Thank you for choosing Polar Cruises for your expedition to Antarctica or the Arctic. As specialists in polar travel for over a decade, we understand that a journey to these remote regions requires careful preparation. This guide contains essential information to help you prepare for your once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Documentation Requirements
- Passport – should be valid at least 6 months beyond the travel dates
- Visa requirements – please check with your local consulate for any visa requirements for your nationality
- Travel Insurance Policy – please bring a copy of your policy and emergency contact details.
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is an important component of any well-planned trip. We recommend a travel protection plan as a way to help protect your Polar investment and yourself while traveling. Most voyages require a minimum coverage amount of emergency medical evacuation coverage. For your convenience, we offer the Ultimate plan with Travelex Insurance Services to help protect against the unexpected (available for USA residents only). For more information on the available plans click here or contact Travelex Insurance at 800-228-9792 and reference location number 13-0500.
Packing for an Antarctic or Arctic Cruise
A detailed packing list will be sent to you in with your pre-departure information after confirmation. However, below are some essentials:
Clothing
- Waterproof pants – you will be stepping off the zodiacs into shin deep water so the pants must be fully waterproof. We recommend packing these in your carry-on bag just in case your checked bag gets lost on the flight as these are essential to participate in all excursions.
- Waterproof gloves or mittens – also recommended to pack in your carry-on bag just in case.
- Thin pair of gloves – A thinner pair of gloves (similar to running gloves) to use when out on deck and on shore when you don’t need the larger waterproof gloves.
- Warm beanie hat.
- Neck gaiter – very nice to have when zodiac cruising as you can pull it up over your mouth & nose if cold.
- Thermal Underwear / long johns – We recommend bringing 2 pairs of wool base layers, both pants and long sleeve tops.
- Mid-layer – at least 2 fleece (or similar) mid-layer tops and 1 pair of fleece pants
- Wool Socks – at least 4 pairs of thick wool socks.
- Comfortable shoes with good traction on the bottom to wear around the ship and out on deck.
- Comfortable indoor clothing to wear around the ship.
- Waterproof & windproof jacket / shell (only for ships that do not already include a jacket in the trip cost). Please enquire if you are unsure if your voyage includes a jacket.
Equipment & Gear
- Sunglasses with 100% UV protection and a strap. Some guests also bring ski goggles in case it is snowing when zodiac cruising.
- Sunscreen & chapstick with SPF protection – the sun can be is very strong in the polar regions!
- A hat with a bill for added sun protection is a good idea.
- Waterproof phone case with lanyard – if you plan on using your phones to take photos in the zodiacs.
- Waterproof backpack – especially for photographers to keep photo gear dry.
- Binoculars – great for birding out on deck and potential whale sightings!
- Camera, chargers and extra batteries and memory cards
- Seasickness remedies (it’s best to check with your personal physician if you have concerns)
- Electrical adapter
- Water bottle
Environmental Responsibility
As visitors to these pristine environments, we have a responsibility to minimize our impact:
- Follow all guidelines from expedition staff
- Maintain required distances from wildlife
- Do not remove anything from landing sites
- Participate in ship’s sustainability practices
- Consider carbon offset programs for your travels
