russian icebreaker cruise north pole

TOP OF THE WORLD

Poseidon Expeditions - your polar cruise operator

The North Pole is the world’s northernmost point and a prize still zealously pursued by adventurers and explorers today.

This incredible adventure starts in Murmansk, Russia. There you embark the nuclear-powered icebreaker 50 Let Pobedy for a roundtrip voyage to the geographic North Pole. Anticipation heightens as the mighty ship takes us smashing through the frozen Arctic Ocean toward our goal. In addition to the exhilaration of cruising aboard a state-of-the-art icebreaker and the thrill of standing at the top of the world, you also have the opportunity to explore the rarely visited Russian Arctic archipelago of Franz Josef Land . This is an extraordinary voyage on a one-of-a-kind ship, worthy of a true adventurer.

THE LARGEST ICEBREAKER

The Russian name of the vessel 50 Let Pobedy means 50 Years of Victory. Powered by two nuclear reactors generating 75,000 horsepower and capable of crushing a clear path through multi-year ice up to three meters thick, she is the largest and most powerful icebreaker ever built.

Cruising aboard this marvel of engineering is an unforgettable experience in itself. She is a working ship, purpose-built to pilot cargo and research ships through heavy ice. For you she provides a friendly, casual atmosphere with unexpected amenities, comfortable accommodation, and a restaurant serving gourmet cuisine.

We carefully navigate the icebreaker to precisely 90 degrees north for our champagne toast of this momentous accomplishment. We ceremoniously drop the anchor on a sturdy stretch of ice and disembark onto the frozen sea. You are now able to stand at the top of the world.

You literally circumambulate the globe during our International Round Dance and you are treated to a special barbeque meal on the ice. You may even have the chance to take a plunge into the icy water. No other point on Earth is exactly like the North Pole and there is no celebration anywhere quite like this.

FRANZ JOSEF LAND ARCHIPELAGO

This remote wilderness is home to a variety of iconic High Arctic wildlife, including polar bears. In the surrounding icy waters it is possible to spot seals, walrus, and the elusive bowhead whale. The archipelago also hosts an abundance of nesting Arctic seabirds such as the rare ivory gull.

A wealth of well-preserved historical sites makes this island group a veritable museum of polar exploration. Here you have the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of famous explorers such as Fridtjof Nansen. The eerie remains of makeshift dwellings give testimony to the incredible struggles of these early expeditions.

Through the Viewfinder

HELICOPTER TOURS

FREE OPTION We take advantage of continuous daylight to offer flightseeing tours with the icebreaker’s onboard helicopter. From aloft you have a unique and exciting perspective from which to witness the ship plowing its way through the ice and to experience the surreal beauty of the vast frozen ocean. We also use the helicopter to achieve landings in Franz Josef Land when conditions prevent landings by Zodiac, giving you unparalleled access to this remote and hard-to-reach Arctic wilderness. Weather permitting, flightseeing tours and landings by helicopter are included free on all North Pole voyages.

PHOTOGRAPHY

FREE OPTION The vast, intricate, and ever-changing icescape of the Arctic Ocean offers a unique and challenging world of subjects for photographers of all backgrounds. Our free photography program gives you the chance to learn and practice your photography skills alongside an expert photographer. Primeval landscapes, intriguing geological features, poignant historical remains, and charismatic Arctic wildlife in Russia’s Franz Josef Land also provide a wealth of inspiration for the photographer. Our expert will be available to help you make the most of this bounty in your viewfinder.

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Top of the World – North Pole Cruise

Duration 13 days

Price from USD $31,995 ? Currency Conversion Converted from USD based on the latest exchange rate. Final amount and payment will be in USD. Final conversion rate is determined by your bank.

Trip Style Expedition Cruise

Time of year July - August

Home / Arctic & Expedition Cruises / Top of the World – North Pole Cruise

Dates & Prices

Get on board for the ultimate North Pole adventure. Nothing compares to experiencing the untamed grandeur of the Arctic quite like seeing its majestic landscapes unfold from the deck of a state-of-the-art nuclear icebreaker. Imagine an endless expanse of ice under the polar midnight sun. Pristine waters teeming with marine life. Prowling polar bears in the tundra. This is Mother Nature at her breathtaking best.

From Murmansk, Russia, you’ll embark the icebreaker 50 Years of Victory for a roundtrip voyage to the earth’s geographic North Pole. Our mighty vessel will plough its way through the frozen Arctic Ocean on a cruise that literally circumnavigates the globe in a matter of days. In addition to the exhilaration of cruising to the very apex of the earth, passengers will have the extraordinary privilege to land, via helicopter, on the scarcely visited Russian Arctic archipelago of Franz Josef Land , a remote wilderness home to an incredible abundance of wildlife.

