Jewel of the Russian Far East

Voyage along the  Cold War ‘frontier zone’ previously off-limits to foreigners | 25 days

The eastern seaboard of Russia dominates the North Pacific and yet very few people know anything about the coastlines of Chukotka, Koryak and Kamchatka, let alone have been there.

This isolation has protected one of its most valuable assets – its wilderness and to some degree, its wildlife.

The area was considered an important ‘frontier zone’ during the Cold War, so it was off-limits to foreigners. Even Russians had to get special permission to travel here. These limitations were changed in 1991/92 with Perestroika but that didn’t make it more accessible. If anything it is probably less accessible now than it was, as there are fewer people living in the region. This makes it the perfect destination for Expedition Cruising.

In winter much of the shoreline is choked by ice but, during spring and summer, the region is a hive of activity. In September the thousands of birds that migrated here will be preparing to leave. The reindeer and mountain sheep will feed in preparation for the harsh winter, while fat Kamchatka brown bears, which have gorged on berries in the early summer then feasted on salmon in the rivers and creeks, will be dozing in the late summer sunshine.

Autumn’s arrival paints vibrant colours on the tundra-cloaked hillsides and on this journey from Nome, Alaska to Otaru, Japan we will make numerous landings to experience untamed and beautiful landscapes..

Ship:                   Heritage Adventurer

When:                Normally one departure annually in September

Guide price:     Please ask

Important note: As a result of the Russia-Ukraine war, these voyages are suspended until further notice. We continue to watch the situation carefully and will issue updates accordingly.

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