KAPITAN KHLEBNIKOV
A World Class Icebreaker with Comfortable Accommodations
Ship Description | Ship Cabin Deck Plan

The Kapitan Khlebnikov was built in 1980 and launched in 1981 by the Wartsila Company, Finland - the world's leading builder of icebreakers.

Not simply an ice-reinforced ship, the Kapitan Khlebnikov is a hard working icebreaker designed for the challenging conditions in the seas of northern Siberia.

Russian icebreakers are considered to be among the best and most powerful in the world. The Kapitan Khlebnikov has sailed to extremely remote corners of the globe with adventurous travelers since 1992 - no other expedition vessel has navigated more polar waters. It was the first ship ever to circumnavigate Antarctica with passengers in 1997.

Ship Specifications

Length:	131m / 428.47ft
Breadth:	26.5m / 86.6ft
Draft:	8.5m / 27.8ft
GRT:	12,288 tons
Engines:	Six Wartsila Diesel-electric 24,000 total hp
Ice Class:	KM*LL3 A2
Cruising speed (open water):	15 knots
Crew:	60
Passengers:	112
Registry:	Russia

Ship Features

Quality Accommodation
Refurbished to accommodate passengers in 54 first class outside cabins and suites, our ship is thoroughly comfortable. All cabins feature private facilities, two lower berths (one fixed berth and one convertible sofa bed), a desk, and large closets.

Public areas include two dining rooms, a lounge and bar, well-equipped auditorium, indoor swimming pool, gymnasium and sauna. Views are excellent from the navigation bridge. Our ship also has a library of polar books and videos, a shop, a passenger elevator and a small infirmary with a western doctor.

European Catering Staff & International Cuisine
European chefs prepare varied international cuisine using fine provisions from around the world. A European barman attends the popular forward lounge, which features a well-stocked bar with a good selection of spirits, wine and champagne. The dining room will be attended by a combination of Russian and western staff.

Sophisticated Technical Gear
With 24,000 horsepower and a massive icebreaker hull, we navigate high latitude waterways closed to conventional shipping. Our vessel is equipped with the latest satellite navigation and communication equipment, including convenient Inmarsat telephone, facsimile and e-mail.

Expert Polar Officers and Crew
Our icebreaker is staffed by Russian officers and crew, all highly experienced in polar navigation. Russian Captains are recognized as the world experts in icebreaker operations.

Experienced Expedition Staff and Lecturers
Travel with an experienced team of naturalists and lecturers from all over the world, offering a unique educational program.

Unique Zodiac and Helicopter Excursions
Zodiac landing craft take us along seabird cliffs and to remote beaches. In addition, our ship generally carries helicopters for ice and wildlife reconnaissance. The aerial views of polar landscapes and our ship as it breaks through the pack ice are astounding. Our vessel may not carry on board helicopters at all times and, in some cases, local helicopters may be used. The exact make and model of helicopters will be determined prior to the voyage. All helicopter flights are weather dependent.