North Pole Cruise Highlights: 

• After 7 days of cruising from Murmansk, we’ll arrive at the geographic North Pole, the place where all meridians meet and the only direction is south. To celebrate our successful mission to the top of the world, we’ll ceremoniously drop anchor and disembark on a sturdy stretch of ice for the ‘International Round Dance’ – a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to literally walk around the world!
• Franz Josef Land : Weather permitting, we’ll spend two days exploring this uninhabited archipelago, one most pristine Arctic habitats on earth. It is comprised of 192 islands where glaciers cover 85% of the land, carving out a spectacular terrain of steep valleys, caves and pinnacles
• Helicopter flights : As part of this very special expedition, all guests will have the opportunity to take scenic helicopter rides for an incredible bird’s eye view of the icescape and amazing photo opportunities capturing the ship smashing its way through the ice pack
• Arctic wildlife : Animal life thrives in the pristine environs of the North Pole. Expect sightings of polar bears and walruses, thronging colonies of seabirds and harp and bearded seals resting atop icebergs. Throughout our cruise, we’ll be looking out for humpback, minke and beluga whales, and with luck, orcas, narwhales and bowhead whales.

This two-week expedition departs from the port of Murmansk, the largest city above the Arctic Circle. We’ll forge our way north through the Barents Sea, and as we make our way across the ice cap, you’ll witness firsthand the ship’s awesome power as massive ice blocks give way under the enormous bulk of the spoon-shaped bow. The sensation of being on deck at this time is surreal and unforgettable. The anticipation heightens as the mighty ship takes us smashing through the frozen Arctic Ocean towards our goal – the most northerly point on the planet. The literal Top of the World. Travelling aboard with us will be the ship’s helicopter, ready to take passengers for awe-inspiring joy flights, aerial photo shoots and shore excursions to the otherworldly islands of Franz Josef Land . Despite their desolate appearance, the heavily glaciated islands of Franz Josef Land provide sanctuary for an amazing abundance of wildlife. Iconic High Arctic species like the polar bear and walrus thrive here, and the cliffsides and screen provide nesting habitat for countless seabirds including the rare ivory gull.

This fantastic voyage is made possible by the 50 Years of Victory , one of the largest, most sophisticated and most powerful nuclear icebreakers in the world. Twenty years in the making, the Victory is a vessel unlike any other, with the ability to forge a passage into places no other ship can.

Accomodation

Murmansk, Russia

i/b "50 Years of Victory"

Expedition Cruise

Action rating ?

Type of tour

13 days / 12 nights

Guaranteed Departures

i/b "50 Years of Victory"

Itinerary View map

Day 1 murmansk, russia.

Welcome to the city of Murmansk on Russia’s Kola Peninsula, the starting point of our adventure.

Day 2 Embarkation in Murmansk

Today we provide a group transfer to the port where we welcome you aboard the nuclear-powered icebreaker 50 Let Pobedy. Explore the ship and get orientated as we slip our moorings and sail north out of Kola Bay.

Day 3-6 The voyage north

We cruise northward through the Barents Sea there is always the possibility of seeing whales. As we make our way across the ice cap, you witness firsthand the ship’s awesome power as massive ice blocks give way under the enormous bulk of the spoon-shaped bow. The sensation of being on deck at this time is surreal and unforgettable.

Day 7 North Pole

Welcome to the geographic North Pole! After carefully navigating to 90 degrees North, we ceremoniously drop the anchor on a sturdy stretch of ice and disembark onto the frozen sea. Now is the time to experiencing the long-anticipated thrill of standing at the top of the world. Join hands with your fellow passengers and literally walk around the world during our special International Round Dance.

Day 8-10 Franz Joseph Land

Explore the part of the Russian Arctic National Park. Polar bears and other quintessential High Arctic wildlife—such as walruses and some rare whale species - can be spotted anytime, anywhere in and around Franz Josef Land. Scree slopes and cliffs around the islands host enormous nesting colonies of migratory seabirds such as guillemots, dovekies, and ivory gulls.

Day 11-12 The voyage south

After our amazing time in Franz Josef Land, we cross back south through the bountiful waters of the Barents Sea. Seabird viewing and whale sightings can be enjoyed from panoramic open decks as well as exterior stateroom windows.

Day 13 Murmansk

Our once-in-a-lifetime journey comes to an end. After breakfast, we say farewell in Murmansk. We provide you with a transfer to the airport for your flight home.

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Group airport transfers

1 night pre-cruise hotel accommodation in Murmansk

Ice Breaker "50 Years of Victory" accommodation

Shipboard breakfasts, lunches and dinners

Program of lectures and informal discussions by experienced Expedition Team and guest lecturers

Professional Expedition Leadership

All shore excursions and activities throughout the voyage by helicopter and zodiacs

Shore landings included in daily program

Branded parka and rubber boots for shore landings for the time of the cruise

All miscellaneous service taxes and port charges throughout the program

Personalized medical insurance covering the risks of evacuation and repatriation. See more in the detailed itinerary

Russian visa support document

Russian visa and visa fees. *Russian visa can be arranged by 56th Parallel for an additional cost (for Australian citizens only). Apply for comprehensive visa service  here .

