NORTH
POLE CRUISES | ICEBREAKER "50 YEARS OF VICTORY" | |
| CRUISE DATES |
2010:
Icebreaker Cruise to the North Pole
July 23 – August 06, 2010
(15 days)
Icebreaker Cruise to the North Pole
August 04 – August 18, 2010
(15 days)
2011:
Icebreaker Cruise to the North Pole
July 23 – August 06, 2011
(15 days) Special Offer
Icebreaker Cruise to the North Pole
August 04 – August 18, 2011
(15 days) Special Offer
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| Our sample itinerary should therefore be considered as a guide only, as it is heavily dependent on both weather and ice condition. Expand All | Collapse All  Day 1. 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. 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”,
- 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! Day 4-6. Voyage to the North Pole. 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 90◦ 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. Day 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.
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 Day 12-14. Barents Sea Revisited. 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.
After disembarking in Murmansk, you will be returned to Helsinki where you will spend a last evening in the Finnish capital. Day 15. Farewell to Helsinki. Following breakfast, you will depart for the airport and your journey home. Mission accomplished!
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Rates for 2010:
Rates
per person in USD |
Twin Standard |
 |
Mini Suite |
|
Suite |
|
Victory Suite |
|
Arktika Suite |
|
FLIGHT |
|
Icebreaker Cruise to the North Pole
July 23 – August 06, 2010 (15 days) |
$ 19,200
|
|
$ 21,500
|
|
$ 28,250 |
|
$ 29,150
|
|
$ 30,050
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|
$ 1 350
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|
Icebreaker Cruise to the North Pole
August 04 – August 18, 2010 (15 days) |
$ 19,200
|
|
$ 21,500
|
|
$ 28,250 |
|
$ 29,150
|
|
$ 30,050
|
|
$ 1 350
|
| |
Rates are per person in U.S. dollars, based on double occupancy. The rate for single occupancy is 1.7 times that of the shared rate. |
Rates for 2011:
Rates
per person in USD |
Twin Standard |
|
Mini Suite |
|
Suite |
|
Victory Suite |
|
Arktika Suite |
|
FLIGHT |
|
Icebreaker Cruise to the North Pole
July 23 – August 06, 2011 (15 days) |
$ 22,450
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|
$ 25,050
|
|
$ 31,150 |
|
$ 32,150
|
|
$ 33,050
|
|
included
|
|
Icebreaker Cruise to the North Pole
August 04 – August 18, 2011 (15 days) |
$ 22,450
|
|
$ 25,050
|
|
$ 31,150 |
|
$ 32,150
|
|
$ 33,050
|
|
included
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Rates are per person in U.S. dollars, based on double occupancy. The rate for single occupancy is 1.7 times that of the shared rate. |
For those ones who book before December 20, 2010 Early Bird discount of $ 1,000-00 is offered
Please pay attention: The charter flight cost is included into the program rates.
Booking requestExpedition rates include: 2 nights in a 4-5* hotel in Helsinki, breakfast included (one night before the cruise and one night after); Group transfer hotel – airport in Helsinki on 24 July; Group transfer airport – ship in Murmansk on 24 July; Group transfer ship – airport in Murmansk on 5 August;Voyage aboard the ship as described in the itinerary; 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 (including afternoon fresh bakery items every afternoon) and tea / coffee station and drinking water dispenser round the clock; Special expedition parka; Waterproof boots for the duration of the cruise; In-cabin: bathrobe and hairdryer; Informative pre-departure materials and expedition log with picture album on DVD; All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program; Personalized medical insurance covering the risks of evacuation and repatriation (in addition to other risks). Coverage – 50,000-00 EUR. Letter of invitation. This document should be presented to the Russian Consulate in your area in order to obtain a Russian Visa. Please, contact the Russian Consulate to learn more about the procedure for obtaining a Russian Visa. Do not hesitate to contact Expedition Cruises if any questions appear. Let us know if you have any difficulties in the visa processing. Not Included: Travel expenses to and from Helsinki; Airfares Helsinki–Murmansk–Helsinki ($1,350 per person ); Transfers to and from your 4-5* hotel in Helsinki before and after the expedition; Passport and visa expenses (if required); A RUSSIAN VISA IS REQUIRED FOR THIS TRIP! THIS VISA MUST BE OBTAINED BY THE CUSTOMER AND IS AT HIS / HER OWN EXPENCES. State arrival and departure taxes (if levied); Meals ashore and supplements in respect of single hotel accommodation (if required); Luggage and cancellation insurance. (Strongly recommended – Poseidon Arctic Voyages can suggest a reliable provider of such insurance); Excess Luggage charges on international and local flights; Telecommunication services; laundry, bar and beverage charges aboard the vessel; Tips for stewards and other service personal aboard (at your discretion).
