Wild Earth Travel: Experience the world’s ‘Polar Bear Capital’, Wrangel Island on board legendary non- nuclear Icebreaker
Wild Earth Travel is set to voyage across the top of the world to explore the Russian Arctic on board the renowned Russian Icebreaker, Kapitan Khlebnikov in July 2019. This unique expedition crosses the Arctic Circle to visit the isolated, pristine and wildlife rich Wrangel Island as well as exploring the beautiful shores of Chukotka.
Wrangel Island is a treasure trove of Arctic biodiversity and is perhaps best known for the multitude of Polar Bears that call these shores home over the summer, providing unrivalled viewing opportunities.
As well as land based wildlife, these waters are home to the world’s largest population of Walrus and significant numbers of Grey and Humpback Whales as well as the elusive Bowhead Whale.
The Bering Strait is home to a magnificent abundance and diversity of seabirds, guests will have the opportunity to photograph curious puffins and marvel at the flocks of Eiders that live along these rich shores.
Kapitan Khlebnikov was built by Finland’s Wärtsilä Company and is highly ice reinforced and capable of breaking ice as thick as two meters, powered by 24,000 horse power diesel electric engines she is amongst the world’s most powerful non-nuclear icebreakers.
Wild Earth Travel’s General Manager, Aaron Russ, is looking forward to leading two out of the three expeditions to the High Arctic on board this unique vessel next year.
“Kapitan Khlebnikov sets the bar for exceptional Arctic cruising. She has an enviable record of polar expeditions including, the most transits of the North-West and North- East passages by passenger vessel and two full circumnavigations of Antarctica” says, Aaron.
“This is beyond exciting for Wild Earth Travel- to be able offer an itinerary packed with wildlife and expedition possibilities alongside a vessel that has such legendary exploration and navigational capabilities”.
Recently refurbished Kapitan Khlebnikov accommodates up to 110 guests in spacious cabins all featuring large windows and en suite facilities.
Common areas include large open decks, two dining rooms, theatre-style lecture room, heated indoor pool, sauna, gym, library, bar, lounge and elevator.
Guests can enjoy exceptional views via the open bridge, outside viewing decks around the ship, while a fleet of 10 Zodiacs are manned by the experienced expedition team that ensure maximum time for excursions.
More about the voyage:
• The voyage has three sailings on the 8, 22 July and 5 August 2019. Inclusive of 14-nights accommodation on board Kapitan Khlebnikov, plus the option to add 1 nights pre & post cruise accommodation in Nome
• Price from US$13,625pp*
• Add on a Anchorage RTN Transfer package for US$2,600pp* (Package includes Return flights Anchorage to Nome, pre & post cruise hotel accommodation in Nome and return private charter flights Nome to Anadyr)
MORE ABOUT WILD EARTH TRAVEL:
Wild Earth Travel is the Australasian specialist in small ship and expedition cruising, with more options and expertise we provide a world of opportunities and experience ensuring that travellers have the voyage of a lifetime. Indulge in the advantages of small ship travel, explore with like-minded travellers, relax and savour all within a personal, intimate and safe setting. Take advantage of the opportunity to learn on board and ashore through the expedition teams and guides, really see and experience the very best of every destination.
MORE ABOUT AARON RUSS:
Aaron has grown up surrounded by wildlife and wilderness working alongside his family’s business, Heritage Expeditions, since the age of 12. He has been an expedition leader on over 100 expeditions to the world’s most remote regions. With a degree in zoology, a passion for photography and a desire to showcase the world’s premier natural history destinations, expedition leading comes naturally.
