Murmansk, Russia Cruise Departure Port Guide

What Cruise Lines Operate from The Port

The main cruise companies sailing from Murmansk focus on Arctic trips and Northern Route sailings.

Poseidon Expeditions runs most of the cruises, with their nuclear-powered icebreaker ’50 Years of Victory’ taking travellers to the North Pole.

You might spot Quark Expeditions ships now and then, as they sometimes start their North Pole trips from Murmansk.

During summer, Heritage Expeditions sails selected Arctic routes from the port.

The Russian company Rosmorport runs some local coastal trips along the Northern Sea Route.

Whilst you won’t find regular holiday cruise ships here, you can book specialist expedition voyages with these Arctic-focused companies.

Most trips run from June to September when the Arctic weather is best suited for sailing.

Cruise Destinations from The Port

From Murmansk’s ice-capable port, you can sail to some of the most far-flung places on Earth.

As Russia’s most northern port city, Murmansk is your starting point for Arctic trips, with journeys running in summer when the ice is at its most manageable.

1. You can join trips to the North Pole on nuclear-powered icebreakers, pushing through thick pack ice across the Arctic Ocean to reach 90° North.
2. Arctic island sailings take you to Franz Josef Land, where you’ll see untouched polar landscapes and spot wildlife like polar bears, walruses, and seabirds.
3. Norwegian fjord trips let you glide along Norway’s striking coastline, stopping at ports like Tromsø and Hammerfest whilst seeing the midnight sun.

These Arctic routes give you a chance to see nature at its most raw and be part of genuine polar exploration.

Why Choose This Port for Your Cruise Departure?

Murmansk makes brilliant sense as a starting point for Arctic trips.

Being Russia’s biggest Arctic port that never freezes – thanks to the warm North Atlantic Current – means you can sail off any time of year, even in the coldest months.

It’s also the closest major port to the North Pole, so you’ll spend less time getting to Arctic spots.

The port’s top-notch setup and expert polar crews mean you’re in safe hands throughout your trip.

What’s more, you’ll pay less than sailing from Scandinavian ports whilst following similar Arctic routes.

Getting to the port is dead simple from Murmansk Airport, and you can spend time learning about Russia’s Arctic history before setting sail.

The city’s specialised polar support teams give you extras that other ports simply can’t match.

How to get to the port

Getting to Murmansk’s cruise port is dead easy. Just head down ulitsa Portovikov from the city centre, and you’ll go straight to the passenger terminal. You can hop on regular buses or grab a taxi from the main transport hub.

There are a few ways to reach Murmansk:

1. Catch a flight to Murmansk Airport (MMK), which sits 24km from the port. You’ll find connections from Moscow and St. Petersburg. Regular taxis and shuttle buses run between the airport and cruise terminal.
2. Jump on the train from Moscow’s Leningradsky Station – it’s a lengthy 35-hour journey, but the train station is only 3km from the port.
3. If you fancy driving, take the M18 motorway from other major Russian cities. You can park your car safely at the cruise terminal.

Port Parking Options

At Murmansk cruise terminal, you can park your car in both short-term and long-term spots. The main car park has 200 spaces with security cameras and proper lighting. Payment needs to be in Russian rubles, and prices change depending on whether it’s peak or off-season.

Want to book ahead? Just pop onto the port’s website or mobile app. Don’t forget to bring your cruise papers with you – they’ll get you a nice 15% off the prices shown above.

Local Transport & Transfers

Getting from Murmansk Airport to the cruise terminal is quite straightforward. You can grab a taxi right outside the airport – it’s about 23 miles and usually takes 40 minutes to get to the port.

If you’re watching your pennies, catch public bus #106 which goes every hour from the airport to central Murmansk.

Your main options for getting there:

1. Cruise line shuttles – Book directly with your cruise company for simple port transfers
2. Official airport taxis – Go to the taxi desk inside the terminal to avoid dodgy drivers
3. Private car services – Book in advance online through KiwiTaxi or GetTransfer for set prices

Worth noting: If you’re sleeping at a local hotel before your cruise, many places run free shuttles to the cruise terminal – just ask at reception.

Port Terminal Facilities

The Murmansk cruise terminal is a no-frills spot with the basics for passengers heading off on their trips.

