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ARCTIC P Schichau-Unterweser

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A General Description of Motor Yacht ARCTIC P

This motor yacht ARCTIC P is a 88 metre 287 (foot) important steel ship which was created at Schichau-Unterweser and devised by Schichau-Unterweser. A considerable converted private yacht ARCTIC P is a particularily high quality German built superyacht which was launched to accolade in 1969. Accommodating 12 guests and 25 qualified crew, motor yacht ARCTIC P used to be called Arctic Research; Arctic as her shipyard project name and/or actual name. She could be considered a classic converted private yacht.

Arctic P was converted and owned by Australian businessman Kerry Packer, who died in 2005. At the time of his death, Packer was reported to be the richest and one of the most influential men in Australia.

The Construction & Designing relating to Luxury Yacht ARCTIC P

Schichau-Unterweser was the naval architecture company involved in the professional vessel composition for ARCTIC P. Schichau-Unterweser is also associated with the yacht wider design collaboration for this yacht. Germany is the country that Schichau-Unterweser constructed their new build motor yacht in. After her official launch in 1969 in Bremerhaven the boat was then delivered on to the happy owner after sea trials. A impressive area is manifested with a maximum beam (width) of 14.78 metres / 48.5 feet. With a 7.4m (24.3ft) draught (maximum depth) she is reasonably 7.4 (24.3 ft). The material steel was used in the building of the hull of the motor yacht. Her superstructure over the hull is created from steel. In 2008 extra refitting and updating was also finished.

M/Y ARCTIC P Engineering Figures / Propulsion:

Fitted with two DEUTZ-MWM diesel engines, ARCTIC P can reach a maximum speed of 22 knots. For propulsion ARCTIC P has a single screw propeller. She also has an efficient range of 18000 nautical miles when underway at her cruise speed of 20 knots. Her total HP is 13190 HP and her total Kilowatts are 9706. Regarding thrusters she utilises Tornado.

Accommodation Capacity Offered On Superyacht ARCTIC P:

The important luxury yacht motor yacht ARCTIC P can sleep up to 12 people and 25 crew members.

A List of the Specifications of the ARCTIC P:

Further information on the yacht.

Her deck material is predominantly a steel-teak deck.

ARCTIC P Disclaimer:

The luxury yacht ARCTIC P displayed on this page is merely informational and she is not necessarily available for yacht charter or for sale, nor is she represented or marketed in anyway by CharterWorld. This web page and the superyacht information contained herein is not contractual. All yacht specifications and informations are displayed in good faith but CharterWorld does not warrant or assume any legal liability or responsibility for the current accuracy, completeness, validity, or usefulness of any superyacht information and/or images displayed. All boat information is subject to change without prior notice and may not be current.

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Arctic & Antartica Yacht Charters

Welcome to Secret Atlas Charters

Arctic & antarctic yacht charters, arctic yacht charters in svalbard, greenland, arctic canada, and norway., antarctica yacht charters in south georgia, the falkland islands and the antarctic peninsula..

Welcome to Secret Atlas Yacht Charters. Our teams and ships have extensive experience exploring the polar regions from North to South. 

We offer a range of expedition yachts for charter in the Arctic including Svalbard, Greenland, Canada and Norway. In the south we offer yacht charter in Antartica, South Georgia and the Falkland Islands. 

We work with highly experienced captains and expedition leaders with decades of polar experience that will ensure your expedition takes your further exploring the Arctic and Antarctic regions.

Our expedition ships are available for charter for private individuals and groups, photographers, film, media and TV productions and scientific and research missions. 

Our Charter Yachts & Ships

Expedition Motor Yacht

Areas of charter: Svalbard, Greenland, Northwest Passage, Norway, Antarctica, Falkland Islands & South Georgia.

Accommodation: 12 Guests in 9 en-suite cabins

Info: A modern ice-strengthened expedition vessel rebuilt from the ground up in 2023. Large rear lounge with comfortable seating and well proportioned windows, on deck hot tub and sauna, modern interiors, modern ensuite cabins and a 2nd lounge area on the bridge. 

Areas of charter: Svalbard & Norway

Accommodation: 12 Guests in 9 ensuite cabins

Info: A modern explorer yacht with an ice strengthened hull. Large, bright modern interior. 9 spacious cabins with ensuite, large open plan lounge and dining area with large windows, and an on deck hot tub and sauna. 

Areas of charter: Svalbard, & Norway

Accommodation: 12 Guests in 6 ensuite cabins

Info: A former research vessel that has been tastefully converted into an explorer yacht. Guest lounge with sofas and a large tastefully decorated saloon. 6 ensuite cabins. A low freeboard at the stern and viewing platforms are ideal for photography.

Areas of charter: Svalbard, Norway & Greenland

Accommodation: 12 Guests in 6 cabins

Info: An elegant tall ship from a bygone era. Large original saloon with beautiful woodwork and classic fittings. Below decks there are 6 ensuite cabins and a large sauna. Ideal for explorers looking to sail on a real classic ship.

Expedition Sailing Yacht

Areas of charter: Svalbard, Greenland, Norway & Iceland

Accommodation: 8 Guests in 4 cabins

Info: A state of the art expedition sailing vessel with a lifting keel designed for exploration of the polar regions. The vessel accommodates 8 passengers in 4 comfortable cabins that can be used as singles or doubles. There is a warm enclosed wheelhouse with large observation windows and seating. There is a warm, spacious saloon and sauna onboard.

Areas of charter: Greenland

Accommodation: 12 Guests in 6 bunk cabins 

Info: An ex-Finnish government icebreaker newly converted as a comfortable and luxurious expedition yacht with sauna, master suite, fully en-suite accommodation for 12, wood-panelled lounge and large decks. Ideal for venturing to areas other ships can’t reach. Film & TV, Scientific and research and private expeditions.

Are you looking for an Arctic yacht charter but can’t see a vessel that fits your requirements?

We have an extensive portfolio of over 50 Arctic vessels available for charter including motor yachts, icebreakers sailing yachts and expedition vessels. We offer a free vessel finding service. Please contact us with your requirements and we will do the rest.

Areas of Expertise

Private yacht expeditions.

Film and TV

Ski and Sail

Heli-skiing 

Charter for Tour Operators

DX Expeditions & Science

Expedition Teams & Logistics 

Private yacht charters & expeditions.

We have a proven track record taking our clients on outstanding private yacht charters to explore the polar regions. Svalbard and Greenland offer incredible destinations in the north for Arctic yacht charter. In the South, we offer yacht charters in Antartica, the Falkland Islands and South Georgia.

We have a range of comfortable expedition ships to choose from accommodating up to 12 guests. We offer two Arctic yacht charter options for private hire.

• Charter a fully crewed vessel. This includes a highly experienced captain, crew and chef. This option is ideal for individuals with their own expedition team.
• Charter a fully crewed vessel as above with an expedition team. This is aimed at individuals that would like to go on their own private expedition. In addition, we will provide all the logistics, permitting and expedition leader on your behalf. 

Please visit our Private Yacht Expeditions page for more information on planning your private charter.

Film & TV Yacht Charter 

We have extensive experience in chartering vessels for film and TV productions in the Arctic regions including Svalbard and Greenland and in Antarctica. We have a range of vessels available to use as filming platforms and logistics support for teams looking to film in remote polar regions including icebreakers and expedition vessels. We work with highly experienced captains and crew with decades of experience exploring and navigating polar waters.

We can provide advice on the best type of vessel to fit your requirements. We also offer full service expedition support including expedition teams, specialist film crews including drone operators and divers.

Please contact us to find out more about our Arctic yacht charters.

