Aurora Expeditions – Pushing the boundaries of Arctic Exploration

This year Aurora Expeditions will be visiting Novaya Zemlya and Franz Josef Land on its 14 day ‘Voyage to the End of the Earth’ cruise, departing from Murmansk on 8th September. With only one other voyage being run to this region in 2012, Aurora Expeditions is the only ‘small ship’ tour operator visiting this undiscovered region of the Arctic in 2012.

An area shrouded in secrecy, the ability to visit the far reaches of the Russian Arctic is almost impossible to most. Aurora Expeditions Akademik Shokalskiy carries a maximum of 54 passengers, providing intimate exploration of this region.  The Novaya Zemlya archipelago comprises one large island and many small, stretching 1000km in an elongated crescent between the Barents and Kara seas. A veritable feast of wildlife and history, it is the easternmost point in Europe and remains one of Russia’s most restricted regions; which is why so few operators have permission to travel there. Whereas, Franz Josef Land is an archipelago of 191 ice covered islands, the planet’s last major landmass to be discovered and the modern day realm of the polar bear.

The remote northerly location of these stunning archipelagos supports diverse and prolific wildlife, reinforced by the creation of national parks in 2009.  The privileged few who take this voyage will explore the shore and Zodiac cruise around these islands of fascinating beauty and history, witnessing spectacular displays of bird and wildlife.  Kayaking is also available.

Highlights of the Voyage

·         Exclusive photography mentoring led by acclaimed photographer Martin Bailey click here for more information.
·         A true wildlife expedition: seek out the rarest bird species of the Arctic such as the Ross´gull and ivory gulls; Greenland whales, narwhals, polar bears and walruses.
·         Explore rarely visited historic sites, explorers’ and hunters’ huts and camps.
·         Encounter stunning sunsets and a chance of seeing the Northern Lights

Why travel with Aurora Expeditions?

·         For nearly 21 years, Aurora Expeditions have pioneered small group adventures to remote coastlines.
·         A passion for adventure – Each voyage aims to provide guests with the experience of a lifetime.
·         Taking a maximum of 54 passengers, the expert team seek out the best landing opportunities to ensure passengers maximise their time in the wilderness.
·         Flexible itineraries, numerous daily Zodiac landings, 24hr open bridge policy and fascinating educational lectures all contribute to ensuring the voyage of a lifetime. 

Prices start from US$8,890 per person. Voyage inclusions: Transfer from Murmansk airport to hotel, overnight accommodation in Murmansk, city tour and transfer to ship and transfer from ship to Murmansk airport

For more information on this spectacular voyage, please click here