Home
> Destinations
> Russian Arctic
> Jewels of the Russian Arctic: Franz Josef Land and Novaya Zemlya by Quark
Follow in the footsteps of early Arctic explorers as you sail to two of the most isolated archipelagoes in the Russian High Arctic. Where ice-capped peaks soar majestically out of the water, and polar bears wander in their natural environment.
Day 1-2: Helsinki to Murmansk
Day 3-7: The Barents Sea & Novaya Zemlya
Day 8-12: At Sea & Franz Josef Land
Day 13-16: At Sea, Murmansk & Helsinki
If you would like help to find your perfect expedition cruise, simply complete the enquiry form to get in touch.
Alternatively, call our Polar Specialists on 0203 196 1000
Day 1-2: Helsinki to Murmansk
The journey begins in the vibrant city of Helsinki. You will then fly to Murmansk, in the Russian Arctic and embark your ship. Take the opportunity to get acquainted with the staff, your fellow travellers and get ready for this exciting journey.
Day 3-7: The Barents Sea & Novaya Zemlya
Sail through the Barents Sea and be on the lookout for kittiwakes, skuas, fulmars, as well as whales and seals along the way. Being the third-largest wilderness area in Europe, Novaya Zemlya represents a pristine arctic location where you can encounter Brünnich’s guillemots nesting in the cliffs and explore the dramatic glaciers by Zodiac.
Day 8-12: At Sea & Franz Josef Land
Your journey continues towards Franz Josef Land. There are plenty of activities to enjoy while at sea, including cruising on a Zodiac, presentations from the Expedition team and relaxing in the polar library. The remote Franz Josef Land archipelago is home to historical sites from the age of exploration. You will follow the footsteps of some of the greatest polar explorers including Fridtjof Nansen and Hjalmar Johansen who overwintered here from 1895 to 1896. The region offers rich and diverse wildlife from the elusive walruses to the cute harp seal and, of course, the majestic polar bear.
Day 13-16: At Sea, Murmansk & Helsinki
Sail back to Murmansk through the Barents Sea and take this time to share your incredible experiences. Catch your flight to Helsinki where you can either decide to transfer to the airport for a homeward-bound flight or spend extra days to visit the capital and the surrounding area.
The Ocean Adventurer has been a very popular Antarctic exploration ship for many years and is perfectly designed for exploring the region. Carrying just 117 passengers ensures there is a high focus on exploration, and the ship boasts an expert team of expedition staff alongside a varied programme of landings, a fleet of zodiacs and a series of lectures.
When Do You Want To Go?
We can compare a huge selection of expedition ships, cruises and operators to find your perfect cruise.
Our prices are amongst the best in the business, with full package protection as standard.
We are the expedition cruise specialists and know the destinations, ships and operators inside out
As supporters of the Marine Conservation Society, booking with us helps support the protection of our oceans.
Our holidays are protected by ATOL and ABTOT, for your complete peace of mind.
Sign up to our monthly newsletter and as a thank you, we’ll send you an exclusive discount code to use on any Latin Routes holiday.
Enter your email below to get started. Don’t worry, we never share your information with anyone else.