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 SHIPBOARD INFORMATION
The Grigoriy Mikheev is a modern and comfortable research vessel of
the Hydrographic Institute of St. Petersburg. Built in 1990 in Finland,
and designed as an ice-strengthened vessel, the ship was converted in the
Netherlands for passenger use and is ideally suited to expedition
cruising. It has a range of 70 days independent operation and is ISM
certified. The vessel is strongly built of steel with an ice-strengthened
hull, perfect for the polar seas. It is manned by an enthusiastic Russian
crew of around 20, all highly experienced in ice navigation. Russian
captains are recognised experts in polar navigation. All the expedition
leaders and lecturers are highly knowledgeable, helpful and dedicated to
the protection of the environment.
The Grigoriy Mikheev has a large bridge (where you are almost always
welcome) and good open deck-viewing areas. It carries a full complement of
Zodiac craft, excellent for landings and wildlife viewing opportunities in
otherwise in-accessible areas. Excellent cuisine, prepared by
international chefs, is served in the dining room, which also acts as the
lecture room. Other public areas include a lounge and bar, small library,
infirmary, and sauna.
Age Range & Nationality Onboard
Passengers on a typical voyage range from their 30s to their 80s - with a
majority usually from 45 – 65. Our expeditions attract
independent-minded travellers from around the world. They are
characterised by a strong interest in nature and exploring remote regions.
The camaraderie and spirit that develops aboard is an important part of
the expedition experience. Many departures have several nationalities on
board.
Bridge Visits
You are nearly always welcome on the bridge, an excellent place to
watch ship operations and maintain a lookout for wildlife. Please
remember, however, that the bridge is a work place. To enable our officers
to navigate the ship, remain on the port side of the bridge and please do
not eat or drink. When in port, during rough weather, and other times for
reasons of safety, the bridge may be closed to visitors. If you are in
doubt, please ask the officer on watch.
Combating Sea Sickness
Anticipate some rough water on the voyage. Should you be prone to
motion or sea sickness, please consult your physician which medication is
appropriate and its side effects. To avert motion sickness, avoid alcohol,
tobacco, excess liquids, and confined spaces. Most people feel better
sitting on deck looking at the horizon or prone with eyes shut. Oddly, you
will feel better with some food, such as crackers or dry toast in your
stomach. Many people eat to avoid feeling sick. Remember, once you start
to experience motion sickness, medications are of little help.
Crew
On the motor vessels the crew are Russian. Some of them speak
English some of them don’t. The personal contact with the Russian crew
is always a nice aspect of our polar journeys. All staff
(Guides/Lecturers, Purser, Chef, Expedition leaders) do speak English, and
most of the time other languages as well.
Currency & Credit Card
On board our motor vessels the standard currency is Euro. Other
currencies may be accepted at the discretion of the hotel manager at
prevailing rates. We also accept Visa card and Euro/MasterCard.
Dress Code
In keeping with our expeditions atmosphere, dress on board is
informal. Bring casual and comfortable clothing for all activities. Keep
in mind that much of the spectacular scenery can be appreciated from deck,
which can be slippery. Bring sturdy shoes with no-slip soles and make sure
the parka is never far away in case of the call “Whales!” comes over
the loudspeaker and you have to dash outside. Wear layers since it is
comfortably warm aboard the ship - and often cold on deck.
Electric Current
The electrical supply aboard the ship is 220 volt 50hz.
Electrical outlets are standard European with two thick round pins. U.S.
passengers may need a 220v/110v converter.
Gratuities
The customary gratuity to the ship’s service personnel is made as a
blanket contribution at the end of the voyage which is divided among the
crew. You will receive detailed guidelines aboard. Tipping is a very
personal matter and the amount you wish to give is at your discretion. As
a generally accepted guideline, we suggest US$8 to US$10 per person per
day. It is better for the crew, if we can give them cash US Dollar.
Non-smoking Policy
On board our vessels we have a non-smoking policy. It is prohibited to
smoke inside the ship. You can smoke on deck but do not throw your
cigarette filter overboard ! Do not smoke on the aft deck in the proximity
of zodiacs, engines and fuel. Please respect the wishes of non-smokers.
Your Physical Condition
You must be in good general health and you should be able to walk several
hours per day. The expedition is ship-based and physically not very
demanding. Although we spend as much time as possible ashore, you are
welcome to remain aboard the ship if you like. To join most excursions,
you must be able to get up and down the steep gangway from the ship to the
water level to board the Zodiacs. Staff will assist you in and out of the
boats. This will become progressively easier with practice. Ashore it can
be slippery and rocky. You are travelling in remote areas without access
to sophisticated medical facilities, so you must not join this expedition
if you have a life-threatening condition, or need daily medical treatment.
SHIP SPECIFICATIONS
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Length 66,0 metres (210 feet)
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Displacement 2000 tonnes
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Breadth 12.8 metres (42 feet)
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Engines 2 x 1700 hp diesel engines
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Draft 3.5 metres (12 feet)
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Speed 12,5 knots
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