POLAR CRUISE SHIPS:  NUCLEAR ICEBREAKER YAMAL 

One of the world's most powerful and sophisticated ships. With a displacement of 23,000 tons, 75,000 total horsepower and a 48cm thick armour steel icebreaker hull, the Yamal is among the world's most powerful and sophisticated ships. Designed as a working vessel to keep shipping lanes open along Russia's Northern Sea Route, the Yamal meets the challenge of the heaviest ice. The ship is a model of technology - and of passenger comfort. One of five icebreakers in this class operated by Murmansk Shipping Company, the Yamal has taken adventurous travelers to the North Pole since 1993.

Quality Accommodation
The vessel accommodates passengers in 50 first class outside cabins and suites, all with private facilities, large windows, desk, television and other comforts. Public areas include a large dining room (accommodating all passengers in one seating), library, lounge, theatre style auditorium, volleyball court and gymnasium, heated indoor swimming pool and sauna. Views are excellent from the navigation bridge (where we are almost always welcome) and the large open decks on several levels. The Yamal has a good polar library and a small infirmary.

Excellent European Cuisine
European master chefs present an excellent, varied, international menu with fine provisions from around the world. A combination of European and experienced Russian staff will serve you aboard. The popular bar is stocked with your favorite spirits, wine and champagne.

Unique Helicopter Excursions
Essential for navigation in the ice, the Yamal carries a helicopter for reconnaissance and passenger excursions. This versatile machine takes us to inland sites and otherwise inaccessible shores. The aerial views of polar landscapes and of our ship as it crashes through meters-thick ice are unique features of the expedition. In addition the Yamal carries Zodiac landing craft which we may use if ice conditions allow.

Expedition Staff, Officers and Crew
Our icebreaker is staffed by an experienced crew of 150, including 50 officers and engineers. With the world's largest and most modern fleet of icebreakers, the Russians are recognized experts in polar operations. The voyage is directed by an expedition leaders and staff chosen for their local knowledge and experience.

Technical Gear
With 75,000 horsepower, a thick armor of steel plate and specialized icebreaking design with double hull, the Yamal is one of few surface ships to have ever reached the North Pole. Icebreaking is assisted by an air bubbling system, delivering hot water from jets below the surface, polymer coatings and the capability of rapid movement of ballast water. Ice may be broken while moving ahead or astern. The vessel is driven by three propellers, each with four seven-ton blades. Its two nuclear reactors, which provide the steam for propulsion, are encased in 160 tons of steel, high density concrete and water. Double vacuum stills produce five tons of fresh water per hour. Our vessel is equipped with the latest satellite navigation and communication equipment, including telephone, telex and fax.

Specifications of the nuclear powered icebreaker Yamal