Expedition Ship Charter for Tour Operators

We offer a modern fleet of ice-strengthened expedition ships that are available for charter by tour operators looking to take their clients on a once in a lifetime exploration of the polar regions. Our vessels all have comfortable, modern interiors, and outstanding safety. Many of our vessels have ice strengthened hulls and they are built to withstand the harsh polar environment whilst also offering a high level of comfort to our guests. 

Our vessels are available to charter with or without an expedition team. Secret Atlas offer a full white label service for operators looking to expand into the polar regions, and we can run the expedition on your behalf through your brand.

Our speciality is expedition yachts that take 12 guests and we have ships available for charter in Svalbard, Greenland, Antarctica and the Falkland islands. 

Please contact us to find out more about our Arctic yacht charters for tour operators.

We offer a full charter service for ski and sail expeditions in Norway, Svalbard, Greenland & Antarctica. 

We have a large selection of vessels available for charter including ice strengthened expedition motor yachts, sailing yachts, tall ships and larger cruise ships.

We have extensive experience navigating the polar waters in search of the perfect ski and sail adventure, working alongside professional skiers and mountaineers. 

Find out more about our ski and sail destinations here.

We charter our ships for heli-skiing expeditions in some of the remotest parts of the world including Greenland and Antarctica. 

We have a number of vessels available for charter in Greenland that offer outstanding levels of comfort but are also designed for the practicalities of an expedition.  

Please contact us to find out more about our yacht charters for heli-skiing expeditions. 

We can support your diving expedition in the polar regions on our expedition yacht charters. We provide equipment and support to diving expeditions including tanks, compressors and cold water dive gear.

Our previous expeditions have included ice diving in Disko Bay in Greenland for the Natural History Museum in Paris. 

Please contact us to find out more.

DX Expeditions & Scientific Research

We have vast experience in the high Arctic, including Svalbard, Greenland and Canada providing ships for scientific research and DX expeditions. We have completed numerous scientific and private expeditions over the past decade. Our clients include the NYU, Environment Canada, NASA/JPL, U.S.NAVY UWC, UCI.

We are happy to provide advice on the best type of vessel to fit your requirements. We can provide expedition leaders trained in polar bear protection along with permitting and planning. Please contact us to find out more.

Expedition Teams & Logistics

We provide support and logistics for expeditions in the Arctic and Antarctica. This can include Arctic Yacht Charter for your expedition, arranging permits and planning, and supplying an expedition team to accompany you and your team.

Our team of expedition leaders has decades of experience leading expeditions all over the polar regions including science, tourism and media production.

Arctic & Antarctic Yacht Charter Destinations

We have a large portfolio of vessels for charter across the polar regions. We have a wealth of knowledge and expertise to help you find the right vessel for your expedition.

Svalbard Yacht Charter

Located in the high Arctic between Norway and the North pole, Svalbard is an easily accessible polar destination making it ideal for exploring. It is a favourite for tour operators, private expeditions and film productions due to its abundance of wildlife and beautiful landscapes. 

We have a fleet of modern expedition ships available to charter in Svalbard ranging from 8 guest expedition sailing vessels to hi end ice-strengthened motor yachts and luxury yachts. Plan a private Svalbard Yacht Charter with Secret Atlas. Find out more here.

Greenland Yacht Charter

The largest island on Earth is located between Canada and Europe and makes for some great exploring. Greenland is famous for giant icebergs, stunning landscapes and remote wilderness making it the ideal place to explore on a private expedition. 

We have a selection of vessels for charter in Greenland. Some of our expedition yachts are based in Greenland all year round whilst other are positioned there during the summer season. We have supported media companies, logistics companies, and tour operators with yacht charter in Greenland. Find out more here.

Arctic Norway Yacht Charter

Tromsø is located high above the Arctic circle on the Norweigan mainland. During the summer months it is possible to cruise the Lofoten Islands and visit remote villages and beaches under the midnight sun. During the winter the northern lights are visible and the area has a high concentrations of whales.

We offer a number of yachts for charter in Tromsø during the summer and winter months. The summer is an ideal time for exploring on a private expedition. During the winter months we have modern, comfortable vessels available to charter for northern lights and whale watching. Find out more here.

Canadian Arctic Yacht Charter

The Canadian Arctic stretches far into the polar latitudes and is home to remote settlements, diverse Arctic wildlife and immense landscapes. 

Our team has extensive experience conducting expeditions into the Canadian Arctic. We have several vessels that are within range of the Canadian Arctic departing from Greenland, Iceland or North America.

Northwest Passage Yacht Charter

The Northwest Passage is the fabled sea route between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans that traverses remote regions in the Arctic. 

The team at Secret Atlas has experience delivering expeditions in the North West passage and can provide ships for charter, expedition teams and support with permitting and logistics.  

Antarctica Yacht Charter

Antarctica is the most remote continent on Earth surrounded by the Southern Ocean. Our teams have decades of experience delivering expeditions to Antarctica. 

We have a number of options available for yacht charter in Antarctica including ships for tourism, science & research and media production. We use modern, ice-strengthened vessels that are built for the harsh Antarctic environment. 

We offer logistics, guiding and and support  alongside our Antarctica yacht charters. We offer private yacht expeditions to explore Antarctica with the option to fly there and begin your expedition on the Antarctic Peninsula. 

South Georgia Yacht Charter

Located 900 miles from the Falkland Islands, South Georgia is one of the most remote islands on the planet and home to large concentrations of wildlife seen nowhere else on Earth.

South Georgia is only accessible by the sea from either the Falkland Islands or Antarctica. We have vessels capable of safely reaching the South Georgia that can be chartered for scientific, tourism or media productions. 

Falkland Islands Yacht Charter

Located approximately 400 miles from the coast of Argentina, The Falkland Islands is known for it’s fantastic wildlife, unique scenery and abundance of birdlife. 

Our expedition teams have extensive experience exploring the Falkland Islands. We have a number of vessels available for charter including sailing yachts and small expedition ships for tourism, media productions and private expeditions.

Expedition Vessel Finding Service

We offer a free expedition vessel finding service. With years of industry knowledge, we have a large database of vessels to fit any expedition or mission. We are happy to provide advice on the best type of vessel to fit your requirements. We will ensure you get the best price for your charter directly from the shipping owner on your behalf.

What Our Clients Say

“Ultimately, the survey exceeded expectations and included major successes such as mapping to the faces of several major marine-terminating glaciers.

Of these, the collection of data in Upernavik Fjord stands apart as a particularly remarkable achievement given the exceptional challenge of safely navigating the extremely heavy ice conditions caused by the fjord’s numerous calving glaciers. “

Ian Fenty, Josh Willis, NASA, JPL

Early Results from NASA’s Ocean Ice Mission in Greenland

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Motor Yacht

Arctic P is a custom motor yacht launched in 1969 by Schichau Unterwesser in Bremerhaven, Germany and most recently refitted in 2008.

Arctic P measures 87.58 metres in length, with a max draft of 7.30 metres and a beam of 14.73 metres. She has a gross tonnage of 2,610 tonnes. She has a deck material of teak.

Arctic P has a steel hull with a steel superstructure.

Almost half a century of world-class German engineering. 10 superyachts over 50m. 5 megayachts in the world Top 100. When it comes to building the most iconic yachts on the ocean, with meticulous detail and pinpoint precision engineering, there is no rival to Kusch Yachts.

Her interior design is by C. Kidston.

Arctic P also features naval architecture by Schichau Unterwesser .

Performance and Capabilities

Arctic P has a top speed of 22.00 knots and a cruising speed of 20.00 knots. She is powered by a single screw propulsion system.