There’s a small sitting area, loos, and an information desk where the staff speak Russian. You’ll spot a place to exchange money and a little café that sells coffee, tea and simple bites to eat.

For boarding, the setup is quite simple – there are different queues for regular and priority passengers.

Everyone goes through security before reaching the boarding area, where you can get help with your bags from porters if needed.

While there’s no duty-free shopping, you can grab travel essentials from a small shop.

The Wi-Fi is a bit dodgy, so it’s worth sorting any important messages before you arrive.

If you need medical help, there’s a first-aid point near the main doors.

Things to Do Before Your Cruise in a Day

You can easily spend your day before the cruise seeing Murmansk’s historic and cultural sites.

The Lenin, which was the world’s first nuclear-powered icebreaker, is now a museum ship where you can learn about the area’s maritime past.

In the city centre, you’ll find the impressive Alyosha Monument, a 116-foot-tall soldier statue honouring those who defended the region in World War II.

1. Pop into the Northern Navy Museum to see fascinating naval bits and pieces and learn about Russia’s Arctic military history
2. Visit the Church of the Savior on Waters, a lovely red-brick Orthodox church with brilliant views of Kola Bay
3. Have a look round the Murmansk Regional Museum, which shows off local culture, indigenous Sami items, and the region’s geology

It’s best to stay near the cruise terminal, as Murmansk’s attractions are quite spread out and taxis can be hard to find.

Dining and Shopping

Local spots in Murmansk’s city centre dish up filling Russian meals and fresh Arctic seafood.

You’ll spot traditional plates like borscht, beef stroganoff, and smoked salmon at restaurants along Prospekt Lenina. Tundra Restaurant is brilliant for its local delicacies and northern specialties.

The shopping scene is mostly about practical bits and local keepsakes.

Pop into Murmansk Mall or Volna Shopping Centre for everyday items and Russian-made goods. For proper souvenirs, wander to the shops near Five Corners Square – they’re stocked with matryoshka dolls, fur hats, Arctic-themed crafts, and local food items.

The Murmansk Fish Market is worth a visit if you fancy taking home fresh or smoked fish, but do look up your cruise line’s rules first.

Accommodation

Planning to stay in Murmansk before or after your cruise? The city has both international hotel chains and Russian establishments. Most places to stay are in the centre, not far from the cruise terminal.

While you won’t find as many options as in bigger Russian cities, there’s still a good range to suit different budgets.

1. The Azimut Hotel Murmansk is the city’s top choice, with modern rooms, a restaurant, and brilliant views from what’s the tallest building in town.
2. Park Inn by Radisson keeps things straightforward with well-maintained rooms and good facilities.
3. If you’re watching your spending, the Meridian Hotel might be right for you – it’s simple but clean, with basic facilities at fair prices.

Most hotels will arrange transport to the cruise terminal if you ask them.

Tips for First-Time Cruisers from The Port

Getting ready for a cruise from Murmansk is a bit different because it’s up in the Arctic.

You’ll need to get there a day early to sort out Russian customs forms and go through security. Don’t forget your Russian visa, and make sure your passport won’t run out for at least six months.

Take plenty of warm clothes – even in summer it’s quite cold, usually no warmer than 15°C (59°F).

Pop into local banks to get some Russian rubles, as shops at the port won’t take other money. It’s worth getting some maps and Russian phrases on your phone before you go, since not many people at the port speak English.

Keep your cruise papers and passport where you can grab them easily when you’re boarding.

Think about booking the cruise company’s transport to the port – local taxis can be a bit dodgy and mightn’t take cards.

Customs & Immigration at The Port

Customs & Immigration rules at Murmansk port can be a bit of a faff, so you’ll want to be thorough and patient.

Get there at least three hours before you’re meant to leave – you’ll need the time to sort out paperwork and get through security. Before you queue up, double-check you’ve properly filled in your Russian migration card.

1. At the first checkpoint, show them your passport (with valid Russian visa), migration card and cruise papers – they’ll scan everything and make sure it’s all proper.
2. Next up is customs, where you need to tell them about any valuable items, money over $10,000, or anything that’s restricted – better to be upfront as the penalties are quite harsh.
3. Then it’s security screening – they’ll go through all your bags, including hand luggage. Your electronics might need to be switched on if they ask, and stick to the usual international rules about liquids.

