Across Top of World

Discover the north eastern part of Eurasia (Chukotka) in a way that has never been possible before. On this expedition we cruise across the Arctic Circle through the Bering Strait and into the Arctic sea. It will be mid summer with 24 hour daylight and the ice will have retreated. On shore you will meet the Chukchis, who have learnt how to live in one of the harshest environments on the globe. You will see an abundance of wildlife, many of the species are migratory, coming here only to breed, but for others like the polar bear, walrus, and reindeer this is their home. We plan two days at Wrangel Island, a world class Nature Reserve, which is often referred to as the 'Polar Bear Maternity Ward'.

Day 1 - August 28
Join our vessel 'Spirit of Enderby' at the Port of Anadyr which was one of the earliest settlements of the region. It is now the capital and main administrative centre of the Chukotka Autonomous region. After clearing the harbor, we farewell the pilot and sail across Anadyrskiy Bay towards the Bering Strait. A number of Beluga Whales frequent the waters around Anadyr so be out on deck as we depart to watch for the white whale.
Day 2 - August 29
We continue across Anadyrskiy Bay. There will be lectures and presentations to prepare you for the expedition ahead. It is also an opportunity to spend time with your fellow travelers either in the bar/library or on the bridge. Outside seabirds and possibly whales feed in the rich waters.
Day 3 - August 30
One of the many highlights of the expedition will be time spent in the Arakamchechen archipelago. Here as recently as 1976 on Yttygran Island Russian anthropologists discovered an astonishing ancient ceremonial site nicknamed 'Whale Bone Alley'. Must mystery remains about this unqiue site. The surrounding waters are home to large concentrations of Grey Whales and walrus both of which we hope to encounter. Later this afternoon in we follow in the wake of Capt. James Cook entering Layrentiya Bay, which is also a favoured area for marine mammals.
Day 4 - August 31
We land at Cape Dezhnev on the extreme north eastern edge of Eurasia on the border of two oceans the Pacific and the Arctic. The site is marked by three magnificent monuments. This afternoon at the village of Uelen, the center of world famous Chukotka ivory carving you will be welcomed by the locals and have an opportunity to visit the museum and workshop where this traditional skill is practiced and taught.
Day 5 - September 1
This morning we land on the small island of Kolyuchin. This island which is the site of a Russian Polar Research Station lies about 25 km off the northern coast. It is also a recognized walrus haul out area as well as an important seabird nesting island.
Day 6 and 7 - September 2 and 3
We will spend two full days exploring the remote and seldom visited high arctic Wrangel Island. Wrangel Island was declared a Nature Reserve in 1976 to protect its rich biodiversity. We will enjoy some of the 400 plant species and the 160 bird species that have been recorded from the Island. Species to watch for include Ross's, Sabine's and Ivory Gulls - all of which breed and feed in the surrounding waters. The shores of Wrangel Island house the highest density of Polar Bear dens in the world, earning it the title of the 'Polar Bear Maternity Ward', and with such high concentrations we hope for some great encounters.
Day 8 - September 4
This morning in true expedition style we will launch our zodiacs at the Amguema River mouth east of Cape Schimdt and spend the day exploring. The small island Lena Island, it is a known haul out area for seals and walrus during the summer months. There will be ample opportunities for photographing and exploring the surrounding tundra landscape.
Day 9 - September 5
Today is another expedition day with opportunities to explore the Kolyuchinskaya and Belyaka Inlets. Emperor geese breed here and although the breeding season will be well advanced we can expect to see many other migratory species as they begin to lead southwards. Our naiads and zodiacs are the perfect craft for exploring these shallow sheltered waters.
Day 10 - September 6
An opportunity to catch up on sleep (with 24 hour daylight and with so much to see and do your sleep pattern will be disrupted) or catch up on your diary and notes. There will be recaps and lectures throughout the day as we head southwards through Bering Strait to Provideniya.
Day 11 - September 7
We will enjoy the hospitality of the people of Provideniya this morning. This is a small town situated on the north western coast of a picturesque fiord and was an important strategic town and seaport and during the height of the Soviet Union. Many military personal were stationed here but today the population is much reduced. The local people are proud of their history and it has one of the best museums in the region with over 12,000 exhibits.
Day 12 - September 8
From the small town of Egvekinot, which was established in 1946 as a seaport to supply material to the developing mining industry, we will travel by Urals (large Russian made trucks) on an expedition into the tundra interior. This journey will take us across the tundra where reindeer herders graze their herds. We plan to meet up with these nomadic people to learn more about them and their lifestyle. There will be the option to camp out overnight or return to the ship in Egvekinot.
Day 13 - September 9
For those who opted to camp out, we will continue our exploration of the region, returning to the ship mid afternoon. For those who returned to the ship last night you will have the opportunity to visit the local museum and explore the surrounding landscape.
Day 14 - September 10
On arrival at Anadyr, around midday, we will use our zodiac craft to take you ashore to hotels if you are continuing your stay or to connect with flights.

Grade A:
General good health necessary.
No specific fitness requirements.

