ocean adventurer franz josef land cruise

Jewels of the Russian Arctic: Franz Josef Land and Novaya Zemlya

  • Overview

    EARLY BIRD OFFER: Save 15% OFF + 10% When paid in full by 31 MAR 2021.


    Follow in the footsteps of early Arctic explorers on the Jewels of the Russian Arctic: Franz Josef Land and Novaya Zemlya expedition, voyaging to two of the most isolated, icy archipelagoes in the Russian High Arctic.

    From the mountains of Novaya Zemlya to the wildlife sanctuary of Franz Josef Land, these are rugged and essentially uninhabited landscapes that few have ever experienced. There’s no shortage of amazing adventures in these remote regions, where ice-capped peaks soar majestically out of the water and polar bears wander in their natural environment.

    The Arctic has been inspiring explorers for centuries, and our expeditions offer the chance for you to discover why.

    IMPORTANT VOYAGE INFORMATION:

    1) This voyage had mandatory charter flights required. Helsinki - Murmansk return, AU$2,850 additional per person. 

    2) This voyage travels inside Russia. You must ensure you obtain the correct Russia tourist visa before you depart your home country.   

    3) There is a strict luggage limit of 44 lbs (20 kg) checked luggage and 11 lbs (5 kg) cabin baggage on the flights between Helsinki and Murmansk. Should you have additional luggage, it can be stored at the hotel in Helsinki. There is NO option to pay for additional luggage.

    Duration: 16 days
    Passengers: 130 passengers
    Embarkation Point: Helsinki, Finland
    Disembarkation Point: Helsinki, Finland
    Physical rating: Soft Adventure
    Fly/Cruise: Mandatory extra flight
    Single Supplement: 1.7x - 2.0x twin rate or share options
  • Itinerary
    • Day 1 - Helsinki, Finland: Arrival Day

      Your Arctic adventure begins in Helsinki, renowned for its extraordinary architecture and intriguing mix of eastern and western influences. If you arrive early, explore the many museums, galleries and restaurants, relax at a Finnish sauna or wander the vibrant Design District before retiring at your
      included hotel.

      EXPEDITION HIGHLIGHTS:
      * Explore this rarely visited region of the Russian Arctic
      * Encounter iconic arctic wildlife, such as polar bears, walrus and seabirds
      * Explore glaciated Novaya Zemlya, where the earliest Arctic explorers overwintered
      * Visit significant sites at Franz Josef Land and learn about the region’s storied history

      ***IMPORTANT VISA INFORMATION: This voyage travels inside Russia. You must ensure you obtain the correct Russia tourist visa before you depart your home country.***

    • Day 2 - Embarkation in Murmansk, Russia

      After breakfast, we will transfer to the airport and board our private charter flight to Murmansk, Russia. Once aboard, get acquainted with the ship and crew and settle in for your voyage north.

    • Day 3/4 - At Sea

      As we sail through the Barents Sea, your Expedition Team will prepare you for the adventures that await. Learn about the storied history and politics of the region, its fascinating wildlife, geology, ecology and climate, and the incredible sights you will soon explore. Staff will keep a lookout for seabirds,
      such as kittiwakes, skuas and fulmars soaring above your ship. Whale and seal sightings may also be possible in this biologically diverse sea.

    • Day 5/7 - Exploring Novaya Zemlya

      The largest of the Eurasian Arctic archipelagoes, the rarely visited Novaya Zemlya (“New Land”) is the third largest wilderness area in Europe. This seemingly long, narrow island actually consists of two main islands, Severny (northern) and Yuzhny (southern), separated by the imposing Matochkin Strait.

      As we explore Novaya Zemlya, expect a new adventure every day. Each expedition will be unique, depending on the weather and ice, but a few landing sites we strive to visit include Inostrantseva Bay, the Oransky Islands, Cape Zhelaniya, Cape Spory Navalok and Russkaya Gavan.

      Boasting one of the most picturesque glaciers in the entire archipelago, Inostrantseva Bay provides breathtaking panoramic views of the pristine Arctic wilderness. If conditions allow, we may explore ashore, or Zodiac cruise along the face of the glacier, at a safe distance, possibly witnessing the wonders of calving ice. Encounters with Brünnich’s guillemots (thick-billed murres) are likely, owing to a small colony in the coastal cliffs.

      To the northwest side of Severny Island are the Oransky Islands. Wildlife abounds here, with a variety of animal and plant life to be discovered, Walrus have been sighted here on many previous expeditions. Coming across a walrus haul-out is unforgettable. These giant pinnipeds of the Arctic
      create a raucous as each walrus vies for a choice spot of coastline. Encounters with whales and seabirds are possible, as well as polar bears, a genetically distinct subpopulation here.

      A significant site in polar exploration, Novaya Zemlya also offers a number of opportunities for you to trace the footsteps of famous explorers and reflect on the region’s history.

