De Long Islands, Russia: Incredible Polar Solitude, Arctic Geology & Epic Exploration (2026)
What if you could stand on an archipelago where fewer than 50 documented tourists set foot each year? The De Long Islands, a scattering of five volcanic islands in the far northeastern reaches of the Russian Arctic, prove that true wilderness still exists. Discovered by American explorer George Washington De Long in 1881 during the ill-fated *Jeannette* expedition, these islands are a frozen monument to polar ambition, offering a raw, unfiltered encounter with the Earth’s most extreme environments that makes typical Arctic cruises feel tame by comparison.
Why De Long Islands, Russia Stands Out
A house on a small island with a walkway leading to it, De Long Islands, Russia
- Historic Architecture: The haunting ruins of the Soviet-era polar station on Bennett Island, established in the 1950s, stand as a stark reminder of human attempts to conquer this frozen frontier.
- Cultural Scene: The culture here is one of profound survival and scientific pursuit, best experienced through the silent stories left by explorers and researchers in this vast, empty landscape.
- Local Specialties: On expedition vessels, you’ll be fortified with hearty, calorie-dense Russian *ukha* (fish soup) and *pelmeni* (dumplings), essential fuel against the Arctic chill.
Pro Tip: Your only viable window is a narrow two-month period from late July to late August. This is when the pack ice recedes enough for icebreaker-supported vessels to approach, and you’ll experience the “midnight sun” with 24-hour daylight, maximizing exploration time.
Map of De Long Islands, Russia
Use these interactive maps to explore De Long Islands, Russia and plan your route:
📍 View De Long Islands, Russia on OpenStreetMap
🗺️ Open De Long Islands, Russia in Google Maps
Planning Your Trip: Practical Essentials
Getting There and Around
- By Air: All journeys begin with a flight to Murmansk or, more commonly, Anadyr on the Russian mainland. From there, you transfer to your specialized expedition ship. Book flights at Skyscanner for best deals.
- By Train: No train services reach this remote region. The primary overland leg for many expeditions is the iconic Trans-Siberian Railway to relevant hubs. Reserve tickets at Trainline or the national railway website.
- By Car: Driving is impossible. Access is exclusively by sea aboard rugged ice-class expedition vessels or nuclear-powered icebreakers on specific tourist voyages.
- Local Transport: Your transport is the ship’s Zodiac inflatable boats for landings, and your own two feet for exploration on the islands. All movement is guided and group-oriented for safety.
Best Time to Visit
Timing is not about preference but pure logistics. The Arctic climate dictates a brutally short season where conditions are merely “possible” instead of “hospitable.”
| Season | Weather | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Summer (Jul–Aug) | -5°C to +3°C (23°F to 37°F). Constant daylight, less pack ice, but fog and wind are common. | The *only* time to visit. Peak wildlife activity, accessible shorelines, and 24-hour light for exploration. All expedition voyages operate now. |
| Winter (Sep–Jun) | -30°C to -20°C (-22°F to -4°F). Permanent darkness or twilight, complete ice lock, impassable. | No tourist access. The islands are the domain of polar bears and howling winds. Scientifically monitored only. |
| Shoulder (N/A) | N/A | There is no shoulder season. The transition from frozen to navigable is swift and unpredictable. |
Budgeting for De Long Islands, Russia
A rock formation in the middle of a body of water, De Long Islands, Russia
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | N/A (All-inclusive expedition) | N/A (All-inclusive expedition) | N/A (All-inclusive expedition) |
| Meals | All meals included on ship | All meals + snacks included | All meals, often with premium dining |
| Transport | All Zodiac transfers included | All ship & Zodiac transport | All transport, sometimes helicopter options |
| Activities | Guided hikes, lectures included | All guided excursions, kayaking extra (~$300) | All-inclusive excursions, specialist guides |
| Daily Total | ~$800-1,200/day* | ~$1,200-1,800/day* | ~$2,000+/day* |
*Based on the per-day cost of a 14-21 day all-inclusive expedition cruise that includes the De Long Islands in its itinerary. Total trip costs range from $15,000 to $40,000+ per person.
