We have done quite a few reviews of conversion projects, where a former research or commercial vessel became a recreational expedition yacht. This is now a huge and important trend in the yachting industry. Fortunately, in Russia one can not only read about such an explorer vessel and see her in pictures, but also experience the whole gamut of positive emotions from cruising on her.
Vasta Expeditions organises tours to the Far East onboard 'Professor Khromov'. The vessel was commissioned by the Soviet Union for the scientific research and built in 1983 by a shipyard in Turku (Finland). After an extensive renovation in the 2000s, it was used for tourist expeditions. ‘Professor Khromov’ made voyages from New Zealand to Antarctica, sailed through the Ross Sea, between the subarctic islands of the South Sea, along the Kimberley coast in Australia, in the Far East and along the coast of Japan.
With its relatively small size and UL ice class, the 71 m long vessel is ideally suited for challenging routes in the Far East and Arctic waters. It may cruise where larger vessels are prohibited and get to the most secluded and inaccessible corners. It can navigate autonomously for more than two months without entering port to replenish its supplies.
The two onboard restaurants serve a buffet three times a day, offering open seating in a relaxed atmosphere. The culinary team is of the highest caliber, and guests can enjoy gastronomic events and masterclasses focused on the delicacies of Far Eastern cuisine. This is the ideal place to become a connoisseur of Kamchatka crabs and learn the art of preparing salmon, trepangs, and scallops!
At the bar, you can enjoy coffee and cocktails while sharing impressions of your voyage. Additionally, the all-round deckhouse, which offers spectacular views, is accessible at any time of day or night. You can warm up in the sauna after a shore trip, and the onboard library features a wide selection of books on the history, flora, and fauna of the Far East. The vessel has 23 cabins, including a master suite, accommodating up to 46-48 passengers. It is equipped with four rigid inflatable Zodiac boats, which are fast and maneuverable.
Vasta Expeditions began exploring the adventure tourism niche in 2019. In just five years, the company has expanded its offerings to 13 cruises across five destinations. Trips for 2025 are now available, and we highly recommend booking in advance to avoid disappointment later. There are still spots available on five expeditions, which will be detailed below.
The Russian Far East is a treasure trove of vivid experiences. Here, you can find glaciers and subtropical relic forests, snow-capped volcanoes and boiling geysers, Ussuri taiga and Chukchi tundra. No school geography lesson or documentary can truly convey the beauty and splendor of this region with its unique ecosystems. Professional guides and ocean scientists accompany cruise participants to help them engage with the local nature more deeply, rather than merely admiring the scenery and breathing in the purest ocean air.
Vasta Expeditions' sea cruises include explorations of the most picturesque areas of the Kuril Islands and Russia's northernmost reserve, Wrangel Island, as well as the diverse fauna of Chukotka and Kamchatka, and the Golovnin and Zavaritsky volcanoes. The experience is fully immersive. The program features landings on uncharted lands, trekking and climbing, sampling authentic local cuisine, and soaking in thermal springs.
Imagine the sky being dominated by a massive white rock several times larger than the ship, watching seals basking in the sunlight and whales surfacing right behind the stern. Picture yourself conquering another peak and standing on top of the world, breathless from the beauty and majesty of the surrounding nature. All of this is a reality in the Far East.
‘Around the Sea of Japan’ (June 19–26, October 13–20)
This sea voyage will take you along the volcanic mountain range of Sikhote-Alin, where participants will encounter steep cliffs adorned with coniferous forests, alpine meadows, yew groves, and basalt plateaus, as well as bustling bird markets and rookeries of Far Eastern largha and Steller sea lions. On this cruise, tourists will explore Moneron Island, marvel at the vibrant colors of the relic forest on Petrov Island, land on Russia's southernmost island, Furugelma, and admire the stunning panorama of the legendary Gamov lighthouse.
‘Kuril Bastion’ (June 26 – July 6, October 3–10)
The Kuril Islands are a world unto themselves. With snow-capped volcanoes, smoking fumaroles, basalt columns, oceanic bays, hot springs, and abundant wildlife, the southern islands will surprise you with their lush subtropical flora and fauna, while the northern islands will astound you with their untouched beauty, thanks to their inaccessibility. Here, you can truly feel like a pioneer. Over the course of 11 days, tourists will have the opportunity to walk along the craters of Alaid volcano, explore the uninhabited Yankich Island, admire the natural wonder of Craterna Bay, embark on a trekking adventure to Zavaritsky volcano, and make a wish while climbing the legendary Krenitsyn volcano.
‘Expedition to the Commander Islands’ (23 September - 3 October)
The Commander Islands are the largest marine reserve in Russia. Its area is comparable to the territory of Belgium. It is a land of winds, fogs and unique diversity of flora and fauna. Here green hills are replaced by rocks, tundra — sandy multi-kilometre dunes, rough ocean waters — quiet bays, noise of whales' fountains — splash of killer whales and dolphins, shouts of sea lions — roar of fat sea lions, bright colours of Arctic 'parrots' — puffins and spoonbills alternate with monochrome clothes of cormorants.