Travel insurance

Price per person, based on standard twin share cabin

Special offer

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Dowlnload comprehansive info-kit for this tour, FAQ’s and extras

Why travel to Russia with 56th Parallel?

Destination Specialists

Our team offers over 18 years of experience travelling and planning travel in Russia. Delivering outstanding travel experiences in Russia’s capitals and in some of the most stunning & remote locations takes experience, special access and the right connections. We make sure that all the fine details are handled perfectly so you can enjoy your Russia travel experience.

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The choice to join a small group on a guaranteed departure or chose to travel on your own dates with your own mates. Each destination we travel to in Russia offers an option between private tours and small group tours. Please note: on our adventure tours in remote destinations, we mostly run group tours to keep the cost down.

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From USD $31,995

Day 1: Murmansk, Russia

Day 2: embarkation in murmansk, day 3-6: the voyage north, day 7: north pole, day 8-10: franz joseph land, day 11-12: the voyage south, day 13: murmansk, not included, start planning your tour.

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Take a Luxury Icebreaker

To the north pole, a true bucket list tour - the voyage of a lifetime, 2025 and 2025 dates available at up to 30% off..

We've been on this voyage - bring all your questions!

From $48,260 per person.

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The Geographic North Pole

And scoresby sound.

Be one of the very few people on the planet to stand on top of the world at the geographic North Pole!

Enroute you will enjoy stops in Svalbard, the wildlife capital of the Arctic, for chances to see Polar Bears, Whales, Walrus and bird life and picturesque Scoresby Sound, in Eastern Greenland.

Join the Adventure of a lifetime today

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Join us aboard the Commandant Charcot

Only 250 guests.

Polar Class 2.

The most luxurious Icebreaker in the world.

Ponant's brand-new ship, the Commandant Charcot has been designed to journey where no other luxury expedition ship has dared with unprecedented access to the most remote regions of the planet in style and comfort. The Commandant-Charcot is also the very first hybrid-electric polar exploration ship powered by liquefied natural gas and electric batteries resulting is 25% less carbon, 85% less nitrogen oxide and 95% less fine particle emissions.

All is included on your expedition, including return flights from Paris to Tromso, Norway - where the voyage begins. All you need to purchase is your international flights and your travel insurance.

For more information on this ship, please click here. 

An All-Inclusive Arctic Experience

All excursions.

All excursions are included on this trip of a lifetime. Zodiac cruises, hikes, wildlife watching and more.

Flight from Paris to Longyearbyen

We include the return flight from Paris to Longyearbyen for the start of the voyage.

Expedition Gear

Your Parka and boots are provided onboard. No need to pack bulky jackets and heavy boots. The parka is yours to keep.

Fine Dining and Drinks

Enjoy French-inspired dining and service onboard and a selection of top-shelf wines and spirits.

Room Service

Seriously - 24-hour room service is also included in your fare. Enjoy some late night snacks or breakfast in bed.

Five-Star Luxury

With a decadent spa, heated lagoon, sauna with a view, and snow room - your time onboard will be as great as on shore.

North Pole and Scoresby Sound

Up to 15% off

July 26 - August 11

September 26 - October 12

North Pole and Svalbard

Up to 30% off

July 22 - August 6

August 6 - 21

August 21 - September 5

YOUR 2024 ITINERARY (2024)*

DAY 1: LONGYEARBYEN, SPITSBERGEN

Longyearbyen is the capital of the Norwegian Svalbard archipelago, located on Svalbard’s main island, and is the northernmost territorial capital on the planet. With winter temperatures dropping to below 40°C, the landscapes of this mining town are simply breathtaking. The glaciers, the mountains stretching as far as the eye can see and the untouched nature, make you feel like you’re in completely unexplored territory.

DAY 2: AT SEA ALONG SPITSBERGEN

The largest island in the Svalbard archipelago, its name meaning “pointed mountains” in German, Spitsbergen is the last piece of land before the Arctic ice floe. Aboard your ship, you will sail along the extremely spectacular coastline of this icy land. Between millennial glaciers and rugged mountains, you will discover a jagged coastline, hollowed-out by fjords. A unique setting, the refuge of a particularly rich avifauna, offering you the possibility of taking fabulous photographs from the deck of your ship.

Days 3-7: SAILING ICE FLOES

Enjoy the absolutely unique experience of sailing to the heart of the ice floe, this vast expanse of virgin, immaculate ice. The landscapes are constantly changing, shifting from a smooth, flat wilderness to a chaos of ice, then to channels of open water. Your ship will sail along these naturally open channels and through the areas where the frozen layer is thinnest, offering you the chance to experience magic maritime moments in the midst of drifting sea ice. It will also often be an opportunity to see a particular kind of fauna, totally dependent on the ice floe.

DAY 8: THE GEOGRAPHIC NORTH POLE

Defined by 90° North latitude, the Geographic North Pole lies on the Earth’s rotational axis, at the intersection of all meridians. Plunged into darkness for six months of the year, then lit by the sun for the following six months, this mythical site, permanently covered in ice and remote from any land, has fascinated generations of explorers. So far, only a very few people have ever reached it: an exploit which is now accessible to you aboard Le Commandant Charcot.