Arctic P has a fuel capacity of 1,400,000 litres.

She also has a range of 20,000 nautical miles.

Accommodation

Arctic P accommodates up to 12 guests . She also houses room for up to 25 crew members.

Other Specifications

Arctic P has a hull NB of 1746.

Arctic P is a LR class yacht. She flies the flag of the Bahamas.

• Yacht Builder Schichau Unterwesser No profile available
• Naval Architect Schichau Unterwesser No profile available
• Exterior Designer Kusch Yachts View profile

Yacht Specs

Other schichau unterwesser yachts.

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Arctic - Yacht for Charter

From €450,000 EUR

• Builder Schichau Unterwesser
• Length 87.6m (287ft)
• Year 1970 / 2015

Discover the former tugboat that was transformed into a luxury superyacht and is now equipped with a range of water toys to offer enhanced expeditions anywhere in the world.

This record-breaking explorer yacht is overflowing with amenities, including a cinema, disco, heated pool and fully-equipped gym.

Interior Design & Engineering

A true explorer, the ARCTIC yacht began as a deep-sea salvage tug and was reborn as a luxury superyacht by Kusch Yachts in 1993.

Her rugged exterior was retained and reinforced with 50mm of steel plating on the bow to make Arctic and Antarctic cruising possible. This, combined with her 20,000 nautical mile range, means you can enjoy a yacht charter truly anywhere.

The plush interior of the ARCTIC explorer yacht will keep you cosy, no matter how long the voyage takes. Finished with cream furnishings, soft carpets and light wood panelling, she feels like a comfortable home-from-home.

Your ARCTIC yacht charter can accommodate up to 12 guests in seven cabins. The spectacular owner’s suite is located on the forecastle deck and comes with its own library, games room and outdoor seating area.

The rest of the party will sleep across six further cabins, comprising five double and two twins.

Yacht Facilities & Entertainment

Guests have 600 square meters of space to enjoy on the ARCTIC yacht. The highest point is her monkey island top deck, where a line of seats overlooks the bow to offer exceptional panoramic views.

Behind, on the lounge deck, you’ll find a seated area amidship that’s shaded by a hard top, and lots of space aft to relax in the armchairs or roll out the yoga mat for some morning sun salutations.

Head up to the sundeck to find sun loungers and sun pads waiting for you to top up your tan and plenty of parasols to offer shade. If you want to cool down, you can slide straight down the inflatable slide or throw yourself off the extendable diving platform to plunge into the ocean.

If you prefer your water a bit warmer, you’ll enjoy the Jacuzzi and heated pool that’s hidden from view in the former beach club.

You’ll never run out of places to dine during your ARCTIC yacht charter. The upper deck is equipped with a casual dining area and forward-facing seats that offer 360-degree views. For more formal meals, the interior dining room and the alfresco table on the main deck provide the perfect setting.

If you need to work off any overindulgence, the fully equipped gym and overflowing toy chest will keep you active.

Should you want to entertain, you’ll have a cinema, disco and a barbecue at your disposal.

Toys & Crew

An experienced crew of 28 will deliver unbeatable service during your ARCTIC yacht charter.

Her bursting water toy collection will keep you entertained for hours. She’s got eight jet skis and a heap of paddleboards, kayaks, towables and inflatables. You can practice your scuba diving skills in the pool, which can be adjusted to a depth of two metres.

When you want to head ashore or get closer to the reefs for some scuba diving, there are four 12-metre tenders and two nine-metre tenders waiting for you.

Key Features

• Heated beach house pool
• Expansive sundeck with umbrellas, sunbeds and extendable diving platform
• Large swim platform
• State-of-the-art cinema
• Owner's deck complete with library, games room and sun lounge area
• Monkey island top deck

Interested in Arctic

Onboard facilities.

Arctic comes with the following list of facilities. For details, please speak to your yacht broker or contact us.

'The plush interior of the ARCTIC explorer yacht will keep you cosy, no matter how long the voyage takes.'

Specifications

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87.6m / 287ft

14.3m / 47ft

7.3m / 24ft

Schichau Unterwesser

Naval Architect

Exterior Designer

Kusch Yacht Projekte GmbH

Hull Material

Superstructure Material

Gross Tonnage

Deck Material

Regions & Rates

Summer 2024

From €450,000 per week

Winter 2024-2025

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Maltese Falcon

EXPEDITION SUPERYACHT ARCTIC

A RUGGED RECORD SETTER WITH A STORIED PAST

Instantly recognizable around the world with her distinctive and powerful profile, the 87-meter long Arctic is a record breaking expedition superyacht newly available on the charter market.

A STORIED HISTORY

Originally built in 1969 in Germany as the Arctic Research, she was one of the world’s largest and strongest rescue tugs.

In 1972, she even came to the rescue of the famous Lindblad Explorer in Antarctica. In 1993, she began her conversion into a private expedition superyacht. She has been owned by the same family ever since.

FULL SPECIFICATION

Description

EYOS has been proud to work with Arctic on several expeditions in the Northern and Southern Hemisphere. In 2014, Arctic set sail for the most ambitious expedition a superyacht can undertake. During a four week journey to the Ross Sea, she set a world record for the furthest south that any vessel has ever achieved in history at 78° 43.0336’ S 163° 42.1317’ W – just 677 miles from the South Pole. Arctic’s Captain, Russell Pugh, and her crew were subsequently awarded the International Superyacht Society’s Distinguished Crew award.

Her rugged exterior is matched by a supremely comfortable interior that feels like stepping into a plush family home, and her professional, longstanding 28-member crew have served on board for years. Recent renovations have kept the yacht thoroughly modern, including an expansive beach club with an in-deck swimming pool and Jacuzzi, a full dive center and beach club. Ample deck space ensures Arctic is equally at home whether in the Tropics or the Polar regions. A spacious 90m2 Owner’s Suite is one of the 7 cabins onboard.

Arctic is truly a unique, extraordinary yacht that has the pedigree, atmosphere and capability that few vessels can match. Chartering her welcomes you into her storied history and allows you to write the next chapter.

Key Features

• Plunge Pool
• Movie Theatre
• Dive Center

Gross Tonnage

THE VAST WILDERNESS IS WAITING, WHERE

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ARCTIC Yacht for Charter

1969 / 2021

Overview | Exterior | Interior | Accommodation | Photos | Price

ARCTIC PRICE

From:450,000€p/week

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Yachting Monthly

• Digital edition

High latitude cruising: How to sail to the Arctic

• Katy Stickland
• August 5, 2020

Sailing to the Arctic is on many a sailor's bucket list, but how possible is it for the average cruiser? Seasoned high latitude skipper Brian Black shares his knowledge

The Bestevaer 55, Morning Haze, has been specifically designed for high latitude cruising, but 1970-early 80s GRP boats are also strong enough for Arctic sailing. Credit: KM Yachtbuilders

Planning a voyage to the Arctic is a mix of considering what might happen and preparing to reduce the risks that await in a hostile but compellingly beautiful environment, writes Brian Black .

So why go there in the first place when there are so many wonderful sailing areas closer to home?

For me, the answer lies somewhere between challenge and reward.

Go ahead of icebergs. Going around behind can bring you into contact with growlers and bergy bits that have broken off the main iceberg. Credit: Brian Black

The challenging bit is about testing oneself both physically and mentally.

After all there is little obvious appeal in spending long hours on a cold deck dodging icebergs and the occasional Atlantic gale and even when you get near to where you’re going, an ice strewn shore might prevent you getting close.

Perhaps the answer lies in the reward, which in my case is about gazing on a landscape that few, if any, have seen before.

