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North Pole: The Ultimate Arctic Adventure

North Pole: The Ultimate Arctic Adventure

From AUD $47,300

Description

A magical destination for travelers everywhere, the North Pole is special not only because of the unique geographical spot it occupies but also because it remains a domain that, for most, exists only in the imagination—fewer people have stood at the North Pole than have attempted to climb Mount Everest. Difficult to reach and singular in its impact, the North Pole transforms the perspectives of everyone fortunate enough to reach it. In 2021, Quark Expeditions marks 30 years of taking passengers to this northernmost point on the globe, and on this amazing voyage, we enable you to join the privileged few who have set foot on the North Pole.

Experience the thrill of the most powerful nuclear icebreaker on the planet crushing through thick, multi-year pack ice as it pushes toward 90° North. Enjoy a riveting helicopter tour over the icy Arctic Ocean; discover the remarkable sights of Franz Josef Land; observe the majestic creatures who make their home in this breathtaking yet fragile land; and experience a dreamlike hot air balloon ride over the surreal Arctic landscape, an activity offered by no other polar operator. Join us on this exhilarating journey, venture to a part of the globe few have ever seen, and come to understand why the North Pole has, for centuries, stirred the minds and hearts of explorers and adventurers alike.

Trip Name
North Pole: The Ultimate Arctic Adventure
Days
14
Overview
  Vessel Type: Icebreaker Length: 160m Passenger Capacity: 128 Built / refurbished: 1989 / 2007 We don’t have the heart to use she when we talk about i/b 50 Years of Victory – it’s not ladylike at all. Elegance doesn’t matter when it comes to the right vessel to take you to the top of the world. The most powerful icebreaker ever built generates 75,000 horsepower and crushes multi-year ice layers three meters thick. After a few days aboard, you’ll feel her (or him?) sharing power as you together battle your way through the Arctic icecap to 90º north. I/b 50 Years of Victory is not a tourist ship. Rather, the icebreaker was purpose-built to pilot scientific and cargo ships to hard-to-reach areas of the Arctic and along the Northeast Passage. It is just during the short summer months when adventurers get a once-in-a-lifetime chance to travel aboard this real working icebreaker to the geographic North Pole.

Itinerary



Day 1 - Day 1 Helsinki, Finland
Your Arctic adventure begins in Helsinki, renowned for its extraordinary architecture and design scene 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.
Day 2 - Day 2 Embarkation Day in Murmansk, Russia
From Helsinki, you’ll join your fellow passengers on the charter flight to Murmansk, Russia, where you’ll embark on your voyage to the North Pole and get acquainted with 50 Years of Victory, a nuclear icebreaker.
Day 3 - Days 3 to 6 Northbound in the Arctic Ocean
Being on board Victory and feeling the icebreaker crush through the Arctic pack ice is an experience you’ll never forget. Just as memorable is boarding the ship’s helicopter for a thrilling aerial view over the ship and the expansive Arctic Ocean. You can expect variable sailing conditions this far north. The crossing from Murmansk to the North Pole can take us anywhere from four to six days, depending on the ice conditions. This means you’ll have plenty of time to get to know your shipmates and be treated to presentations and discussions with your Expedition Team while looking out for wildlife. There are also many wonderful amenities on board, such as the ship’s heated saltwater plunge pool or basketball court.
Day 4 - Day 7 90° North
The anticipation reaches a climax as you arrive at the North Pole! Many travelers find themselves overcome with emotion, while others are in a festive and celebratory mood. Take photos, call your family, wave a flag—just be sure you enjoy your moment at the top of the world!Later, everyone will celebrate with a toast and a barbecue on the ice. If the opportunity allows, you have the option of taking a polar plunge into the icy waters around the North Pole. We’ll also attempt to launch passengers high above the Pole in our hot air balloon to commemorate this great moment (weather dependant, extra cost).
Day 5 - Day 8 Southbound in the Arctic Ocean
On our return voyage, you can sit back and relax. As you head farther south, you may get lucky and spot polar bears hunting for seals.
Day 6 - Days 9 and 10 Franz Josef Land and the Arctic Ocean
This group of approximately 200 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. You may also have the chance, if conditions allow, to explore remote seabird colonies while Zodiac cruising beneath towering cliffs, or enjoy another breathtaking aerial sightseeing tour aboard the Victory helicopter.
Day 7 - Days 11 and 12 Southbound at Sea
Enjoy your time on deck or reminisce with your shipmates and new friends as you cross the Arctic Ocean back to Murmansk. Expedition staff will be on hand to answer any remaining questions and point out wildlife during the return journey.
Day 8 - Day 13 Disembarkation in Murmansk
Returning to Russia’s most northerly city, you’ll have time to bid farewell to the 50 Years of Victory. You’ll be transferred to the airport for your charter flight to Helsinki, Finland, to enjoy one final night with your newfound friends.
Day 9 - Day 14 Helsinki, Finland
After breakfast, your official Quark Expeditions® journey comes to an end. We do encourage you to spend time exploring Helsinki, and its surrounding areas.
Day 10 - Please Note:
Embracing the unexpected is part of the legacy—and excitement—of expedition travel. When traveling in extremely remote regions, your expedition staff must allow the sea, the ice and the weather to guide route and itinerary details. This itinerary is a tentative outline of what you’ll experience on this voyage; please be aware that no specific itinerary can be guaranteed.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
27-06-202310-07-2023AUD $47,300Twin
27-06-202310-07-2023AUD $52,200Mini Suite
27-06-202310-07-2023AUD $64,900Suite
27-06-202310-07-2023AUD $69,800Victory Suite
27-06-202310-07-2023AUD $72,000Arktika Suite

Inclusions

    • Stand at the top of the world at 90°N
    • Experience the largest, most powerful nuclear icebreaker in the world, 50 Years of Victory
    • Enjoy helicopter sightseeing above the Arctic Ocean
    • Possibly view polar bears, walrus and other arctic wildlife
    • Take advantage of optional tethered flight by hot air balloon (weather permitting)
    • Cruise in a zodiac
    • Visit Franz Josef Land historical sites, wildlife and wildflowers

Map