DAYS 9-10: NAVIGATING THROUGH SEA ICE

DAY 11: AT SEA ABOARD LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT

Spend exceptional moments sailing aboard Le Commandant Charcot, the world’s first luxury polar exploration vessel and the first PC2-class polar cruise ship capable of sailing into the very heart of the ice, on seas and oceans which the frozen conditions render inaccessible to ordinary ships. Le Commandant Charcot is fitted with oceanographic and scientific equipment selected by a committee of experts. Take advantage of the on-board lectures and opportunities for discussion with these specialists to learn more about the poles. Participate in furthering scientific research with PONANT and let us discover together what these fascinating destinations have yet to reveal to us.

DAY 12 - SAILING ICE FLOES ALONG GREENLAND

The north-east of Greenland is renowned for being home to one of the oldest and thickest layers of ice on the planet. Aboard your ship, you will have the unique opportunity of sailing to the heart of this icy wilderness, many thousands of years old, and will travel along one of the world's most isolated coasts, between drifting ice and blue icebergs.

DAY 13 - SCORESBY SOUND

Covering an area of 13,700 km2 (5,290 mi2), Scoresby Sound is the largest and deepest fjord system in the world. Named after the explorer and whale hunter William Scoresby, who mapped the region in 1822, it opens onto the Greenland Sea to the north of the Blosseville Coast. This wild and desert region offers untouched panoramas of infinite beauty, with high snow-capped peaks rising tall alongside icebergs immersed in clear, blue-tinged waters. Rode Fjord and its cliffs coloured red by iron ore provide a fascinating setting you will not want to miss. Discovering these stunning places in the wake of great explorers like Captain Charcot, who was deeply attached to the land of the Inuit, inspires a profound reverence.

DAY 14 - ITTOQQORTOORMIIT REGION

On the East coast of Greenland, in the Ittoqqortoormiit region, you will have the rare opportunity of immersing yourself in the heart of isolated scenery and exploring the beauty of its landscapes. The high alpine mountains stand out in the sky, revealing dark rock edges. The region is home to the longest fjord system in the world, Scoresby Sound. On the edge of the fjord, the eponymous village is considered one of the most remote inhabited places in the world. The colourful houses, so typical of Greenland, dot the landscape with small red, yellow and blue patches that stand out against the surrounding arid landscape. Immersing yourself in this region will allow you to discover the ancestral way of life of the last hunters of the polar region. This will be a veritable deep-dive into the lives of the Arctic’s inhabitants.

DAY 15 - AT SEA ABOARD LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT

DAY 16 - SAILING THROUGH THE DENMARK STRAIT

Lying between Greenland and Iceland, the Denmark Strait was crossed for the first time by theVikings in the late 10th century, during Erik the Red’s expeditions. In the Second World War, its waters were the theatre of a battle between the Kriegsmarine and the Royal Navy, on 24 May 1941. In the wintertime, extremely dense pack ice forms along the Greenlandic coasts and, while the Transpolar Drift sweeps icebergs along throughout the year, the strait is generally clear of ice during the summer. In the depths of the strait lies the world’s largest waterfall, an undersea cataract formed by the difference in temperature between the cold waters of the Greenland Sea and the warmer waters of the Irminger Sea. Numerous cetacean species thrive in this rich ecosystem.

DAY 17 - REYKJAVÍK

Iceland’s capital stretches along the edge of a vast bay in the west of the country. Perlan, the “Pearl of Reykjavík”, a museum located on ’Oskjuhlið hill, offers a panoramic view of the lush, green landscapes. A little further, one can easily spot the signpost showing the way to the evangelical Hallgrímskirkja church, and to the historical centre where one can stroll along the Skólavördustígur and the Laugavegur, two lively streets with charming small shops. For some relaxation just outside of the city, visitors have the opportunity to visit the Reykjanes peninsula and its famous thermal lagoons of the Blue Lagoon.

* The 2025 Itinerary does not include scheduled stops in Greenland and instead spends time in Svalbard on return if time permits.

Prestige Stateroom

Priced from $48,260.

Located on decks 6-8

Deluxe Suite

Priced from $49,600, prestige suite, priced from $68,680.

Located on decks 7 & 8

Grand Prestige Suite

Priced from $73,110.

Located on deck 6

Duplex Suite

Priced from $94,450.

Located on deck 6 + 7

Owner's Suite

Priced from $126,490.

Located on deck 8

* Please note the above prices are per person, based on double occupancy and may change periodically. Ponant generally starts with a 30% Early Booking Discount and reduces the discount as the ship fills.

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50 Years of Victory

Ship overview.

