The start of maritime communication between Murmansk and Spitsbergen is planned for 2025, said Ildar Neverov, general director of the Arktikugol trust, on September 3 at the Eastern Economic Forum.
“We have already established cargo and passenger connections with Murmansk, we have made 16 consecutive flights this year and now we want to launch passenger services. I really hope that by 2025 any Russian will be able to travel to Spitsbergen by boat as a tourist.”Neverov said.
He noted that this decision is aimed at giving Russian citizens the opportunity to visit the archipelago as tourists against the background of the fact that Norway stopped issuing tourist visas to Russian citizens from May 29.
Negotiations are currently underway to launch a passenger ship that can transport Russian citizens to the archipelago, while a suitable vessel with comfortable conditions for 50 passengers and a voyage duration of two and a half days is being sought.
In addition, after the start of passenger sea flights, the Arktikugol company, which represents Russia’s economic interests on Spitsbergen, plans to offer comprehensive tour packages, including a one-week stay in the Russian part of the archipelago. There are both exclusive tours for discerning clients, and more affordable options for young people and students.
Source: Rossa Primavera
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