ICEBREAKER “50 YEARS OF VICTORY”
Power, state-of-the-art technology and comfort all rolled into one. Technical characteristics | Length: | 160 m (525 feet) | | Breadth: | 30 m (98 feet) | | Draft: | 11 m (36 feet) | | Power plant: | 2 nuclear reactors, two steam turbines rotating six generators | | Total capacity: | 75,000 hp | | Cruising speed: | 21 knots | | Maximum fuel storage: | 4 years | | Crew: | 140 | | Passengers: | 128 | | Registry: | Russia |
The “50 Years of Victory” is the property of the Russian Federation and has received maritime registration under the name “50 LET POBEDY”.
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.
Among its state-of-the-arts features are:
- a spoon-shaped bow designed for greater icebreaking ability,
- an automated, digitalized control system,
- the most up-to-date nuclear safeguards and protection systems.
As a working icebreaker, the “Victory” is vastly more suitable to life onboard than was its predecessor the “Yamal”. Though its cabins and suites are as comfortable and spacious as were those on the “Yamal”, the “Victory” offers its passenger much more room for socializing and get-togethers.
NB. The “50 Years of Victory” is the property of the Russian Federation and has received maritime registration under the name “50 LET POBEDY”. Cabins Category
All passenger cabins have exterior views and windows that open.
Standard Twin (46 cabins):
- 1 lower berth, 1 sofa bed, private facilities with a shower, TV set and DVD player.
Mini Suite (6 cabins):
- Sitting area with sofa bed, sleeping bed separated from the sitting area, private facilities with a shower, TV set and DVD player, refrigerator.
Suite (6 cabins):
- Bedroom and sitting area, sofa bed in sitting room, private facilities with a bathtub or shower, refrigerator, TV set and DVD player, coffee maker.
Victory Suite (1 cabin):
- Large bedroom and sitting room, sofa bed in sitting room, private facilities with a bathtub, refrigerator, TV set and DVD player, coffee maker.
Arktika Suite (5 cabins):
- Very spacious bedroom and sitting room, sofa bed in the sitting room, private facilities with a bathtub, refrigerator, TV set and DVD player, coffee maker, safe, selection of fresh fruit, drinks, and snacks, unique cabin amenities.
       Superb cuisineQualified chefs prepare a variety of international cuisine and experienced waitresses attend your needs. The bar has a large supply of alcoholic and soft beverages.
Unique excursions Programs are developed in order to show as much as possible information about Arctic regions and the areas we visit. The lecturers will deliver lectures and answer all the questions. Landings are carried out by helicopter. The qualified Expedition Staff, the experienced Captain and the Crew will do everything to make your voyage safe and unforgettable. Terms and conditionsReservations and payment. A deposit of 20% of the appropriate cabin rate is required to confirm reservation with final payment due 90 days prior to departure. All prices and payments are in U.S. dollars and no other currencies will be accepted. Cancellation and Refunds. All requests for cancellation must be made in writing. Cancellations received 90 days prior to departure will be fully refunded less an administrative fee of 5% of the applicable cabin rate per person. Please note that within the 90 day period all deposits and other payments are forfeited. In case a cancellation is received within the 90 day period (90 days and less prior to the beginning of the voyage), cancellation fee is 100% of the cost of the applicable cabin rate per person. For these and other reasons mentioned below, passengers are strongly encouraged to obtain trip cancellation insurance. Prices quoted are based on group participation, and no refunds will be made for any part of the program in which passengers choose not to participate, including any helicopter flight time (if applicable and which at the discretion of the captain and expedition leader may or may not be utilized). It should be understood that refunds will not be made to passengers who do not complete the tour for any reason whatsoever. Expedition Cruises reserves the right to cancel any departure due to insufficient reservations up to eight weeks before the date of departure (Passengers may be offered alternative cruise dates.) Expedition Cruises also reserves the right to cancel any departure up until the date of that departure due to force majeure or other circumstances beyond the control of Expedition Cruises that prevents the operation of the tour (this also includes governmental and administrative decisions). Expedition Cruises or its agents are not responsible for any costs or penalties relating to air transport or other services that are cancelled. Expedition Cruises is not liable for failure to provide the services or accommodations offered to the extent that such services or accommodations cannot be provided due to force majeure or other circumstances beyond its control. Itinerary. The itinerary described is subject to change at the discretion of the Expedition Cruises expedition leader. This is an expedition to a remote and sparsely populated part of the world, and we expressly reserve the right to change the itinerary, the date or place of departure due to weather conditions, availability of anchorages, political conditions and other factors beyond our control without consulting the participants. It is understood that such decisions will be made in the interests of all passengers aboard and with regard to the safety of the vessel. Participants have no right to any refund or other considerations in the event of such itinerary changes. Nothing in this Itinerary is meant to