Operated by: Poseidon Expeditions

The Russian name of the vessel 50 Let Pobedy means 50 Years of Victory. Powered by two nuclear reactors generating 75,000 horsepower and capable of crushing a clear path through multi-year ice up to three metres thick, she is the largest and most powerful icebreaker ever built. Cruising aboard this marvel of engineering is an unforgettable experience in itself. She is a working ship, purpose-built to pilot cargo and research ships through heavy ice. 

50 Years of Victory is not a tourist ship. 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. Despite the fact that the 'Victory' was not designed with touristic purposes in mind, it offers comfortable accommodation and gourmet cuisine for its guests. Public spaces create friendly, casual atmosphere for socialising and get-togethers.

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• Room Grades

Arktika Suite

SIZE: 33m2 / 355sqft SLEEPS: 2

Very spacious bedroom and a separate sitting room with sofa bed and opening windows. Comforts include a refrigerator, TV and DVD player and coffee maker. The en suite features a bath tub.

Victory Suite

SIZE: 28m2 / 301sqft SLEEPS: 2

A large bedroom and separate sitting room with sofa bed and opening windows. Comforts include a refrigerator, TV and DVD player and coffee maker. The en suite features a bath tub.

Grand Suite

SIZE: 26m2 / 280sqft SLEEPS: 2

A spacious bedroom and separate sitting room with sofa bed and opening windows. Comforts include a refrigerator, TV and DVD player and coffee maker. The en suite features a shower.

Junior Suite

SIZE: 24m2 / 258sqft SLEEPS: 2

SIZE: 22m2 / 237sqft SLEEPS: 2

Standard Twin

SIZE: 14m2 / 151sqft SLEEPS: 2

These compact rooms feature one lower berth and one sofa bed. Comforts include a refrigerator, TV and DVD player and coffee maker. The en suite features a shower.

The Dining Room features unreserved seating, allowing you to dine with new friends every day.  Gourmet European cuisine and superb service is on offer. Seasonal, local products and ingredients are utilised to prepare sumptuous menus.

50 Years of Victory is equipped with the most up-to-date satellite navigation system and communication equipment, including telephone and e-mail. Among public spaces aboard there are an open bridge, dining room (seating is unreserved), aft saloon for lectures, presentations and socialising, bar and lounge with forward view, library and lounge, a gym, two saunas and swimming pool with heated sea water. There is also a clinic on board with passenger doctor (licensed). 

The Expedition Team are specialists in travelling into the deep Arctic and they will plan each day to maximise opportunities. Join lectures and briefings in the saloon, zodiac explorations and landings, and take to the skies in the ship's helicopter for bird's eye views over the ice caps.

Ever wondered what the Captain and crew do on a nuclear-powered icebreaker? Go up – the Bridge is open for you. Talk to the Captain and officers. Watch landscapes from this special angle of view. Fix your location at a map of your expedition.

50 Years of Victory Expeditions

North pole top of the world.

From AUD $43505.00 Per Person

DURATION: 13 Days/ 12 Nights REGION: Arctic SHIP: 50 Years of Victory

2023 EARLYBIRD DEALS ON NOW! Conquer the Top of the World aboard the most powerful icebreaker ever built. This expedition is a prize most zealously pursued by adventurers.

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Yamal icebreaker

Cruise line Rosatom-Rosmorport Russia (Icebreakers)

Yamal icebreaker current position

Yamal icebreaker current location is at North Russia (coordinates 72.11555 N / 73.07013 E) cruising at speed of 11.2 kn (21 km/h | 13 mph) en route to ARCTIC. The AIS position was reported 1 hour ago.

Specifications of Yamal icebreaker

•   Review

NS Yamal vessel details

Yamal is one of all 6 icebreaking vessels of the Arktika class - together with the old Sibir (1977-1992), the old Arktika (1975-2008), Rossiya (1985-2013), Sovetskiy Soyuz (1990) and 50 Let Pobedy (2007).

The vessel has 1 dining room, Sauna, Library, Auditorium, Passenger Lounge, Volleyball Court, Gymnasium, 1 swimming pool (indoor, heated), Infirmary, 1 elevator, 1 helipad (helicopter deck) with a Mi-2 transport helicopter. The ship is also equipped with Zodiacs (large-capacity inflatable boats) used for remote landings.

• DWT Deadweight tonnage: 2750 tons
• Displacement tonnage: 23455 tons
• Max Draft: 11 m (35 ft)
• Icebreaking capacity: 5 m (16 ft)
• Ice-class LL1
• Range: unlimited (4 years endurance)
• Powerplant: 2x OK-900A nuclear reactors (each 171 MW, or combined 342 MW power output)
• Propulsion: turbo-electric, 3 shafts, 3 electric motors (17,6 MW output each, or 52,8 MW combined power output).

Note: In the case of poor AIS coverage, tracking the vessel's current location will be impossible. You can see CruiseMapper's list of all icebreakers and ice-breaking research ships in the "itinerary" section of our Icebreakers hub. All states and their fleets are listed there.

Yamal icebreaker - user reviews and comments

Photos of yamal icebreaker.

