Seattle-based MIR Corporation has specialized in Russian tours for decades and now offers a luxurious 12-day journey aboard the private train Arctic Explorer. Part of the Golden Eagle fleet of luxury trains, the Arctic Explorer departs from St. Petersburg after a relaxed exploration of the city’s highlights, including St. Isaac’s Cathedral and Nevsky Prospekt. An onboard astronomer will guide passengers in observing the Northern Lights as the train crosses the Arctic Circle.
The itinerary includes a stop in Norway’s polar town of Kirkenes, where travelers can enjoy a dogsled excursion and visit the Snow Hotel, known for its rooms that glow blue at night. In Murmansk, the journey features a tour of The Lenin, the world’s first nuclear-powered icebreaker. Weather permitting, the route also offers a hovercraft trip to the UNESCO open-air museum on Kizhi Island to see its remarkable wooden architecture.
Further inland, the tour visits historic towns of Russia’s Golden Ring, such as Vladimir and Suzdal, famous for their medieval churches and well-preserved architecture. The trip culminates with a stay in Moscow, providing ample time to explore Red Square, the Kremlin and other major attractions. This private train program combines cultural highlights, Arctic scenery and unique excursions for an immersive northern experience.
Departure dates for the Arctic Explorer journey were scheduled for late December into early January. Prices started at $11,995, reflecting the all-inclusive nature of luxury rail travel, expert guides and special activities such as northern lights viewing and guided cultural tours.