There is a sense of achievement at sailing a small boat from the green gentle coasts of Ireland into a wilderness of awesome spectacle and when you get home, sharing a pint or two with those who have been with you, changed forever by the experience of the high north.

That’s why I’ve now had nine Arctic seasons ranging from Svalbard in the east across to Greenland and, for those who may be like-minded, I can now offer my thoughts on where to go and the essential elements that need to be considered.

Setting out & routes to reach the Arctic

Plenty of skippers over-winter their boats in Norway or Iceland to extend the following year’s cruising.

However, if you’re starting in UK waters and want to get there and back in the same season, that restricts the cruising area to somewhere between the Norwegian Arctic and east Greenland.

Svalbard lies about 600 miles north of Norway with rewarding opportunities on the way such as the Lofoten Islands, the North Cape and Bear Island at the halfway point.

Svalbard is in reality a group of islands, the main one being Spitzbergen.

Typically you would make landfall somewhere near Hornsund at the south-west corner but the fjord can be tricky, especially if the wind is pushing ice out to sea from the glaciers at the top end.

The stark Arctic wilderness is awe-inspiring, but also makes you feel small and utterly insignificant relative to its scale. Credit: Brian Black

On my first voyage there we had to retreat and then clear the coast by several miles to avoid shallows on the way to Longyearbyen, the main town.

From there you can head on up, either close to the outside of Prins Karls Forland or through the Sundet into Ny Alesund and then on round to the unbelievably beautiful Magdalenefjord.

Depending on ice conditions, a circumnavigation of Sptizbergen is possible by returning south through Hinlopen and then on to Norway’s North Cape.

Iceland abounds with great cruising, fascinating scenery and is an adventure in itself.

A current runs clockwise around the coast but it’s not strong and need not be a major issue in planning a circumnavigation.

I have always left from Stornoway in the Outer Hebrides when bound there.

Weather dictates the passage with reasonably accurate forecasts available from a variety 
of sources.

Heinaey, a sheltered hurricane hole in Vestmannaeyjar. Credit: Brian Black

If the jet stream and weather pattern seem disturbed I opt for the short run to the Faroes and then when conditions are right, leave from Vagar or Eidi with the prospect of about two days at sea before reaching the east coast of Iceland.

Seydisfjordur is the best place if you are changing crew but don’t dismiss the area known as the East Fjords a little further south – they’re great for walking and are less populated.

From there the obvious direction is northabout with some long hauls and the unpleasant prospect of adverse conditions at Langanes, a long peninsula that juts out to sea with tide race conditions at its point.

On the north coast, Husavik makes a good jumping-off point for Jan Mayen – a long way and with no secure anchorages it could be a hard slog with little reward.

Any difficulties you may encounter while heading round the coast are more than compensated for by the Horn with its spectacular cliff scenery and then Isafjordur, a pleasant town with all the repair facilities you may need and a perfect jump-off for Greenland.

An alternative route is via the Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar), a passage of about six days from Scotland.

Heimaey, the only town, is a real hurricane hole where you can re-provision before rounding the Reykjanes peninsula.

An iceberg emerging from the fog. Credit: Brian Black

I have changed crews by docking briefly in the small port of Keflavic on the east side only a few minutes drive by taxi from the international airport.

Reykjavik, the capital city, has much to offer and justifies several days’ stop-over.

All the Icelandic spectacles of pulsing volcanoes, historic sites, waterfalls, thermal vents and glaciers are accessible by hire car or bus from there.

The passage from Isafjordur to east Greenland is about 300 miles and takes 
you across the Denmark Strait which can 
be as nasty a place as you will ever find.

That said, when we crossed in 2016 it was 
in a flat calm with dense fog.

You may encounter icebergs about 100 miles from Iceland but the main concentrations generally occur about 60 miles off Greenland with the prospect of pack-ice shortly afterwards.

Ice leaving a fjord on a falling tide. Credit: Brian Black

The obvious place 
to head for is Ittoqqortoormiit in Scoresbysund.

This is the largest 
fjordic system in the world and has just about everything you could wish for in 
Arctic sailing.

An alternative after re-provisioning is to head back out to sea and up the Liverpool Land coast – splendid, isolated and poorly charted – but is a world of adventure all 
in itself.

From Reykjavik the recognised route is across to Tasiilaq with an airport nearby 
at Kulusuk handling direct flights from Iceland.

The surrounding area makes for 
an ideal cruising ground in reasonably sheltered waters.

What kind of boat for cruising the Arctic?

The starting point in all this is, of course, the boat itself.

Is it strong enough, properly set up with spares on board to meet every eventuality, fuel, water, and food?

The list goes on, so here is a breakdown to summarise my thoughts:

Increasingly, standard production yachts are voyaging to the Arctic but careful consideration must be given to hull strength.

Boats that were built for the marinas of Brittany were not designed to take the stress of pack-ice.

Steel or aluminium hulled yachts, like the Bestevaer 55, are favoured by some Arctic skippers Credit: KM Yachtbuilders

Any skipper considering Greenland or Svalbard should first of all ask the question, is the boat capable of dealing with extreme conditions?

Arctic voyagers with deep pockets favour aluminium or steel hulls.

My sailing has mostly been on the sort of yachts that were built in the late 70s and early 80s when GRP lay-up was on the heavy side compared to today’s standards.

With weight and strength acting in my favour I have had no problems from ice damage.

Checks & preparation before leaving for the Arctic

Do a stem to stern inspection and be honest with yourself, make notes and if you doubt something, have it double-checked.

Chainplates and rigging should have special attention.

Everything breakable on deck should be stress tested – there’s nothing like some competitive club sailing earlier in the season with a bunch of gorillas pushing the boat to its limits; this will soon expose the weak points.

Work on the assumption that anything which can go wrong will go wrong, so gather as much repair and replacement parts as possible.

I have a box of bottle-screws, toggles, bits and pieces of incidental stuff that just might come in handy.

I also carry lengths of rigging wire, bulldog clamps and a couple of lengths of stainless steel threaded rod.

Examine the steering and have a jury rudder ready to install if needs be.

Include a few tubes of construction adhesive – CT1 for instance works under water.

Engine & propeller

Have several fuel filters on board as well as a couple of oil filters.

Although I have never had any problems with contaminated fuel, you just never know so best to be prepared.

Replacing a melted exhaust water trap after an impeller failed due to the cold water. Credit: Brian Black

Bring enough lube oil for at least two oil changes.

A spare propeller makes sense, 
as there is always the danger of bending a blade when weaving through leads in the pack-ice.

And don’t forget a spare impeller, 
if the old one is going to fail you can be 
sure it will happen when the water temperature drops.

Permits for cruising to the Arctic & bureaucracy

Greenland is relaxed about formalities but it would be wise to check with the customs or police at any port of entry.

Stopping in Norway, the Faroe Islands or Iceland while on passage requires you to check in – the formalities 
are generally straightforward.

I have found the officials doing the paper work to be helpful and friendly but they get upset if you ignore them.

Icebergs are beautiful, but can be extremely unstable. Fog is also par for the course in high latitudes. Credit: Brian Black

The rules change, however, if you intend entering a national park.

Svalbard is governed by Norway and a permit from the Syssleman’s office is needed.

This requires advance notice of three months, a non-returnable bond, SAR cover and regular radio check-ins.

Much the same applies to the east Greenland national park.

There are severe penalties for failing to comply with the regulations.

Insurance cover & Medivac

This is a major issue and at the time of writing there is no clear and simple way around the refusal by Lloyd’s of London to underwrite cover for what they deem to be ’risky’ areas.