The expedition is ship-based, and physically not very demanding. Although we spend as much time as possible ashore, you are welcome to remain aboard the ship if you like. To join the voyage, you must be able to get up and down steps between the different ship levels and up and down the gangway to board the zodiacs for the excursions ashore.

Rodney Russ - Expedition Leader
Rodney trained with and worked for the New Zealand Wildlife Service (now Department of Conservation) as a "Protected Species Officer" - responsible for the management and conservation of rare and endangered bird species. His work took him the length and breath of New Zealand and to the Sub Antarctic Islands. He left the department to further his studies at the University of Otago - where he completed a double degree in New Zealand and Pacific History and theology.

He became more passionate about the need to share the natural world with people, emphasising the need for advocacy in a successful conservation strategy.

The company has put a lot of energy and effort back into conservation work in New Zealand. In the last five years the company has invested over US$100,000 dollars in support and cash for the Fiordland Crested Penguin - a project which was instigated by Rodney. Wandering Albatross research work in the Sub Antarctic has received considerable support.

In addition to New Zealand Expeditions Rodney has led expeditions to the Pacific and Asia and more recently to South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula. His goal in everything that he does is to provide opportunities which enhances the travellers experience and understanding of the natural world.

Our Expeditions are also led by some of the most experienced Southern Ocean naturalists, who have devoted a lifetime to research in this region.

On board the ship: The ship is heated throughout with the normal temperature 17-25C. In keeping with our expeditions atmosphere, dress on board is informal. Bring casual and comfortable clothing. Keep in mind that much of the spectacular scenery can be appreciated from deck, which can be slippery. Bring sturdy shoes with no-slip soles and make sure the parka is never far away in case of the call "Whales" comes over the load speaker and you have to dash outside. Wear layers since it is comfortably warm on board the ship - and cold out on deck. There may be an occasion, ie: Christmas Day, New Year's Eve or a spontaneously Posh Night where you may require clothing that is a little more formal.

Tips to stay comfortable & warm in cold weather:

Avoid overdressing to reduce perspiration.

Wear water repellent outer garments that will keep you dry on the outside and still breathe enough so that moisture from you body can escape.

Body heat is most likely to be lost from parts that have a lot of surface area in comparison to total mass - namely, the hands and feet. Keep them warm and dry. For hands, mittens are better than gloves.

If the rest of your body is covered, as much as 90% of heat can come from your head, so be sure to wear a hat, beanie or balaclava. These items can be pulled down to protect your ears, forehead, neck and chin. The neck also needs protection with a woollen or synthetic scarf that can be wrapped around the face, when travelling against the wind.

Dress comfortable, loose layers. For anyone out in the cold, it is far better to wear layers of relatively light, loose clothing than one thick, heavy item. Between each layer there is a film of trapped air which, when heated by your body, acts as an excellent insulator. Keep from overheating.

Wool and silk are superior to cotton because they can trap warm air. Synthetic fabrics that spring back into shape after compression are also good. When damp or wet, polyester down is better insulator than goose or duck down. Polar fleece is popular and recommended.

Essential Items

Warm Trousers

Waterproof trousers

Thermal Underwear

Sweaters/Jerseys

Turtlenecks

Mittens and Gloves

Woollen Hat or Balaclava

Warm Socks

Rubber Boots (Gumboots or Wellingtons as we commonly call them)

Waterproof & Windproof Jacket

Backpack

Sunglasses

A pair of Binoculars - highly recommended.

Optional items:

Sandals or similar (slip on sandals) are very useful to wear around the ship

Earplugs may be useful if sharing a cabin with a snorer.

Our Expedition Vessel 'Spirit of Enberby' (Professor Khromov) is one of the best run ships of it kind. On board the atmosphere is peaceful and warm, more akin to a private yacht than a cruise ship.

With just 48 passengers a very tangible camaraderie is created amongst passengers and crew. The ship is under the command of an experienced team of Russian Officers, with New Zealand and Australian hotel and expedition staff.

Built in 1984, the Spirit of Enberby measures 72 metres in length and is fully ice-strengthened. Powered by two, 1,156 horse power, diesel engines. It is capable of speeds of up to 12 knots. The vessel is fitted with stabilisers, making travel much more comfortable.

Excellent accommodation is provided in twin share cabins, approximately half of which have private facilities and the remainder shared facilities. On board is a bar, library and lounge.

We encourage you to spend time on the bridge to witness our experienced captain and officers in action, recognised as experts in polar navigation. Our team of expert staff are always on hand to assist with every need and question. Throughout the voyage we maintain a lookout for seabirds, dolphins or whales and keep an expedition log, a bound copy of which will be sent to everybody at the conclusion of the expedition.

The key to these expeditions is the fleet of semi rigid inflatable Naiad (Greek for water nymph) craft, also known as zodiacs. These extremely safe and stable craft will land you at some of the most amazing places, where few others have ever been.

Dining is informal and relaxed, and the cuisine outstanding. Award winning chefs prepare delicious meals and are able to cater for any special dietary requirements. A selection of fine New Zealand and Australian wines is available.