Remember: Getting it right the first time saves loads of hassle later.

Local Currency & Payment Options

Money matters in Murmansk need a bit of planning before your cruise. The Russian ruble (₽) is what you’ll need – you can get it from banks, proper exchange offices, or cash machines.

While big hotels and restaurants take Visa and Mastercard, you’ll want actual cash for taxis, little shops and the local markets.

It’s a good idea to sort out some rubles before you get to Murmansk, since the exchange rates at the port aren’t brilliant.

There are cash machines at the cruise terminal and around town, but remember to tell your bank you’re heading abroad.

Most shops show prices in rubles, and whilst some places aimed at tourists might take euros or dollars, you’ll usually get a rubbish rate.

Emergency Contacts

Managing money is important when you’re in Murmansk, but knowing the right emergency numbers could save you in a tight spot.

Pop these important emergency contacts in your phone and jot them down somewhere safe.

1. If you need help straight away in Murmansk, just ring 112 from any phone – this single number connects you to police, fire services and ambulances.

Keep in mind that the people answering mightn’t speak English, so it’s worth learning a few basic Russian phrases.

2. Write down your cruise ship’s emergency number – you’ll get this when you board.

You’ll want this handy if you’re running behind schedule or have trouble getting back to the ship.

3. Keep the contact details for the nearest British Embassy in Russia – it’s in Moscow: +7 (495) 728-5000, or the British Consulate in St. Petersburg: +7 (812) 331-2600.

Port Terminal Layout

The Murmansk port terminal has three main bits you’ll need to know about: the main passenger hall, customs processing area, and the pier access corridor. Everything flows nicely from when you arrive to when you board.

You can use lifts and escalators to get between floors, and there are clear signs in Russian and English. If you’re a bit lost, head to the information desk in the middle of the main hall – that’s your best starting point. The customs area has several checkpoints to go through, so give yourself plenty of time. Once you’re through, just follow the pier access corridor – it’s a covered walkway that takes you straight to your ship.

History of The Port

Murmansk port kicked off in 1915 as a vital supply route during World War I, linking Russia with its allies through the northern waters that never freeze.

The port’s handy location proved crucial during World War II, when it became a major stopping point for Arctic convoys bringing essential supplies to the Soviet Union.

The port’s story includes these key moments:

1. It grew into the Soviet Union’s biggest submarine base and important military spot during the Cold War.
2. The 1990s saw it change into a commercial centre, with international trade and cruise ships coming in.
3. Around 2000, the place got a proper upgrade with new passenger terminals and cargo facilities.

These days, Murmansk port keeps growing as both a commercial hub and a popular spot for cruise ships.

Environmental Initiatives at The Port

Modern green efforts at Murmansk port show how Russia’s getting more serious about protecting the Arctic environment.

There are advanced wastewater treatment systems stopping pollution from getting into the Barents Sea, and new air quality stations keep an eye on emissions from ships and port activities.

The port’s latest ‘Clean Arctic’ scheme has brought in electric cargo handling gear, which has cut diesel fumes by 30%.

You’ll spot solar-powered LED lights across the terminals and clever ballast water controls that help keep foreign species from harming local sea life.

At the cruise terminal, you can see waste sorting areas that handle recycling from both ships and port operations properly.

The site also keeps oil spill cleanup kit and trained staff ready round the clock.

Cruise Packages and Deals from The Port

Throughout the year, you can find all sorts of cruise packages from Murmansk’s port, with prices between £900 and £6,500 per person.

There’s something for everyone, whether you fancy seeing the Arctic or watching the Northern Lights.

1. Wallet-friendly 5-day trips to Norway’s fjords start at £900, with basic cabin and meals included. These mainly run during summer.
2. For about £2,700, you can join 8-day Arctic Circle trips that stop at small Russian villages and give you chances to spot local wildlife.
3. If you want to splash out, 14-day North Pole trips cost up to £6,500 and come with helicopter rides, icebreaker activities, and top-notch facilities.

You can book straight from the port’s website or through their cruise partners.

Book six months early and you might save up to 25% with early bird rates.

