Sea Spirit: Franz Josef Land & The Russian Arctic Rarely visited today yet significant in the history of polar exploration, Franz Josef Land is worthy of its legendary reputation. This extraordinary expedition to Franz Josef Land is as unique and authentic as the place itself. Starting in Longyearbyen in the Norwegian territory of Svalbard, we cross the icy, wildlife-rich Barents Sea to the Russian High Arctic. In Franz Josef Land we discover unparalleled landscapes, wildlife, and history in one of the wildest and most remote corners of the Arctic. Back in Svalbard we have the opportunity to explore beautiful fjords and islands on the northwestern coast of Spitsbergen. Here we seek the full range of Arctic wildlife in one of the world’s most impressive polar desert environments. Highlights Reach the lesser-visited high Arctic wilderness of Franz Josef Land Encounter stark and enigmatic tundra landscapes, glaciers and icebergs Enjoy the opportunity to spot all species of Arctic wildlife including the polar bear Follow in the footsteps of legendary explorers visiting historical sites Explore the stunning scenery of Spitsbergen – Svalbard’s largest island Tour Includes: 14 nights aboard modern cruise ship 15 breakfasts, 14 lunches, 15 dinners Accompanied by an experienced English speaking local guide All inclusive program in the Arctic Departure: Set departures July – August Itinerary Day 1: Longyearbyen Arriving into Svalbard's main town you will have time to explore this fascinating Arctic settlement. Your hotel tonight is included in the cruise package. Day 2: Longyearbyen You will board your expedition ship this afternoon and prepare for the extraordinary adventure to come. Sail into a true wilderness while wildlife abounds and pass through the stunning Isfjorden where there is already the possibility of marine mammal encounters. (B,L,D) Day 3: Barents Sea Your cruise proceeds east across the Barents Sea towards Franz Josef Land. In these far northern latitudes it is possible to encounter sea ice any time of year. Along the way we remain vigilant for sightings of bowhead whales, various seal species and the majestic polar bear. (B,L,D) Day 4: Continue cruising the Barents Sea Day 5: Franz Josef Land Today you will enter this remote and wild corner of the Arctic via a Russian polar station, then we are free to explore the islands and waterways of the wildlife-rich Cambridge Bay. The archipelago of Franz Josef Land is a nature sanctuary for high Arctic fauna such as polar bears, walruses, rare whales and sea birds. We take advantage of 24 hour daylight to maximise viewings. This region is also home to some interesting geology, such as the mysterious stone spheres on Champ Island. Visit Cape Fligely on Rudolf Island which is the nothernmost point in the Eastern Hemisphere. Franz Josef Land also offers visitors the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of famous polar explorers at wellpreserved historical sites. Memorials, monuments, crosses and the remains of dwellings are testimony to the incredible historical events that are further illuminated by the expert lecturers. (B,L,D) Day 6: Continue exploring Franz Josef Land Day 7: Continue exploring Franz Josef Land Day 8: Continue exploring Franz Josef Land Day 9: Continue exploring Franz Josef Land Day 10: Continue exploring Franz Josef Land Day 11: Continue exploring Franz Josef Land Day 12: Barents Sea Sail back across the bountiful waters of the Barents Sea attending presentations by the experts and take advantage of the ship's facilities. Enjoy further whale and birdlife observations. (B,L,D) Day 13: Continue cruising the Barents Sea Day 14: Svalbard Explore the spectacular fjords, islands and coasts of Svalbard, experiencing the archipelago's most impressive scenery and some of the Arctic's best wildlife viewing opportunities. Narrow channels are flanked by jagged snowy mountain peaks while immense tidewater glaciers calve icebergs into turquoise waters. On ice floes seals watch vigilantly for polar bears and fields of flowering tundra are home to grazing reindeer and playful Arctic foxes. To complete the Svalbard experience we also explore historical sites containing the remnants of whaling camps, mining operations, trappers' cabins, staging areas of attempts to discover the North Pole and the ruins of a WWII weather station. (B,L,D) Day 15: Continue exploring Svalbard Day 16: Longyearbyen Disembark this morning and reflect on your epic Arctic expedition before your onward flight. (B) Accommodation Longyearbyen Sea Spirit
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