Explore Russia and the White Sea

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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.

Tromso — The departure point for your amazing adventure is charming Tromsø, Norway.

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

Scenic Eclipse - Owner's Penthouse exterior. — Scenic Eclipse – Owner’s Penthouse exterior.

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

Scenic Eclipse kayaking with whales in Antarctica.

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

The Observatory gives you a taste of the opulence on board this luxury discovery yacht. on board

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.