Top Attractions and Must-See Sights
| Attraction | Description | Hours | Entry Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bennett Island | The largest island, featuring dramatic basalt cliffs, a historic Soviet polar station, and the grave of a *Jeannette* expedition sailor. | Landings dependent on ice/weather (24-hr daylight) | Included in expedition cost |
| Jeannette Island | A stark, ice-capped island where the *Jeannette* was first sighted; a powerful site for reflecting on polar exploration history. | Weather-dependent landings | Included in expedition cost |
| Zhokhov Island | Site of a 8,000-year-old Paleo-Eskimo settlement, offering a profound sense of ancient human presence in the High Arctic. | Weather-dependent landings | Included in expedition cost |
| Vilkitsky & Henrietta Islands | Smaller, glaciated islands offering pristine landscapes for observing walrus haul-outs and the raw power of Arctic geology. | Zodiac cruising typical | Included in expedition cost |
3-Day Itinerary: De Long Islands, Russia’s Highlights & Hidden Gems
Note: This itinerary assumes you are on a 2-3 week expedition cruise. Days are structured around typical ship schedules in the region.
Day 1: First Footfall on Bennett Island
- Morning (7-9 AM): After a 6:30 AM wake-up call, Zodiac landing on the gravel shores of Bennett Island. Your first activity is a guided 2-hour hike to the remnants of the Soviet polar station, where weathered wooden structures tell a silent story. Dress in full waterproof layers.
- Afternoon (12-3 PM): Zodiac cruise along the island’s northern coast to spot bearded seals on ice floes. Lunch back on the ship features warming *borscht* and hearty rye bread. Attend a lecture on George Washington De Long’s tragic expedition.
- Evening (6-8 PM): Recap and briefing for the next day in the ship’s lounge. Dinner is a three-course meal, often with a Russian specialty like *beef stroganoff*, followed by optional wildlife spotting from the bridge under the midnight sun.
Day 2: History and Ice at Jeannette & Henrietta
- Morning (8 AM): Zodiac cruise around Jeannette Island. You won’t land, but the captain will navigate close to the towering ice cliffs while your guide narrates the 1881 sighting that confirmed the *Jeannette*’s doomed drift. Binoculars are essential for spotting nesting seabirds on the cliffs.
- Afternoon (1 PM): The ship navigates to Henrietta Island. An optional polar plunge (at no extra cost, just courage!) is often offered off the ship’s platform. Warm up immediately with Russian tea (*chai*) and pastries in the observation lounge.
- Evening (7 PM): Captain’s cocktail party. After dinner, join naturalists on deck to watch for the elusive bowhead whale, which frequents these nutrient-rich waters in summer.
Day 3: Zodiac Exploration and Polar Wilderness
- Morning (9 AM): Depending on ice, a Zodiac exploration near Vilkitsky Island to observe a walrus haul-out from a safe, respectful distance. The sounds and smells are unforgettable. Your guide will explain the conservation status of these Arctic giants.
- Afternoon (2 PM): Final landing or Zodiac cruise, often a “plan B” location chosen by the expedition leader based on conditions. A farewell barbecue lunch is sometimes served on the ship’s deck if weather permits.
- Evening (6 PM): Final recap and voyage log signing. A special dinner is served, followed by a slideshow of the journey’s best photos compiled by the expedition team. Pack your gear as the ship turns south, leaving the silent De Long Islands behind.
Cultural Insights & Etiquette
- Language: The working language on most expedition ships is English, but crew may be Russian. Learn basics: *Spasibo* (Thank you), *Zdravstvuyte* (Hello), *Na zdorovie* (Cheers).
- Customs: Respect the “leave no trace” ethic absolutely. Do not move artifacts, bones, or historical remnants. Onboard, punctuality for briefings and landings is a safety issue and a sign of respect for the group.
- Tipping: Tipping the ship’s crew and expedition staff is customary at the end of the voyage. Budget $15-20 per guest per day, pooled and distributed by the hotel manager.
- Dress Code: Onboard, it’s casual and practical. For landings, you must follow the layered system: thermal base, insulating mid-layer, and a waterproof/windproof outer shell. Boots are almost always provided by the ship.
- Business Hours: There are no businesses. The ship operates 24/7 during the voyage. All schedules are dictated by weather, ice, and wildlife conditions—embrace the flexibility.