Let us assume that insurance for the boat can be arranged, then you should give serious consideration to a personal medical health policy.

It would be prudent to find out what provision is made to have you flown home if necessary.

Clothing & gear

Yes, it’s the Arctic and getting there can be brutally cold at sea so be kind to yourself, bring plenty of layers but bear in mind that it can be relatively warm ashore.

My preference is to start with Merino wool next to the skin and work outwards with good quality fleeces and windproof outers.

Pay particular attention to headgear, balaclavas to protect face and nose and make sure to cover your neck.

It’s hard to beat a nice big woolly buff.

Choose bigger boots than usual so you can wear several pairs of socks, and get the best available.

Layering up, starting with Merino wool next to the skin, will help you stay warm while cruising. Credit: Brian Black

Hands are a problem as it may be difficult to do some jobs wearing gloves but fingers will get painfully cold in seconds.

Fingerless mitts may be part of the answer and fleece-lined fishermen’s gloves do a great job of keeping the hands warm and dry.

All sorts of hand-warmers are available and I strongly recommend you bring plenty with you.

Once ashore it can be seriously warm so T-shirts and shorts will often do.

Mosquito bites are a regular problem. Credit: Brian Black

But beware of the mosquitoes and black flies.

I have a head-to-toe mosquito netting suit which works well and be sure to carry stocks of antihistamine ointment.

Don’t forget insect sprays for the boat and have nets ready to cover your hatches.

Stores & fuel

For a long passage in Arctic waters, a deep freeze on board makes sense with meals prepared at home and kept frozen for when needed.

However, I suggest you top up with fresh provisions on the way when possible.

Generally speaking, supermarkets in Norway, Iceland and Greenland will be more expensive than back home but with tinned food as the alternative, the expense is justified.

Refuelling at Town Quay in Greenland. Credit: Brian Black

The golden rule is to make a plan, work out your meals and stock up in your local supermarket before departure.

The initial cost can be frightening but when you work it out, feeding a crew over a period of weeks it is cost-effective.

Bake your bread fresh – there’s nothing quite so homely as the smell of a loaf coming out of the oven but be warned, it will disappear in no time once a hungry crew gets a whiff of it.

Food for warmth and energy is essential but there may be times when cooking will be difficult.

A rising wind, big seas and somebody feeling sick can present a real hazard.

Energy levels drain fast and that can lead to dangerous conditions on deck.

Baking bread can be a great morale booster for the crew

Packet soups can be heated quickly but have little nutritional value so have some quick-to-cook pasta ready, add a little oil, use a vegetable-based sauce (meat can be hard to digest) and insist that everyone eats something.

Morale and efficiency sag rapidly when people are cold and hungry.

The rules about what kind of diesel you can bring are changing so you should keep up to date with guidance in the yachting press.

In the past I have carried as much red diesel as stowage permits and never had a problem with the authorities but who knows what will happen after Brexit ?

Major ports will probably have fuelling docks that are available to leisure boaters.

Be sure to check with the harbour master in advance and check on the internet to see what kind of debit or credit card you will need as most pumps are automated and will not take cash.

Staying in touch

I have found that a Satphone backed up with someone at home keeping an eye on weather systems developing in your sea area makes for an ideal combination.

Ice conditions change, sometimes rapidly, so careful study of the relevant ice charts is needed.

Detailed descriptions and expert advice is available in Arctic and Northern Waters Pilot along with its equivalent publication for Svalbard and the Norwegian coast.

A recent bit of kit is the InReach receiver and transmitter – much cheaper than the Satphone and does a similar job.

Understanding ice conditions and how to cope

This is an area of endless debate amongst those who sail in ice-encumbered waters so I offer my thoughts on a personal basis – others may disagree.

Firstly bergs; my golden rule is to go ahead of them, going around behind can bring you into contact with a trail of growlers and bergy bits that have broken off the main iceberg.

Big ice will show on your radar, the smaller bits probably won’t – especially if any kind of sea is running – so a sharp look-out is essential.

Waiting for a lead to open in pack-ice. Credit: Brian Black

Fog often accompanies ice and that plus wind is a bad combination.

When in doubt, change tack, head out to sea and heave to until conditions improve.

Icebergs are endlessly fascinating but they are unstable and can roll with little warning.

Dealing with pack-ice can present problems.

Again, my view is that anything above three-tenths concentration should be avoided but if you do get beset, don’t force your way out – sit tight, hope for the best and wait for a lead to open.

Anchoring techniques

Some skippers like to anchor bow out from the land and as the fjords are deep you will need plenty of chain – 50 metres if possible and a couple of long lines to attach to something solid on the shore.

This assumes you have chosen a spot clear of passing bergs.

A perfect anchorage in Greenland’s Scoresbysund, clear of the icebergs in deep water. Note the yacht is anchored bow out. Credit: Brian Black

If there is any danger of ice drifting into your anchorage, lie to anchor and be ready to buoy the chain and cast off if you have to.

Carry a tuk – a long pole with a pointed end – to push off any chunks of ice drifting in the anchorage.

Maps & charts

Charts for some areas, especially east Greenland, frequently lack detail and are being overtaken anyway by freshly exposed coastline as global warming accelerates the ice melt.

I have a selection of land maps which in some cases give old sledging routes but are useful to get a ‘feel’ for the landscape.

Electronic charts are based on the most up-to-date hydrographic charts and consequently repeat whatever errors may have been there in the first place.

An Egg ice chart published by the Danish Met Service. Credit: Brian Black

The Danish Meteorological Service publishes regular Egg charts.

These show ice concentrations and direction of drift.

My approach is to use every source of information available, travel with care and keep a lookout in the fjords or near land.

Useful publications:

Arctic and Northern Waters Pilot published by IMRAY (RCCPF) Norway, Oslo – Spitsbergen Pilot published by IMRAY(RCCPF) VIKING Polar Cruise Series Saga Maps Admiralty, Norwegian, Danish and Icelandic charts

Getting home

You can expect extended motoring calms in Arctic waters during July and August interspersed with occasional periods of strong winds and local katabatic howlers .

Conditions can go downhill very fast as more turbulent Atlantic weather starts to dominate from about September onwards.

I exercise caution and get as far south as possible before things change for the worse.

Sailing to the Arctic isn’t for everyone

I’ve been fortunate in my choice of ship-mates.

It’s not always easy to find crew, both male and female, who combine a taste for adventure with self-reliance and compatibility.

But, so far none have jumped ship and most have come back with stories to tell about wild and wonderful places, the challenges and the cold.

High-latitude cruising offers both challenge and reward. Credit: KM Yachtbuilders

Even so, there have been times when we all sat and stared open-mouthed at a glacier collapsing or tried to block out the awful graunching of pack-ice when the boat was beset, waiting for a lead to open.

Lying to anchor with a soughing wind that just keeps on rising until the rigging begins to wail is unsettling enough in familiar waters but it is different in the loneliness of an Arctic fjord.

Continues below…

A guide to high latitude yachts

Yacht cruising within the Arctic Circle has become increasingly popular, 
but what is the best type of yacht for the…

Erik Aanderaa: Viking 
of the 
high seas

Katy Stickland talks to Norwegian sailor Erik Aanderaa about why he searches out the worst weather the North Sea can…

Lofoten Islands: Sailing where the sun never sets

​Greg Bertram cruises up the Norwegian coast from Stavanger to the Lofoten Islands to explore the land of the midnight…

What makes a boat seaworthy?

What characteristics make a yacht fit for purpose? Duncan Kent explores the meaning of 'seaworthy' and how hull design and…

Here, high and hostile mountains frame the horizon emphasising your utter insignificance in the vast emptiness of uncharted waters and massive wilderness.