Heritage Suite: has a large lounge area, a separate bedroom with double bed, a single bed in the lounge, writing desk, wardrobe, drawers, fridge. There is a private bathroom with shower, toilet and washbasin. There are large forward and side facing windows with great views.

Mini Suite: has a small bedroom with a 3/4 bed and a single bed in the lounge, wardrobe, drawers, a desk and a private bathroom with shower. toilet and washbasin. This suite has windows.

Superior Plus: Cabins have two lower berths, wardrobe, drawers, a private bathroom with shower, toilet and washbasin. These cabins have windows.

Superior: Cabins have one bunk, wardrobe, drawers, a desk, a private bathroom with shower, toilet and washbasin. These cabins have windows.

Main deck: Cabins have two lower berths, wardrobe, drawers, a desk, washbasin. The nearby showers and toilets are shared with other Main deck cabins.

Main deck triple: This cabin has one bunk and one lower berth, wardrobe, drawers, a desk and washbasin. The nearby showers and toilets are shared with other Main deck cabins.

What type of ship to shore communication facilities does the ship have?
a) Phone: Telephone calls can be made from the ship by the Inmarsat system or the Iridium phone.
b) Fax: Fax messages can be sent from the ship to any fax number anywhere in the world. Charges for outgoing faxes will appear on your ships account.
c) Emails: Emails can be sent to the ships email address. To send messages to this address the sender must be registered with Xantic ( www.xantic.net). There will be a charge for all redirected email messages and this will show on the relevant ship board account. It is possible to send emails to any address anywhere in the world from the ship and a charge will appear on your ship account for any emails sent.

What currency is accepted on board?
The U.S. dollar is the standard currency on board. We will however accept New Zealand and Australian currency at the current exchange rate.

Can you cater to specific dietary requirements?
Our chefs can prepare food according to special dietary needs providing we are notified at the time of final payment. We regret that no kosher or vegan meals can be offered.

Can I recharge my batteries and use electrical appliances on board (ie: hairdryer)?
Power on board is 220V (AC current) with outlets being recessed, round 2 pronged European type. If you plan to bring the American standard 110V equipment with flat pronged plug, you will need to bring a convertor and a round 2 pronged European type adaptor plug. Please check your equipment to be sure you bring what is necessary for your personal needs.
Special note for video equipment battery packs: Please check with a camera source and bring with you a convertor adequate for recharging your pack if your equipment is 110V and needing to be converted to the 220V on board.

How sea sick will I be?
All people wonder if they will be sea sick, the answer to this is difficult as it depends entirely on the individual. From our experience we expect a small percentage of people to get sick and then recover for the remainder of the voyage. If you think you are susceptible to sea sickness then it is a good idea to be prepared. Motion sickness tablets or Scopolamine patches (Scopoderm) can be purchased from your local chemist. Please remember if you are concerned, commence these before the voyage starts (as directed on the information for each medication) rather than after you are already sick.

Not included in expedition fee:
Airfare to and from your home to the port of departure.
Items of a personal nature such as insurance, and excess baggage charge.
Passport, visa and vaccination fees.
On board the ship: beverages, communication charges, medical supplies, laundry, sea shop purchases.

Single Travellers:
Single travellers who wish to share their cabin/hotel room should so indicate on the booking form. The published per person double occupancy fare is guaranteed in this case, whether or not a cabin mate is available.

Payment: Although we advertise the price of this expedition in U.S. dollars we will be charging you in the equivalent amount of New Zealand dollars. We will be using the current exchange rate on the day of making the booking but as exchange rates are constantly changing we cannot guarantee that your credit card bill will come out to the exact US dollar price as advertised. Please also allow for currency conversion fees charged by your bank (usually between 1% and 3%).

Deposits: A deposit of 25% of the expedition fee is required upon booking to confirm participation. The balance of the fee is payable 90 days prior to departure date.

Cancellations:
Cancellations must be received in writing. For cancellations received more than 120 days before departure date, a full refund will be made less $US400.00 fee per person for administration/handling fee. For cancellations received within 120 days of your embarkation date, the full deposit is forfeited. The full expedition fee is forfeited if your notice of cancellation is received within 90 days of your departure date. On forwarding the deposit you agree to be bound by the terms and conditions found here.

Travel Insurance: We strongly recommend that travellers purchase trip cancellation protection and/or travel insurance at the time of booking.

Price Changes
We reserve the right to alter our prices should there be substantial changes in tariffs, exchange rates, cost of fuel, labour or materials.

Itinerary Changes
Due to the nature of our expeditions, weather, ice or government regulations may require changes to be made to the itineraries and/or the cancellation of certain shore excursions. Every attempt will be made to adhere to the itineraries described within the limits of safety and time. The ships captain has the last word on any decision made with regard to the vessels itinerary and it is understood that such a decision will be made in the interest of safety of the vessel and of all the passengers on board. In the event of changes, passengers have no right to any refund or other compensation. Expedition fees are based on group participation. Should you choose not to take to part in any activity or make use of services provided, no refund will be made.

Notes: This trip is run in conjunction with another operator.