Discover the Russian Far East and the highlights of the Sea of Okhotsk on this expedition cruise to this unique, unspoiled and little-visited region, home to rich wildlife on land and in the sea. In partnership with National Geographic Expeditions, this cruise offers enrichment with a National Geographic Photographer and Expert on board.
Cruise to the heart of the pristine lands of the Russian Far East, exploring a breathtakingly beautiful natural region of uninhabited islands, mountains, forests, volcanoes and ice floes. Kamchatka is a peninsula of spectacular volcanic landscapes, where there may be the chance to spot the Kamchatka brown bear. Sail to the Sea of Okhotsk, covered with ice for a large part of the year, where it is sometimes possible to see ribbon seals, a rare species that is found only here.
Visit the fishing towns of Magadan and Okhotsk then discover Iony Island, a refuge for many sea birds. Call at Tuleyni off the coast of Sakhalin Island, where Steller sea lions enjoy basking. Outings and shore visits in Zodiac inflatables with a team of experienced naturalist guides enhance this superb expedition cruise.
PNG769 Operated by Ponant National Geographic Expeditions
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The Sea of Okhotsk National Geographic Itinerary
Day 1 - Seoul (South Korea) - Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky (Russia)
Fly from Seoul to Petropavlovsk and transfer to the ship. Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky is the oldest town in the Russian Far East and enjoys a spectacular setting, perched on the high scenic hills of the Kamchatka Peninsula, surrounded by volcanoes and mountains.
Day 2 - Vestnik Bay
Vestnik Bay is perfect for spotting local wildlife, from tufted puffins to guillemots, arctic foxes and Kamchatka brown bears and is part of the protected South Kamchatka Nature Park. This park also protects the traditional way of life of the Evenks, the local indigenous population. Head to shore aboard a Zodiac inflatable to enjoy the spectacular scenery of the Kamchatka landscapes and the Bering Sea.
Day 3 - Kambalnaya Bay
Kambalnaya Bay is the ideal spot for Kamchatka brown bears; you may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of adult bears and their cubs.
Day 4 - Ostrova Ptich'i - Sakhalin Oblast
Sakhalin Oblast is one of the most eastern regions of Russia and the only region that is located on islands. The landscape in this region comprises thermal springs, volcanoes, waterfalls and forest-covered mountains.
Day 5 - Antsiferov Island - Atlasovo
This uninhabited volcanic island is home to a wide variety of wildlife including Steller sea lions, tufted puffins and northern fulmars. Atlasovo is part of the Kuril Islands that separate the Sea of Okhotsk and the Pacific Ocean. Atlasovo Island offers black sandy beaches and a legendary volcano.
Day 6 - Krutogorova River
Spend a relaxing day sailing the tranquil Krutogorova river, watching out for a whole host of marine wildlife.
Day 7 - At sea
Enjoy the ship's facilities on a relaxing day at sea.
Day 8 - Zavyalov Island - Magadan
Zavyalov Island is an uninhabited island, home to a range of seabirds and sea lions. The coastal town of Magadan is sometimes called the Saint Petersburg of the Far East due to its ornate golden-domed orthodox cathedral.
Day 9 - Okhotsk
Discover Okhotsk's rich wildlife, from brown bears to ribbon seals, grey whales and sea lions.
Day 10 - Iony Island
Iony Island lies in the middle of the Sea of Okhotsk and is a paradise for guillemots, kittiwakes and Steller's sea lions.
Day 11 - Piltun Bay
Piltun Bay is an important site for the endangered western grey whale, During your time ashore look for Aleutian terns and Steller's sea eagles.
Day 12 - Nabilskiy Bay
Nabilskiy Bay is perfect for enjoying outdoor activities including fishing, hiking and visiting archaeological sites.
Day 13 - Tulenyi
Tulenyi serves as the rookery for one of Russia's largest sea lion colonies. Enjoy a spectacular Zodiac trip to the island, where the friendly sea lions rush to welcome visitors.
Day 14 - Korsakov
Korsakov is located on the south of Sakhalin Island, which is home to Kamchatka brown bears, arctic foxes, sables and sea otters. The town offers a mix of Russian and Japanese architecture.
Day 15 - Otaru (Japan)
Disembark ship in Otaru.
For navigational reasons the Captain of the ship reserves the right to modify the cruise itinerary.