Brian Black has survived nine Arctic seasons since the mid-1990s and often finds himself getting out of tricky situations at sea

It is stunningly beautiful but just as the cold, the fear and the sense of remoteness are part of the thrill, they can also test resolve.

How can you explain this to someone ‘signing on’?

Perhaps you can’t; in my experience, it’s the daily run of 100 
miles northward that helps to make the adjustment from the familiar to the frightening so by the time boat and crew have reached the high latitudes most people have become conditioned.

A pal who has shared many Arctic adventures with me, Eric Degerland, is a keen photographer.

After a trip, especially in the dead of winter, beside a crackling log fire, he digs out some of those images and just sits there dreaming of the next time.

One of my own pictures hangs in the hall at home and when people come to call and ask about the Arctic I just point at it and say: ‘That’s what it’s all about!’

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Our current and past expeditions

3Y0J DXpedition to Bouvet Island, 105ft ketch S/Y Marama

   Bouvet is a Norwegian volcanic island located at 54°25′S and 3°20′E, in the South Atlantic Ocean, about 1350 nautical miles east of South Georgia, 1500 nautical miles southwest of South Africa, and 900 nautical miles north of its nearest land, Antarctica. For this reason, it is considered the world's most remote island.

   During this project, Bouvet was ranked as #2 on the DXCC Most Wanted List. Arctic Yachts supported a group of 12 radio amateurs in their quest to sail from the Falklands to Bouvet, spend 17 days on the island, make as many radio contacts as possible, and then sail to South Africa.

   This 45-day-long expedition required loading the yacht with 8.5 tons of equipment and fuel, sailing approximately 4000 nautical miles across the Southern Ocean, transferring equipment from ship to shore, setting up a climbing route and camp to spend 16 days on the island, before bringing everything back onboard, and sailing to Cape Town, where the project ended.

Firebird Campaign, 90ft sloop S/Y Firebird

   S/Y Firebird is a luxury bluewater cruiser that has been converted into a proper expedition yacht, designed to comfortably and safely cruise around the world, including the Arctic and Antarctic regions. Firebird engages in numerous mountaineering, glacier hiking, and ski-touring escapades led by highly experienced mountain guides.

   The Firebird campaign is meticulously planned, professionally run, and its worldwide itinerary, combined with its boundary-pushing approach to expedition sailing, makes it one of the most exciting sailing projects of our times.

   Arctic Yachts has been involved in the preparations and ice-piloting of an amazing mountaineering expedition in Svalbard, which included circumnavigating Spitzbergen, cruising along the longest ice shelf in the northern hemisphere, climbing very demanding peaks, and traversing Spitzbergen from West to East. The program for 2023 includes cruising Iceland, West Greenland, and the Northwest Passage.

Documentary film "Jojo"

   We have produced and directed a beautiful short documentary " Jojo ". The story touches on the subjects of disability, the father-son relationship, and the ability to draw energy from love and nature to overcome personal limits and make incredible advances.

   Filming took place in Iceland on the expedition yacht, S/Y Qilak, giving us a great opportunity to share both the beautiful message of main protagonist - Jojo, and our passion for expedition sailing and Arctic nature.

   " Jojo " had its premiere at Cinema Galeries in Brussels in October 2022 and is available to watch on our YouTube channel .

Photography Tour of Svalbard on a 45ft sloop S/Y Aleiga

   We hosted two professional wildlife photographers on a 20-day-long expedition in Svalbard aboard the Owni445 Aleiga, which is operated by the Norwegian charter company Boreal Yachting.

   During this expedition, we scouted 1100 Nm of Svalbard's coastline and had numerous encounters with Arctic wildlife. We also approached the longest ice shelf in the Northern Hemisphere, on the south coast of Nordestlandet.

Documentary Film “Polaris” on 66ft sloop S/Y Qilak

   We supported a film crew led by director Ainara Vera on an expedition in Southwest Greenland in quest of capturing footage for a remarkable feature documentary, “Polaris.”

   The main character of this film, Hayat Mokhenache, is a very experienced expedition captain and a key member of the Arctic Yachts team.

Expedition Sailing Virtual Boat Show

   When the pandemic closed the borders and shut down most of the expedition projects, we came up with the idea to create a virtual event that would promote some of the nicest projects and people operating in the Arctic. During the strict lockdown, we produced a series of video interviews with expedition sailors, guides, and artists in order to connect them with the audience via a dedicated website and our YouTube channel .

   It was a very interesting experience because all of the production took place during a strict lockdown, so we couldn't physically travel and film. Instead, participants filmed themselves and sent us the raw footage, and we edited it the best way we could to share our passion with a wider audience.

   This project resulted in many new connections and brought hope to thousands of enthusiasts of expedition sailing that the pandemic will soon be over and we'll be able to sail back to where we belong.

Scientific Research in Svalbard on 47ft sloop S/Y Arctic Ice

   We hosted a group of climate scientists from the University of Bergen for two weeks on their quest to take sediment samples from the glacial lakes near Dirksbukta in Svalbard.

   The project was carried out on a yacht operated by the Norwegian charter company, Boreal Yachting.

A 100 years of breaking the ice in Russia’s Arctic capital

Murmansk in fall colors. View from Hotel Azimut, the tallest building above the Arctic Circle. Photo: Erika Vartdal

The Arctic is often referred to as a territory of dialogue, immune to changes in the international political environment and especially East-West tensions. But how did this happen? A place of eternal sunshine in the summer and somber darkness in the winter, Murmansk is situated on the Kola Peninsula in northwest Russia. It is by far the largest city north of the Arctic Circle, home to almost 300,000 people, several diplomatic missions, and an ice-free port situated in the heart of the Barents region.

In October 2016, Murmansk celebrated its 100th anniversary—still a young city, and still thriving. “Murman” is an older Russian term meaning “Norwegian.” This connection to Norway is still important to the residents of this Arctic hub. As a gateway to the West, paved through the High North, Murmansk holds a distinct position: the capital of an open meeting place for many actors with high expectations. This brief article showcases how this meeting place came about, and the window of opportunity it has created. A product of its history, the Barents region now has the capacity to seize opportunities in tourism, environmentalism and trade in the post-Crimean geopolitical climate. In doing so, it can strengthen the relationship with the Russian Arctic.

The hero of the North

While the city of Murmansk may only be a century old, the Kola Peninsula already had a major international port in the 16th century. Murmansk has, since its founding, faced turmoil and upswing. After supporting southern Russia in the Civil War, the city fell into despair and recession. The limited growth during the interwar years was short-lived. German aviation bombings hit the Soviet Arctic particularly hard, and left the city in ruins. The Soviet troops liberated their Norwegian neighbors in the North from Nazi occupation, establishing an exceptional, albeit controversial bond going into the Cold War. After defeating the Nazis, the restoration of Murmansk was a top priority—and, as a result, it prospered. The seaport, for example, grew to become one of the biggest in the USSR.  In 1973, the Norwegian city of Vadso twinned with Murmansk, but the border was still closed and heavily militarized. 1) Federova T (2016) Murmansk. 100 years. 1916-1917. I.P. Slavin.