Other Rosatom-Rosmorport Russia cruise ships

• 50 Let Pobedy icebreaker
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Luxury Icebreaker Cruise In The North Pole

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On the way to the Pole we will encounter walruses, seals, and rookeries that harbour Arctic sea birds by the thousands. Polar bears might get curious enough to approach the icebreaker to obtain a closer view. Sometimes they rise onto their rear paws, coming very close to the ship. This Expedition to the North Pole is a once in a lifetime opportunity.

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This package is currently paused. Please reach out to us, if you would like to be contacted once this resumes. Alternatively, we can suggest a variety of different holiday packages. [email protected]

Book now for 2024/2025, including flights from the UK and charter from Helsinki – Murmansk.

The North Pole is perhaps the most amazing location on our entire planet. There are no “four corners of the World” here: South is all around you and any wind is southern. Above the “Top of the World,” stars never rise or set: instead they move around you with the Earth’s rotation. A holiday to the North Pole is an absolute bucket list experience. The Polar Star, the beacon of all travellers in the Northern Hemisphere, is invariably in its zenith.

Day 1 – Helsinki, Finland

Fly from UK to Helsinki. An exclusive group of adventurers gather in Helsinki, where they spend the night. The city is so far north that a few hours of twilight are all the locals see of night in July. Overnight in Helsinki.

Day 2 – Murmansk, Russia

As the sailing of the world’s largest nuclear-powered icebreaker depends on the tide, the departure time of the charter flight will be determined by the tide table. This is one of the elements that make every North Pole expedition unique.. A coach transfers travelers from the Murmansk Airport to the high-security quay. Travelers may be asked to present identification before their coach can pass through the security gate. To the sound of martial music and with the help of tugboats, Victory will set sail on the high tide for her journey to the North Pole.

Days 3 – 6 – The Arctic Ocean

Sailing north, travelers become familiar with the extraordinary ship and members of the Expedition Team. Days begin with a wake-up call over the ship’s public address system. After breakfast, if the ice conditions permit, we lower the gangway to allow travelers to descend to the ice surface for the world’s shortest circumnavigation – one stroll around the Pole marker. We like to celebrate our arrival with a glass of champagne and a short speech by the Captain. Truly hardy souls may take a plunge into the icy water of the Arctic Ocean.

Day 8-10 – Southbound and the Russian Arctic islands

After appropriate celebrations at the North Pole, Victory turns south toward our next destination – Franz Josef Land. During these days at sea, the onboard education program continues. Our specialists prepare you for the landings to come. Again, the helicopter may lift you skyward for aerial sightseeing.

Watching for polar bear tracks on the ice will become an obsession. And if a bear wanders close to the ship, no matter what time of day or night, an announcement is made so travelers can gather on deck to take once-in-a-lifetime photographs. Shore landings, which are announced in the daily program, can be scheduled at any time of the day. The Expedition Team takes advantage of the long hours of daylight that occur within the Arctic Circle. When the call to board the helicopters or Zodiacs is made, travelers don expedition gear and gather at mustering stations.

All travelers are assigned to groups. These groups board the helicopters or Zodiacs in rotation to ensure that everyone has the same opportunity to be the first or last ashore. Sometimes during a landing, the ship repositions and you board at a different location for the return to the ship. This makes efficient use of the equipment and the time ashore. The waters that surround Franz Josef Land are known to be the habitat of marine mammals – polar bears, walrus and whales. The island’s cliffs are the habitat of nesting seabirds. Arctic foxes patrol the islands. If there are to be wildlife sightings during the expedition, the best chance is on the islands of Franz Josef Land.

Franz Josef Land is an archipelago comprised of 191 islands, many covered in ice. They stretch from 80°N to 80.9°N. They are the most northerly islands in Eurasia, only 900 km (560 miles) from the North Pole.

Day 11-12 – Barents Sea

During this voyage, the Expedition Team will hold recaps of what was experienced during the voyage. These recaps provide opportunities to relive the journey, share highlights and ask questions of the shipboard subject matter specialists. Traveling with 128 like-minded adventurers in an icebreaker for an extended period of time is a recipe for friendships that can last a lifetime. Each new adventure shared builds upon the last. Every moment of laughter or awe becomes a memory you will cherish. The expedition experience can fully be understood only by participating.

Day 13 – Murmansk

Again the tide dictates the ship’s arrival in Murmansk. Travelers are transferred by coach from the quay to the airport for the flight to Helsinki. Overnight in Helsinki.

Day 14 – Helsinki

Begin your homeward journey after breakfast at the hotel in Helsinki. Flight from Helsinki back to UK

Additional Information:

• Flights from UK via Moscow
• 1 night in Murmansk pre-departure
• 11 nights on board the North Pole Icebreaker with housekeeping and all meals included.
• All transfers
• Zodiac shore landings in Franz Josef Lands
• Regular group helicopter tours from the ship
• Photography program onboard
• All Lectures
• All service taxes and port charges
• Free wine, beer, spirits and soft drinks at the bar and with meals
• Free expedition Parka

From £25,995pp including all flights

• Suites onboard available on request, please ask for prices.
• Please note: Read this itinerary as a guide only; our exact route and program varies according to weather and ice conditions and the wildlife we encounter.