signify the use of any specific design or model of helicopter. If a passenger misses any scheduled sailing of the vessel from any port or place, including any stopover, Expedition Cruises shall not be liable for any costs, expenses or damages incurred by the passenger as a result of his/her action and no refund of fare shall be granted. Passengers and staff members who participate in tours, operated by Expedition Cruises, agree that any photographs, that include their person, may be used by Expedition Cruises and its associates for promotional purposes. Passengers may not charge for their appearance in any photographs. Responsibility. The payment of a deposit or full payment for a reservation on this tour shall constitute consent to all the provisions contained herein. Expedition Cruises acts as a general sales agent on behalf of the shipping company and as a sales agent on behalf of transport companies, hotels, and other supplying services included in the program. However, Expedition Cruises, its subsidiaries and/or its associated agents, shall not be held responsible for property loss(es) or damage resulting from illness, personal injury or death which may be sustained by reason of, or while engaged on, any tour whether due to the ownership, maintenance, use, operation or control of any aircraft, helicopter, automobile, bicycle, boat, vehicle, state carrier or any other conveyance used in carrying out these tours. We can assume no liability due to any cause whatsoever whether caused by failure or delay or other irregularity, acts or omissions occurring during a tour under which the means of transportation or other service provided thereby is offered or supplied by owners, operators or public carriers for whom Expedition Cruises acts only as agents. Expedition Cruises reserves the right (at its discretion) to alter or omit any part of the itinerary or change any reservation, feature and/ or means of conveyance without notice and for any reason whatsoever and without allowance or refund. We reserve the right to cancel any tour prior to departure, in which case payments will be refunded without further obligation on our part. Expedition Cruises shall not be responsible for any injury to person (whether or not resulting in death) or damage to property arising out of any act of war, insurrection, revolt or other civil uprising or military action in the countries of origin, destination or passage. The passenger is completely liable for damage or injury (to his/her own person, other passengers, ship, staff or other) caused by improper behavior. Expedition Cruises provides all passengers with medical insurance coverage to the value of 50,000 EUR per person, provided and implemented by the insurance company in accordance with the Insurer’s general terms and conditions. Nevertheless, it is to be understood by passengers that the insurance company is an independent provider and the Insurance Policy is made between the passenger and the insurance company. Expedition Cruises is not liable for any disagreements or misunderstandings that might arise between the passenger and the insurance company. Each passenger is fully responsible for resolving any issues that might arise from his/her contract with the insurance company. Expedition Cruises reserves the right to substitute the insurance company. In case of substitution, the new insurance company is to provide an insurance policy that is sufficient for the expedition cruise by Expedition Cruises described in this brochure. Passengers are not permitted to bring or have onboard any pets or animals, firearms, flammable or hazardous items, controlled or prohibited substances or drugs, contraband or items prohibited by any country or port to be visited. Baggage is transported entirely at the owner’s risk. In case of medical problems arising during the voyage, either on board or on shore, which results in costs for evacuation, use of aircraft or repatriation, the responsibility for payment of these costs rests solely with the passenger and his/her Insurer. The onboard medical personnel (doctors) are independent contractors and work directly for the passenger concerned. Insurance. All passengers are covered by the medical travel insurance policy provided and said policy includes emergency evacuation and repatriation to the value of 50,000 EUR per person. All passengers should read his/her policy’s terms and conditions carefully prior to the start of the voyage and sign the appropriate insurance policy on board. Any risks, not covered by the insurance policy provided, are to be covered by passengers at his/her disposal and at his/her own expense. The published rate is based on the prices, exchange rates, duties and taxes as known to Expedition Cruises at the time of publication of materials and at the time of travel confirmation. Expedition Cruises reserves the right to raise the published rate (for such reasons as but not limited to unforeseeable increases in exchange rates, duties, taxes, port fees and fuel prices) if considered necessary by Expedition Cruises. Expedition Cruises will inform passengers, tour operators or agents at least 30 days prior to departure. In the event of a price increase of more than 15% of the total price of the trip, passengers, tour operators or agents are entitled to cancel the trip without incurring any costs. By forwarding a deposit the passenger certifies that he/she does not have any mental, physical or other condition or disability that would create a hazard for him/herself or other passengers. Expedition Cruises reserves the right to cancel or withdraw any person as a member of a tour at any time.
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