Designed as a working vessel to keep shipping lanes open along Russia's Northern Sea Route, the Yamal is more than capable of rising to 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 the Murmansk Shipping Company, the Yamal has taken adventurous travelers to the North Pole since 1993.

With 75,000 horsepower, a thick armour of steel plate and a double hull designed specifically for icebreaking, the Yamal is one of the few surface ships to have ever reached the North Pole. Icebreaking is assisted by an air-bubbling system which delivers hot water through jets beneath the surface of the ice, as well as a polymer coating over the hull and the ability to quickly move 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 also equipped with the latest satellite navigation and communication equipment including telephone, fax and e-mail facilities.

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