Built in Finland in 1981, Kapitan Khlebnikov is a polar icebreaker specifically outfitted and designed to travel through some of the harshest environments in the world, one laden with icebergs and bitter temperatures. Since 1992, it has taken adventure-seekers to the extreme remote corners of the globe; no other expedition vessel in the world has navigated more polar waters. It also holds the distinction of being the first ship to ever circumnavigate Antarctica with guests in 1996-97.
The ship is outfitted with 60 crew members and carries only 112 passengers. The Russian crew and Captain are highly knowledgeable and experienced when it comes to taking the 12,288-ton vessel through the Arctic waters.
Still, for all its power and ability to travel in harsh environments, it carries the same dedication to excellent service that all of the other Celebrity Vessels have. However, although this ship has the luxury, fine dining, and comfortable accommodations for which Celebrity is known, it is not technically a Celebrity vessel. It is actually operated by Quark Expeditions, the world?s leading polar cruise company, and was a former Soviet Union ship.
Still, Kapitan Khlebnikov couldn?t do it alone. That?s why helicopters are carried onboard; they perform reconnaissance and exploration missions?essential for the Kapitan of the ship to safely navigate the Arctic. Yet while the helicopters perform an important safety function, they also take guests on exciting excursions. Also, a fleet of sturdy Zodiac crafts allows guests to travel over the cold water for leisurely cruising and beach landings.
The environment of the Arctic is without a doubt harsh, yet life not only survives there; it thrives there. Polar bears, Arctic fox, caribou, moose, reindeer, penguins, musk ox, lemmings, orca (killer whales), beluga whales, otters, seals, seabirds, and more make up the diverse Arctic ecosystem.
You just might be surprised at all the world of activities you?ll find onboard. The Theatre holds lectures from experts about the environment and history of Arctic, slide shows, films, and general entertainment movies. There is a well-stocked bar onboard, two dining rooms, a lounge and library, a gym, sauna, and pool onboard; so no matter if you want to work out, have some great conversation over cocktails, or have some quiet time alone, Kapitan Khlebnikov has you covered.
All the staterooms onboard have a window, but none have balconies (the Arctic does get kind of cold, you know). That doesn?t mean fresh air is non-existent; all the rooms have windows that can be opened. Select an Ocean View and you?ll receive a 135 square foot room with a window that opens for fresh air, a standard bed, a sofa bed, and a private bath with shower, a telephone, and a hair dryer. Over twice the size, the 285 square foot Xpedition Suite features windows, a standard bed, a sofa bed, bathroom with shower, refrigerator, TV and VCR, telephone, and hair dryer. Finally, the 635-sq foot Corner Suite comes complete with windows, both a standard bed and a sofa bed, a private bathroom with shower, refrigerator, and a TV and VCR.
As you can see, there is more than you might have imagined possible to do and see in the Artic. Helicopter rides, adventurous shore excursions on foot, a chance to learn about natural and human history, and more. This is truly an amazing voyage of discovery. But you?ve already made the first step in your Arctic adventure: visiting RCCreservations.com! (Unfortunately, the ship is being recalled by the Russian government, so the Celebrity Arctic sailing for August 2005 has been cancelled.)