In 1985, Murmansk was awarded the honorary title of a “Hero-city” for outstanding heroism during the war, and the population peaked at almost half a million. It was a short-lived peak, however, since the fall of the Soviet Union led the population to decline. Just then, a new and ambitious political idea emerged: on 11 January 1993, the Declaration on cooperation in the Barents Euro-Arctic Region was signed, formally establishing the Barents region. In total, 13 counties and Indigenous communities from Northern Norway, Sweden, Finland and Russia took part in the agreement, which operates at both regional and governmental level. In the Barents-Euro Arctic Council, the chairmanship rotates every second year between the four countries, and the Foreign Ministers meet at the end of each chairmanship term. The regional council rotates between the various counties. 2) Sirén, A (2012) Review of the Achievements of the Barents Cooperation. Barentsinfo.org, 18 October, http://www.barentsinfo.org/Barents-region/Cooperation/Review-of-the-Achievements-of-the-Barents-Cooperation. Accessed on 15 March 2017. The Barents cooperation encompasses a dynamic array of projects: from a focus on youth development, culture and research to environmental and economic cooperation. Only a few weeks after the declaration was signed, Norway and Finland established diplomatic missions in Murmansk. The borderland became an unlikely meeting place amid post-Cold War frictions—from closed border to closer neighbors. Now, 25 years later, the declaration is more relevant than ever.

Murmansk and the Barents region on the global stage

In the early international discourse on Arctic governance, Murmansk and the Barents region languished in the shadows. Yet, this close relationship emerged from shared interests, and the ambitions of an integrated region. For Northern Norway and Finland, the relationship to Russia has always played a key role in local governance, culture, sports, tourism, and economic growth—and vice versa. Post-Crimea, this cooperation has now found its way into the national discourse: High North and low tension. Regional cooperation with Russia is now a key foreign policy priority for both countries.

People in the Barents Region enjoy more lenient visa regulations and interact with their international neighbors on many levels. In February, border crossings between Norway and Russia increased by 18.3% 3) Nilsen, T Russia (2017) Norway border traffic up 18%. The Independent BarentsObserver, 6 March, https://thebarentsobserver.com/en/borders/2017/03/russia-norway-border-traffic-18. Accessed on 8 March 2017 compared to the same month in 2016, after a significant decline in crossings since 2014. The Barents region also attracts thousands of investors, politicians, students, and researchers to international conferences every year. Since 1993, the Norwegian Barents Secretariat has realized more than 4000 Norwegian-Russian cooperation projects. 4) The Norwegian Barents Secretariat (2016) Funding Program. Barents.no, https://barents.no/index.php/en/barents-secretariat-s-funding-programme. Accessed on 8 March 2017. A review from the Russian side confirms that Russia’s involvement in the Barents cooperation has provided access to Nordic cooperative principles, which is seen as positive. 5) Sirén, A (2012) Review of the Achievements of the Barents Cooperation. Barentsinfo.org, 18 October, http://www.barentsinfo.org/Barents-region/Cooperation/Review-of-the-Achievements-of-the-Barents-Cooperation. Accessed on 15 March 2017. Post-Crimea, this regional cooperation scheme has persisted despite growing East-West tensions. Since 2014, new agreements have been signed in the fields of health cooperation, borderland development and seismic research. Undoubtedly, the ambitious Barents project has contributed to peaceful developments in the European North.

The intricacies of the Barents relationship became evident in late 2015 with the emergence of an “Arctic refugee route.” The unexpected wave of refugees and migrants traveling through Murmansk and Nikel to apply for refugee status in Norway strained local authorities, and required delicate cooperation. By using the institutional mechanisms in place, Norwegian and Russian authorities agreed to jointly address the situation, which was in the interest of both countries. The consequence was an unprecedented attention of the region on the global stage, showing its interconnectedness with the rest of the world. Secondly, it initiated a controversial and ideological immigration debate within national borders in Norway, Finland and Russia. 6) Standish, R (2016) For Finland and Norway, the refugee crisis heats up along the Russian Arctic. Foreignpolicy.com, 26 January, http://foreignpolicy.com/2016/01/26/for-finland-and-norway-the-refugee-crisis-heats-up-along-the-russian-arctic/. Accessed on 8 March 2017. Thirdly, it revealed defects and loopholes in immigration regulations, and tested the region’s ability to handle a large influx of people. Most importantly, because it involved input from both local and national authorities, it showcased the value of establishing networks with the Russian Arctic.

Shared interests, shared partners

Moscow is highly interested in further developing the potentials of the Russian Arctic. To do so, it requires the continued support of its neighbors. In the 21st century, the Murmansk region has experienced a growth in tourism, trade and investment in infrastructure—significantly reducing the travel time from Finland and Norway. The Russian Arctic accounts for more than 20 percent of the country’s total national exports 7) Eilertsen, H (2017) Wants to invest billions in Russian Arctic. Highnorthnews, 6 March, http://www.highnorthnews.com/wants-to-invest-billions-in-russian-arctic/. Accessed on 8 March 2017. with an abundance of natural resources. Yet since 2014, a freeze in economic cooperation and a significant reduction in trade led industries to suffer, with negative consequences for Russia and its neighbors. However, Russia is now planning to renew its fishing fleet, and is looking to Norway for the required maritime technology. 8) Eilertsen, H (2017) Russia’s Ambassador: We want to restore natural neighborly relations. Highnorthnews, 23 February, http://www.highnorthnews.com/russias-ambassador-we-want-to-restore-natural-neighbourly-relations/. Accessed on 8 March 2017. The Murmansk region is also part of a new development program to support eight Arctic Zones, totaling 210 billion rubles investments until 2020. 9) Staalesen, A (2017) Ministry wants to 210 billion rubles for Arctic development. The Independent Barents Observer, 3 March, https://thebarentsobserver.com/en/arctic/2017/03/ministry-wants-210-billion-rubles-arctic-development. Accessed on 8 March 2017. These zones are meant to develop the potential of the Northern Sea Route and facilitate international trade.

All this shows that Russia places serious emphasis on the potentials and capacities of its Arctic regions, of which environmental protection is a priority. 2017 is the year of ecology in Russia, yet environmental challenges from the Kola Nuclear Power Plant in the borderland with Norway are still lurking. Search and rescue, oil spill response, fish stock management, and nuclear safety cooperation have been on the bilateral agenda with Norway for decades, and cited as success stories. This June, a shipment of used nuclear fuel from 100 nuclear submarine reactors in the Murmansk region is scheduled to begin. But reducing cross-border air pollution and liberalization of maritime trade are also in Norway and Finland’s interests. Combined with a desire to maintain a steady dialogue with the other part in the High North, this creates a fertile ground for cooperation – as it has in the past.

Tourism is another vastly unexploited potential; growing in both the Russian, Norwegian and Finnish Arctic. In July 2016, the ports of Murmansk and Arkhangelsk were included in the 72-hour visa-freedom regime for cruise-passengers. Visitors searching for Northern lights, untouched nature and the Arctic experience can worry less about the bureaucratic visa-jungle. In recent years, transport connections have become key priorities within the framework of the Barents cooperation. However, with long distances and few tour operators, the Barents region is not operating as a unified tourist destination. With a brand new sea pier, Murmansk is hoping to change this with Norwegian cruise-companies potentially extending their route from Kirkenes to Murmansk. 10) Nilsen, T (2016) Murmansk hopes Hurtigruten will extend voyage. The Independent Barents Observer, 8 September, https://thebarentsobserver.com/en/industry-and-energy/2016/09/murmansk-hopes-hurtigruten-will-extend-voyage. Accessed on 12 March 2017. In sum, Russia has successfully worked to develop and uphold cities, universities, communities in its North. At the same time, environmental protection generally is a large part of Russia’s Arctic strategy for 2020. For example, high investments are made to reduce air pollution from power plants.. Norway has the exact the same interests, which creates a  mutual vision and thus a good basis for cooperation.

