North Pole Icebreaker Cruise

Key Takeaways

• You’ll travel to the North Pole aboard “50 Years of Victory”, a powerful nuclear icebreaker that cuts through Arctic ice up to 3 metres thick.
• Your journey includes modern comforts on board, where you can enjoy warm pools, quality dining and learn from polar experts while watching the Arctic landscape unfold.
• You can join daily adventures in small Zodiac boats, spot Arctic wildlife and explore historical landmarks across Franz Josef Land.
• When you reach 90° North, you’ll celebrate with a special outdoor barbecue and take steps at the unique spot where all Earth’s longitude lines meet.
• You’ll find essential safety equipment in your cabin, including survival gear and access to life rafts, keeping you protected throughout your Arctic expedition.

Breaking Through Arctic Ice

You’ll experience Arctic exploration aboard the 50 Years of Victory, one of the most powerful icebreakers in the world.

This nuclear-powered vessel can break through ice up to 3 metres thick using its unique spoon-shaped bow. Two OK-900A nuclear reactors power the ship, giving it the strength to crush dense Arctic ice sheets.

The ship’s crew launches helicopters regularly to find the best path through the ice. You’ll feel the ship’s massive weight as it breaks through thick ice sections.

When possible, the vessel follows natural channels in the ice to save time and energy.

The ship moves steadily towards the North Pole, combining raw power with strategic navigation.

You’ll watch as the bow rises onto the ice, using gravity to crack through the frozen surface. This process repeats continuously, creating a clear channel through the Arctic wilderness.

Life Aboard Victory

You’ll find modern comforts aboard this powerful icebreaker. The ship offers restaurants, bars, a heated seawater pool and a well-stocked library. You can visit the navigation bridge throughout your journey to watch the Arctic scenery unfold.

Your daily activities include:

1. Expert talks about Arctic wildlife and geography
2. Zodiac boat trips to explore icebergs up close
3. Nature walks with armed guides to keep you safe from polar bears

The ship provides plenty of ways to relax. You can enjoy the sauna, exercise in the gym or join other travellers for evening social events.

Your cabin contains emergency survival gear, including a suit under your bed. The ship carries life rafts that can hold 115 people.

The nuclear-powered engine uses efficient systems to:

• Recycle heat
• Reduce energy waste
• Minimise environmental impact

You’ll always find crew members ready to help you make the most of your Arctic adventure.

Wildlife of the North

Arctic wildlife surrounds you in the northern polar regions. You can spot polar bears on the ice – their black skin helps them absorb sunlight. Arctic foxes scurry nearby, protected by their special hollow fur.

The Arctic waters teem with marine life. You’ll hear belugas making distinct calls underwater, and you might see massive bowhead whales swimming in the deep. Walruses rest on ice floes, using their thick blubber for warmth whilst they hunt for shellfish.

Look up to find Arctic terns flying overhead during their remarkable journey between poles. Snowy owls perch alertly, watching the tundra for their next meal. You can watch caribou herds move across the landscape during their seasonal migrations, whilst musk oxen stand firm against the cold, protected by their thick wool coats.

The wildlife adapts perfectly to these harsh conditions. You’ll notice each animal has developed unique ways to survive, from specialised fur to thick layers of fat.

Every creature plays its part in this remarkable polar ecosystem, making it a fascinating place for you to explore.

Franz Josef Land Adventures

Franz Josef Land is a 192-island archipelago in the northeastern Barents Sea.

You’ll explore this Russian territory on the “50 Years of Victory”, a nuclear-powered icebreaker that breaks through 3-metre-thick ice.

Your daily adventures include:

• Zodiac boat trips to shore locations
• Visits to Tikhaya Bay’s northernmost post office
• Tours of old weather stations and research bases
• Sea kayaking for skilled paddlers
• Helicopter rides over ice formations

On the ship, you’ll find:

• Expert talks from scientists and historians
• Heated swimming pools
• Relaxing saunas
• Modern living quarters

The ship’s powerful engines let you reach remote landing spots across this untouched Arctic region.

You’ll see unique wildlife, dramatic ice formations, and historic exploration sites throughout your journey.

The Ultimate Polar Achievement

Your journey to the North Pole will place you among an exclusive group of polar explorers. The nuclear-powered ship ’50 Years of Victory’ will transport you through Arctic ice up to 3 metres thick to reach 90° North.

At the Pole, you can step onto the ice where all lines of longitude meet. You’ll experience the unique sensation of walking around the world in moments by circling this singular point.

Your achievement calls for celebration, and you’ll join your fellow travellers for a special barbecue on the Arctic ice.

You can view your historic location from above during a helicopter flight, whilst the ship’s powerful ice-breaking capabilities ensure your safe passage to and from this remote destination.

The ship anchors directly at the Pole, creating a secure platform for your polar activities.

This remarkable location sees very few visitors, making your presence here truly special.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Power Backup Systems Exist if the Nuclear Reactors Malfunction?

Nuclear reactors have multiple backup power systems to keep you safe:

Your main backups include:

• A reserve reactor starts automatically when needed
• Diesel generators switch on during emergencies
• Battery banks store power for critical systems
• Uninterruptible power supplies protect vital equipment
• Emergency generators maintain essential functions

Each system activates in sequence if the main reactor stops, ensuring you always have power for key operations. The layered defence keeps your systems running reliably.

Are Guests Allowed to Collect Ice Samples From the North Pole?

You cannot collect ice samples from the North Pole without special permission. The Arctic environment needs protection, and strict safety rules apply to all visitors. You can join guided tours and activities, but collecting any materials, including ice, is restricted. If you need ice samples for research, you must obtain proper permits and work with authorised organisations.

What Emergency Evacuation Procedures Are in Place During Arctic Voyages?

You’re protected by £100,000 evacuation insurance during your Arctic voyage. Emergency evacuations in the Arctic rely on three main options: rescue helicopters, nearby ships, and onboard medical facilities on icebreakers. Due to the remote location, expect emergency response times to take several hours.

Can Passengers Send Mail or Make Phone Calls From the Ship?

You can send postcards and letters from Tikhaya Bay’s unique post office, which holds the record as the world’s northernmost postal facility. The ship offers phone and internet services at additional charges. The range and quality of telecommunications may vary during your journey, so check with your cruise operator for current options and rates.

Is Special Travel Insurance Required for Nuclear-Powered Vessel Journeys?

You need specific travel insurance for journeys on nuclear-powered vessels. Your policy must include:

• Emergency evacuation cover
• Nuclear incident protection
• Cover that meets maritime regulations

Vessel operators require you to show valid insurance before boarding. Standard travel policies don’t typically cover nuclear vessel travel, so you’ll need to seek specialist providers. Check your chosen operator’s requirements before purchasing any policy.