Gui serves a selection of delicious Finnish specialties in elegant surroundings.
Icebreaker 50 Years of Victory
Day 2: Helsinki - Murmansk - Arctic Ocean
After the group transfer from your hotel, you will board a chartered plane for the short two hour flight to Murmansk.
Once you arrived in Murmansk you'll be transfererd to the ship. Enjoy the next days onboard. Four meals a day are included during the expedition cruise. Afternoon fresh bakery items are available every afternoon as well as tea / coffee station and drinking water.
Accommodation: Icebreaker "50 Years of Victory" The “50 Years of Victory” is the largest and most modern nuclear-powered icebreaker in the world. For those with an appreciation of such vessels, the “Victory” is a new generation ship, an upgrade of the Arktika-class, the most powerful icebreakers in the world.
The Barents Sea
Day 3: Barents Sea - Arctic Ocean
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!
Accommodation: Icebreaker "50 Years of Victory" 
Mighty Icebergs
Day 4: Barents Sea - Arctic Ocean
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.
Accommodation: Icebreaker "50 Years of Victory" 
Breathtaking Helicopter Ride
Day 5: Barents Sea - Arctic Ocean
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. Landing a helicopter on the helipad of a ship or on a glacier with gusting winds takes great skill and are only two of the jobs that the helicopter crew must perform. There is no better way to explore the far north than by combining a world-class icebreaker and a helicopter.
Accommodation: Icebreaker "50 Years of Victory" Day 6: Arctic Ocean
Enjoy another day on the board of the Icebraker. Get ready for the final destination North Pole which you'll reach it soon. Off-deck adventure also awaits you on your way to the North Pole. For those wishing to take some time away from their new found sea legs, a walk on the ice pack will do the trick.
Accommodation: Icebreaker "50 Years of Victory" 
The North Pole View
Day 7: North Pole - Arctic Ocean
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 90 degrees N. 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 and, for the more daring and adventurous, a plunge into the Arctic Ocean.
Accommodation: Icebreaker "50 Years of Victory" 
Mammoth Fossils Lying Around The Franz Josef Land
Day 8: Franz Joseph Archipelago - Arctic Ocean
The Franz Josef Land Archipelago can be described as, consisting of about 190 islands most of which are reminiscent of moon craters thus accounting for its more common name the ‘Moon Archipelago’, home to polar bears, walruses and many species of arctic birds, the location of Champ Island with its mysterious round boulders found no where else on earth, a unique and possibly never-to-be-had-again opportunity to explore this vast landscape and photograph its natural beauty.
Accommodation: Icebreaker "50 Years of Victory" 
Pose for a Photo
Day 9: Arctic Ocean
Today is a full day spent at sea as you continue your voyage back to Helsinki. Meet your fellow cruisemates in the lounge, or have a friend snap some memorable photos of you as you pass incredible scenery. You'll be cruising by the islands and archipelagos of the Russian Arctic today.
Accommodation: Icebreaker "50 Years of Victory" 
Arctic Fauna
Day 10: Arctic Ocean
See the remotely islands of the Russian Arctic and explore the surroundings. Explore the wild and the vast landscape. Lectures are held on board.
Accommodation: Icebreaker "50 Years of Victory" 
Taking it Easy at the Ship's Bow
Day 11: Barents Sea - Arctic Ocean
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 onboard 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.
Accommodation: Icebreaker "50 Years of Victory" Day 12: Arctic Ocean
Today is a full day spent at sea as you continue your voyage back to Helsinki. Meet your fellow cruisemates in the lounge, or have a friend snap some memorable photos of you as you pass incredible scenery. You'll be cruising by the islands and archipelagos of the Russian Arctic today.
Accommodation: Icebreaker "50 Years of Victory" 
Helsinki
Radisson Blu Plaza
Day 13: Murmansk - Helsinki
This morning you'll disembark from your cruise vessel, and prepare for your flight back to Helsinki.
Charter flight from Murmansk to Helsinki.
Accommodation: Radisson Blu Plaza or Similar Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel (5*) is located in the heart of Helsinki close to the shopping and entertainment district and offers an abundant choice of activities and entertainment. The National Theatre, the Grand Casino and the Finnish National Gallery are next door neighbours of the hotel. Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel has 291 rooms, air conditioned and equipped with amenities expected of a first class hotel. To guarantee a good night's sleep all the rooms feature top quality Magic Dreams beds, designed exclusively for Radisson Blu. Seven different rooms with seven different atmospheres create the unique world of the restaurant Pääkonttori. Structures and details of the historical building combined with the vision of Finland's best designers give each room a distinctive personality. The end result is more than a restaurant, it is an experience where all your senses are treated to the feast. Other amenities include a sauna and a fitness room.
Day 14: Helsinki
Airport transfer with a private vehicle and driver.