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To find out more about this package, please enter your details below. Once we've reviewed your enquiry we'll be in contact to discuss how we can help. You can also call all our Arctic holiday specialists today on +44(0)1793 939035 .

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Russia’s new super icebreaker reaches the north pole during ice trials, its namesake, the original icebreaker arktika, was the first surface ship to sail to the north pole..

Russia’s future flagship icebreaker Arktika reached the North Pole during its first sea ice tests. The vessel is the world’s most powerful icebreaker and the first of five new nuclear icebreakers of this type.

Arktika  departed from Saint Petersburg in the Baltic Sea on September 22 as part of a shakedown cruise to test the ship’s capabilities. Representatives from the Baltic Shipyard, where Arktika was constructed, and the future owner, Rosatomflot, are on board during the voyage, which includes ice trials.

The ship passed over the North Pole during the evening of October 3 encountering medium ice conditions the Baltic Shipyard  reports .

The vessel is the first of a novel generation of icebreakers, also known as Project 22220 and represents the first new nuclear icebreaker constructed by Russia in 30 years. With a length of 173 meters and a width of 34 meters the ship has a displacement of 33,500 tons.

Under maximum power the three electric motors generate a combined 60 MW.

Four additional vessels of the type will follow in the next five years. Two vessels,  Sibir and Ural have already been launched  and are awaiting trials and commissioning, with a fourth one currently under construction and a fifth one on order.

Upon the ship’s return to Murmansk from this trial voyage, Rosatomflot, Russia’s operator of nuclear icebreakers, is expected to formally take possession and operate it along the Northern Sea Route this winter.

Arktika has big shoes to fill

Arktika follows in the footsteps of the legendary original Arktika icebreaker which was in service between 1975 and 2008. In fact, Arktika’s trip to the top of the world comes just over 43 years after its namesake became the first surface vessel to reach the North Pole in August 1977.

The  expansion and renewal of Russia’s icebreaker fleet  is of national importance and has enjoyed strong support from President Putin. In this light, Arktika’s voyage to the North Pole even before it is officially placed into service, renews Russia’s claim as the undisputed Arctic power home to the world’s only fleet of nuclear icebreakers.

A new generation of icebreakers

The project 22220 icebreakers are designed to keep the waters of Russia’s Northern Sea Route open for shipping traffic nearly year-round. They are capable of breaking through 3 meters of ice continuously and breaking even thicker ice through ramming.

The new ships will  escort natural gas and oil tankers through the ice along the NSR  to the markets of the Asia-Pacific region.

Construction on Arktika began in November 2013 in the Baltic Shipyard, and construction on Sibir and Ural followed in May 2015 and July 2016.

The project faced a number of hurdles, including delays related to the domestic construction of a steam turbine. During initial trials last year a propulsion motor was damaged  as a result of an electrical short requiring dry dock repairs and replacement of the motor next summer.

Until repairs are completed Arktika will see a slight reduction in power to 50 MW.

These delays and concerns related to  potential flaws in the design have led critics to question the capability and durability of this new type of icebreaker . While ice thickness at the North Pole during early fall does not serve as a true test of Arktika’s capabilities, this voyage nonetheless cements Russia’s claim as the operator of a fleet of icebreakers that can travel anywhere in the Arctic at any time of the year.

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North Pole Icebreaker Cruise

Get the unique experience of travelling aboard a powerful icebreaker.

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• North Pole Ice Breaker Cruise

• Sample Itinerary

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Visiting the Geographic North Pole is a true once in a lifetime experience! Defined by a 90° North latitude, the Geographic North Pole lies on the Earth’s rotational axis, at the intersection of all meridians. Plunged into darkness for six months of the year, then lit by the sun for the following six months, this mythical site, permanently covered in ice and remote from any land, has fascinated generations of explorers. A powerful icebreaker takes you high up into the Arctic, pushing through meters of pack ice while it carefully manoeuvres in an attempt to reach the holy grail of all polar explorers: the North Pole! This is one of the most unique and exclusive voyages out there today. The itinerary lends itself perfectly for the observation and photography of arctic wildlife and the polar scenery. On your way north from Svalbard (Spitsbergen), you will get to admire the most extraordinary landscapes of ice, hundreds of miles away from any civilisation. Shoot incredible photos from the deck of the moving icebreaker. If lucky, you might also spot a polar bear that ventures close to the ship or get to observe arctic birds, whales and even walruses. Once you arrive at the Geographic North Pole at 90 degrees north, a ceremony will be held to celebrate this unique moment and everyone will step out onto the ice to finally stand on the top of the world! After this memorable day at the North Pole the ship turns around to head back south. On your way back you will once more explore the remote and beautiful islands of Spitsbergen.