    • Day 8 - At Sea

      Bid farewell to Novaya Zemlya as we cruise farther north to Franz Josef Land. There are several activities to keep you engaged while at sea. Attend presentations by your Expedition Team, relax in our polar library or simply spend some time on deck, admiring the sea.

    • Day 9/12 - Exploring Franz Josef Land

      This remote group of 191 islands, many covered in ice, forms the most northerly archipelago in Eurasia and lies entirely within the Arctic Circle. A nature reserve, it is part of the Russian Arctic National Park. Weather and ice conditions will shape our exploration, but we do hope to explore historical
      sites, remote seabird colonies and walrus haul-out at some notable destinations, such as Cape Flora, Cape Norway, Bell Island and Tikhaya Bukta. Polar bear encounters are also possible.

      On Jackson Island, Cape Norway is where Norwegian explorers Fridtjof Nansen and Hjalmar Johansen wintered from 1895 to 1896. The conditions were astonishingly difficult, but they survived until the summer and continued their journey south. The remains of their small hut are still here today, along with a memorial marking the event.

      Exploring Tikhaya Bukta (Calm Bay), the site of an abandoned weather station on Hooker Island, will feel like stepping back in time. There is plenty to discover as you wander the ruins, immersed in Russian polar history, and you may even be able to send a postcard from the post office!

      The Stolichky and Appolonov Islands offer plentiful walrus encounters, as the lumbering giants can be found hauled out here. If ice and weather are in our favor, we’ll explore the area by Zodiac, at a safe distance, to view these pinnipeds of the Arctic in their natural habitat.

    • Day 13/14 - At Sea

      As your arctic expedition winds down you have a couple of days to sail through this wildlife-rich sea, where whales of various species are often seen. Take in a presentation, reminisce about your incredible journey with your shipmates, relax in the lounge while swapping stories and photos or enjoy the solitude of the sea. Expedition staff will be on hand to answer any remaining questions and spot wildlife.

    • Day 15 - Disembarkation in Murmansk & Fly to Helsinki

      Returning to Russia’s most northerly city, you’ll have time to bid farewell to your Expedition Team and crew before catching our group charter flight back to Helsinki, where you will have one more night in this exquisite city.

    • Day 16 - Helsinki, Finland: Departure Day

      After breakfast, spend time exploring more of the Finnish capital or catch your homeward-bound flight.

    Please consider that our voyages are expeditionary in nature. This means, that there are no concrete itineraries, your captain and expedition leader will utilise their vast experience to chart the best course for your expedition depending on the climatic and environmental conditions. Mentioned highlights and wildlife cannot be guaranteed.

  • Adventure Activities

    Zodiac Cruising

    Zodiacs are the workhorses of polar expeditions, safely transporting guests to remote shorelines and shallow inlets—places the ships can’t reach. Expedition staff make stepping in and out of them safe and comfortable.

    Included

    Hiking

    Led by experienced staff, exploring in foot is the best way to appreciate the polar landscapes. Our guides are able to accommodate a range of skill levels to suit every passenger.

    Included

    Presentations

    Daily chats with on-board experts—our guides, scientists and other special guests—let guests rub shoulders with historians, ornithologists, biologists, geologists and more.

    Included

    Polar Plunge

    This rite of passage, experienced just once per expedition, sees you safely jumping into icy ocean waters under the watchful eye of our staff—and just about every single camera lens on board!

    Included

    Photography

    Documenting your voyage so you can take the memories home is a rewarding experience. Our photography guides will help you learn skills to capture the beauty of the Polar Regions.

    Included

    Mandatory Transfer Package: Franz Josef Land

    MANDATORY TRANSFER PACKAGE INCLUDES: Franz Josef Land

    One night’s pre- and post-expedition hotel accommodation in Helsinki
    Round-trip flights from Helsinki to Murmansk
    Transfers to and from the ship in Murmansk
    Transfers between the airport and hotel in Helsinki in conjunction with charter flight

    USD$ 1,938 per person

    The Polar Bear

    To many people, the polar bear is the Arctic. The sight of such an impressive silky white bear wandering the frozen Arctic seas in search of seals symbolizes the cold, isolated nature of the Arctic so well. Polar bears are marine mammals because they spend so much of their lives away from land. In the high Arctic where there is always some sea ice to travel on, polar bears range over ice floes in the pack ice hunting seals all summer. In some areas (e.g. southern Hudson Bay, southern Svalbard) they are simply forced to come ashore. Polar bears rarely venture inland.

    Franz Joseph Land

    A geographical mystery, even in the new millennium, Franz Joseph Land, mirages played strange games with the minds of the early mapmakers, conjure new islands and towering mountains. Franza Joseph Land is scattered with stories of early explorers, their remains and ruins of a bygone era of exploration. Few people have visited it since. A haven for walrus, Polar bears and large numbers of migratory birds and with ice caps rising straight from the sea, this is one of the last true expedition frontier's left on the planet.