Where to Eat: De Long Islands, Russia’s Best Bites
All dining happens on your expedition vessel. The focus is on hearty, high-energy cuisine designed to keep you warm and fueled. Chefs expertly blend international fare with Russian classics, using high-quality ingredients loaded well before departure.
Must-Try Local Specialties (Onboard)
- Ukha: A clear, aromatic Russian fish soup, often made with locally caught Arctic char or cod. It’s light yet deeply flavorful, a perfect post-landing warmer.
- Pelmeni: Small Siberian dumplings typically filled with minced meat, served with sour cream or butter. They are the ultimate comfort food after a day in the polar wind.
- Blini: Thin pancakes served with caviar, smoked salmon, sour cream, or jam during breakfast or as a special treat. A true Russian staple.
Restaurant Recommendations by Budget
| Type | Restaurant | Specialty | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | N/A – All meals included | N/A | Included |
| Mid-range | The Ship’s Main Dining Room | Daily changing menus with Russian and international dishes, buffet breakfasts, seated dinners. | Included |
| Fine dining | The Captain’s Table / Specialist Restaurant (on luxury vessels) | Multi-course tasting menus, sometimes with paired wines, on select evenings by reservation. | Included or small surcharge |
Where to Stay
Your “hotel” is your expedition ship for the entire journey. Accommodation ranges from functional cabins to spacious suites, all with private bathrooms. The key differentiators are window/view, size, and location on the ship (midships is most stable). Compare prices and book full expeditions at Booking.com (for pre/post hotel) or specialist operators like Poseidon Expeditions or Quark Expeditions directly.
Best Neighborhoods for Accommodation (On the Ship)
- Lower/Midship Decks: More stable in rough seas, often with portholes instead of windows. Best for those prone to seasickness and budget-conscious travelers. You’ll spend little time in your cabin regardless.
- Upper Deck with Balcony: Offers private outdoor space and larger windows for wildlife viewing from your room. The premium choice for those wanting private contemplation of the passing ice scapes.
- Bridge Access Suites: On some ships, premium suites include limited access to the bridge. This is for the true polar enthusiast who wants to witness navigation firsthand, though all guests typically have scheduled bridge visits.
A vast expanse of white sand under a blue sky, De Long Islands, Russia
FAQs: Your De Long Islands, Russia Questions Answered
1. Is De Long Islands, Russia safe at night?
Safety is defined by the Arctic environment, not crime. On the islands, polar bears are a real danger; all landings are escorted by armed guides. Onboard the ship, you are safe. “Night” during summer is 24-hour daylight, but deck movement can be hazardous in high winds or icy conditions—always follow crew instructions.
2. What currency is used and are credit cards accepted?
The Russian Ruble (RUB) is the currency, but you will have zero need for cash on the islands. Onboard, all incidental purchases (bar, shop) are billed to your room and settled at voyage end by credit card (Visa/Mastercard widely accepted). Bring some rubles or USD for souvenirs in pre/post-trip ports like Anadyr.
3. How do I get from the airport to the city center (embarkation point)?
Reputable expedition companies include all transfers between the group flight/hotel and the ship as part of your package. Upon arrival in Anadyr or Murmansk, you will be met by a company representative. Independent transfer is not recommended due to language barriers and remote locations. Book full expedition packages at GetYourGuide for convenience, though specialist operators are often more comprehensive.
4. Do I need to speak the local language?
No. Expedition staff and guides are multilingual, with English as the primary language of operation. Learning a few Russian pleasantries is appreciated by the crew but not necessary. All briefings, lectures, and safety instructions are in English.
5. What’s the appropriate dress code?
Forget fashion; think function. On landings: thermal layers, waterproof pants and jacket, insulated boots (often provided), gloves, hat, and neck gaiter. Onboard: comfortable casual wear (jeans, sweaters). For the captain’s dinner, “smart casual” is typical—a collared shirt or nice blouse, but never a formal suit or gown.
Final Thoughts: De Long Islands, Russia Awaits
The De Long Islands are not a destination for checklist tourism; they are a pilgrimage for the polar soul. This is where you confront the scale of true wilderness and walk in the literal footsteps of explorers