Note: This is a sample itinerary. We do our utmost to guarantee the best experience, unfortunately we have no control over the weather or wildlife behaviour. Sites may change depending on departure dates, weather and ice conditions.

Start of your journey north

At sea along spitsbergen, sailing into the pack ice.

The first day(s) of the trip you will spend at sea. Out here in the arctic ocean there is always a good chance of spotting sea birds and different species of whales. So it's worth being out on deck to see what wildlife you might encounter. At some point in our voyage north we will encounter the ice cap. You will get to witness firsthand the ship’s immense power. The ship plows its way forward, crushing massive ice blocks under the enormous bow. The ship might even have to go in reverse for a second attempt to push through dense walls of ice. Expect to spend a lot of time outside standing at the bow or looking over the railing. The sensation of being on deck while the ship is moving forward feels surreal and is simply unforgettable. Enjoy the absolutely unique experience of sailing to the heart of the ice floe, this vast expanse of virgin, immaculate ice. The landscapes are constantly changing, shifting from a smooth, flat wilderness to a chaos of ice, then to channels of open water. Even this high north it is possible to spot polar bears and walruses on the pack ice.

A day at the North Pole

The geographical North Pole is situated at 90° North latitude. At this point of our planet, the sun will not set for 6 months during summer, while in winter is will be dark for 24 hours per day. So far, only a few people have ever been lucky enough to visit this mythical location, as only a handful of voyages sail this far north each year. When the ship arrives at the North Pole, it will ceremoniously drop the anchor on a sturdy stretch of ice followed by all passengers disembarking onto the frozen sea. Reaching the very top of the planet earth is for many travelers a much-anticipated moment. You will have plenty of time to wander around and take pictures of this unique moment in your life. If there are any gaps in the ice, you might even get the change to take a polar plunge into the icy water!

Heading back south to Svalbard

After this incredible time at 90° North it is time for the ship to set course to the south, back to Svalbard. But that does not mean that your journey is over: you can still enjoy the ever changing landscapes, from pack ice to sea ice and the vast Arctic sea with its abundant wildlife. Back in the archipelago of Svalbard you will sail 2 days through the Nordvest-Spitsbergen National Park. Like the other protected areas of Svalbard, this National Park was established in the early 1970s to protect this exceptional environment full of glaciers, islands and large bays. This region will fascinate you with its landscapes and with the numerous vestiges that bear witness to the history of the men ? whale hunters and those involved in the first expeditions to the North Pole ? who found themselves on these shores from the start of the 17th century. In this pristine environment, you will be able to observe arctic sterns or seals on the rocks that emerge at low tide. After this great expedition cruise it sadly is time to disembark your ship. Disembarkation will be in the early morning in Longyearbyen. Whether you stay in Longyearbyen for an exploration of this nice town or fly home immediately, you can look back to a marvelous trip tot he top of the world!

Le Commandant-Charcot North Pole Icebreaker Cruise

• Le Commandant-Charcot
• Max number of Passengers 270
• Learn more about this vessel
• 26th Jul - 11th Aug 2024
• Embark: Longyearbyen
• Disembark: Reykjavik

Route: Svalbard - Geographical North Pole - Scoresby Sund - Reykjavik

• Rates include/exclude
• Terms & Conditions

Flight Paris - Longyearbyen + transfer

• 6th Sep - 26th Sep 2024
• Embark: Nome
• Disembark: Longyearbyen

Route: Nome - Magnetic North Pole - Geographical North Pole - Svalbard

Flight Seattle - Nome + flight Longyearbyen - Paris + transfers

• 26th Sep - 12th Oct 2024

First refuelling for Russia’s Akademik Lomonosov floating NPP

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The FNPP includes two KLT-40S reactor units. In such reactors, nuclear fuel is not replaced in the same way as in standard NPPs – partial replacement of fuel once every 12-18 months. Instead, once every few years the entire reactor core is replaced with and a full load of fresh fuel.

The KLT-40S reactor cores have a number of advantages compared with standard NPPs. For the first time, a cassette core was used, which made it possible to increase the fuel cycle to 3-3.5 years before refuelling, and also reduce by one and a half times the fuel component in the cost of the electricity produced. The operating experience of the FNPP provided the basis for the design of the new series of nuclear icebreaker reactors (series 22220). Currently, three such icebreakers have been launched.

The Akademik Lomonosov was connected to the power grid in December 2019, and put into commercial operation in May 2020.

Electricity generation from the FNPP at the end of 2023 amounted to 194 GWh. The population of Pevek is just over 4,000 people. However, the plant can potentially provide electricity to a city with a population of up to 100,000. The FNPP solved two problems. Firstly, it replaced the retiring capacities of the Bilibino Nuclear Power Plant, which has been operating since 1974, as well as the Chaunskaya Thermal Power Plant, which is more than 70 years old. It also supplies power to the main mining enterprises located in western Chukotka. In September, a 490 km 110 kilovolt power transmission line was put into operation connecting Pevek and Bilibino.

Image courtesy of TVEL

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