As the World’s First Discovery Yachts, the two Scenic Eclipse vessels set a new standard for ocean cruising in terms of luxury, size and technology and significantly, their ability to explore territories previously off-limits to travellers.
Places like the White Sea, for example, are still considered an exotic, mysterious destination due to its geographic isolation in the Arctic. Once firmly closed to the world behind the iron curtain, this largely untouched region is now within reach of the Scenic Eclipse yachts.
One of Russia’s smaller seas at 90,000 square-kilometres (34,750 square-miles), the mostly freshwater White Sea empties into the Barents Sea, the body of water separating the Kola Peninsula from mainland Russia.
Only accessible during northern summer months, the natural beauty and rich history of the area will leave intrepid visitors under its spell.
During the 15th century, the White Sea’s Solovetsky Islands were populated by hermit monks in a fortified monastery.
Its most famous ‘resident’ of the time was the one-time Metropolitan of Moscow, Phillip II, who openly dared to contradict royal authority during the rule of Ivan the Terrible. Phillip came to an untimely death in the monastery under order of the Tsar in 1569 for refusing to bless Ivan and publicly rebuking his reign of terror.
Throughout the preceding centuries, the islands were largely at peace, becoming an economic and political centre of the White Sea. During the mid-1600s, 54 salt-works, trapping, fishing, iron-works and pearling funded the monastery’s growth.
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From 1922 to 1939, the monastery was used as a prison camp for thousands of political dissenters but today, along with the Solovetsky Islands, it is protected as a World Heritage-listed cultural site.
This region is one of the world’s most remote and fascinating places to explore – if you have the access. With Scenic Eclipse, you do.
13-days “Behind the Iron Curtain” with Scenic Eclipse
The White Sea is a treat for explorers at heart who long to experience the magic of an untamed territory. You can discover the region while indulging in 6-Star all-inclusive luxury.
Your journey begins in Norway’s northernmost port of Tromsø, where you will cruise past North Cape to Murmansk, the entry point to the Russian Arctic, before continuing onto Archangelsk and the Solovetsky Islands in the White Sea.
Throughout the journey, visit medieval monasteries and Gulag museums, while marvelling at the remnants of ancient cultures set against a high arctic backdrop. From your private verandah, watch migratory birds and admire passing pine and spruce trees that sit beneath snow-capped mountaintops. The arctic waters are also rich in marine life.
The people who inhabit the region are hardy folk with a proud heritage – from mushroom gatherers to Orthodox monks, you will meet fascinating characters eager to share their stories.
What to expect onboard Scenic Eclipse
- Spacious all-verandah suite accommodation
- Personal service with an almost 1:1 guest-to-staff ratio
- Up to 9 dining venues, from casual to fine dining plus 24-hour in-suite dining
- Unlimited complimentary beverages
- Butler service for every guest
- Spa Sanctuary & plunge pools
- Gym, yoga & pilates studio
- Indoor and outdoor swimming pools
- Expert Discovery Leaders on all cruises
- Daily entertainment and discovery presentations
- Complimentary Polar Parka with separate inner and use of special waterproof boots
- Complimentary self-service guest laundry
- Complimentary Wi-Fi internet
- Return airport transfers
Onshore inclusions
- Comprehensive choice of shore excursions
- Exclusive Scenic Enrich experiences
- Your choice of Scenic Freechoice activities
- Expert local guides
- Zodiac and kayak excursions
- Explore below the surface in the yacht’s submarine*
- Soar above and beyond by helicopter*
- Bottled water for all shore excursions
- Chef-prepared picnics
On-board Features
- State-of-the-art Theatre
- Internal climate controlled mud room with storage for your discovery excursion kit
- Custom designed marina platforms for easy and protected access
- Exterior cameras and Remote Operating Vehicle for surround and underwater viewing streamed live to your suite
- Fleet of tenders, Zodiacs and kayaks
- Two helicopters*
- Submarine capable of diving to a depth of 200 metres*
* Two helicopters only in Antarctica; Helicopter and Submarine excursions subject to regulatory approval and at additional expense
Itinerary
Day 1 – Tromsø, Norway
Landing in Tromso, you are now above the Arctic Circle, from the airport you will be transferred to Scenic Eclipse for your exploration of Russia and the White Sea.
Meals included: Dinner
Day 2 – Alta > North Cape
Set sail from magical Alta, renowned as one of the best places on earth to witness the Northern Lights and also its Viking and Sami culture. From the comfort and opulence of the World’s First Discovery Yacht, you’ll experience the remarkable Midnight Sun as you sail towards the Northern Cape, Europe’s northernmost point and home to millions of seabirds including puffins and gannets.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3 – Alta > North Cape
Continue sailing to the North Cape.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4 – Murmansk, Russia
Today you’ll explore the formerly ‘top-secret’ city of Murmansk. The largest Russian seaport on the Arctic Ocean, it boasts a rich military naval history including WW2 and the Cold War. Its fascinating history is evident in its museums, monuments and churches.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5 – Cruising the White Sea
For years, the White Sea was a forbidden area and, even today, because of its geographical location, it remains a mystery. Enjoy the incredible landscapes as you sail south cruising through the small islands in this region. On board you’ll find the Observatory Lounge equipped with telescopes is the perfect place to relax and take in the beautiful surroundings. Dependent on the weather and tides, take discovery excursions each day to see migratory bird colonies, visit abandoned Pomor villages and see prehistoric stone labyrinths.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6 – Cruising the White Sea
Continue sailing the White Sea.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7 – Cruising the White Sea
Continue sailing the White Sea.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8 – Solovetsky Islands & Archangelsk
Solovetsky is home to the most powerful monasteries in the Russian empire. This medieval monastery dates back to 1429 and is now a historical and architectural complex and a destination for worship and pilgrimage. You’ll spend three days exploring the fascinating history of these islands with an expert guide, on-hand to bring to life the intriguing past of this destination.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9 – Solovetsky Islands & Archangelsk
Continue exploring the Solovetsky Islands.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10 – Solovetsky Islands & Archangelsk
Continue exploring the Solovetsky Islands.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 11 – At sea
Relax at sea on board Scenic Eclipse.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 12 – At sea
Relax at sea on board Scenic Eclipse.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 13 – Tromsø, Norway
Transfer to the airport for your onward flight.
Meals included: Breakfast
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ARE YOU READY TO EXPLORE THE WHITE SEA?