Jim as I understand it they must go to Provideniya to clear the ship for the rest of the Russian islands. You will just not be able to get off there but the clearance for the rest of Russia is done in this port. All the Chukchi area is off limits but nothing else. I know Conrad has been busy getting alternates plans in place for the Chukchi area and also other ports just in case something similar happens for both the Silver Discover that does the Russian Islands when we debark and the Silver Explorer for your trip.

You should be just fine and the Russia islands will be interesting. I am sure there is a "Russian Wales" in your stops. If fact the port after Provideniya, Lorino village was a native community and probably would be very much like Wales. I think the native communities will be the most interesting.

Provideniya was not a nice sight really. Very stark and depressing as you will see when you are docked there for clearance. I do believe the difference between Russian Islands and the native islands will be very interesting. It is all really quite fascinating and a life style so removed from the rest of the world. Although "little kitty" was all over Little Diomede with the little girls.

Many of the guests bought school supplies for the children for the Russian Islands and we gave all of that to the people of Wales. It was much appreciated so just something to think about for your trip. We had not done that and I wish we had thought about it and I will bring some things for the Northwest Passage. Just a little bit from everyone adds up to a lot!