Accommodation: Depart (Int`l Airport)
Accommodations
Hilton Helsinki Airport Hotel
Hilton Helsinki Airport Hotel
Hilton Helsinki Airport Hotel, located just three minutes' walk from the main terminal, this contemporary hotel combines excellent service and a stylish interior with comfortable amenities. Rejuvenate after a long journey with a workout in the fully equipped fitness room, or take advantage of the traditional Finnish sauna. Catch up with friends by the open fire as you sip on a classic vodka cocktail in Bar Gui. Restaurant Gui serves a selection of delicious Finnish specialties in elegant surroundings.
- Icebreaker 50 Years of Victory
Icebreaker "50 Years of Victory" - Arctic Ocean
The “50 Years of Victory” is the largest and most modern nuclear-powered icebreaker in the world. For those with an appreciation of such vessels, the “Victory” is a new generation ship, an upgrade of the Arktika-class, the most powerful icebreakers in the world.
Radisson Blu Plaza or Similar
Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel (5*) is located in the heart of Helsinki close to the shopping and entertainment district and offers an abundant choice of activities and entertainment. The National Theatre, the Grand Casino and the Finnish National Gallery are next door neighbours of the hotel. Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel has 291 rooms, air conditioned and equipped with amenities expected of a first class hotel. To guarantee a good night's sleep all the rooms feature top quality Magic Dreams beds, designed exclusively for Radisson Blu. Seven different rooms with seven different atmospheres create the unique world of the restaurant Pääkonttori. Structures and details of the historical building combined with the vision of Finland's best designers give each room a distinctive personality. The end result is more than a restaurant, it is an experience where all your senses are treated to the feast. Other amenities include a sauna and a fitness room.
Travel Info
Travel tips of Finland
VISA/PASSPORT
Finland is a party to the Schengen Agreement. As such, U.S. and Canadian citizens may enter for up to 90 days for tourist or business purposes without a visa. The passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay.
Citizens of other countries may require a visa. Please ask your Sales Advisor. These requirements change often and therefore it is best that you check with the Embassy of Finland for the most up to date visa information.
HEALTH
Health insurance is recommended. Medical facilities are good quality. We recommend that you see a health-care provider who specializes in Travel Medicine. The doctor or health-care provider will determine what vaccinations and medication you will need, depending on factors such as your health and immunization history, areas of the country you will be visiting, and planned activities. For more information on travel requirements, visit the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website: http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/finland.aspx
COUNTRY INFO
Capital: Helsinki.
Government: Republic.
Language: There are two official languages: Finnish, mother tongue for 91.6% of the population, and Swedish, first language of 5.5% of the population. There is a small minority in Lapland who speak one of the country’s three Sámi languages, while Karelian dialects still survive in the east of the country. English is taught as the first foreign language.
Religion: 83% Lutheran, and a minority of Protestants, Roman Catholics, Jews and Muslims.
Time: GMT + 2 (GMT + 3 from last Sunday in March to last Sunday in October).
Electricity: 220 (230) volts AC, 50Hz. European two-pin plugs are standard.
Telephone: Country code +358.
Mobile Telephone: Roaming agreements exist with most international mobile phone companies. Coverage is good.
Internet: Free public access is widely available in tourist offices and libraries. Internet cafes are available in large cities only. Most business hotels and even some city centers offer wireless Internet access
What's Included:
- Guaranteed departure, Accommodation in a standard cabin as mentioned, Private tour with English speaking guide in Helsinki, Private airport transfers, Group Transfers, Charter flight from Helsinki-Murmansk-Helsinki, All shore excursions and activities throughout the voyage by helicopters (as included in planned group excursions), program of lectures and informal talks by experienced expedition team and guest lecturers, Four meals a day during the cruise, waterproof boots for the duration of the cruise, informative pre-departure materials and expedition log, all miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program, local and international traveler assistance during your tour, Specialized and personalized services.
What's not Included:
- Tips - Laundry - Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages unless explicitly noted - Optional activities/extras – Visas (unless noted) - Vacation insurance
Trip Terms & Conditions
- Your deposit is due immediately on booking (35% of program price, minimum $1500). The balance is due 130 days prior to departure.
- Cancellations of confirmed bookings 181 days or more after booking will receive full refund minus a $1500 (per person) administrative fee and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g. non-refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits). 121-180 days will be subject to loss of 35% of program price. 120 days or less will be subject to loss of 100% of program price.
- We accept payment via credit card, certified check, wire transfer or money order.
- Tour quotes do not include airfare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary
- Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client.
- Availability cannot be guaranteed until booked. We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 90 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes.
- Payment of the program price constitutes your acceptance of the terms and conditions set out at www.kensingtontours.com/terms-and-conditions
- Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation.
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