Accessibility Information for Disabled Passengers

The port terminal has lots of facilities to help disabled passengers get around easily. You’ll spot wheelchair ramps, lifts, and adapted toilets all over the building. You can use wheelchairs free of charge, but it’s a good idea to book one ahead through your cruise line.

If you have trouble moving about, helpful staff members can lend a hand with getting on and off the ship. Just let your cruise company know at least 48 hours before you leave.

Service animals are allowed in the terminal – just bring their proper papers. All car parks have disabled spaces within 50 metres of the main entrance, with clear signs and easy paths to the terminal.

Cruise Insurance and Medical Facilities at The Port

The cruise terminal in Murmansk has a first-aid station with qualified medical staff on hand. You can get basic medical help any time, day or night, but it’s crucial to sort out proper cruise insurance before leaving this Russian port.

Your insurance should cover:

1. Getting you to bigger hospitals in Murmansk city if needed – it’s only 10 minutes from the port
2. Someone to translate during medical visits, since most local doctors don’t speak English
3. Any existing health problems and possible delays due to Arctic weather

Whilst your ship will be your main source of medical care during the trip, the port’s medical station can help when you’re getting on and off the ship.

Keep all your insurance papers and emergency phone numbers close by throughout your journey.

Families: Child-Friendly Services and Activities

The Murmansk cruise terminal has some handy bits and bobs for families with little ones.

You’ll spot a simple children’s corner in the main building with colouring tables and a compact climbing frame. There’s also a family loo with baby-changing facilities and a quiet space for nursing mums.

If you’ve got babies in tow, just pop over to your cruise line’s desk to ask for travel cots and high chairs.

The terminal’s café serves child-sized portions and kid-friendly food. While you’re waiting to board, your children can use the free Wi-Fi or have a look at the small maritime museum section, which has hands-on displays about Arctic sea creatures.

The terminal’s shop keeps essential baby items and snacks in stock, just in case you need them.

Local Cultural Highlights and Events

The city of Murmansk comes alive all year round with brilliant festivals that show off its Arctic roots. As Russia’s biggest Arctic city, it’s a proper mix of old and new celebrations that tell the story of local life and culture.

1. The Festival of the North in March is a real treat – you’ll see reindeer racing through the streets, watch fantastic ski races, and catch traditional Saami folk shows that bring the area’s native culture to life.
2. Pop along during Navy Day in late July when the city’s maritime pride is on full display. You’ll spot mighty warships parading through the harbour and see loads of naval ceremonies.
3. When December rolls around, the Polar Night Festival brightens up the dark winter days. The whole city gets involved with lovely light displays, amazing ice sculptures, and gatherings at local viewpoints to watch the northern lights dance across the sky.

Best Times of Year to Cruise from The Port

When to Go Cruising from Murmansk

The cruise calendar in Murmansk works around Arctic weather and ice patterns. Most ships sail between June and September when it’s less cold and you get up to 24 hours of daylight in peak summer.

July and August are brilliant months to set sail – you’ll get steady temperatures and good sailing weather. If you fancy seeing the northern lights, try September, but pack warm clothes and be ready for choppier waters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Russian Language Requirements for Cruise Passengers Departing From Murmansk?

You won’t need Russian language skills for cruises leaving from Russia – the cruise workers generally speak English. Still, it’s quite useful to learn a few common Russian phrases if you fancy wandering around the port area.

What Are the Photography Restrictions Around the Military Vessels at Port?

Taking photos of military ships and areas at port is against the law, mate. Keep your camera away from warships, submarines and security zones – you could get into proper trouble if you don’t follow these rules.

Can Passengers Bring Alcohol Purchased in Murmansk Onto Cruise Ships?

Local alcohol bought in Murmansk can’t be brought onto cruise ships – the staff will keep it safe until the end of your trip. If you buy anything from duty-free shops, just keep it sealed in its original bags until you reach your final port.

How Reliable Is Mobile Phone Coverage and Internet in the Port Area?

No need to worry about your phone signal – the port area has solid 4G coverage. All the big mobile networks work properly here, and the internet’s quick enough for everyday browsing and sending messages without any bother.

Are There Restrictions on Drones or Camera Equipment at the Port?

You’ll need proper clearance to fly drones around the port area, as there are tight security rules. Taking photos is usually fine in public areas, but steer clear of snapping military ships or security spots unless you’ve got permission.