  • Inclusions

    Expedition Gear

    Expedition boots and a specially designed high quality polar expedition jacket are provided on board.

    Transfers & Accommodation (Helsinki)

    Transfers are provided in Helsinki, Finland and Murmansk, Russia.
    1 night pre and post cruise accommodation is provided in Helsinki, Finland

    Inclusions / Exclusions

    Included in your Expedition

    - All meals and accommodation during the voyage
    - Zodiac and land excursions with our expert expedition team
    - Lectures and onboard entertainment
    - Complimentary on board polar boots
    - Comprehensive pre-departure material
    - Service taxes and port charges
    - Emergency evacuation insurance up to USD$500,000
    - Russian invitation letter for visa application (after final payment)

    Not included in your Expedition

    - Items of a personal nature such as; Beverages / Laundry / Medical expenses / Gratuities / Internet & Wifi
    - International and internal flights that are not specified
    - Meals ashore and supplements for single hotel rooms
    - Baggage / cancellation / interruption and medical travel insurance
    - Government arrival and departure taxes not mentioned
    - Passport and Visa expenses
    - Mandatory transfer package
  • Map
    Map coming soon
  • Gallery
  • Vessel

    OCEAN ADVENTURER

    The new and improved Ocean Adventurer is designed to carry 132 travelers in comfort to the most remote corners of the world. Originally built in Yugoslavia in 1976, this nimble, ice-strengthened ship has become a passenger favourite over the years and underwent refurbishments in 1999 and 2002 with the most significant being in 2017. With the latest rounds of refurbishments guests will enjoy: A refreshed, contemporary new look and feel throughout the ship. - The addition of six new twin cabins and three new suites. - All existing cabins will be furnished with all new soft furnishings and brand new bathrooms. - Main common areas such as the Lounge and Dining Room will be remodeled as well as the Bar. - Major technical enhancements – include two new Rolls Royce engines, which will significantly increase fuel efficiency and minimized carbon footprint.

    Features & Facilities
    • Recently refurbished
    • superior accommodation
    • Lounge/Dining Room
    • Bar
    • Gym
    • Internet/Wifi
    • Library
    Key Facts
    Luxury star rating: 4
    Guests #: 132
    Crew #: 87
    Ice Class: 1A
    Speed: 14
    Refurbished:
    Technical Specs
    Year built:
    Length: 100m
    Width: 16
    Draft:
    Tonnage: 4376
    Registry: Bahamas
    Elec Outlets: 220V / 2 Round Pin
Check Voyage Dates, Pricing and Availability
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Ready to book your expedition?

We understand that the trip of a lifetime takes planning, so we make the financial commitments easy to manage.

  • Confirm your booking today with just USD$ 1,000 per passenger.
  • Pay your 25% deposit 5 day later.
  • Final payment due 120 days prior to departure.
ocean adventurer triple cabin

Triple

22 Jul 2022 - 06 Aug 2022
Triple cabin with upper and lower bunks, porthole and private facilities. Please note this voyage requires a charter flight at an additional cost.
USD$ 11,084pp
USD$ 11,084pp
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ocean adventurer lower deck twin cabin

Lower Deck Twin

22 Jul 2022 - 06 Aug 2022
Two lower berths with private facilities and a porthole. Please note this voyage may require a charter flight at an additional cost.
USD$ 13,668pp
USD$ 11,618pp
ocean adventurer main deck porthole cabin

Main Deck Twin Porthole

22 Jul 2022 - 06 Aug 2022
Two lower berths with private facilities and porthole. Please note this voyage may require a charter flight at an additional cost.
USD$ 15,164pp
USD$ 12,890pp
ocean adventurer main deck window cabin

Main Deck Twin Window

22 Jul 2022 - 06 Aug 2022
Two lower berths with private facilities and window. Please note this voyage may require a charter flight at an additional cost.
USD$ 16,728pp
USD$ 14,219pp
ocean adventurer deluxe twin cabin

Deluxe

22 Jul 2022 - 06 Aug 2022
Two lower berths with private facilities and window. Please note this voyage may require a charter flight at an additional cost.
USD$ 18,156pp
USD$ 14,525pp
ocean adventurer superior twin cabin

Superior

22 Jul 2022 - 06 Aug 2022
Two lower berths with private facilities and window. Please note this voyage may require a charter flight at an additional cost.
USD$ 18,156pp
USD$ 14,525pp
ocean adventurer suite twin cabin

Suite

22 Jul 2022 - 06 Aug 2022
Two lower berths with private facilities and window. Please note this voyage may require a charter flight at an additional cost.
USD$ 23,256pp
USD$ 18,605pp
ocean adventurer owners suite twin cabin

Owner's Suite

22 Jul 2022 - 06 Aug 2022
Brand new cabin with double bed, private facilities and window. Please note this voyage may require a charter flight at an additional cost.
USD$ 24,752pp
USD$ 19,802pp
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