Breaking the ice in 2017

The Barents meeting place has withstood the worst post-Crimea tensions. As a result, it receives growing attention both nationally and globally. But this has also created a political debate dividing the High North and the rest. Most Norwegians south of the Arctic Circle have no relationship with neighboring Russia, and the High North feels far away. This was evident when Oslo decided to build a steel fence against the Russian border—causing disbelief with Norwegians living close to the border. Such unpopular decisions are driving people and politicians in the North to disapprove of the current foreign policies towards Russia. 11) Johnson, H (2016) Norwegians laugh at new fence on Russian border. BBC World, 7 October, http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-37577547. Accessed on 12 March 2017. The Barents region must not settle for this divide, nor fall into the trap of complacency. We are hearing concerns about the Arctic drowning in global international conflicts such as Syria, Brexit, a weakened EU and the refugee crisis. 12) Eilertsen, H (2017) Scientist: The Arctic may drown in global big politics. Highnorthnews, 25 January, http://www.highnorthnews.com/scientist-the-arctic-may-drown-in-global-big-politics/. Accessed on March 12. Therefore, it is more important than ever that the Barents region refrains from resting on the achievements of the past. Rather, it should use its unique vantage point to advance the dialogue with Russia to the next level. Shared management of fish stocks, the 2010 maritime delimitation treaty in the Barents Sea, and people-to-people projects are milestones indeed. But they are milestones of the past.

On 29 March, Norwegian engagement in the Russian Arctic set a new milestone with the first high-level political meeting breaking the ice since 2014. 13) Nilsen, T (2017) Arctic talks for Nordic presidents in Arkhangelsk. The Independent Barents Observer, 16 March. https://thebarentsobserver.com/en/arctic/2017/03/arctic-talks-nordic-presidents-arkhangelsk. Accessed on 26 March. Symbolically, Lavrov and Brende, the Foreign Ministers of Russia and Norway respectively, met for bilateral talks at a conference in Arkhangelsk called “Arctic – Territory of Dialogue.” The expectations prior to this bilateral meeting were high, and a glimpse of optimism of a closer dialogue on the national level followed. Several meetings with representatives from Russia, Norway, Finland, Sweden, Denmark, Canada and Iceland also took place. But more important is the timing of the conference: set at a time when Norway-Russia relations are at an all-time low and East-West tensions higher than in a long time. Nonetheless, the commitment to international cooperation in the Arctic region was confirmed. The conference was prestigious and of high importance to Russia: attended by 1500 participants, including President Vladimir Putin. Again, the Russian Arctic was the place of relief at a crucial time, a relief from the bigger questions that remain unanswered; the situation in Syria, Ukraine and the EU’s economic sanctions on Russia.

As these challenges surface globally, the Barents region is in a position that is rife with opportunities: in tourism, maritime industries, and environmental protection. But how can these opportunities be seized? A first step would be to communicate an understanding of this historical relationship beyond the Barents arena, and to utilize the attention the region has achieved, while continuing to fill the vacuum with dialogue and balancing of respective interests – which was illustrated at the conference in Arkhangelsk. By emphasizing and relying on established networks, these mutual interests were used as examples for why the window of dialogue must continue. Even though the Barents cooperation framework is cited as a success story, it has also become less symbolic. In recent years, it has become more of a political instrument than anyone could have foreseen when the declaration was signed in 1993. Perhaps such a political role was unavoidable post-Crimea, but the region has proved capable of taking on this role. Certainly, it can be a model for communities across the circumpolar world; a model of an unlikely friendship pacing forward in the most challenging of times.

History as the case for engagement

Murmansk holds a vital role in the development of the Russian Arctic and the Barents region. This is attributed not only to its shared history, but also to its social and political proximity with communities who view cooperation as the ultimate key to success in the High North. Through steady, predictable, and close engagement with the Russian Arctic, the multilateral Barents cooperation venture can rightly be characterized as a success story. It established an open meeting place, which has become the recipient of growing attention and national responsibility.

A century after its founding, Murmansk has become a lively society where curious visitors come for a different experience. On the horizon, they will see the 34-meter tall Aloysha soldier overlooking Murmansk. With a machine gun slung over his shoulder, the soldier is looking west, towards the Valley of Glory. This is where the Nazis were defeated after fierce fighting, and this memory still holds value to the people of Murmansk, and represents a sense of identity.

The city still rests on its past, so where will it go in the future? Amid nostalgia from the Soviet era and the memories of the Great Patriotic War, visitors will find a surprisingly modern and developed city with strong universities, top-notch facilities, accessible wildlife and good infrastructure. Murmansk will continue to be the Arctic capital of Russia, with a historic window towards Europe, closely linked to the expectations delegated from Moscow. For its neighbors, engaging with Murmansk has been challenging, but it has borne fruit for all partners. Developing this territory of dialogue requires continued engagement combined with the desire to continue cooperating with Russia as the essential foundation. This foundation is still strong, and holds the prospect for softening East-West tensions. Through its position in the post-Crimean geopolitical climate, the Barents region is equipped to yield more returns. With a past based on dialogue and reciprocity, the region has the potential to claim a bigger stake in the advancement of Arctic affairs. It can use its achievements to continue breaking the ice, to reconcile with its neighbor in the East, and with its own people.

References [ + ]

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Russia-related Designations, Updates and Removal; Counter Terrorism Designation Update; Issuance of Russia-related General Licenses

The Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) is issuing Russia-related General License 13G , "Authorizing Certain Administrative Transactions Prohibited by Directive 4 under Executive Order 14024"; Russia-related General License 74 , "Authorizing the Wind Down and Rejection of Transactions Involving East-West United Bank"; Russia-related General License 75 , "Authorizing Certain Transactions Related to Debt or Equity of, or Derivative Contracts Involving, Certain Entities Blocked on November 2, 2023"; and Russia-related General License 76 , "Authorizing the Wind Down of Transactions Involving Certain Entities Blocked on November 2, 2023."

Additionally, OFAC has updated its Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons List:

The following deletions have been made to OFAC's SDN List: 

PUBLIC JOINT STOCK COMPANY ODK SATURN (a.k.a. NPO SATURN JSC; a.k.a. "SATURN NGO"), 163 Lenina Ave, Rybinsk 152903, Russia; Tax ID No. 7610052644 (Russia); Registration Number 1027601106169 (Russia) [RUSSIA-EO14024].  NPO SATURN JSC (a.k.a. PUBLIC JOINT STOCK COMPANY ODK SATURN; a.k.a. "SATURN NGO"), 163 Lenina Ave, Rybinsk 152903, Russia; Tax ID No. 7610052644 (Russia); Registration Number 1027601106169 (Russia) [RUSSIA-EO14024].  "SATURN NGO" (a.k.a. NPO SATURN JSC; a.k.a. PUBLIC JOINT STOCK COMPANY ODK SATURN), 163 Lenina Ave, Rybinsk 152903, Russia; Tax ID No. 7610052644 (Russia); Registration Number 1027601106169 (Russia) [RUSSIA-EO14024]. 

Unrelated Administrative List Updates:

NOLAN (f.k.a. OSLO) Oil Products Tanker Panama flag; Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886; Vessel Registration Identification IMO 9179701; MMSI 354798000 (vessel) [SDGT] (Linked To: PONTUS NAVIGATION CORP.). -to- NOLAN (f.k.a. "OSLO") Oil Products Tanker Panama flag; Secondary sanctions risk: section 1(b) of Executive Order 13224, as amended by Executive Order 13886; Vessel Registration Identification IMO 9179701; MMSI 354798000 (vessel) [SDGT] (Linked To: PONTUS NAVIGATION CORP.).