Russian Arctic

Russian Arctic

 

Explore the Russian Arctic - Wild, Rugged, Rarely Visited, Totally Isolated, Desolate & Utterly Stunning

Russia is a huge country, covering nine time zones. In Chukotka – the north-eastern most region of Russia, they have a saying “God is a long way up there, but Moscow is even further away” that is true in so many respects. The Russian Far East & Russian Arctic are unique regions, the culture, the climate, the history, the wildlife; it is a world away from the Russia you might have explored.

The allure of the mysterious Russian Arctic has captivated adventurers for centuries. Its Russian-controlled waters are steeped in history and mystery, while abundant wildlife is found along its remote shores. The vast shallow waters north of Russia, protected by the expansive sea ice that covers the region for most of the year, are a refuge for many Arctic species, Polar Bears roam throughout but there are especially large concentrations on the reserves of Wrangel Island and Franz Josef Land.

During your small ship cruise or expedition, travel through the ranges of the Pacific, Laptev and Atlantic Walrus and there is the opportunity to encounter these iconic tooth walkers in large haul outs. The triumvirate of Arctic gulls - Ivory, Sabine's and the elusive Ross's Gulls all breed on the shores, there are good opportunities to see all three. While Bowhead, Beluga and Narwhal Whales all call these waters home, naturalists aboard will be keeping close watch.

Travel to Russia’s Wrangel Island - this Arctic Island is home to an abundance of wildlife, among them the polar bears and arctic foxes. A ‘must-see’ for explorers. The Soviet Central Government created the Wrangel Island Nature Reserve in 1976 to protect the colonies of Snow Geese, Polar Bears and Walrus that flourish here. This reserve is now one of Russia's most treasured wildlife sanctuaries. The small village of Ushakovskoe on Wrangel Island is home to approximately 100 Eastern Siberian Yupik and Chukchi people and serves as a base camp for up to 30 seasonal reserve staff. Only official personnel and invited guests are allowed access to the reserve, protecting the unique and untainted ecosystem. Wrangel Island truly is the ultimate Arctic wildlife cruise destination.

Venture ashore on some of the least known and seldom visited shores on the planet, Severnaya Zemlya Archipelago was the last major group of islands on earth to be discovered, the New Siberian Islands offer a wealth of opportunities for discovery. Sailing the mythical waters of Chukchi, East Siberian, Laptev, Kara & Barents Sea this is truly a geographic odyssey.

If you’re after a small ship cruise or an expedition ship cruise to the Russian Arctic Region Wild Earth Travel can help you find a trip of a lifetime. We are ready to guide you through our range of different options with impartial advice so you can experience the very best of this unique destination. Our team are all passionate expedition & small cruise ship travellers and our knowledge and stories come from our own personal experiences.


Our Associates Include

Adventure Canada
Heritage Expeditions New Zealand
UnCruise Adventures
Hurtugruten
Ponant
Pandaw